
VW Atlas: The SUV Built for Modern Families
For families in Kirkland, life is a constant motion of school drop-offs, sports practices, and weekend getaways into the stunning landscapes of the Pacific Northwest. You need a vehicle that is large enough to handle the whole crew, powerful enough to haul your favorite toys, and smart enough to keep everyone safe along the way. Enter the Volkswagen Atlas. At Volkswagen of Kirkland, a proud member of the O'Brien Auto Group, we believe the Atlas is the definitive choice for those who need "big-family" versatility without sacrificing a premium driving experience.
How much can the Volkswagen Atlas tow?
Whether you are planning to take a small boat out on Lake Washington or towing a camper for a weekend at a state park, the Atlas is ready for the task. The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas features a powerful 2.0L turbocharged engine that produces 269 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. This engine isn't just about speed; it’s about strength. When properly equipped, the Atlas boasts a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds.
This is a significant advantage for local adventurers. A 5,000-pound capacity allows you to confidently haul a pair of jet skis, a medium-sized utility trailer, or a lightweight travel trailer. Even better, this impressive towing muscle is now standard across the lineup, meaning you don't have to upgrade to a massive V6 to get the capability you need for your Pacific Northwest lifestyle.
How many people does the VW Atlas seat?
Space is the ultimate luxury for a growing family, and the Atlas offers it in spades. This is a true three-row SUV, designed to comfortably seat up to seven passengers. Unlike many competitors where the third row feels like an afterthought reserved only for small children, the Atlas provides legitimate room for adults in the very back.
Accessing that third row is also a breeze, thanks to a second row that can tilt and slide forward even with a child seat installed. This thoughtful piece of engineering is a favorite among Kirkland parents, as it eliminates the struggle of rearranging seats just to let someone into the back. For those who prefer a more executive feel, available second-row captain's chairs create a six-passenger configuration that offers even more individual space and comfort.

What is the cargo capacity of the Volkswagen Atlas?
The Atlas is a master of transformation. When you aren't filling the seats with people, you can fill the cabin with gear. With both the second and third rows folded flat, the Atlas offers a class-leading 96.8 cubic feet of maximum cargo space. That is enough room for a full furniture run, mountain bikes, or a massive haul of camping equipment.
Even with the third row in use, you still have 20.6 cubic feet of space behind the seats—perfect for groceries from the Kirkland Wednesday Market or several backpacks. If you fold just the third row, that space expands to a generous 55.5 cubic feet. This flexibility ensures that no matter what your day in Kirkland looks like, the Atlas can adapt to fit your needs.
Is the VW Atlas good for driving in the mountains?
Living in the Pacific Northwest means the mountains are always calling. The Atlas is equipped to answer that call with available 4MOTION all-wheel drive with Active Control. This system allows you to toggle between different drive modes—such as Snow, On-Road, Off-Road, and Off-Road Custom—at the turn of a dial.
This level of control is invaluable when navigating the winding, often snowy roads leading to the ski resorts or remote hiking trailheads. The Atlas feels confident and planted, with a retuned suspension that provides a smooth, car-like ride even on rougher terrain. The turbocharged engine also ensures you have plenty of "climbing power" when ascending the steep grades of the Cascades.

Does the Volkswagen Atlas have all-wheel drive?
Yes, the Atlas is available with Volkswagen’s advanced 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system. In our local climate, this feature is more of a necessity than an option. The system works by automatically directing power to the wheels that have the most traction, helping to prevent slips before they even occur.
Safety is further enhanced by standard IQ.DRIVE technology, which acts as an extra set of eyes on the road. Features like Front Assist, Lane Assist, and an Active Blind Spot Monitor provide an added layer of protection as you navigate the busy corridors of I-405 or the residential streets of Kirkland.
At Volkswagen of Kirkland, we are dedicated to providing the families of our community with vehicles that enhance their lives. Being a part of the O'Brien Auto Group allows us to provide exceptional service and a deep understanding of what local drivers truly need. We invite you to bring the whole family down to our showroom and see for yourself why the Volkswagen Atlas is the SUV built for your modern life. Check out our Atlas inventory here and drop by for a test drive.
*Penned by AI, polished by humans