If you’re considering a 2023 Volkswagen Atlas 4Motion with the 3.6L V6, expect around 20 MPG combined. It’s not setting any records, but the Atlas isn’t about that. It’s about hauling kids, dogs, and all their gear in comfort and relative safety, no matter the weather. Fuel efficiency is less important than capability in this three-row SUV, and the Atlas accomplishes its main job well.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas 4Motion 3.6L V6 at 18 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway. These figures reflect what you can expect when driving a vehicle of this size and weight. Expect the city number to drop if you frequently stop and go, while the highway figure is achievable if you maintain a steady speed and don’t accelerate too quickly.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas 4Motion 3.6L V6 will be $2,200. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and national average fuel prices. Individual costs will vary based on driving habits, location, and current fuel prices. If you drive significantly more than 15,000 miles annually, expect to spend considerably more on fuel.

Real-world expectations

The EPA figures are a starting point, but real-world fuel economy depends on several things. Driving style is a big one. Accelerating quickly and braking hard will reduce fuel economy. Terrain also matters; hilly areas will decrease mileage, while flat terrain will improve it. Finally, payload matters, so expect fewer miles per gallon when the vehicle is full of passengers and cargo.

How it compares

In the crowded three-row SUV segment, the Atlas’ fuel economy is about average. The Toyota Highlander, especially the hybrid versions, consistently gets better fuel economy; the Highlander Hybrid LE gets 36 MPG combined. The Honda Pilot, another popular choice, gets around 22 MPG combined in its front-wheel-drive configuration. The Ford Explorer with the base 2.3L EcoBoost engine gets 24 MPG combined in RWD form. These are all important comparisons to make when considering what is most important, space and capability, or saving money at the pump, and for buyers prioritizing passenger and cargo space and all-weather confidence offered by all-wheel drive, the compromises in the Atlas’ fuel efficiency are often acceptable.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Regular maintenance is critical. Make sure your Atlas has properly inflated tires and that the engine is tuned according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, while a poorly tuned engine can burn fuel less efficiently. This is more important than ever on a vehicle like this where economy is already a challenge.

Watch traffic and drive smoothly. Avoid sudden acceleration and braking when possible. Maintaining a consistent speed and watching traffic allows the transmission to operate in its most efficient gear and reduces unnecessary fuel consumption.

Reduce weight. Carrying extra cargo adds to the vehicle’s weight, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Remove any unnecessary items from the vehicle to improve fuel economy. That roof rack you used for vacation last summer? Take it off!

Use cruise control on the highway when possible. Maintaining a consistent speed on long highway stretches allows the engine to operate at its best. Be aware of changing traffic and be ready to disengage cruise control when needed. Consider that the 8-speed automatic is programmed to downshift and speed up when needed, so don’t expect miracles on steep grades.

Explore all Volkswagen fuel economy data and the ATLAS MPG across all years to get a complete understanding of the Atlas within the Volkswagen lineup. You can also research aftermarket performance chips or modified air intakes, but understand these components might compromise reliability and cause issues with your vehicle’s factory warranty.