2017 Atlas - Weekend Edition

       According to Business Insider’s Ben Zhang Volkswagen has a major problem on their hands. No, we aren’t referring to the widely known emissions scandal that rocked the automotive world last year. The trouble we are referring to is Volkswagens struggle to sell to American buyers. Zhang reported “Through November, the Volkswagen brand managed to move just 286,000 cars — down 10% over last year while representing a minuscule 1.8% share of the US auto market. All the while in Europe and Asia, VW is one of the most competitive brands in the market."

       Some believe the solution is SUV’s. Volkswagen presently has two SUV’s in their lineup – Tiguan and Touareg; but what many believe the automaker needs is a LARGE SUV. Volkswagen heard the cries and they responded by introducing a third SUV to their lineup.

Que the Atlas.

2017 Volkswagen Atlas Weekend Edition

       Expected to arrive later this year, the atlas entered production at the company's Chattanooga plant in Tennessee. Zhang wrote "With three rows of seats and room for seven, the Atlas is expected to be a savior for VW's struggling US business". Until then, VW faces the task of drumming up enough enthusiasm for the vehicle is a US market where seven-passenger SUVs are available in abundance from other carmakers.

       One special version of the Atlas – “the Weekend Edition” is one way Volkswagen is looking to draw excitement for the new SUV. Features like the modern pop-up roof— “Urban Loader cargo box" when empty “offers a sleek, minimized appearance.” Zhang says that “When needed for hauling, it can expand to a 17.7 cubic-foot container.” attached to the already diverse base carrier bars. So why wait any longer? Sign up for updates and be the first to drive the all-new 2017 Volkswagen Atlas!

2017 Volkswagen Passat

The Volkswagen Passat hasn’t been given a drastic redesign this year- rather; it’s been thoughtfully preened since its debut to evolve into an unparalleled fit for the family lifestyle. The Passat has reached its zenith of practicality and comfort and stands out as an outstanding choice for families in the market for a car.

Designers sought to instill more emotion into the Passats exterior surfaces with subtle evolution; preserving Volkswagens ethos of purity and keeping the preliminary image intact. The exterior design has been heartened with stronger definition and elegance. Horizontal chrome accents on the front fascia accentuate the now wider and longer hood, marked with sharp, blade-like headlamps.

The sophisticated interior of the Passat is reserved and inviting.  The cabin layout is clean, concise, and laden in quality materials.  The rear space offers ample leg and head room for adults and children alike. This years evolution has predominantly been aimed at minimizing driver distraction whilst increasing convenience and connectivity. The intuitive touchscreen utilizes fluid screen to screen navigation and is large enough to get information at a glance for improved safety and usability.

The two engine options for the 2017 Passat are both reliable and apt to fulfill the role they were envisioned for. The 1.8 L Turbo gets an impressive 23/34 mpg, and offers 170 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque. Meanwhile, the alternative 3.6 L V6 leverages 280 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque for a more exhilarating drive. Both engine options offer outstanding performance, strong control, and quick acceleration.

Volkswagen has smartly integrated safety and technology by making connectivity an easy and fluid process.  The new 2017 Passat welcomes USB ports and Bluetooth integration into their repertoire of ample amenities. Standard safety features for this year will include Front Assist, Blind Spot Monitoring, Lane Assist, a rear-view camera system, and a multitude of other active safety features. The Passat also boasts an overall 5-star safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

The 2017 Volkswagen Passats focus on comfort and safety paired with superior fuel efficiency makes it an excellent choice for any family. For updates or more information on the new Passat, you can find us here.