The Volkswagen Atlas is popular in North America, with 19,293 examples sold in Q2 2024 alone. That excludes the Atlas Cross, of which VW shifted 9,769 units. Add them together, and the lineup is the automaker's most popular model by far. However, Volkswagen is hard at work keeping the Atlas fresh, with a new model right around the corner.

Spied testing in Europe, the Atlas appears more upmarket than before, with simple styling updates applied to the front and rear fascias. Compared to the outgoing model, the grille is more detailed than before, with chrome detailing lending the Atlas more presence. The headlights have also been updated with darkened clusters. VW has styled them to flow effortlessly into the grille, resulting in a cleaner and classier look, although the faux grille and stuck-on headlight surrounds mean we can't see them in their entirety.

Atlas Has More Presence Than Before

The rear end maintains its prominent light bar, albeit with redesigned lighting elements. The lower bumper elements have also been updated for a cleaner look, making the Atlas appear more upmarket than the outgoing model and closer to the Touareg we've missed out on for nearly a decade. The profile has also been refreshed with new chrome trim on the door and front fenders. Volkswagen has also added flush-fitting door handles, resulting in a more streamlined appearance.

Unfortunately, there's no footage of the interior. However, we expect the cabin to benefit from revisions seen in other Volkswagens. This includes more intuitive climate controls, a larger touchscreen angled toward the driver, and new details, such as revised trim inlays and upholstery options.

What About The Powertrains?

There's no word yet on the available powertrain options, but it's safe to assume the Atlas will retain the familiar 2.0-liter turbocharged four-pot. The current model produces 269 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. Sadly, the delightful VR6 engine has been discontinued, and we don't anticipate it will return with the new model. Volkswagen has previously said it would like to offer a more powerful version of the Atlas, so a more muscular option may arrive with the update.

The Atlas has been around since MY2018, making it one of the oldest models in the VW USA lineup. It was updated early last year, keeping it fresh in the face of competitors. The new model may look similar to the outgoing model, but we expect significant under-the-skin updates to set the two apart. We expect it to arrive as a MY2026 model sometime next year, which would give the old model a total of eight years in production.