2018 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2017 Ford Explorer
The 2018 Volkswagen Atlas is an exceptional choice for a full-size SUV, with its 7-person seating capacity, plenty of cargo space, flexible configurations, impressive performance and off-road capabilities. A major competitor of the new Atlas is the Ford Explorer. Let's see how the two full-size SUVs stack up in this 2018 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2017 Ford Explorer comparison.
One of the biggest advantages that the 2018 Atlas has over the 2017 Explorer is space — both for people and cargo. It boasts a total passenger volume of 153.7 cu-ft and maximum cargo capacity of 96.6 cu-ft. In comparison, the 2017 Explorer has a total passenger volume of 151.5 cu-ft and a significantly less maximum cargo capacity of 81.7 cu-ft. The 2018 Atlas is also very versatile, with an innovative folding mechanism for the second row that offers improved entry and exit room by enabling the second-row bench to tilt and slide forward, even with child seats in place. Additionally, the interior of the Atlas boasts high-level comfort and refinement, with the use of premium materials throughout.
| 2018 Volkswagen Atlas | VS | 2017 Ford Explorer |
| $30,500 | MSRP | $31,600 |
| 153.7 cu-ft | Total Passenger Volume | 151.5 cu-ft |
| 96.8 cu-ft | Maximum Cargo Capacity | 81.7 cu-ft |
| 2.0-liter I-4 and 3.6-liter VR6 | Engine Options | 2.3 liter I-4 and 3.5-liter V6 |
2018 VW Atlas vs 2017 Ford Explorer: Which full-size SUV is better?
Another strength of the Atlas is its safety features. It has six airbags (driver, passenger, full-length curtain and driver and passenger side) as standard along with a number of electronic safety systems, including Electronic Stability Control. Also, the Atlas is the only vehicle in its class to offer the Automatic Post-Collision Braking System, which is standard on all models. It applies the brakes when a primary collision is detected by the airbag sensors, helping to reduce the chance of additional damage.
The 2018 Atlas also delivers impressive performance with its two powerful engine choices: the 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, which produces 235 horsepower, and the available 3.6-liter VR6, which generates an impressive 276 hp. With either engine, power is sent through an eight-speed automatic transmission to help maximize efficiency. The 2018 Atlas can easily conquer challenging terrains with the available 4Motion all-wheel drive. This advanced system is activated before wheelspin occurs, helping eliminate traction losses. Atlas models with 4Motion also come with a Driving Mode Selection feature, which allows the driver to select specific vehicle profiles based on driving conditions. It has four settings: Onroad, Snow, Offroad and Custom Offroad.
Do you live in Orange County, California? Would you like to get behind the wheel of the 2018 Atlas? Contact us at Capistrano Volkswagen today!
