If you do some comparisons, which I've done, the engine in the Atlas has less horsepower and a slower 0-60 time. Of course I'm not buying a sports car here but performance is still a factor. If you read many reviews online the common theme is the engine is sluggish. Here are some 0-60 times on cars I would consider comparable in price, features and size. Dodge Durango 7.6 seconds, Audi Q5 5.9, Buick Enclave 6.6 seconds, GMC Acadia 6.7 seconds, VW Atlas 7.9 seconds. The Durango (295 HP), Atlas (276 HP), Enclave (310 HP) and Acadia (310 HP) all have 3.6L V6 which is what I am comparing here. To go from 0-60 would take Durango 334 feet, Atlas 348 feet, Q5 259 feet, Enclave 290 feet and Acadia 295 feet.
Please keep in mind I'm not bashing or trying to dislike the Atlas. I would love to purchase one and am just starting my research. Test drives will be next. I've never driven an Atlas to answer one of the comments.
Thanks guys