The Sea-to-Sky Highway transforms into a winter wonderland each season, and for drivers in Coquitlam heading to Cypress Mountain, snow-covered roads demand more than standard all-wheel drive. The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas Peak Edition arrives purpose-built for British Columbia's mountain terrain, combining factory all-terrain tires, Snow driving mode, and 4MOTION all-wheel drive into a package designed specifically for deep-snow capability. From navigating Highway 99's switchbacks to parking at the Cypress Mountain base lodge, this trim delivers measurable advantages over standard Atlas configurations.
Here's how the Peak Edition handles the conditions that define winter driving in Metro Vancouver's North Shore mountains.
The Peak Edition's Driving Profile Selection includes a dedicated Snow mode that fundamentally changes how the Atlas delivers power. When activated through the infotainment system or centre console dial, Snow mode adjusts throttle response, transmission shift points, and 4MOTION torque distribution to prioritize traction over acceleration.
In Snow mode:
This system proves particularly valuable when navigating Cypress Mountain's parking areas, where compact snow and ice create unpredictable surfaces. The smoother power delivery allows drivers to maintain momentum without breaking traction—essential for safely merging onto Highway 99 from mountain access roads.
The Peak Edition's 4MOTION all-wheel drive system continuously monitors wheel speed, steering angle, and throttle position to distribute torque between front and rear axles. Unlike reactive systems that engage only after detecting slip, 4MOTION can send up to 100 percent of available torque to the rear wheels proactively.
Combined with Driving Profile Selection, drivers can choose between Comfort, Eco, Sport, Snow, and Custom modes to match conditions. For Cypress Mountain trips, Snow mode pairs with 4MOTION to:
The system also includes Hill Hold Assist and Hill Descent Control—features that prevent rollback on steep grades and maintain controlled speeds on downhill sections without constant brake application.
While the Atlas Peak Edition shares its 2,980 mm wheelbase and 5,097 mm length with other Atlas trims, its 18-inch wheel and tire combination provides adequate clearance for navigating unplowed sections of mountain parking areas. The higher sidewall also reduces the risk of wheel damage from hidden curbs or ice chunks.
The Peak Edition's approach and departure angles allow drivers to enter and exit steep driveways and parking spots without scraping front or rear bumpers—a common issue with lower-riding crossovers on snow-packed surfaces.
Key Dimensions:
Extended mountain drives require more than mechanical capability—they demand comfort systems that function reliably in sub-zero temperatures. The Peak Edition includes:
The three-zone climate system allows rear passengers to set independent temperature preferences—valuable when transporting multiple passengers with varying cold tolerance. Heated washer nozzles ensure windshield cleaning capability even when temperatures drop below -15°C, a common occurrence at Cypress Mountain's 900-metre base elevation.
|
Specification |
Peak Edition 4MOTION |
|
Engine |
2.0 L TSI 4-cylinder turbocharged |
|
Horsepower |
269 hp |
|
Torque |
273 lb-ft |
|
Transmission |
8-speed automatic with Tiptronic |
|
Drivetrain |
4MOTION All-Wheel Drive |
|
Fuel Economy (Combined) |
11.0 L/100 km (approx.; Peak Edition: 12.6 L/100 km city due to all-terrain tires) |
|
Towing Capacity (Braked) |
2,268 kg (5,000 lb) |
|
Cargo Space (Seats Folded) |
2,735 L |
|
Wheels |
18-inch Magnum black alloy |
|
Tires |
255/60 R18 108T all-terrain |
The 2026 Atlas Peak Edition combines factory-engineered winter capability with the space and comfort Metro Vancouver families need for mountain adventures. From its all-terrain tires to Snow driving mode and 4MOTION all-wheel drive, every system works together to handle the conditions that define Cypress Mountain access roads.
Visit our team at Journey Volkswagen of Coquitlam to see how the Peak Edition's purpose-built features translate to real-world capability on British Columbia's winter roads.
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