Volkswagen has unveiled the 2024 Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport, and the updates are significant, particularly for those considering the Volkswagen Atlas SEL. This refreshed lineup isn’t just a minor tweak; it’s a comprehensive overhaul focusing on interior refinement, enhanced performance, and a suite of standard features designed to impress even the most discerning SUV buyer. Let’s dive into what makes the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas SEL a standout in its class.
A Deep Dive into the 2024 Atlas SEL: What’s New?
The 2024 model year marks a substantial refresh for the Volkswagen Atlas family, and the SEL trim is a prime example of these improvements. Volkswagen has listened to drivers and elevated the Atlas experience with premium materials, advanced technology, and a more responsive powertrain. While maintaining the spaciousness and practicality that the Atlas is known for, the 2024 SEL model delivers a more luxurious and engaging driving experience.
Performance and Powertrain: A Modern Turbocharged Engine
One of the most notable changes for the 2024 Atlas SEL, and the entire Atlas range, is the introduction of a new 2.0-liter turbocharged and direct-injection TSI® engine. This engine replaces both the previous four-cylinder and the VR6 options. Why is this important? Because this new engine produces 269 horsepower and, crucially, 273 lb-ft of torque. This torque figure is actually higher than the outgoing VR6, and it’s available across a broader rev range.
What does this mean for you as a driver? Expect improved drivability, quicker acceleration, and a more responsive feel overall, especially in everyday driving situations. While EPA fuel economy figures are still pending, Volkswagen anticipates better fuel efficiency compared to the previous VR6 engine, making the 2024 Atlas SEL both more powerful and potentially more economical. An eight-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive come standard, with Volkswagen’s 4Motion® all-wheel-drive system readily available for enhanced traction and control, especially beneficial for SEL trims often equipped with additional features and potentially heavier configurations.
Interior Revolution: Premium Comfort and Design in the Atlas SEL
The interior of the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas SEL has undergone a transformation. Volkswagen has prioritized premium materials and a more sophisticated design, creating a cabin that feels genuinely upscale. Forget the utilitarian feel of previous models; the 2024 Atlas SEL welcomes you with a leatherette-trimmed soft-touch dash and center console. This immediately elevates the perceived quality and tactile experience within the vehicle.
The design flows seamlessly, with front-row door trim and décor integrating into the dash panel to create a cockpit-like feel. This design continuity extends to the second row, ensuring a cohesive and premium ambiance throughout the cabin. Adding to the sophisticated atmosphere, available 30-color ambient lighting and innovative backlit dash décor featuring the model name create a customizable and modern environment. The Atlas SEL further distinguishes itself with standard leather seating surfaces, adding another layer of luxury and comfort. Heated second-row seats, also standard on the SEL trim, are a welcome addition for passenger comfort in colder climates.
Alt text: 2024 Volkswagen Atlas SEL interior showcasing the redesigned dashboard, leather seats, and ambient lighting.
Enhanced Comfort and Convenience Features: Standard on the SEL
Volkswagen has significantly boosted the standard comfort and convenience features across the Atlas range, and the SEL trim benefits greatly. A heated steering wheel with shift paddles is now standard, providing added comfort in winter and a sporty feel for the driver. Ventilated front seats, also standard, are a premium feature often found in higher-end vehicles, ensuring comfort during warmer months. A height-adjustable passenger seat adds to front passenger comfort and flexibility.
The inclusion of Climatronic® automatic climate control and Voice Control as standard features further enhances the user experience. The center console has been redesigned to include a more practical storage cubby underneath, addressing a common need for everyday storage solutions.
Technology at Your Fingertips: Infotainment and Driver Assistance
The 2024 Atlas SEL doesn’t just offer a luxurious interior; it’s packed with technology. A large 12-inch infotainment display is now standard across the Atlas lineup, offering a modern and user-friendly interface. The 10.25-inch Volkswagen Digital Cockpit Pro, also standard, provides a customizable and high-resolution digital instrument cluster, putting essential driving information directly in the driver’s line of sight. Wireless App-Connect, 45W fast charging via USB-C, and wireless charging are all standard, catering to the connectivity needs of today’s drivers and passengers.
Crucially, the IQ.DRIVE® suite of driver assistance features is now standard on all Atlas trims, including the SEL. This comprehensive suite includes Travel Assist, Front Assist, Active Side Assist, Lane Assist, Rear Traffic Alert, Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Go, and Emergency Assist. These features enhance safety and driver confidence, making the 2024 Atlas SEL a smart choice for families. The SEL trim further benefits from Predictive Adaptive Cruise Control, which anticipates driving conditions for smoother and more efficient cruise control operation.
Alt text: Close-up of the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas SEL Digital Cockpit Pro display, highlighting its customization options and driver information.
2024 Atlas SEL Trim Specifics
The Atlas SEL model sits within the upper echelon of the Atlas lineup, offering a balance of luxury and features without reaching the top-tier Premium R-Line. Building upon the SE w/ Technology trim, the Atlas SEL adds features like:
- Standard 4Motion all-wheel drive: Providing enhanced traction and control in various driving conditions.
- Performance LED headlights with Light Assist: Improved visibility and automatic high beam control for safer nighttime driving.
- Heated washer nozzles: A practical feature for maintaining visibility in winter conditions.
- Navigation system: Integrated navigation for route guidance without relying on smartphone connectivity.
- Memory function for driver’s seat and exterior mirrors: Personalized settings for multiple drivers.
- Eight-way power passenger seat: Enhancing passenger comfort and adjustability.
- Panoramic sunroof: Bringing in natural light and enhancing the spacious feel of the cabin.
- Dynamic Road Sign Display: Providing real-time road sign information to the driver.
- Head-up display (New for 2024): Projecting key driving information onto the windshield for minimal driver distraction.
- 30-color ambient lighting (New for 2024): Customizable interior lighting to match driver preferences.
- Leather seating surfaces (New for 2024): Elevating interior luxury and comfort.
- Heated second-row seats (New for 2024): Increased passenger comfort in colder climates.
- Predictive Adaptive Cruise Control (New for 2024): Advanced cruise control for smoother and more efficient operation.
The MSRP for the 2024 Atlas SEL model starts at $48,445, including destination charges. While positioned at a higher price point than the base SE models, the significant upgrades in features, luxury, and technology in the SEL trim offer compelling value for those seeking a well-equipped and refined family SUV.
Conclusion: The 2024 Volkswagen Atlas SEL – A Smart Choice for Families
The refreshed 2024 Volkswagen Atlas SEL represents a significant step forward for the model. With its new turbocharged engine, dramatically improved interior, enhanced standard features, and advanced technology, the Atlas SEL delivers a compelling package for families seeking a spacious, comfortable, and refined SUV. If you’re in the market for a mid-size SUV that blends practicality with a touch of luxury, the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas SEL deserves a serious look. Visit your local Volkswagen dealer to experience the difference firsthand and explore if the Atlas SEL is the right fit for your needs.
