​The Volkswagen Atlas, known for its spacious interior, robust performance, and advanced safety features, has made significant strides in the SUV market. The 2025 model brings further refinements, positioning itself as a leading choice for families and adventure enthusiasts. One aspect that attracts buyers to the Atlas is its towing capacity, a key feature if you haul trailers, boats, or other equipment. In this article, our Ciocca Volkswagen of State College team shares the specifics of the 2025 Volkswagen Atlas towing capacity and compares it to other options on the market.
2025 Volkswagen Atlas Engine Options and Performance
All the 2025 Volkswagen Atlas trim levels come with only one engine option, a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that delivers 269 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque. Whether in front-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive configurations, all 2025 Atlas models have an eight-speed transmission that's been retuned to improve engine performance.
Compared to previous models, which had a 276 hp six-cylinder, the new engine offers enhanced throttle response, making it feel more powerful than it is. Except for the base SE trim, which has a maximum towing capacity of 2,000 pounds with an aftermarket hitch, all other trim levels can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped and come with a factory-installed towing hitch.
Detailed Breakdown of the 2025 Volkswagen Atlas Towing Capacity
The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas has five trims: the base SE, SE with Technology, Peak Edition SE with Technology, SEL, and SEL Premium R-Line. Only the base SE model, which requires an aftermarket hitch, is rated for a total towing capacity of 2,000 pounds, regardless of the drivetrain configuration. Front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive configurations of the SE with Technology and higher trims can tow up to 5,000 pounds with a trailer that has brakes. These higher trims also come with a standard factory trailer hitch.
2025 Volkswagen Atlas Towing Features and Technologies
The 2025 Atlas comes equipped with several innovative technologies and safety features to enhance your towing experience.
Innovative Technologies Enhancing Towing
From the SE with Technology and up, all trims have a standard trailer hitch that can haul up to 5,000 pounds with proper towing equipment. The Atlas also provides an all-wheel-drive technology called 4MOTION, which enhances traction and stability when towing in adverse driving conditions. You can change your all-wheel-drive modes on the touch-screen display, allowing you to select the most suitable setting for a specific type of terrain or weather condition.
Safety Features for Secure Towing
The 2025 Atlas has a long list of safety features to enhance your towing experience. A rearview camera system with a wide lens makes backing up with a trailer easy. The tire pressure monitoring system alerts you to under and over-inflated tires, ensuring your vehicle can maintain optimal stability and control while pulling heavy loads. The Atlas also has six stability-enhancing features, including electronic brake-pressure distribution and electronic stability control, to ensure peace of mind when towing, regardless of the terrain.
Competitor Comparison
Here's a handy table to show you how the 2025 Atlas stacks up against its competitors:
| Model | Maximum Towing Capacity |
|---|---|
| Toyota 4Runner | 5,000 pounds |
| Subaru Ascent | 5,000 pounds |
| Ford Explorer | 5,600 pounds |
| Honda Pilot | 5,000 pounds |
| Kia Telluride | 5,500 pounds |
The Volkswagen Atlas ranks well among its competitors, matching the towing capacities of the 4Runner, Ascent, and Pilot. The Kia Telluride and Ford Explorer have a higher maximum towing capacity, but the difference is almost negligible. If you consider the generous third-row legroom the Volkswagen Atlas offers, you'll find that it provides the best in terms of passenger carrying capacity and towing capability.
Practical Towing Applications
With a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, the 2025 Atlas is versatile enough for various towing needs. It's capable of towing items such as:
- Medium-sized boats
- Small to medium campers
- Utility trailers
- ATVs and motorcycles
These capabilities make the Atlas an excellent choice for weekend getaways and practical daily use around State College.
Safety Considerations for Towing
Ensuring your safety while towing is paramount. It's important to consider even weight distribution, trailer brake requirements, and tire pressure maintenance. Regular inspections and sticking to recommended driving techniques will further enhance the safety of you, your loved ones, and other drivers.
Fuel Efficiency While Towing
Towing does impact fuel efficiency, but there are ways to mitigate this, such as:
- Maintaining steady speeds and avoiding rapid acceleration.
- Ensuring proper tire inflation.
- Minimizing excess weight in the vehicle.
Understanding these factors helps in balancing performance with fuel economy when towing.
Maintenance and Care for Optimal Towing Performance
Regular maintenance is vital for towing performance. Make sure that you:
- Adhere to service intervals for towing-related components.
- Perform pre- and post-tow inspections.
- Keep towing equipment in good condition to extend its life span.
What's on the Horizon for the Atlas?
Volkswagen is always innovating, and future upgrades may include enhanced towing capacities and additional safety features. These developments aim to maintain the Atlas's competitive edge in the SUV market.
Experience the 2025 Volkswagen Atlas Today
The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas is a robust, high-performance SUV with an impressive towing capacity. With seating for seven, a comfortable third row, and up to 5,000 pounds of towing capacity on all but one trim, the 2025 Volkswagen Atlas is an ideal pick for anyone who loves adventures. Whether you're towing a trailer for a weekend getaway or hauling equipment for work, the Atlas is up to the task. Visit Ciocca Volkswagen of State College today to explore the new Atlas and schedule a test drive.
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