The Volkswagen Atlas is a popular midsize SUV that offers an impressive combination of space, comfort, and capability. With available seating for up to seven passengers and 94.6 cubic feet of maximum cargo space, the Atlas has the versatility required by many families. However, the Atlas is more than just a family hauler – it can also serve as a trusty tow vehicle.
Specifically, the Atlas equipped with the powerful V6 engine offers a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. This allows Atlas owners to tow a variety of recreational and utilitarian trailers with confidence. Whether you need to pull a boat, camper, ATVs, or construction equipment, the Atlas V6 likely has the muscle you need.
In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at the VW Atlas V6 towing capabilities. We’ll cover key specs, features, proper setup, trailering tips, and real-world reviews from Atlas owners using their vehicles for towing. Let’s get started!
Key Volkswagen Atlas V6 Towing Specs and Features
The Atlas utilizes Volkswagen’s well-regarded EA890 3.6L VR6 narrow-angle V6 engine. This powerplant utilizes direct fuel injection, dual overhead cams, and variable valve timing to produce 276 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque. This muscular engine is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission.
Importantly, Volkswagen designed and engineered the Atlas to serve as a capable tow vehicle right from the factory. When properly equipped with the V6 Towing Package, the V6-powered Atlas provides:
- Up to 5,000 pounds of towing capacity
- Trailer Sway Control – uses sensitive electronics to detect trailer oscillations and apply brakes as needed
- An integrated trailer hitch receiver rated for the full 5,000 lb tow rating
- A transmission oil cooler – protects against overheating when towing
- Upgraded engine cooling components
- An exhaust brake – uses engine compression to help slow vehicle and trailer
- 7-pin wiring harness connector
- Unique drive modes including Tow/Haul mode which alters shift points for optimal handling
With this robust towing package, the Atlas V6 offers one of the highest tow ratings in its vehicle class. Very few midsize crossover SUVs can match the Atlas’ capabilities straight from the factory.
Proper Weight Distribution is Critical
While the Atlas V6 has the brute strength to tow up to 5,000 pounds, that doesn’t mean you should max out its capacity on every trip. It’s important to take into account total vehicle weight, passenger weight, cargo weight and trailer tongue weight when matching a trailer to your Atlas.
Trying to pull too much weight can overload the chassis, cause handling issues, rapidly wear brakes and suspension components, and even lead to dangerous situations. Always follow Volkswagen’s guidelines for trailer weights based on your specific configuration.
Proper weight distribution between the vehicle and trailer is also critical. The tongue weight – the amount of weight exerted on the hitch by the trailer coupler – should be 10-15% of the total loaded trailer weight.
Too little tongue weight can cause the trailer to sway and reduce steering responsiveness. Too much puts excessive strain on the rear suspension. Hitch-mounted stabilizers, weight distribution bars, and air springs can help fine-tune weight distribution.
Work within the vehicle’s limitations and optimize weight distribution for maximum safety and control when towing heavy loads.
Driving Modes Optimize Towing Performance
One of the Atlas V6’s key strengths is its wide range of drive modes tailored for various conditions. For towing, the most important modes are Tow/Haul and Offroad.
Tow/Haul Mode – This mode is designed specifically for towing heavy loads. When activated, the transmission will hold gears longer, favoring performance over efficiency. This prevents constant gear hunting when towing up hills and provides more power for acceleration and passing. The engine computer also adjusts throttle response for smoother takeoffs when accelerating from a stop.
Offroad Mode – This mode is useful when towing off the beaten path, such as down unpaved roads to reach a boat launch or campsite. Offroad mode adapts the transmission shifting, throttle response, and traction control systems to optimize performance over loose gravel and variable terrain. The Atlas can carefully modulate power to maximize grip without spinning the wheels. Offroad mode also engages Hill Descent Control, allowing the Atlas to crawl down steep hills at a steady speed without rider brake application.
The Atlas V6’s versatile driving modes give owners the tools needed to safely and efficiently tow in various conditions. Get familiar with their capabilities using VW’s manuals and literature.
Real-World Towing Performance
While the Atlas V6 looks great on paper, how does it actually perform out in the real world? General consensus from Atlas owners is quite positive overall. Here are some first-hand accounts:
“I pull a 3,000 lb travel trailer with the Atlas and it handles it with no issues at all. Plenty of power, even going up mountain grades. Just make sure to set up the weight distribution bars properly.” – John S., CO
“We used our Atlas to tow some building materials and an ATV to our cabin on some pretty rough dirt roads. The Offroad mode worked very well – no issues maintaining speed or traction. Ground clearance was fine too.”– Samantha P., WA
“I regularly tow my 10-foot fiberglass fishing boat which comes in right around 1,000 pounds fully loaded. The Atlas makes quick work of getting up to speed and cruising at highway speeds with the boat in tow. No noticeable impact on handling or mileage.” – John M., MI
“Towed a buddy’s bass boat to the lake last weekend – about 4,000 lbs total. The Atlas had plenty of power on the highway merge ramp and when passing. Ran the engine harder than usual but held up fine on the 2 hour drive.” – Nate R., OK
These first-hand reports jive with expert reviews from the automotive press. Overall, the Atlas proves to be a willing, capable tow vehicle. It may not offer the towing muscle of a full-size pickup, but can certainly handle moderate recreational towing with aplomb.
7 Key Towing Tips for Volkswagen Atlas Owners
To make the most of your Atlas V6 towing setup, keep these handy tips in mind:
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Use a weight distribution hitch – This will transfer tongue weight to all four wheels, improving handling, braking, and ride comfort.
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Adjust side mirrors – Extended mirrors are a must for maximum rear visibility when towing. Carefully set up your side mirrors before each trip.
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Allow extra stopping distance – Braking distances increase substantially when towing. Leave ample room to stop gradually.
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Take wide turns – Watch your trailer swing radius when turning to avoid clipping corners.
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Use your transmission properly – Let the engine work harder, not the transmission. Avoid overdrive gears and excessive downshifting.
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Monitor engine vitals – Keep an eye on coolant and transmission temperatures using VW’s driver aids. Extended high-temp operation can damage components.
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Use Tow/Haul mode – Take advantage of the transmission calibration and throttle mapping designed specifically for towing.
Follow these tips each time you hitch up and head out with your Atlas V6 tow vehicle. Prioritizing safety, caution, and proper setup will lead to thousands of trouble-free miles on the road.
Accessorize Your Atlas V6 for Even Better Towing Results
Volkswagen created the Atlas V6 to be a highly capable tow vehicle straight from the factory. But you can optimize it even further with some select accessories:
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Air suspension – Load-leveling air springs improve ride quality and handling when towing heavy loads. Volkswagen offers an accessory air suspension kit specially designed for the Atlas.
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Brake controller – An aftermarket brake controller activates the trailer brakes independently of the tow vehicle brakes, giving you greater control.
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Hitch-mount camera – Provides a rear view while towing for improved visibility and confidence. Easy to install and connect to the Atlas’ infotainment system.
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Extended mirrors – Larger mirrors that expand rear field of view are essential for safe towing. Options include telescoping extensions, convex blind spot mirrors, and more.
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Transmission cooler – An upgraded aftermarket transmission cooler adds more cooling capacity for heavily loaded towing applications.
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Sway control – Devices like friction sway bars and self-centering dampers help control trailer sway for safer towing, especially in windy conditions.
With the right accessories, you can fine-tune your Atlas V6 to tackle even the most demanding trailer towing jobs with security and peace of mind.
Can You Tow With the Atlas 4-Cylinder?
All the towing information to this point pertains specifically to the Volkswagen Atlas equipped with the 276 hp V6 engine. The Atlas is also available with
