2023 Volkswagen Atlas Trim Levels Atlas SE vs Atlas SEL vs SEL R-Line Black

The 2023 Volkswagen Atlas is one of the best three-row SUV options on the market. The SUV is teeming with exciting features, including a striking interior design, a bold and sporty exterior design, and a whopping 96.8 cubic feet of cargo space when the rear seats are folded down.

When it comes to the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas, there are essentially five trims: Atlas SE, Atlas SE with Technology, Atlas SEL, SEL R-Line Black, and Atlas SEL Premium R-Line. However, we want to focus on three prominent trim levels to choose from: Atlas SE, Atlas SEL, and the Atlas SEL R-Line Black.

Each trim level offers unique features and options, allowing buyers to select the perfect combination to suit their preferences and needs.

In this blog post, we will explore the engine options, cabin space, safety features, front-wheel drive, exterior and interior design, and pricing of the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas trim levels, helping you make an informed decision.

Here's a comparison table highlighting the features of the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas across three selected trim levels: SE, SEL, and SEL R-Line Black.

Volkswagen Atlas 

You can never go wrong with the Volkswagen Atlas, but the Trim Level that you need depends on your requirements. 

1. Engine Options

The 2023 Volkswagen Atlas trim levels come with two engine options, providing power and efficiency to meet various driving preferences.

The standard engine across all trims is a robust 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine, generating 235 horsepower. The base Atlas SE comes with the standard engine and a towing capacity of 2,000 lbs. For the base Atlas SE model, the fuel economy is 21 MPG in the city, 25 MPG on the highway, and 23 MPG combined. Drivers can upgrade to the 4MOTION drivetrain, which changes the combined EPA rating to 22 MPG.

For those seeking more power, the Atlas SEL and R-Line trims offer a 3.6-liter V6 engine, producing an impressive 276 horsepower.

The Atlas SEL bumps up the engine to the V6 configuration, which increases the towing ability to 5,000 lbs. The fuel economy for this model is 18 MPG in the city, 24 MPG on the highway, and 20 MPG combined. 

Finally, the Atlas SEL R-Line has the same drivetrain and powertrain combination, which results in a combined fuel economy of 20 MPG.

The engines for both Atlas SEL and SEL R-Line are paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission for smooth and responsive performance.

2. Cabin Space

No matter which trim level you choose, the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas offers a spacious and comfortable cabin.

All Atlas models can seat up to seven people and have the same dimension specs, which are 200.7 in length, 78.3 in width, and 70.1 in height. This ensures that there is plenty of room for the whole family or a group of friends. Atlas SE, Atlas SEL & R-Line provide ample legroom and headroom in all three rows, ensuring a comfortable journey for everyone.

Additionally, the versatile seating configuration allows for easy customization and cargo capacity expansion.

3. Safety Features

Safety is a top priority in the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas, and all trim levels come equipped with advanced safety technologies and standard features.

Standard safety features include a rearview camera, blind-spot monitoring, rear traffic alert, forward collision warning, and automatic emergency braking, with additional safety features such as the adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist.

Higher trim levels, such as the Atlas SEL and R-Line, provide additional safety features over and above adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist, including parking sensors, dual-zone climate control, heated windshield washer nozzles, pedestrian monitoring, as well as a head-up display, that presents data without requiring users to look away from their usual viewpoints, providing an extra layer of security and convenience (which are not available in the base model, such as the Atlas SE).

4. Front-Wheel Drive

The 2023 Volkswagen Atlas SE comes standard with front-wheel drive (FWD) through the push-button start. FWD offers good traction and stability while providing a smooth and efficient driving experience with its remote engine. However, for those seeking enhanced traction and control in challenging weather conditions or off-road adventures, the Atlas SE can be upgraded to 4Motion all-wheel-drive (AWD).

On the other hand, both 2023 Volkswagen Atlas SEL and 2023 Volkswagen Atlas SEL R-Line Black come with 4Motion AWD as the standard.

5. Exterior Design

The 2023 Volkswagen Atlas boasts a bold and sophisticated exterior design, regardless of the chosen trim level.

With its commanding presence, prominent grille, and dynamic cornering lights, the Atlas SE exudes confidence and modernity on the road.

The Atlas SEL R-Line exterior styling is up another notch, with sporty accents and unique styling elements, including a distinctive front bumper and sleek 20-inch alloy wheels, black roof rails and trailer hitch, ensuring a head-turning appearance and one of the best in the auto industry.

6. Interior Design

Step inside the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas, and you'll be greeted by a thoughtfully designed interior that prioritizes comfort and convenience.

The cabin features high-quality materials, soft-touch surfaces, and an intuitive layout. The Atlas SE trim offers a standard 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, while the Atlas SEL and R-Line trims come with a larger 8-inch touchscreen.

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration are standard across all trims, ensuring seamless connectivity for your devices.

Furthermore, in the digital cockpit, you will find leather seating surfaces, touchscreen navigation, USB ports, a center speaker, and a 115-volt power outlet. The rear seats come with enough legroom to deliver a towing package. 

7. Pricing

The pricing for the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas trim levels varies based on the chosen configuration and optional features.

The base Atlas SE trim starts at a competitive price point, $34,600, offering great value for families and individuals seeking a well-equipped midsize SUV.

The Atlas SEL trim, with its additional features and technology upgrades, comes at a slightly higher price (which includes premium audio, a trailer hitch, and park assist) at $38,770.

Finally, the sporty SEL R-Line trim, with its unique styling cues and performance-oriented features, falls at the top end of the pricing spectrum, and starts at $48,090. Contact your local Volkswagen dealership to get accurate and up-to-date pricing information.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas offers three impressive trim levels: Atlas SE, Atlas SEL, and  R-Line, each catering to different preferences and needs.

Whether you prioritize spaciousness, advanced safety features, or a sporty design, the Atlas has you covered through its Volkswagen car net.

Even the base model, the Atlas SE, is an absolute winner as it combines affordability and style at a starting price of just $34,600. However, if you have the budget, you can of course upgrade to the more powerful Atlas SEL or the R-Line version.

That said, if these trims do not fulfil your precise needs, you can opt for the  more powerful Atlas SEL Premium R-Line, which comes with luxury features like ventilated front seats, a premium audio system, leather upholstery for first and second row seats, and silver roof rails. Though of course, the Atlas SEL Premium R-Line costs more than the other trims.

Whichever option you choose, the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas is sure to deliver a comfortable, safe, and enjoyable driving experience for you and your passengers with its convenience features.