Volkswagen has struggled for an identity as it shifts from being a passenger car brand to an SUV brand in the US; with the 2024 Atlas family, the German automaker may have finally found its place in the market. Starting at $37,725 for the SE trim with FWD, the Atlas is far from the cheapest option in its segment. However, its strong list of standard features gives buyers everything they need at the base level without having to climb to the top of the trim ladder.
We think the SE w/ Tech brings the strongest value for $41,665 ($43,565 with AWD), adding 20-inch wheels, a power liftgate, remote start, rear sunshades, additional USB ports, and parking sensors. Going all-in on an Atlas SEL Premium R-Line with standard AWD brings the price to $52,455, which puts it on par with the upper level of competitors like the Telluride and Palisade.
As for the Cross Sport, it’s a bit cheaper starting at $36,715 for the SE FWD, and going up to $51,445 for the SEL Premium R-Line. Compared to the Honda Passport, it’s less expensive on the low end but more expensive at the top end of the range. But it’s newer and far more premium inside, so worth the increase in price.
The 2024 Atlas may not be perfect, but it proves that high-end features don’t have to cost over $50 grand, and families on a budget deserve to be pampered. If that’s not a people’s car, we don’t know what is.