Cardinale Volkswagen Salinas - 4MOTION® Traction in the 2026 Volkswagen Atlas — Confident Coastal Drives around Carmel Highlands, CA
The coastal hills and winding outlooks near Carmel Highlands, CA, are some of California’s most inspiring drives, and the available 4MOTION® all-wheel drive in the 2026 Volkswagen Atlas is built to rise to the occasion. This system is engineered to actively distribute power between the front and rear axles, helping the Atlas maintain confident grip when morning fog dampens the asphalt, when gravel shoulders demand careful traction, or when you’re easing onto a steep driveway after a surf session. Paired with the turbocharged 2.0 TSI® engine and its 269 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque, the Atlas delivers poised acceleration that feels smooth and surefooted whether you’re cruising Highway 1 or navigating a tight hillside turn. Families appreciate how this confidence translates to everyday errands as well as weekend adventures, especially when towing up to 5,000 pounds or loading the cargo area for a spontaneous beach day.
Beyond traction, the Atlas layers on technology that supports your awareness. Available IQ.DRIVE® brings hands-on, semi-automated capability to help with highway traffic and lane guidance, while Safety-Enhancing Technology works quietly in the background to assist with monitoring. Inside, the large 12-inch display, Wireless App-Connect, and an available Wi-Fi Hotspot keep your crew connected and on course. Add Wireless Charging to cut the cord clutter and, for audiophiles, the available Harman Kardon system sets the soundtrack for coastal sunsets. It’s a cabin designed to simplify the details so you can focus on the scenic route. The panoramic sunroof, too, is a family favorite—on clear evenings it’s an invitation to pause and take in the stars.
- Adaptable traction: 4MOTION® helps distribute power for grip on wet pavement, sand, and uneven roads.
- Confident towing: Up to 5,000 pounds for small campers or watercraft, ideal for weekend escapes.
- Smart assistance: Available IQ.DRIVE® supports everyday driving with thoughtful driver-assistance features.
- Always connected: Wireless App-Connect, Wi-Fi Hotspot, and Wireless Charging keep devices ready to go.
- Real space: Three rows and up to 96.6 cubic feet of cargo room with rear seats folded.
Local drivers often ask how 4MOTION® changes day-to-day life. In short, it’s about stability when the unexpected happens—slick leaves on a shaded bend, a patch of loose gravel at a turnout overlooking the Pacific, or a rainy afternoon rush. By optimizing where power goes, the system helps the Atlas feel planted, even as conditions evolve along the route. Pair it with all-season tires recommended by Volkswagen technicians, and you have an SUV that feels ready for the variability of coastal weather without sacrificing comfort or efficiency-minded engineering.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Is 4MOTION® worth it if I mostly drive on pavement?
Yes. Pavement is where 4MOTION® shines in wet, sandy, or uneven conditions, helping the Atlas maintain traction and composure when roads aren’t perfect.
Does 4MOTION® affect the Atlas cargo or seating space?
No. You still get three-row versatility and up to 96.6 cubic feet of cargo room with the rear seats folded.
Which features pair best with 4MOTION® for coastal drives?
Consider available IQ.DRIVE®, the panoramic sunroof for visibility and enjoyment, and Wireless App-Connect to keep maps and traffic info front and center.
Can I tow confidently with 4MOTION®?
Yes. The 2026 Atlas is rated to tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped, and 4MOTION® adds traction support at launch and on variable surfaces.
When you’re ready to experience the difference, a test drive along familiar coastal routes will show you how 4MOTION® settles the Atlas into the road with easy confidence. One loop through Carmel River State Beach, a climb toward the Highlands, and a return via a neighborhood run is often enough to appreciate the system’s subtle intelligence. Cardinale Volkswagen Salinas is here to help you explore trims and available packages that align with your lifestyle, serving Carmel-by-the-Sea, Carmel Valley Village, and Carmel Highlands. From connectivity to capability, the 2026 Atlas brings the right mix of traction, technology, and space for families who value confidence as much as comfort.