The giant SUV trend is slowing down in North Vancouver. Local families are realizing they don’t need a massive, fuel-hungry vehicle to haul kids, sports equipment, and weekend gear. The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas proves you can downsize your vehicle footprint without downsizing your lifestyle.
This three-row SUV delivers serious family space while sipping fuel more efficiently than its oversized competitors. With a 2,735-litre cargo capacity and seating for seven, the Atlas handles everything from ski trips to Whistler to soccer tournaments on the North Shore — all without the guilt of excessive fuel consumption.
Smart Size for West Coast Living
The Atlas measures 5,097 mm in length with a 2,980 mm wheelbase — significantly smaller than full-size competitors yet still spacious enough for growing families. This smart sizing makes parking at Lonsdale Quay or navigating the narrower streets of North Vancouver much easier than wrestling with an oversized vehicle.
The 4MOTION all-wheel drive system comes standard across all trim levels, providing confident traction year-round, whether you’re dealing with winter rain, occasional snow, or gravel roads on the way to a weekend cabin. The system automatically adjusts power distribution between front and rear wheels, offering stability on the Upper Levels Highway or during damp morning school drop-offs.
Fuel Economy That Makes Sense
The Atlas runs on a single 2.0 TSI turbocharged engine producing 269 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque. This four-cylinder powerplant delivers an impressive combined fuel economy rating of 11.1 L/100 km — substantially better than most full-size SUVs that often exceed 14 L/100 km.
For North Vancouver families making regular trips across the Lions Gate Bridge into downtown Vancouver or weekend drives up the Sea-to-Sky, this fuel efficiency translates to meaningful savings. The eight-speed automatic transmission with Tiptronic includes an ECO driving mode that optimizes engine performance for maximum efficiency on longer highway stretches.
Family-Focused Interior Design
The Atlas interior prioritizes practical family needs over flashy features. The 60/40 split-folding second row includes an armrest with “Easy Access” to the third row, making it simple for kids to climb in and out. All seating surfaces use easy-to-clean leatherette material that stands up to spilled coffee, post-hike mud, and sandy beach gear.
Available trim levels include:
- Comfortline 4MOTION – Base trim with heated front seats and three-zone climate control
- Peak Edition 4MOTION – Adds all-terrain tires and distinctive styling elements
- Highline 4MOTION – Features leather seating and premium audio system
- Execline 4MOTION – Top trim with ventilated massage seats and ambient lighting
Every trim includes a 12.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus a 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit Pro display for the driver.
Safety Features for Peace of Mind
Volkswagen equips every Atlas with comprehensive safety technology to protect families on busy Lower Mainland roads. The IQ.DRIVE suite includes Front Assist automatic emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist monitoring — a must for neighbourhoods with heavy foot traffic.
Travel Assist combines adaptive cruise control, lane assist, and emergency assist to reduce driver fatigue during longer trips. Side Assist provides active blind spot monitoring with rear traffic alert, particularly useful for lane changes on Highway 1 or during bridge traffic into the city.
The Atlas earned a five-star overall safety rating, giving parents confidence whether they’re heading to school, the ski hill, or on a weekend road trip.
Towing Capability Without the Excess
Despite its efficient size, the Atlas maintains serious capability with a towing capacity of 2,268 kg (5,000 lbs). This easily handles family needs like towing a boat to Deep Cove, hauling camping gear, or pulling a utility trailer for home projects. The towing package is standard on all trim levels.
The power tailgate with Easy Open and Easy Close makes loading gear simple, even when your hands are full of hockey bags or groceries. With 2,735 litres of cargo space behind the first row, there’s room for everything from paddleboards to mountain bikes — without relying on extra roof boxes.
Ready to see how the Atlas fits your family’s life on the North Shore? Visit Capilano Volkswagen in North Vancouver to experience the smart-sized SUV that’s redefining what a three-row vehicle can be.
