Which VW Atlas Model Gets You the Most for Your Money?VolkswagenIf you're wondering which trim level of the VW Atlas to buy, we recommend the SE with Technology trim level.One step up from the base SE, this Atlas three-row SUV has the right features at a reasonable cost.Optional extras on the SE with Technology include all-wheel drive, a panoramic sunroof, and second-row captain's chairs.See Our Comprehensive Volkswagen Atlas Make-Model PageShop New Cars | Shop Used CarsAdvertisementAdvertisementThe VW Atlas is a competent family SUV, combining a comfortable ride with good space for up to seven. Choosing from the five available trim levels can be a little confusing, but we're here to make that process a little easier. If you're shopping for an Atlas, we can save you some time by recommending the trim level and options that pack the best value.VolkswagenWhich Atlas Trim Level Is the Best?For our money, the $45,205 Atlas SE with Technology trim is the one to choose. On top of the base SE's features, it adds, well, technology: a hands-free power liftgate, a 115-volt household-style outlet for the second row, garage door buttons integrated into the rearview mirror, front and rear parking sensors, remote start, and some fancy exterior lighting. The wheels also get upgraded from 18 inches to 20, and there's a standard trailer hitch on the back. All that comes at $4420 more than the base model.What Options Should You Consider?If you live somewhere it snows, we recommend adding 4Motion all-wheel drive for $1900—thankfully, it doesn't lower fuel economy that much. There are very few other factory options, but none of them are available on the SE; a panoramic sunroof costs $1200, and swapping for captain's chairs in the second row instead of a bench runs $695. Oh, and for an extra $595, the 20-inch wheels get a coat of black paint, if that's your thing.What Do You Miss Out On in the Higher Trim Levels?Three trim levels sit above the SE with Technology in the Atlas's trim hierarchy: Peak Edition, SEL, and SEL Premium R-Line. All three come standard with all-wheel drive. The Peak Edition rides on 18-inch wheels and features off-road-y styling elements and comes standard with the panoramic sunroof, but it's otherwise pretty similar to our pick.AdvertisementAdvertisementOpting for either the SEL or SEL Premium R-Line upgrades the upholstery in the two front rows from faux leather to the real stuff and adds heated windshield washer nozzles, a head-up display, built-in navigation, adjustable lumbar and seat memory up front, heat for the second-row seats,And reserved for the SEL Premium R-Line are a sporty body kit, 21-inch wheels, a 360-degree camera system, park assist, a premium sound system, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, front-seat massage, and nicer leather than the plain SEL.➡️ Skip the lot. Let Car and Driver help you find your next car.Shop New Cars Shop Used CarsAdvertisementAdvertisementYou Might Also LikeGift Guide: Best Ride-On Electric Cars for KidsFuture Cars Worth Waiting For: 2025–2029
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