Volkswagen’s 2024 Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport earned the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s TOP SAFETY PICK+. The refreshed Altas models have roomy interiors. Their front have a softer feel and more upscale look. A relatively spunky turbocharged four-cylinder engine is the sole mill; the VR6 has been discontinued.
For 2024 these SUVs get VW’s frustrating touchsensor climate and infotainment controls. The steering wheel’s switchgear, however, retains pushbuttons.
The PICK+ award requires a vehicle to test well in the IIHS’ crash tests. It must have standard acceptable or good headlights. The front-crash prevention system must earn an advanced or superior score in both daytime and nighttime evaluations.
Consumer Reports cautions would-be Atlas buyers. For 2023, all VW models scored below average in vehicle reliability. Thus, the non-profit no longer recommends Atlas models.