What trim levels and body styles the 2025 Atlas offers

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas comes in three trim levels — S, SE, and SEL — and you can choose between a standard seven-seat model or a three-row configuration. The S is the base trim with essential features like an 8-inch touchscreen and a six-speed automatic transmission. The SE adds comfort upgrades such as a larger 10-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a power liftgate. The SEL is the highest trim, which includes leather seating, a panoramic sunroof, and upgraded interior materials.

All three trims use the same 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which produces 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Every Atlas comes with an eight-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive as standard; all-wheel drive is available on all trims. The Atlas seats up to seven passengers across three rows, though the third row is best suited for children or shorter trips because legroom is limited.

Key Takeaways

  • The 2025 Atlas offers three trim levels — S, SE, and SEL — each with different interior features and technology.
  • All trims use the same 2.0-liter turbocharged engine with 235 horsepower, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
  • Front-wheel drive comes standard on every trim; all-wheel drive is an option you can add to any configuration.
  • The Atlas seats seven passengers in three rows, though the third row has limited space for adults on longer drives.
  • Interior color and upholstery choices vary by trim level, with the SEL offering leather as standard and the S and SE offering cloth.

S trim: what you get at the base level

The S trim is the entry-level configuration and focuses on core functionality rather than luxury features. It includes an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a rearview camera, and Bluetooth connectivity. Climate control is manual rather than automatic, and the seats are upholstered in cloth. You get power windows, power locks, and cruise control, but features like heated seats and a power liftgate are not included.

Safety features on the S include forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The S does not include adaptive cruise control or lane-keeping information, which are reserved for higher trims. If you plan to tow, the S can handle up to 5,600 pounds when properly equipped, which is the same capacity as the other trims.

SE trim: the middle option with added comfort

The SE trim adds conveniences that make daily driving easier. The infotainment system jumps to a 10-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, so you can mirror your phone for navigation and music. The power liftgate means you do not have to manually lift the hatch when your hands are full. Heated front seats come standard, and the interior materials feel more refined than the S.

The SE also includes adaptive cruise control, which maintains a set distance from the car ahead and automatically adjusts your speed. Lane-keeping information helps prevent unintended drifts out of your lane. These driver-information features make highway driving less tiring, especially on longer trips. The SE is often considered the best value because it includes most features people actually use without the premium price of the SEL.

SEL trim: the fully equipped top configuration

The SEL is the premium trim and includes everything from the SE plus additional luxury touches. Leather seating surfaces replace cloth, and the seats are heated in the front and middle rows. A panoramic sunroof spans much of the roof, which makes the interior feel more spacious and allows natural light throughout the cabin. The steering wheel is leather-wrapped, and the dashboard uses higher-quality materials.

Technology on the SEL includes a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster that displays trip information and vehicle settings directly behind the steering wheel. The infotainment system is the same 10-inch touchscreen as the SE, but the SEL adds a power-adjustable driver's seat with lumbar support for longer comfort. If you spend significant time driving or want the most refined interior, the SEL justifies its higher price through these comfort and material upgrades.

Front-wheel drive versus all-wheel drive

Front-wheel drive comes standard on all 2025 Atlas trims and is the most fuel-efficient option. The engine's power goes to the front wheels, which handle steering and acceleration. Front-wheel drive performs well in most weather conditions and everyday driving, and it costs less than all-wheel drive because the system is simpler and lighter.

All-wheel drive is available as an option on every trim and sends power to all four wheels. This system improves traction in snow, ice, and rain, and it provides better handling on winding roads because weight is distributed more evenly. All-wheel drive reduces fuel economy by roughly 1 to 2 miles per gallon compared to front-wheel drive, and it adds several hundred dollars to the purchase price. If you live in an area with frequent snow or drive on unpaved roads, all-wheel drive is worth considering; otherwise, front-wheel drive is sufficient for most drivers.

Interior color and upholstery choices by trim

The S and SE trims offer cloth upholstery in colors like black, gray, and tan. These fabrics are durable and easier to clean than leather, making them practical for families with children or pets. The cloth seats on the S are basic, while the SE cloth includes more stitching detail and slightly softer material.

The SEL comes with leather seating as standard, available in black, brown, or gray. Leather is warmer in winter and cooler in summer than cloth, and it wipes clean more easily. However, leather can crack over time if not conditioned regularly, and it costs more to repair if damaged. Interior trim pieces on the SEL use brushed aluminum or wood-grain accents, depending on the color you choose, which adds visual interest to the dashboard and door panels.

Engine, transmission, and towing capacity across all trims

Every 2025 Atlas, regardless of trim, uses a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Turbocharging forces more air into the engine, which allows a smaller engine to produce power comparable to a larger naturally aspirated engine. The 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque are adequate for a three-row SUV of this size, though acceleration is not quick when the vehicle is fully loaded.

The eight-speed automatic transmission is paired with this engine on all models. This transmission balances fuel economy with smooth shifting, and it includes a tow mode that adjusts shift points when you are pulling a trailer. All Atlas trims can tow up to 5,600 pounds when equipped with the proper hitch and brake controller. If you plan to tow regularly, confirm that your specific configuration includes the necessary equipment before purchase, as some packages are trim-dependent.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get leather seats on the S or SE trim?

Leather is not offered on the S or SE trims; it comes standard only on the SEL. Some dealers may offer aftermarket leather wrapping, but this is not a factory option and voids certain warranty coverage. If leather is important to you, the SEL is the only factory-equipped choice.

Does all-wheel drive come standard on any trim?

No, all-wheel drive is an option you can add to the S, SE, or SEL, but it does not come standard on any trim. Front-wheel drive is the standard configuration for all three trims. You choose all-wheel drive at the time of purchase, and the cost is the same regardless of which trim you select.

What is the difference between the S and SE infotainment systems?

The S has an 8-inch touchscreen, while the SE has a 10-inch screen. Both support Bluetooth, but only the SE includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which let you mirror your phone for navigation and messaging. The larger screen on the SE also makes menus easier to read while driving.

Is the third row suitable for adults on long trips?

The third row is tight for adults and is better suited for children or occasional use. Legroom is limited, and the seat cushion is thinner than the first two rows. If you regularly transport five or more adults, you may find the third row uncomfortable on drives longer than an hour.

How much does all-wheel drive cost compared to front-wheel drive?

The exact price difference varies by dealer and region, but all-wheel drive typically adds several hundred dollars to the purchase price. It also reduces fuel economy by approximately 1 to 2 miles per gallon. Check with your local dealer for the specific cost in your area.