It seems that there is a race to provide more space in the third-row seating area than the next mid-size SUV. Volkswagen already had the lead by several years. It seems that others are simply catching up.
For 2024, Volkswagen updated their Atlas with more visual changes inside and out. This 2025 model should let us know whether it is still a leader in interior and third-row space.
That recent update included a new front end with a larger grille and LED headlamps. Those, along with a new horizontal taillight arrangement updates the Atlas to compete in a growing segment. The roofline has a slight slope out back with a great side glass area. The liftgate opens up high. When closed, you get to see a nice LED lightning signature across it. 
Our SEL Premium R-Line tester adds a set of 21-inch alloy wheels with specific R-Line touches from different bumper skins, a darker grille finish, illuminated logos and light bar on top of the grille. We seriously admit that it is one of the most straightforward looking - and handsome - vehicles in its class.
Inside the elegant cabin is the Digital Cockpit Pro instrument cluster offers full customization for the driver. That includes four different screen types for instrumentation. The driver also gets a head-up display for quick information without any distraction. The rest of the dashboard featuring a tablet-like 12.0-inch Discover Pro infotainment touchscreen, tactile switches for most of the controls, and a new toggle-like transmission shifter. However, you will find some haptic-like switchgear just underneath the infotainment screen. 
Climbing inside of the large doors you’ll find an equally large cabin. The seats are sized well, wrapped in our SEL Premium R-Line tester’s perforated leather upholstery. There is a lot of room in the second row for adults. Third-row access is easy with a lever-type slide-away feature on both the driver and passenger side. An adult can sit behind each other along all three rows in decent comfort.
For cargo space, it is also expandable. With all three rows up, you start off with 20.6 cubic feet. Fold down the second and third rows of seats, and you have 96.6 cubic feet of usable space. 
The only engine powering the Volkswagen Atlas Atlas is a 269-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, putting down 273 pound-feet of torque. It is coupled with the 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system and an eight-speed automatic transmission. This driveline is capable of towing up to 5,000 pounds.
Performance is fantastic. The powerful turbocharged engine enables the Atlas to take the highway by command. Cruising is superb, even with the help of the IQ.DRIVE system. In terms of fuel economy, we saw an average of 18.0 MPG in our care. It can achieve up to 25 MPG on the highway, according to the EPA.
Ride quality is fantastic. Every road surface gets absorbed with no feedback into the cabin. You might think you’re riding in a more premium three-row SUV. Handling is what you expect in a mid-size SUV, but with a bit more stability through the corners.
Braking was superb, with excellent feel from the pedal. In both normal and panic situations, stops were pretty good in terms of distance and response. We also found that the steering response from the wheel was solid. You will find a tight turning radius for its class, yet it did yield an on-center feel overall.
There are five 2025 Volkswagen Atlas Atlas three-row models to choose from, starting from $38,200. Our SEL Premium R-Line 4Motion tester came with a sticker price of $56,309. 
With the race to create more third row space for passengers, this segment has become very competitive to attract the right families on board. These competitors include the Toyota Highlander and Grand Highlander, Hyundai Palisade, Kia Telluride, Chevrolet Traverse, GMC Acadia, Ford Explorer, Jeep Grand Cherokee L, Dodge Durango, Nissan Pathfinder, Honda Pilot, Subaru Ascent, and Mazda CX-90.
With its more elegant interior and improved exterior design, the 2025 Volkswagen Atlas should be worth looking at. It has all the charm you want in a family-friendly, mid-size three-row SUV.
