Volkswagen has unveiled its brand new Atlas seven-seater crossover ahead of the model’s world premiere at the Los Angeles Auto Show.

Once known as the Teramont, the VW Atlas offers three-row seating and aims to satisfy the SUV-hungry desires of North America by representing the firm’s first foray into the local family SUV segment.

Built in Chattanooga, Tenneessee, the Atlas is underpinned by VW’s Modular Transverde Matrix (MQB) architecture and measures 198.3 inches (5,037mm) long, 77.9 inches (1,979mm) wide and 69.6 inches (1,767mm( high, making it the largest Volkswagen on sale in the United States.

At launch, the Atlas will be offered with two powertrains. The first, a 2.0-liter turbocharged four cylinder, delivers 238 hp and is paired to an eight-speed automatic transmission. For those looking for some added grunt, a 3.6-liter six-cylinder with 280 hp is also available with the same eight-speed ‘box.

The four cylinder can only be configured in front-wheel drive while the V6 can be specced in front-wheel drive or 4Motion all-wheel drive trims. The latter drivetrain offers the owner a number of driving modes to alter the vehicle’s parameters depending on conditions.

Considering the key selling point of the SUV is its three-row seating, the interior is certainly worthy of discussion. VW says the Atlas offers space for seven adults and luggage and uses foldable seats in the third row.

Up front, the driver enjoys Volkswagen’s digital cockpit and has the marque’s Car-Net infotainment system within arm’s reach. The infotainment setup offers features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, MirrorLink and is joined by a Fender premium audio system with 12 speakers and a 480-watt amplifier.

Among the key safety elements of the 2018 VW Atlas is an Automatic Post-Collision Braking System, making it the first in its class with such a feature. Additionally, the Atlas includes Adaptive Cruise Control, Forward Collision Warning, Blind Spot Monitor, Lane Departure Warning and Autonomous Emergency Braking.

Discussing the new model, VW’s chief executive of the North America Region, Hinrich J. Woebcken said “This is the biggest and boldest Volkswagen we have ever built in the United States, delivering the distinctive design and craftsmanship we’re known for, now with room for seven. The Atlas marks a brand new journey for Volkswagen to enter into the heart of the American market.”

The Atlas will launch in the spring of 2017 in the U.S. Pricing details have yet to be announced.

Live photos from Carscoops’ Zac Estrada who will soon bring us live impressions of the crossover

Photo Gallery