Volkswagen has been on a mission to build excitement ahead of the reveal of the all-new Atlas. The three-row crossover originally went into production back in 2017, so it’s overdue for a replacement. VW has been hard at work teasing that replacement, initially showing off a camouflaged version of the SUV in February. That was followed by a first look at its high-tech interior a few days ago, and now we have another look at the exterior proportions of what will be a key launch for the German automaker.
Related: 2027 Volkswagen Atlas: First Look at Kia Telluride Rival
New Atlas Looks Large
VW
While it’s not possible to gauge dimensions from images alone, the 2027 Atlas looks like it has a substantial footprint in the new side view. Overhangs are substantial and the roofline is long, gently tapering towards the rear of the vehicle. The current Atlas is already over 200 inches long, so any growth spurt for the new one will see it challenge a few full-size SUVs for sheer size.
“The all-new 2027 Volkswagen Atlas has the space and features to make everyday life easier for real-life families,” said the automaker in a statement, suggesting the SUV will have an expansive interior.
Volkswagen
No other details were shared, but the new Atlas is expected to stick with a four-cylinder turbocharged engine, specifically the EA888 Evo5 mill used in the new Tiguan. It makes 268 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque in the Tiguan, which would fall short of the 274-hp/311-lb-ft engine in the latest Kia Telluride. VW may have tuned this four-pot for more power in the larger Atlas, though.
Glitzy interior lighting and the latest infotainment system are expected inside, with the overall look expected to closely mirror the VW Teramont Pro sold in China.
Related: 2027 Volkswagen Atlas Teased Ahead of New York Auto Show Debut
What Are The VW Atlas SUV’s Rivals?
2026 Hyundai Palisade Kristen Brown
The 2027 VW Atlas will enter a three-row crossover segment that’s brimming with talent. The Hyundai Palisade and Kia Telluride are both new, and they also come with the option of efficient hybrids, something the Atlas will need at some point to remain truly competitive. The Koreans feel more upmarket than ever, so we hope VW has injected some personality and a premium feel into the new Atlas interior.
Segment stalwarts like the Toyota Grand Highlander and heavily revised Honda Pilot still sell strongly, as do brawnier alternatives like the Ford Explorer and Chevrolet Traverse. In fact, the Explorer was the top-selling three-row SUV in the U.S. in 2025.
The outgoing Atlas failed to stand out in any single area, which is why it was often overlooked. Early signs point to the new one being a significant improvement, which it will need to be if VW hopes to turn around declining sales in this market.
The 2027 VW Atlas will be fully revealed on March 31, 2026.
