Two years ago, the German carmaker introduced a three-row crossover designed especially for the North American market, called Atlas. These days, many experts are talking about how the Atlas family is about to expand. We are about to see a couple of new models under this badge, also designed for the U.S. market primarily. You’ve probably already heard about the new Atlas Cross Sport, which will be a sportier, two-row version of the crossover. Also, we are about to see the 2020 VW Atlas Tanoak, a pickup truck based on the mid-size crossover. We expect to see it on the market already in the next year.
2020 VW Atlas Tanoak Design
The segment of mid-size trucks is becoming more popular these days. As a major carmaker, VW wants its piece of cake. Therefore, we are about to see a VW pickup designed especially for the North American market. When it comes to base 2020 VW Atlas Tanoak specs, the first thing that comes to mind is the platform.
As you may presume, the new model will ride on the same MQB architecture, which makes this vehicle a unibody truck, something we can see on the Honda Ridgeline. Won’t waste too many words on the pros and cons of such a design approach, as you probably know most of them. Simply said, the 2020 VW Atlas Tanoak will be more comfortable and less capable than traditional BoF trucks like Chevy Colorado.
2020 VW Atlas Tanoak Specs
When it comes to 2020 VW Atlas Tanoak specs, we have to say that the new model will be a pretty large truck. The current crossover is already one of the biggest models in the class, but the new truck will get 11 more inches in wheelbase. The overall length will go up to 214 inches, which is two inches more compared to Colorado. Besides large size and, obviously, spacious cabin and cargo bed, the 2020 Volkswagen Atlas Tanoak will be pretty stylish. It will feature the same design language as the original crossover, possibly with additions of new LED headlights and similar details that we already saw on the Cross Sport concept.
Of course, the rest of the vehicle will come in a typical truck manner. Considering the model’s comfort-oriented design approach, we have no doubt that the crew cab will be the only cab design in the offer. The new 2020 VW Atlas Tanoak will be spacious and comfortable, but also very maneuverable and easy to drive.
Powertrain
The engine lineup will probably be the same as in the Atlas crossover. That would mean a familiar 2.0-liter turbo-four in base versions. This engine delivers around 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, which don’t promise to exciting ride but guarantees good mpg ratings. Those who prefer sportier ride will have the option to choose a 3.6-liter V6, which is good for about 276 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque. Although driving dynamics are notably better, rivals with six cylinders are still much better, particularly the Ridgeline, which comes with a refined 3.5-liter V6 that is more quieter, more powerful and more efficient.
Both engines will come in pair with 8-speed automatic transmission. Latest reports are also suggesting a plug-in hybrid version for the near future.
Release Date and Price
When it comes to the launch date, the new truck could come already in the next year. The 2020 VW Atlas Tanoak price would probably go around 30.000 dollars.
