Hey guys! Today, we’re diving deep into the 2020 Volkswagen Atlas SE, a popular choice for families needing space, comfort, and reliability. If you’re in the market for a mid-size SUV, this review is tailored just for you. We'll cover everything from its performance and interior features to its safety ratings and overall value. So, buckle up and let’s get started!

Overview of the 2020 Volkswagen Atlas SE

The 2020 Volkswagen Atlas SE stands out in the crowded mid-size SUV market with its focus on providing ample space for passengers and cargo. It's designed for families who need a practical and comfortable vehicle for daily commutes, road trips, and everything in between. The Atlas SE trim offers a sweet spot of features without breaking the bank, making it a compelling option for budget-conscious buyers. Volkswagen has built a reputation for solid engineering, and the Atlas SE aims to deliver on that promise with a blend of functionality and understated style. Whether you're carting kids to school, hauling groceries, or embarking on a cross-country adventure, the Atlas SE is built to handle it all with ease. One of the main draws of the Atlas SE is its spacious interior. Unlike some competitors that compromise on third-row seating, the Atlas offers a genuinely usable third row, making it suitable for larger families or those who frequently travel with a group. The seats are designed with comfort in mind, and the ride quality is smooth, even on rough roads. From a design perspective, the Atlas SE sports a clean and modern aesthetic. It's not overly flashy, but it has a sophisticated look that appeals to a wide range of buyers. The exterior lines are crisp and well-proportioned, giving it a presence on the road without being too aggressive. Inside, the cabin is thoughtfully laid out with intuitive controls and high-quality materials. The focus is on functionality and durability, ensuring that the Atlas SE can withstand the rigors of daily family life. In terms of performance, the Atlas SE offers a balance of power and efficiency. It's not a sports car by any means, but it provides enough grunt to handle everyday driving situations with confidence. The available engine options are designed to deliver a smooth and responsive driving experience, whether you're navigating city streets or cruising on the highway. Overall, the 2020 Volkswagen Atlas SE is a well-rounded SUV that prioritizes practicality, comfort, and value. It's a strong contender in its class, and it's worth considering if you're in the market for a family-friendly vehicle.

Performance and Handling

When it comes to performance and handling of the 2020 Volkswagen Atlas SE, you’ll find that it strikes a good balance for a family SUV. The standard engine is a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, which produces around 235 horsepower. While it might not sound like a lot, it provides adequate power for most driving situations. If you need more oomph, there's also an available 3.6-liter V6 engine that bumps the power up to 276 horsepower. This is definitely the way to go if you plan on doing a lot of towing or frequently carry a full load of passengers and cargo. The Atlas SE handles surprisingly well for its size. The steering is responsive, and the suspension does a good job of soaking up bumps in the road. It's not exactly sporty, but it's comfortable and predictable, which is what most families are looking for. In terms of fuel economy, the 2.0-liter turbo gets around 22 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway, which is decent for its class. The V6, on the other hand, drops to around 17 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway. So, if fuel efficiency is a major concern, the four-cylinder might be the better choice. One thing to keep in mind is that the Atlas SE is a fairly large vehicle, so it can feel a bit cumbersome in tight parking spaces. However, the available parking sensors and rearview camera help to mitigate this issue. Overall, the 2020 Volkswagen Atlas SE offers a competent and comfortable driving experience. It's not the fastest or most agile SUV on the market, but it's well-suited for daily family duties. Whether you're running errands around town or embarking on a long road trip, the Atlas SE is a reliable and capable companion. Just be sure to consider your needs and preferences when choosing between the four-cylinder and V6 engines. If you prioritize fuel economy and don't need a lot of extra power, the four-cylinder will likely suffice. But if you want more grunt and don't mind sacrificing some fuel efficiency, the V6 is the way to go. Ultimately, the 2020 Volkswagen Atlas SE provides a driving experience that is both practical and enjoyable, making it a solid choice for families.

Interior and Technology

Stepping inside the 2020 Volkswagen Atlas SE, you'll immediately notice the spacious and well-designed interior. The focus is on functionality and comfort, with plenty of room for both passengers and cargo. The seats are supportive and comfortable, even on long drives, and the materials feel durable and well-made. The dashboard layout is clean and intuitive, with all the controls within easy reach. One of the standout features of the Atlas SE is its user-friendly technology. The infotainment system is easy to navigate, with a responsive touchscreen and clear graphics. It comes standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, so you can easily connect your smartphone and access your favorite apps. The audio system is decent, but audiophiles may want to consider upgrading to the premium Fender audio system for a richer sound experience. In terms of safety technology, the Atlas SE comes standard with a rearview camera, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. These features help to improve visibility and awareness, making it easier to avoid accidents. Available options include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. These advanced safety features can provide an extra layer of protection for you and your family. The 2020 Volkswagen Atlas SE also offers plenty of storage space, with numerous cubbies, bins, and pockets throughout the cabin. The cargo area is massive, with enough room for luggage, groceries, and sports equipment. The third-row seats fold down easily to create even more space, making it a versatile vehicle for hauling cargo. Overall, the interior of the 2020 Volkswagen Atlas SE is a comfortable and functional space that is well-suited for families. The technology is user-friendly and the safety features are comprehensive, providing peace of mind on the road. Whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a family road trip, the Atlas SE offers a comfortable and connected driving experience. The interior of the Atlas SE is not overly luxurious, but it is well-appointed and practical. The focus is on providing a comfortable and functional space for passengers and cargo, and it succeeds in this regard. If you're looking for a family SUV with a spacious interior and user-friendly technology, the 2020 Volkswagen Atlas SE is definitely worth considering.

Safety and Reliability

When considering any family SUV, safety and reliability are paramount, and the 2020 Volkswagen Atlas SE doesn't disappoint. It has earned solid safety ratings from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The NHTSA has given the Atlas SE a five-star overall safety rating, which is the highest possible score. This rating takes into account the vehicle's performance in frontal, side, and rollover crash tests. The IIHS has also awarded the Atlas SE its Top Safety Pick designation, which means it performed well in all of the IIHS's crash tests. In terms of specific safety features, the Atlas SE comes standard with a suite of advanced safety technologies, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic emergency braking. These features can help to prevent accidents and protect occupants in the event of a collision. The Atlas SE also comes with a comprehensive airbag system, including front, side, and curtain airbags. These airbags are designed to protect occupants in the event of a serious crash. In terms of reliability, the 2020 Volkswagen Atlas SE has received mixed reviews. Some owners have reported issues with the infotainment system and other electronic components, while others have had no problems at all. However, Volkswagen offers a comprehensive warranty on the Atlas SE, which covers most major repairs for the first four years or 50,000 miles. This warranty provides peace of mind and can help to mitigate the cost of any unexpected repairs. Overall, the 2020 Volkswagen Atlas SE is a safe and reliable SUV that is well-suited for families. It has earned solid safety ratings from both the NHTSA and the IIHS, and it comes standard with a suite of advanced safety features. While there have been some reports of reliability issues, Volkswagen's comprehensive warranty provides peace of mind and can help to mitigate the cost of any unexpected repairs. When it comes to safety, the 2020 Volkswagen Atlas SE is a top contender in its class. Its strong safety ratings and comprehensive suite of safety features make it a safe and reliable choice for families. If you're looking for a family SUV that prioritizes safety, the Atlas SE is definitely worth considering. Just be sure to do your research and read reviews from other owners to get a sense of its long-term reliability.

Conclusion

So, what's the final verdict on the 2020 Volkswagen Atlas SE? Overall, it's a solid choice for families needing a spacious, comfortable, and safe mid-size SUV. It shines with its ample passenger and cargo space, making it ideal for larger families or those who frequently haul a lot of gear. The interior is well-designed and user-friendly, with intuitive technology and comfortable seating. While the performance isn't exactly thrilling, it's more than adequate for everyday driving, and the available V6 engine provides extra power for towing or hauling heavy loads. The Atlas SE also boasts strong safety ratings, giving you peace of mind knowing that you and your family are well-protected. However, there are a few potential drawbacks to consider. Some owners have reported reliability issues, particularly with the infotainment system. And while the fuel economy is decent, it's not class-leading. Additionally, the Atlas SE isn't the most stylish SUV on the market, but its understated design may appeal to those who prefer a more conservative look. Ultimately, the 2020 Volkswagen Atlas SE is a well-rounded SUV that offers a good balance of practicality, comfort, and value. It's not perfect, but it's a strong contender in its class, and it's worth considering if you're in the market for a family-friendly vehicle. Before making a final decision, be sure to test drive the Atlas SE and compare it to other SUVs in its class. Consider your specific needs and preferences, and choose the vehicle that best suits your lifestyle. With its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and strong safety ratings, the 2020 Volkswagen Atlas SE is a reliable and capable SUV that can handle the demands of daily family life. Whether you're commuting to work, running errands around town, or embarking on a long road trip, the Atlas SE is a versatile and practical choice.