VW Atlas rolls on trio of Conti tires in U.S.

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. — Volkswagen Of America Inc. has selected a trio of Continental-brand tires as the U.S. OE fitments for the 2018 VW Atlas seven-passenger SUV, being built at VW's plant in Chattanooga.

The tires selected are the Conti TerrainContact A/T in size 245/60R18 105H, the CrossContact in size 255/50R20 105T and the CrossContact LX Sport in size 255/60R20 105T.

Launched in late 2016, the TerrainContact A/T incorporates Conti's "TractionPlus" technology, which helps to provide durable performance through dirt and gravel while maintaining a quiet, comfortable ride on pavement. TractionPlus features an open pattern and large stable blocks, while the patented +Saline helps to provide traction in wet conditions.

VW offers the Atlas in five trim levels — S, SE, SE w/Technology, SEL and SEL Premium — and two engine options, a 2-liter inline turbocharged 4-cylinder and 3.6-liter V6, both with eight-speed automatic transmissions. VW offers two engine options, a 2-liter four-cylinder and 3.6-liter V6, both turbocharged.

The seven-seater's base price starts at $31,425.

All trim levels but the SEL Premium come OE with 245/60R18 fitments; the SEL Premium gets 255/50R20 all seasons and aluminum alloy wheels. The SEL and SEL Premium models can also be outfitted with available 20-inch black aluminum-alloy wheels, VW said.

All Atlas models feature 8 inches of ground clearance and departure angles of 20.4 and 22.2 degrees (front/rear).

In addition, VW has spec'd a temporary spare tire from Giti Tire Group, the GT Radial TS, for all Atlas models. Giti will source the tire from one of its plants in China.

VW said the tire options for Atlas models sold in markets outside the U.S. will include other brands in addition to Conti.