18 MPG combined isn’t going to win any fuel economy awards, but it accurately reflects the reality of hauling people and cargo in a large SUV with standard all-wheel drive. The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas 4Motion, equipped with the 3.6-liter V6, isn’t designed for hypermilers. It’s built for families prioritizing space, safety, and confident all-weather traction, even if that means accepting a bit of a penalty at the pump.

City and highway performance

The Atlas’s EPA ratings break down to 16 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the V6 engine’s need to work harder in stop-and-go traffic, especially with the added weight and drag of the 4Motion all-wheel-drive system. The highway number is more respectable, suggesting the eight-speed automatic transmission keeps the engine in its efficiency sweet spot when cruising at consistent speeds. However, expect that highway number to drop if you’re regularly loaded down with passengers and luggage, or if you live in a region with higher speed limits.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $2,450 for the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas 4Motion 3.6L V6. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% of those miles driven in the city and 45% on the highway. It also assumes the use of gasoline priced at the national average; naturally, your own fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the price of gas in your area, and the grade of fuel you choose to use (the Atlas V6 does not require premium fuel).

Real-world expectations

While the EPA numbers provide a useful baseline, real-world fuel economy often differs. Consider your own driving style and typical routes. Frequent short trips, excessive idling, or aggressive acceleration will all drag down your MPG. Similarly, mountainous terrain or consistently strong headwinds will negatively impact fuel efficiency. With careful driving, it’s possible to match or even slightly exceed the EPA’s highway rating.

But consistent city driving, especially with a heavier foot, will likely result in numbers closer to the EPA’s 16 MPG estimate, or even lower. Owners who regularly tow or carry very heavy loads should certainly expect worse mileage.

How it compares

Compared to other three-row SUVs with all-wheel drive, the 2021 Atlas 4Motion’s fuel economy is within the expected range for its class, but perhaps slightly below average. The Toyota Highlander, for example, achieves 20 MPG combined even with its V6 and AWD setup. The Honda Pilot, also with a V6 and AWD, manages a similar 20 MPG combined. Even the Ford Explorer with its base 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine and AWD typically scores a combined 23 MPG. This comparison matters to Atlas buyers, as some might be willing to sacrifice a bit of interior space or towing capacity for better fuel efficiency, while others will accept the trade-off for the Atlas’s specific strengths: spacious third-row seating and a user-friendly interior. See ATLAS MPG across all years for more fuel economy information.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The Atlas 4Motion’s all-wheel-drive system works automatically, sending power to the rear wheels when needed. However, during normal cruising, it operates primarily in front-wheel drive to save fuel. Monitor your driving habits and try to drive smoothly to help avoid engaging the AWD system unnecessarily.

Regular maintenance is critical for optimal fuel economy. Ensure your tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure, and keep up with scheduled oil changes and air filter replacements. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently.

Avoid unnecessary weight. Carrying extra cargo in the vehicle adds to its overall load and reduces fuel economy. Remove any items you don’t need, especially heavier objects that might be weighing you down.

When possible, use cruise control on the highway to maintain a consistent speed. This helps to minimize unnecessary acceleration and deceleration, which can lead to wasted fuel. Avoiding aggressive acceleration is KEY on a vehicle with a large naturally aspirated engine.

Consider different models and trims for better fuel economy. The Atlas is also available with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which achieves significantly better MPG than the V6, especially around town with the front-wheel-drive only configuration. Check all Volkswagen fuel economy data to compare engines.