Best 7-Seater SUVs for British Columbia Families: Why the 2025 VW Atlas Leads

Best 7-Seater SUVs for British Columbia Families: Why the 2025 VW Atlas Leads

Summer in British Columbia calls for adventure. Whether you're heading to Whistler for mountain biking, camping in the Rockies, or exploring Vancouver Island's coastal trails, your family needs a vehicle that can handle it all. The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas delivers exactly that – spacious comfort for seven passengers plus the cargo space and capability to turn every BC weekend into an outdoor expedition.

The Atlas stands as Volkswagen's largest and boldest SUV, purpose-built for families who refuse to choose between daily comfort and weekend adventures. With 2,735 litres of cargo space when you need it and seating for seven when you don't, this German-engineered SUV transforms how BC families approach their outdoor lifestyle.

Why BC Families Choose the Atlas Over the Competition

The 2025 Atlas outperforms typical three-row SUVs in areas that matter most to British Columbia adventurers. The standard 4MOTION all-wheel drive system provides confidence on mountain roads and wet coastal highways, while the 2,268 kg (5,000 lbs) towing capacity handles everything from small travel trailers to boat launches.

Key Adventure-Ready Features: 

  • 2,735 litres of cargo space with rear seats folded 
  • 269 hp 2.0 TSI turbocharged engine 
  • Standard 4MOTION AWD on all Atlas models 
  • Three-zone electronic climate control 
  • Power tailgate with easy open/close function 
  • IQ.DRIVE advanced safety technology

The Atlas offers four distinct trim levels: Comfortline, Peak Edition, Highline, and Execline. Each trim includes 4MOTION AWD as standard equipment, ensuring every Atlas can handle BC's diverse terrain from sea level to mountain passes.

Cargo Space That Actually Works for Gear

Numbers tell part of the story, but real-world usability tells the rest. The Atlas provides 2,735 litres of cargo volume with the second and third rows folded flat – enough space for camping gear for a family of seven, multiple mountain bikes, or skiing equipment for an entire weekend getaway.

The 60/40 split-folding second row and removable third row create versatile loading configurations. Need to transport long items like kayaks or lumber? The Atlas accommodates gear up to 2.4 metres long with seats folded. The wide tailgate opening and low load floor make heavy items easier to manage, while the power tailgate operates even with winter gloves.

Smart storage solutions include a centre console that doubles as an armrest, multiple cup holders throughout all three rows, and door pockets sized for water bottles and trail maps. The available panoramic sunroof brings the BC outdoors inside, creating an open feeling even when fully loaded with passengers and gear.

4MOTION AWD: Built for British Columbia Roads

Vancouver's rainy seasons, mountain snow, and gravel logging roads demand more than basic front-wheel drive. The Atlas's 4MOTION system automatically distributes power between front and rear wheels, providing traction when conditions change without driver input.

The system operates transparently during daily driving but activates instantly when sensors detect wheel slip. Whether you're navigating a steep boat launch, climbing a forest service road, or simply driving through Stanley Park in the rain, 4MOTION provides the confidence to reach your destination safely.

Driving Mode

Best For

How It Helps

ECO

Highway cruising

Optimizes fuel economy for long drives

Normal

Daily driving

Balanced performance and efficiency

Sport

Mountain roads

Enhanced throttle response and transmission

Offroad

Gravel/snow

Modified traction and stability settings

The 269 hp turbocharged engine provides sufficient power for highway merging and mountain climbing while maintaining reasonable fuel consumption. The eight-speed automatic transmission includes Tiptronic manual shifting for drivers who prefer more control during challenging terrain.

Technology That Enhances Every Journey

The Atlas integrates technology that simplifies both daily commutes and weekend adventures. The 12.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing passengers to stream music, navigate trails, or stay connected during long drives.

The Volkswagen Digital Cockpit Pro provides a 10.25-inch configurable display directly in front of the driver. Choose between traditional gauges, full-screen navigation, or trip computer information depending on your driving needs. The system displays real-time 4MOTION status, helping drivers understand when AWD engages during challenging conditions.

Advanced safety features come standard through IQ.DRIVE technology. Travel Assist provides semi-automated driving assistance during highway portions of long trips, while Front Assist monitors for potential collisions with pedestrians and cyclists – essential for navigating BC's busy recreational areas.

Ready to experience how the Atlas transforms your family's approach to BC adventures? Visit Capilano Volkswagen in North Vancouver to explore all trim levels and schedule your test drive on local mountain routes.