2023 Volkswagen Atlas Towing Capacity

Under the Hood: VW Atlas Towing Capacity

The VW Atlas offers two engine options to customize the power for your new SUV. Depending on which engine you choose and the additional accessories that are needed, towing capabilities will vary, as we can see below:

On the trim levels with the 2.0L engine, you can take advantage of the maximum towing potential of 2,000 pounds, when it is properly equipped. If you upgrade to the optional 3.6L V6 engine, you can enjoy more horsepower and torque as well as a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, with the right equipment.

Types of Towing Experiences

With the towing capacity we’ve explored above, the VW Atlas can accommodate your towing needs when it’s properly equipped. For example, with the 2,000-pound capacity, items you are capable of towing include:

• Pop-up camper for your family trip to the mountainside campground
• Jet skis for watersports fun at Chatfield State Park
• Utility trailer for home landscaping projects
• Aluminum fishing boat for those weekend fishing retreats

So, if you’re looking for towing help for your everyday adventures, the 2.0L I-4 engine may have everything you need. However, if you’re looking to take longer trips with heavier loads, the 5,000-pound VW Atlas towing capacity can be used to haul RVs, recreational boats, small trailers, and so much more.

Once you determine how much towing strength you need, you can begin considering the different possibilities provided by the 2023 VW Atlas.

Power to the Max

To take advantage of the maximum towing capabilities of this SUV, a factory-installed trailer hitch and a specific engine are required. To further optimize this SUV’s pulling power, helpful features include:

• 8-speed automatic transmission: Having eight speeds can help improve the efficiency and performance of your SUV.
• Tiptronic^® mode: Take control of the driving situation, with this driving system that allows you to shift manually when needed—very helpful when you’re off road.
• Optional all-wheel drive (AWD): Whether you choose the 2.0L TSI^® turbo engine or the 3.6L V6 engine, AWD is available for an amplified driving experience in winter weather, off the beaten path, and beyond.
• Optional 4MOTION^® with Active Control: With the turn of a dial, you can switch between different available all-wheel-drive modes—such as On-Road Mode, Off-Road Mode, and Off-Road Custom Mode—to fit your driving situation.

The VW Atlas provides power and control in many forms to keep any camping or off-roading adventure running smoothly.

Built Strong

This vehicle is built strong enough to handle your towing needs. With a lightweight chassis constructed of ultra-high-strength steel, this model is fit and limber enough to drive fast yet still haul your speedboat, camper, and more. It’s time to take advantage of the reliable independent suspension and enjoy sailing around town.

Safety Features in Your VW Atlas

In your VW Atlas, we want you to have control as you tow. To stay safe wherever you travel, this SUV offers plenty of comprehensive safety features, including:

• Forward Collision Warning and Autonomous Emergency Braking (Front Assist): If the car in front of you brakes suddenly, this standard system automatically applies the brakes to bring your vehicle and whatever you’re towing to a halt to prevent an accident.
• Intelligent Crash Response System (ICRS): In the event of a collision that deploys the airbags, the standard ICRS can turn off the fuel pump, unlock the doors, and activate the hazard lights.
• Available Adaptive Cruise Control: On those long turnpike trips with your pop-up camper, this available feature will keep you cruising at a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you.

If you’re heading to a mountainside resort with your fishing boat in tow, you can feel confident that your VW Atlas has your safety and security in mind.

Towing Specific Safety Assets

When you have a trailer to consider, the VW Atlas finds ways to provide security, with help with drive assists, like a Rear View Camera system. With this camera, you can see what’s going on behind you when you’re reversing or parking and more easily handle a trailer, boat, or whatever it is you’re towing.

If you’re traveling long distances for long hours, the optional Travel Assist may come in handy. This system monitors driver attentiveness and if inaction is detected, the VW can come to a safe stop.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

To ensure you can appreciate the full potential of this model’s towing, we want to address some of your frequently asked questions, such as:

• How much can the 2023 VW Atlas tow? The maximum towing capacity of the 2023 VW Atlas is 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.
• What is the difference between engine configurations? The standard 2.0L engine tows up to 2,000 pounds when properly equipped. The optional 3.6L engine tows up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.
• Can a VW Atlas pull a trailer for camping, traveling, etc.? You can attach a small camper with the optional 3.6L engine, a small pop-up trailer with the standard 2.0L engine, and so much more.

Explore the ins and outs of this capable machine by directing your questions to our team.