Tom's Volkswagen of Union - Why Families Around South Orange, NJ Are Choosing the 2026 Volkswagen Atlas
When life moves fast, a three-row SUV has to do more than seat seven. It needs to streamline your day with smart tech, adaptable cargo space, and steady confidence in changing weather. That’s exactly where the 2026 Volkswagen Atlas excels. In this blog, we’re focusing on two things families ask about most—everyday versatility and travel-friendly technology—so you can decide if the Atlas is the right fit for your next chapter around South Orange, NJ.
Inside, the Atlas offers the kind of thoughtful packaging that matters: easy-access second-row seating, comfortable third-row space, and the flexibility to expand to 96.6 cubic feet of cargo volume when you need it. Up front, a 12-inch center display anchors the cockpit, pairing seamlessly with Wireless App-Connect for compatible devices, an available Wi-Fi Hotspot, and available wireless charging to keep your crew powered on the go. Elevated touches—like an available panoramic sunroof and an optional Harman Kardon audio system—turn daily drives into welcome downtime. Outside, you’ll find a confident, clean design with available illuminated grille and front VW emblem, an available hands-free liftgate for one-trip grocery hauling, and roof rails ready for available carrier systems when adventure calls.
On the tech and safety front, IQ.DRIVE® brings hands-on, semi-automated capability designed to support you on well-marked highways and in stop-and-go traffic. Available 4MOTION® all-wheel drive adds confidence when the weather is unsettled, while the turbocharged 2.0 TSI® engine supplies 269 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque for easy merging and passing with a full cabin. Properly equipped, the Atlas tows up to 5,000 pounds—perfect for a compact camper or a weekend of water sports. Add in connected features through myVW—like available remote start and remote lock/unlock when equipped—and your Atlas stays in sync with your day even when you’re not behind the wheel.
If you’re mapping out school routines, music lessons, and soccer tournaments, these Atlas highlights make a meaningful difference:
- Cargo flexibility: Expand to 96.6 cu ft by folding the rear rows to haul bulky items
- Seating comfort: Three adult-friendly rows with easy access and generous legroom
- Connected cabin: 12-inch display, Wireless App-Connect, available Wi-Fi Hotspot
- Stress-reducing assists: IQ.DRIVE® support features for commuting and road trips
- All-season confidence: Available 4MOTION® all-wheel drive with selectable drive modes
- Real-world capability: 5,000-pound towing capacity when properly equipped
Frequently Asked Questions:
How does IQ.DRIVE® help on daily commutes?
IQ.DRIVE® offers hands-on, semi-automated capability designed to help with lane centering and maintaining following distance on well-marked roads, plus support features that can assist in stop-and-go conditions to help reduce fatigue.
Is the third row suitable for adults?
Yes. The Atlas is engineered with adult-friendly space in all three rows, and the second row is designed for easy access so passengers can get settled quickly.
Can I keep everyone’s devices powered without cables?
The Atlas offers available wireless charging for compatible devices and multiple USB-C ports, plus an available Wi-Fi Hotspot to help keep passengers connected on longer trips.
Families across the area choose the Atlas because it does the everyday things gracefully and the big weekend ambitions capably. It’s the rare three-row SUV that feels right at school pickup, in the carpool lane, or out past the city lights. When you’re ready to explore trims, colors, and the latest features, visit Tom's Volkswagen of Union—serving Maplewood, South Orange, and Mountainside—for a walkthrough tailored to your routine. Our product specialists can compare configurations side by side and help you zero in on the features that matter most for your family’s next adventure.