Volkswagen will bring a modified version of the Atlas to the New York Auto Show this week, aimed to appeal to outdoorsy types. VW calls it the Atlas Basecamp Concept, claiming it offers “a go-anywhere attitude to the brand that is already synonymous with road-trip culture.”

That seems like a fair assessment. While the Atlas isn’t the most off-road-friendly vehicle on the market, it rides the line between everyday usefulness and being just capable enough to make it down a gently gnarled trail. Volkswagen is wisely trying to highlight the latter aspect without making outrageous claims about how it can tackle any terrain. It’s only supposed to get you to the base camp, hence its name. The peak is all you.  (Read More…)

As it soaks up newfound love from an absentee parent, Maserati plans on bringing its best to the New York International Auto Show. The Italian marque recently announced it intends to cart its entire vehicle lineup to the venue — with a special focus on a new customization program and the Levante SUV, which it calls a “New York favorite.”

We consider every Maserati a New York favorite, as you rarely see them anywhere but along the coastal United States. While the company does have dealerships in places like St. Louis and Kansas City, you only need a quick peek at a national dealer map to realize which side of the bread holds the butter.  (Read More…)