Choosing the right family SUV can feel like navigating a maze. You need space, safety, and a comfortable ride for those long road trips. Two popular contenders often come up in this discussion: the Volkswagen Atlas and the Chevrolet Traverse.
Both offer ample room for passengers and cargo, aiming to be the ultimate hauler for your crew. But when it comes to the 2018 model year, significant differences emerge that could sway your decision.
We’re diving deep into the ‘atlas vs traverse 2018’ comparison to help you pinpoint the perfect fit for your lifestyle. Get ready to explore what each of these spacious SUVs brings to the table.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | atlas | traverse 2018 |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0L Turbocharged I4 | 2.5L V6 |
| Horsepower | 237 hp | 281 hp |
| Torque | 258 lb-ft | 266 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 9-speed automatic | 6-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive (available AWD) | All-wheel drive |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 7 |
| Cargo Space (behind 2nd row) | 30.4 cu ft | 24.7 cu ft |
| Cargo Space (max) | 62.7 cu ft | 98.5 cu ft |
| Infotainment Screen | 8.0 inches | 7.0 inches |
| Apple CarPlay/Android Auto | Standard | Standard |
| Key Safety Features | Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane Keep Assist | Forward Collision Alert, Lane Departure Warning |
| Towing Capacity | Up to 2,000 lbs | Up to 5,000 lbs |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Infotainment System
- Atlas: Features an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The interface is generally intuitive, though some menus can feel a bit cluttered. It offers a good range of connectivity options and a clear display.
- Traverse 2018: Comes standard with a 7-inch touchscreen, with an 8-inch option available. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard on most trims. The system is responsive and user-friendly, though the graphics are a bit dated compared to some rivals.
- Winner: atlas
Seating Capacity and Comfort
- Atlas: Offers three rows of seating for up to seven passengers. The first two rows are spacious and comfortable, with the third row being reasonably usable for adults on shorter trips. Access to the third row is made easier by a sliding second-row seat.
- Traverse 2018: Can seat up to eight passengers across three rows. The first two rows are very accommodating, and the third row is one of the most spacious in its class for adults. Seat comfort is generally good throughout the cabin.
- Winner: traverse 2018
Cargo Space
- Atlas: Provides 20.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 54.7 cubic feet with the third row folded, and a maximum of 96.8 cubic feet with both rear rows down. This is ample space for most family needs.
- Traverse 2018: Boasts an impressive 23.0 cubic feet behind the third row, 57.3 cubic feet with the third row folded, and a cavernous 98.2 cubic feet with both rear rows down. It offers slightly more overall cargo volume than the Atlas.
- Winner: traverse 2018
Engine Performance
- Atlas: Is powered by a standard 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 235 horsepower, with an optional 3.6-liter V6 engine offering 276 horsepower. The V6 provides stronger acceleration, while the turbo-four is more fuel-efficient.
- Traverse 2018: Comes standard with a 3.6-liter V6 engine that delivers 310 horsepower. This engine offers robust performance and confident passing power, making it well-suited for a large SUV.
- Winner: traverse 2018
Fuel Economy
- Atlas: The 2.0-liter turbo engine achieves an EPA estimated 20 MPG city / 27 MPG highway. The 3.6-liter V6 is rated at 17 MPG city / 24 MPG highway. These figures are competitive for the segment.
- Traverse 2018: The V6 engine with front-wheel drive is rated at 18 MPG city / 27 MPG highway, and 17 MPG city / 25 MPG highway with all-wheel drive. While decent, it’s slightly less efficient than the Atlas’s turbo-four option.
- Winner: atlas
Safety Features
- Atlas: Comes standard with a rearview camera and offers a wide array of available driver-assistance features like adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. These advanced features enhance safety and convenience.
- Traverse 2018: Includes a standard rearview camera and offers optional advanced safety features such as automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. These systems are crucial for a family vehicle.
- Winner: atlas
Ride Quality and Handling
- Atlas: Delivers a comfortable and composed ride, absorbing road imperfections well. Handling is competent and predictable, though it leans a bit in corners due to its size. It prioritizes comfort over sportiness.
- Traverse 2018: Offers a smooth and quiet ride, making it a pleasant cruiser. The handling is composed and predictable, with a good balance between comfort and agility for its class. It feels planted on the road.
- Winner: traverse 2018
Interior Design and Materials
- Atlas: Features a straightforward and functional interior design. Materials are generally durable and well-assembled, though some plastics can feel a bit hard in lower trims. The cabin is spacious and airy.
- Traverse 2018: Presents a more stylish and upscale interior design, especially in higher trims. It utilizes higher-quality materials with a good fit and finish, creating a more premium feel. The cabin design is modern and visually appealing.
- Winner: traverse 2018
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Overall Value | atlas |
| Family Hauler | traverse 2018 |
| Driving Dynamics | atlas |
| Cargo Space | traverse 2018 |
| Towing Capability | traverse 2018 |
| Fuel Efficiency | atlas |
| Standard Technology | atlas |
What They Have in Common
- Modern Infotainment Systems: Both vehicles come equipped with user-friendly infotainment systems that support Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ensuring seamless smartphone integration for navigation, music, and calls.
- Advanced Safety Suites: Standard safety features in both models include an array of driver-assistance technologies designed to enhance safety and prevent accidents, such as automatic emergency braking and lane departure warnings.
- Comfortable Ride Quality: Drivers and passengers can expect a comfortable and composed ride in both the atlas and the traverse 2018, making them suitable for daily commutes and longer road trips.
- Available All-Wheel Drive: While the atlas offers AWD as an option, the traverse 2018 comes standard with it, providing enhanced traction and stability in various weather conditions for both vehicles.
- Ample Passenger Space: Both SUVs are designed to accommodate passengers comfortably, with the atlas prioritizing a spacious cabin for its five occupants and the traverse 2018 offering three rows for larger families.
Atlas Vs Traverse 2018 Buying Guide
Engine and Performance
When considering the engine and performance of the 2018 Atlas and Traverse, the Volkswagen Atlas offers a standard 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, with an optional 3.6-liter V6. The Chevrolet Traverse, on the other hand, comes standard with a robust 3.6-liter V6 engine, and also offers a more powerful 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder as an option in higher trims. Both models provide adequate power for daily driving and highway cruising, but the Traverse’s V6 often feels more potent for towing and hauling. (See Also: Nest Cam Vs Ring )
Interior Space and Comfort
The 2018 Atlas is renowned for its exceptionally spacious interior, particularly in the third row, which is often more accommodating for adults than many rivals. Cargo space is also generous. The Traverse also boasts a roomy cabin, with comfortable seating across all three rows. It offers competitive cargo volume, especially with the second-row seats folded down. Both vehicles prioritize passenger comfort, making them excellent choices for families on long journeys or for transporting multiple passengers.
Safety Features
Safety is a paramount concern for SUVs, and both the 2018 Atlas and Traverse offer a comprehensive suite of standard and available safety technologies. The Atlas comes with features like automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. The Traverse also includes a strong array of safety aids, such as forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and rear cross-traffic alert. Both models have achieved excellent safety ratings from organizations like the NHTSA and IIHS, providing peace of mind for drivers.
Technology and Infotainment
In terms of technology, the 2018 Atlas features an intuitive infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, along with a user-friendly touchscreen interface. Available features include a premium Fender audio system and a digital cockpit. The Chevrolet Traverse also offers a well-integrated infotainment system, with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a responsive touchscreen. Higher trims can be equipped with features like a larger touchscreen, a Bose premium audio system, and a rear-seat entertainment system, enhancing the overall passenger experience. (See Also: Lose It Vs Weight Watchers )
Who Should Buy What?
Buy atlas If…
- You prioritize a refined and more car-like driving experience.
- You need a versatile compact SUV with good fuel economy and standard tech features.
- You appreciate a clean and modern interior design.
- Your cargo needs are moderate, and you don’t regularly haul large items.
Buy traverse 2018 If…
- You require seating for up to seven passengers and need to transport larger families.
- You frequently tow trailers or need a higher towing capacity.
- You desire a more powerful engine and a more robust stance for an SUV.
- Maximum cargo volume is a significant factor in your purchasing decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which SUV offers better fuel economy?
For the 2018 model year, the Volkswagen Atlas generally offers slightly better fuel economy, especially with its base four-cylinder engine. The Chevrolet Traverse, particularly with its standard V6, tends to be a bit thirstier. However, actual mileage can vary significantly based on driving conditions, engine choice, and trim level for both vehicles.
Is the third row more spacious in the Atlas or Traverse?
The Volkswagen Atlas is widely praised for having one of the most accommodating third rows in its class, often providing more legroom and headroom for adults than the Chevrolet Traverse. While the Traverse’s third row is usable, it’s typically better suited for children or shorter trips for adults.
Which SUV is better for towing?
The Chevrolet Traverse, particularly with its V6 engine, generally offers a higher maximum towing capacity than the 2018 Volkswagen Atlas. If towing larger loads or frequent towing is a priority, the Traverse is the more capable option between the two. (See Also: Bose Quiet Comfort Vs Airpods Pro )
Are there significant differences in cargo space?
Both the Atlas and Traverse offer substantial cargo space. The Atlas excels in overall passenger volume and third-row space, while the Traverse often provides a slight edge in maximum cargo capacity when the second and third rows are folded flat. The differences are often minor in real-world usage.
Which SUV has a more refined ride?
The ride quality can be subjective, but many reviewers find the 2018 Chevrolet Traverse to offer a slightly more refined and comfortable ride, especially over rougher surfaces. The Volkswagen Atlas provides a competent and stable ride, but it can sometimes feel a bit firmer in comparison.
Final Verdict
Both the 2018 Volkswagen Atlas and Chevrolet Traverse are strong contenders in the three-row SUV segment, offering ample space and family-friendly features. The Atlas shines with its exceptionally spacious third row and user-friendly technology. However, the Traverse edges out the Atlas with its more powerful standard V6 engine, higher towing capacity, and a slightly more refined ride. For those prioritizing raw capability and a smoother experience, the Traverse is the more compelling choice.
Winner: Chevrolet Traverse 2018