By Atlas concept was revealed during 2013 as a preview of the next-gen Ford F-150 truck. Well, the thirteenth generation of the legendary pickup adopted some of the ideas we could see on the new platform. However, we are still waiting for the production version of the concept. Everyone expects it as a part of F-150’s lineup. The 2020 Ford Atlas could appear as a special edition of the truck somewhere next year. The base truck suffered a big redesign for the 2019 model, so the Atlas could be a kind of a throwback for the US carmaker.
The highlight of the 2020 Ford Atlas will be its body construction. Well, it will be the same as its stablemate. But, the specs sheet will unveil there is much more behind the exterior appearance. A lot of lightweight materials will be in the body panels and parts. That will make 2020 Atlas much lighter than the F-150. Changes will be visible in performance, but the truck will keep acceleration speed and towing capacity. Few other updates will make the Atlas different from F-150, both outside and inside. The pickup is not bringing changes under the hood and it is going to use existing drivetrains.
2020 Ford Atlas Redesign
After seven years there will be a lot of modifications on the base concept from 2013. Well, the thirteenth generation of F-150, based on Atlas concept, arrived in 2015. Model for 2019 suffered a mid-cycle redesign, but it still kept some design solutions from its previous edition. So, the 2020 Ford Atlas will be updated with new shapes and exterior lines. The front fascia is still pretty similar to the platform presented a few years ago. Same grille and headlights are distinctive and eye-catching.
Interior
The cabin of the prototype truck was futuristic, back in 2013. So, we expect the 2020 Ford Atlas to use all the latest features and equipment to draw attention. Also, advanced safety features will include a 360-degree camera, auto-braking system, and parking sensors. Auto-parking feature is an option as a wall. The new F-150 adopted some of the features presented on the Atlas concept. We expect more innovation from Ford, especially with GM trucks out with the new setup of their MultiPro tailgate. The Blue Oval company will probably respond, and the 2020 Atlas will present these innovations.
Back to the cabin. Power adjustable front seats and captain chairs for the back will improve comfort. Zonal air-conditioning as well. Rear sets entertaining system will probably be optional since it would increase the price. Who wants to invest in this segment, will be eligible to purchase such feature. Few cameras will be installed around the truck. All of them will send signals to the huge central screen. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard features. The 2020 Ford Atlas will come with advanced audio, while additional options will offer a premium system.
Cab and Bed Configurations
The concept pickup presented a vehicle with the Crew Cab configuration. We doubt that 2020 Ford Atlas will offer other setups available for the standard F-150 (Regular and Super Cab). A four-door layout will improve the access and entrance to the cabin. Also, passengers will have more space to accommodate the head and legs. Some space will be behind the rear seats which can be used as a storage area.
Standard and short bed configurations can be combined with Crew Cab on the Ford F-150. However, the limited edition 2020 Atlas will probably use only a 5-½ bed. This won’t harm the towing capacity of the new truck. However, it will look meaner and more aggressive. Spray-on bed liner is added if we compare Atlas and F-150. Then, cargo tie-downs will be pretty helpful features if you buying this pickup for towing. Lightning is going to be standard, while the pickup gets a cover at buyer’s demand.
2020 Ford Atlas Engines
As said, the 2020 Ford Atlas will use one of the existing drivetrains the F-150 is offering. Well, the range is pretty wide. We can find the pickup with either V6 or V8 engines. The largest one, a 5.0-liter unit is unlikely for Atlas. It produces 400 hp and 400 lb-ft of torque. The new model will look for a smaller and more efficient displacement. However, we are not going to write off the chances of 2020 Atlas getting a V8.
The standard offer will probably include a 3.3-liter V6. This is probably the best option a buyer can get. It is not the best towing engine, but it still doesn’t consume too much fuel. Efficient and durable, a V6 engine can provide 290 hp and 265 lb-ft of torque. Fuel economy rating is 22 mpg combined for 2WD. Lighter Atlas truck will definitely push these numbers up. However, do not expect some spectacular improvement (unless we see a hybrid unit). A turbo-six is another interesting unit. A 2.7-liter engine is capable to deliver 325 hp and 400 lb-ft of torque. It also consumes less fuel than the 3.3-liter engine. But, drivers will get a sportier driving impression with a smaller unit. On the other hands, you must deal with turbo lags and high maintenance cost.
Diesel
The new model will definitely offer an upcoming diesel engine as an optional drivetrain. The 2020 Ford Atlas can get 250 hp and 440 lb-ft of torque from a 3.0-liter turbodiesel Power Stroke engine. Well, it still needs a green light by the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency). After the scandal caused by VW and Audi, the Agency is testing diesel vehicles slightly slower than usual.
2020 Ford Atlas Release Date and Price
The new 2020 Ford Atlas will be a part of the update of the new F-150. It is not going to be a new and independent nameplate in Ford’s truck lineup. However, as a limited edition for the F-150, it will draw attention. Well, it will definitely help its sibling to breach 1 million sold units in 2020. Last year, the best-selling truck was 100k short. However, it will also depend on the price. With all the innovations for the new 2020 Atlas, we can’t expect to see it with a low price tag. Experts believe it will cost nearly the same as Raptor ($50,000).
Comments