Which is the Right SUV for You?

Volkswagen’s SUV lineup continues to grow and adapt to the changing times. To satisfy customer demand while still turning a profit, Volkswagen had to make some decisions in its model lineup. For that reason, while the Volkswagen Atlas continues to be available in North American markets, the Volkswagen Touareg will not be making the cross-Atlantic journey. Instead, the Touareg will remain in Europe.

There are both advantages and disadvantages to Volkswagen’s decision. While many drivers would love the luxury and refinement offered by the Touareg, its $60,000+ price tag is unattainable by many buyers. In addition, the Touareg’s price tag puts it in competition with other German manufacturers, such as Mercedes-Benz and BMW.

2020 Volkswagen Atlas

Surprisingly, the Volkswagen Atlas is the more practical SUV offering, even over the costlier Touareg. It is stylish with modern design and technology, as well as a huge among of room. This midsize SUV easily holds seven passengers and provides the most third-row legroom in its class.

The 2020 Volkswagen Atlas comes in four different model configurations: Trendline, Comfortline, Highline, and Execline. The Atlas starts just above $40,000, and all models come standard with front assist-autonomous emergency braking, blind spot monitor with rear traffic alert, App-Connect smartphone integration, 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and all-wheel drive.

The standard engine is a 2.0-litre I-4 that offers 235 horsepower and a fuel economy of 11.7 L/100km in the city and 9.9 L/100km on the highway, though higher trim levels offer a 3.6-litre V6 with 276 horsepower.

2020 Volkswagen Touareg

Volkswagen’s European flagship, the Touareg cannot be matched by the Atlas in luxury and performance. It features all of the upscale features that Volkswagen has to offer, such a LED Matrix headlights, air suspension, all-wheel steering, head-up display, night vision, and an amazing 15-inch Discover Premium infotainment system that works alongside a 12-inch gauge cluster. A new V8 diesel engine sets it apart from its gas-fed counterparts.

In North America, Volkswagen opted to discontinue the expensive and two-row Touareg in favor of the three-row Atlas. The Atlas is VW’s equivalent to the best-selling Toyota Highlander, and it does offer practicality and performance in a vehicle that stands out from the crowd.

Both Volkswagen SUVs are great options for drivers wanting something other than the standard segment offerings. But with only one widely available across Canada and North America, the Atlas is the SUV to choose.