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Choosing between a Volkswagen Atlas with captain's chairs and the standard bench seat depends on your specific passenger needs. This six-seat midsize SUV configuration replaces the standard second-row bench with two individual chairs, offering a more personalized travel experience. However, what are you getting when you choose them, and should all families pick up a six-seat VW Atlas?
At Jim Ellis Volkswagen of Chamblee, we have helped dozens of families navigate this choice. Let's explore the pros and cons of each setup before you make your decision.
Captain's seats replace the standard second-row bench, placing two chairs separated by a central aisle. Each seat features individual armrests and adjustments, allowing passengers to customize their own positioning.
Additionally, since there are just two seats, a Volkswagen Atlas with captain's seats for sale has a path right between them. Instead of folding a bench seat and crawling to the back (or using the Easy Entry system in a VW model to fold the second row forward), the Volkswagen Atlas with captain's seats has easy third-row access; simply walk through the middle. This makes it easier to adjust car seats for toddlers or create extra legroom for tall adults.
However, the Volkswagen Atlas three-row captain's seats package is an add-on. Should you choose this package, or should you stick with the VW Atlas seven-passenger configuration? Carefully consider how many people typically ride in your vehicle each day, as your lifestyle will dictate the best choice. Check out the chart below for a quick overview:
| Bench Seats | Captain's Chairs | |
|---|---|---|
| Max Passenger Capacity | 7 | 6 |
| Third-Row Entry | Easy-Entry Folding | Clear Accessway |
| Best For | Large Families | Individual Comfort |
| Second-Row Armrests | Doors | Individual |
| Trim Availability | 5 Trims | 4 Trims |
| Accessibility | Standard | Add-On Package |
As you can see, the main benefits of the standard bench seat are availability and passenger space. Captain's chairs provide individual comfort and easy access to the third row.
When exploring our VW Atlas special offers, you'll find that many families prioritize the captain's chair configuration for its added convenience. That's not to say that bench seats aren't comfortable and useful for families: The VW Easy Entry system allows you to tilt the second row forward with one hand – even with a child safety seat latched in – for effortless third-row access.
However, bench seats just don't offer the same level of individualized comfort as captain's chairs. Unlike the standard configuration, the VW Atlas six-passenger configuration offers armrests and individual seat adjustments for your fourth and fifth passengers. While the VW Easy Entry system simplifies access for the bench seat, the walk-through aisle between captain's chairs makes it much easier to reach the VW Atlas third row when loading children.
Technically, because of the way the seats are arranged, your third-row passengers will be thanking you. There's always an opening in your second row with passenger chairs, meaning a tall third-row rider can stretch their legs down a clear alleyway. The center aisle also provides handy extra space for groceries or gear on busy errand days.
You may have noticed that the VW Atlas captain's chairs are slightly less accessible than the bench seats. That's because the VW Atlas SE, the baseline edition, does not come with captain's chairs. Instead, you can only get the six-seat configuration on the second trim level or beyond:
In addition, captain's chairs are always an add-on package. Because all models arrive with a standard bench, double-check the model's features before scheduling your test drive.
You've now seen why a Volkswagen Atlas with captain's chairs is such a popular configuration. The individualized seating and easy access to the back row mean that, as long as you're certain you'll only be bringing five or six people on your vacations, soccer games, or camping trips, this SUV setup will lead to less frustration and more relaxation for everyone. However, the bench seat is also useful, giving additional passenger seating.
The VW Atlas family SUV is ready for a test drive at your earliest convenience. At Jim Ellis Volkswagen of Chamblee, you can also see the VW Atlas exterior, check out the responsive engine, and enjoy the expansive legroom and headroom that make the VW Atlas such a versatile experience. If you don't see the model with the seating capacity, style, and add-ons you like, our team can walk you through the build tool to make your optimal SUV.
Yes, the VW Atlas offers captain's chairs for all trim levels except the baseline SE. All models have a standard seven-seat configuration with a bench-style second row. If you prioritize easier third-row access and increased comfort for second-row passengers, look for a trim level equipped with optional captain's chairs.
The only real difference between a standard bench seat and captain's chairs is the number of passengers you can bring for the ride. A bench seat, as is standard on the VW Atlas, allows an SUV to reach its maximum seating capacity (seven for the Atlas). Captain's chairs remove one seat from the bench, reducing passenger seating (six for the Atlas) in return for individual passenger comfort.
When equipped with optional captain's chairs, the VW Atlas can seat six passengers. While the standard VW Atlas can seat seven passengers, any trim other than the first one can remove the bench seat for captain's chairs. While this does reduce passenger capacity, access to the third row becomes even easier.
Unfortunately, a VW Atlas bench seat cannot have that row swapped for captain's chairs. When the Atlas is built at the factory, it has specific mounts and brackets in place to keep the bench in check. You cannot safely remove that second row and add captain's chairs later.
