How to Use 2026 VW Atlas Steering Wheel Controls

The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas is packed with technology designed to make every drive more convenient, comfortable, and connected. One of the easiest ways to access many of these features is directly from the steering wheel. With a few simple button presses, you can adjust driver assistance settings, control audio functions, answer phone calls, and customize information displayed in the Digital Cockpit without taking your hands off the wheel. Volkswagen's steering wheel controls are designed to help drivers stay focused on the road while still having quick access to the features they use most.


Left Side Steering Wheel Controls

The buttons on the left side of the steering wheel are primarily dedicated to Volkswagen's advanced driver assistance technologies. Here you'll find controls for Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and Travel Assist. Adaptive Cruise Control allows you to maintain a selected speed while automatically adjusting your distance from vehicles ahead. Once activated, you can increase or decrease your set speed and adjust following distance directly from the steering wheel. Travel Assist builds on this technology by helping maintain your lane position while working together with Adaptive Cruise Control for a more relaxed highway driving experience.

Right Side Steering Wheel Controls

The controls on the right side of the steering wheel focus on infotainment, communication, and display settings. Drivers can use these buttons to:
  • Adjust audio volume
  • Skip songs or radio stations
  • Answer or end phone calls
  • Activate voice commands
  • Navigate menus within the Volkswagen Digital Cockpit Pro display
These controls allow you to manage entertainment and communication features without reaching for the center touchscreen, helping you keep your attention where it belongs.

Using the View Button

One of the most useful steering wheel features is the View button. This control lets you cycle through different Digital Cockpit layouts and information screens. Depending on your preferences, you can display navigation directions, audio information, driver assistance data, vehicle information, or a more traditional gauge layout.
The customizable Digital Cockpit Pro gives Atlas drivers the flexibility to prioritize the information that matters most to them during every trip.

Learn More About the 2026 Volkswagen Atlas at VW of Olympia

The best way to become familiar with the steering wheel controls in the 2026 Volkswagen Atlas is to see them in action. Watch the instructional video above for a complete walkthrough of the various buttons and functions available to Atlas drivers. If you're interested in experiencing the 2026 Atlas for yourself, visit VW of Olympia to explore current inventory, compare trim levels, and take a test drive. Our team is happy to answer any questions about Volkswagen technology, driver assistance features, and everything the Atlas has to offer.
Browse our available Atlas models online or stop by our showroom serving Olympia, Lacey, Tumwater, Shelton, and the surrounding South Sound communities.