22 MPG combined won’t break any records, and it’s likely not the primary reason someone buys a 2022 Volkswagen Atlas 4Motion with the 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Instead, this number is the result of a trade-off. Buyers who want the generous interior space and all-weather capability of a three-row SUV, but prefer the quicker acceleration of the 2.0T engine over the available V6, accept that this is the reality. The Atlas 2.0T 4Motion isn’t trying to be a Prius; it’s trying to be a practical family hauler that doesn’t feel completely anemic on the open road.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas 4Motion 2.0T are 20 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway. The narrow gap between these figures indicates that the Atlas’s fuel economy is fairly consistent regardless of driving conditions. This makes sense, given the vehicle’s size and weight. Aerodynamic drag is less of a factor at lower speeds, and the engine still has to work to move over 4,300 pounds, even in stop-and-go traffic. The 24 MPG highway rating is attainable on long road trips, but drivers should expect lower numbers when driving into headwinds or traveling at higher speeds.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas 4Motion 2.0T is $2,000. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, local fuel prices, and the type of fuel you use. However, this provides a useful reference point for comparing the Atlas’s fuel costs to other vehicles in its class.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates are a useful starting point, real-world fuel economy often varies. Drivers report different numbers based on driving style, load, and terrain. Some owners achieve numbers close to the EPA estimates during gentle highway driving, while others experience lower numbers in stop-and-go city traffic or when frequently carrying heavy loads of cargo and passengers. The turbocharged engine can be sensitive to aggressive acceleration, so drivers who frequently accelerate hard will likely see a decrease in fuel economy. Watch the instantaneous MPG readout on the dashboard to improve economical driving habits.

How it compares

Compared to other three-row SUVs with all-wheel drive, the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas 4Motion 2.0T’s fuel economy is about average. The V6-powered Atlas with 4Motion achieves similar EPA ratings (18 City / 24 Highway / 20 Combined), making the 2.0T model a good choice for drivers who want quicker acceleration over maximizing fuel savings. A Kia Telluride AWD achieves 19 MPG city, 24 MPG highway, and 21 MPG combined, while a Honda Pilot AWD nets 19 City / 26 Highway / 22 Combined. The Ford Explorer with its standard 2.3L EcoBoost engine and all-wheel drive manages 20 City / 27 Highway / 23 Combined. The fact that the 2.0T has better responsiveness and fuel economy than its V6 sibling makes it the more logical choice for many buyers. For those wanting to compare all Volkswagen fuel economy data, the Atlas prioritizes space and utility, so some compromise on fuel economy is to be expected for the right buyer. If you want a broader view, check the ATLAS MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady speed. The Atlas 2.0T responds well to a light touch on the accelerator, and avoiding sudden bursts of speed helps conserve fuel. Use cruise control on the highway to maintain a consistent speed and reduce unnecessary acceleration.

Make sure your tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly, especially when the temperature changes.

Reduce the use of accessories that draw power from the engine, such as air conditioning on full blast. While it’s important to stay comfortable, using these systems sparingly can help improve fuel economy, especially on shorter trips.

Reduce excess weight in the vehicle by removing unnecessary items from the cargo area or back seats. Excess weight negatively impacts fuel economy.

Consider using the Atlas’s Eco driving mode, if equipped. This mode changes engine and transmission behavior to improve fuel efficiency by softening throttle response and shifting at lower RPMs. It may not provide the same level of performance, but it can noticeably reduce fuel consumption, especially in city driving.