The 2018 Volkswagen Atlas 3.6L V6 SEL marked Volkswagen's serious entry into the competitive mid-size SUV market. For families needing space, practicality, and a touch of German engineering, the Atlas presented a compelling option. This article dives deep into the details of the 2018 Atlas 3.6L V6 SEL, covering everything from its performance and interior features to its technology and overall driving experience. Whether you're considering buying one, already own one, or are simply curious, this comprehensive review will provide you with all the essential information.

Engine and Performance

The heart of the 2018 Volkswagen Atlas 3.6L V6 SEL is its robust 3.6-liter V6 engine. This engine delivers a respectable 276 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque, providing ample power for daily commutes and long road trips. The engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, which offers smooth and responsive gear changes. This combination ensures that the Atlas feels confident and capable in various driving conditions. Whether you're accelerating onto the highway or navigating city streets, the V6 engine provides plenty of grunt.

One of the key highlights of the 2018 Atlas is its composed ride quality. The suspension is tuned to absorb bumps and imperfections in the road, providing a comfortable and stable driving experience. The steering is precise and well-weighted, making it easy to maneuver the Atlas in tight spaces. Furthermore, the available 4Motion all-wheel-drive system enhances traction and stability, especially in adverse weather conditions. This makes the Atlas a reliable choice for families who live in areas with snow or rain.

Fuel economy is another important consideration for SUV buyers. The 2018 Volkswagen Atlas 3.6L V6 SEL achieves an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 18 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway. While this isn't class-leading, it's respectable for a vehicle of this size and capability. In real-world driving conditions, many owners report achieving similar or even slightly better fuel economy, depending on their driving habits and the terrain. Overall, the performance of the 2018 Atlas 3.6L V6 SEL is well-rounded, offering a good balance of power, comfort, and efficiency.

Interior and Features

Step inside the 2018 Volkswagen Atlas 3.6L V6 SEL, and you'll find a spacious and well-designed cabin. The interior is characterized by its clean lines, user-friendly layout, and high-quality materials. The SEL trim level adds a touch of luxury with leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a panoramic sunroof. These features enhance the overall comfort and ambiance of the cabin, making it a pleasant place to spend time on long journeys.

One of the standout features of the Atlas is its generous passenger and cargo space. With three rows of seating, the Atlas can comfortably accommodate up to seven passengers. The second-row seats slide and recline, allowing for easy access to the third row. Even adults can sit comfortably in the third row, which is a rare feat in this segment. When it comes to cargo space, the Atlas offers a class-leading 20.6 cubic feet behind the third row, 55.5 cubic feet with the third row folded down, and a maximum of 96.8 cubic feet with both the second and third rows folded down. This makes the Atlas an ideal choice for families who need to haul a lot of gear.

The 2018 Atlas 3.6L V6 SEL comes standard with a variety of convenient and practical features. These include a rearview camera, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic headlights. The infotainment system features an 8-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a premium audio system. These technologies keep you connected and entertained on the road. Other notable features include keyless entry, push-button start, and a power liftgate. These features add to the convenience and ease of use of the Atlas, making it a great choice for busy families.

Technology and Safety

The 2018 Volkswagen Atlas 3.6L V6 SEL prioritizes safety with a suite of advanced driver-assistance features. Standard safety equipment includes anti-lock brakes, stability control, and a full complement of airbags. The SEL trim level adds several advanced safety technologies, such as adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. These features help to prevent accidents and protect occupants in the event of a collision. The Atlas also earned a five-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), demonstrating its commitment to safety.

The infotainment system in the 2018 Atlas is user-friendly and responsive. The 8-inch touchscreen display is easy to read and navigate, and the system supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This allows you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone with the car's infotainment system, giving you access to your favorite apps, music, and navigation. The premium audio system delivers crisp and clear sound quality, enhancing the overall entertainment experience. Furthermore, the Atlas offers a variety of connectivity options, including USB ports, Bluetooth, and a Wi-Fi hotspot.

In addition to its safety and infotainment features, the 2018 Atlas also offers several other technology enhancements. These include a digital cockpit display, which provides a customizable view of important vehicle information. The digital cockpit display allows you to monitor your speed, fuel economy, and navigation directions in a clear and concise manner. Other notable technology features include a panoramic sunroof, which lets in plenty of natural light, and a power liftgate, which makes it easy to load and unload cargo. Overall, the 2018 Atlas 3.6L V6 SEL is well-equipped with technology features that enhance safety, convenience, and entertainment.

Driving Experience

Behind the wheel, the 2018 Volkswagen Atlas 3.6L V6 SEL delivers a composed and comfortable driving experience. The V6 engine provides ample power for most driving situations, and the eight-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly and responsively. The steering is precise and well-weighted, making it easy to maneuver the Atlas in tight spaces. The suspension is tuned to absorb bumps and imperfections in the road, providing a smooth and stable ride. Whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a long road trip, the Atlas offers a pleasant and relaxing driving experience.

One of the key highlights of the Atlas is its spacious and well-designed cabin. The seats are comfortable and supportive, even on long drives. The interior is quiet and refined, with minimal road and wind noise. The panoramic sunroof lets in plenty of natural light, creating an open and airy atmosphere. Furthermore, the Atlas offers excellent visibility, thanks to its large windows and high seating position. This makes it easy to see your surroundings and anticipate potential hazards.

The 2018 Atlas is also surprisingly agile for its size. The available 4Motion all-wheel-drive system enhances traction and stability, especially in adverse weather conditions. This makes the Atlas a confident and capable performer in snow, rain, or mud. The brakes are strong and responsive, providing ample stopping power. Overall, the driving experience of the 2018 Atlas 3.6L V6 SEL is well-rounded, offering a good balance of comfort, performance, and handling.

Potential Issues and Reliability

While the 2018 Volkswagen Atlas 3.6L V6 SEL is generally a reliable vehicle, there have been some reported issues. Some owners have experienced problems with the infotainment system, such as glitches, freezing, and connectivity issues. Others have reported issues with the climate control system, such as inconsistent temperatures and malfunctioning vents. Additionally, some owners have reported problems with the transmission, such as rough shifting and hesitation.

It's important to note that not all owners have experienced these issues, and many have reported no problems at all. However, it's always a good idea to be aware of potential issues before purchasing a used vehicle. If you're considering buying a 2018 Atlas, it's recommended to have it inspected by a qualified mechanic to identify any potential problems. Additionally, it's a good idea to check the vehicle's maintenance history to ensure that it has been properly maintained.

Despite these potential issues, the 2018 Atlas generally has a good reputation for reliability. Volkswagen offers a comprehensive warranty on new vehicles, and many owners have reported positive experiences with their Atlas. If you're looking for a spacious and practical SUV that offers a good balance of comfort, performance, and reliability, the 2018 Volkswagen Atlas 3.6L V6 SEL is definitely worth considering.

Is the 2018 Volkswagen Atlas 3.6L V6 SEL Right for You?

The 2018 Volkswagen Atlas 3.6L V6 SEL is a compelling choice for families seeking a spacious, practical, and well-equipped mid-size SUV. Its roomy interior, comfortable ride, and user-friendly technology make it a standout in its class. But is it the right vehicle for you? Here's a breakdown to help you decide:

Reasons to Consider the 2018 VW Atlas:

• Spacious Interior: If you regularly transport multiple passengers or need ample cargo space, the Atlas excels. Its third-row seating is genuinely usable for adults, and the cargo area is among the largest in its class.
• Comfortable Ride: The Atlas provides a smooth and composed ride, making it ideal for long road trips and daily commutes. Its suspension effectively absorbs bumps and imperfections in the road.
• User-Friendly Technology: The infotainment system is intuitive and easy to use, with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.
• Available All-Wheel Drive: The 4Motion all-wheel-drive system enhances traction and stability in adverse weather conditions.

Potential Drawbacks:

• Fuel Economy: While not terrible, the Atlas's fuel economy is not class-leading.
• Potential Reliability Issues: Some owners have reported problems with the infotainment system, climate control, and transmission.
• Exterior Styling: The Atlas's exterior styling is somewhat conservative and may not appeal to everyone.

Overall:

The 2018 Volkswagen Atlas 3.6L V6 SEL is a well-rounded SUV that offers a lot of value for the money. If you prioritize space, comfort, and practicality, it's definitely worth considering. However, it's important to be aware of the potential reliability issues and to have the vehicle inspected before purchasing.

Ultimately, the best way to determine if the 2018 Atlas is right for you is to take it for a test drive and see how it fits your needs and lifestyle. Consider your priorities, weigh the pros and cons, and make an informed decision.