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Engineered Performance Technologies (EPT) Group has officially announced its acquisition of Hondata, a prominent company specializing in engine control unit (ECU) tuning for Honda and Acura vehicles. This strategic move, finalized in May, marks another significant consolidation within the automotive aftermarket industry, bringing Hondata under the same corporate umbrella as other well-known brands like Cobb Tuning, PRL, and AutoMeter.

Engineered Performance Technologies Group Expands Portfolio with Hondata Acquisition

In a significant development for the automotive performance sector, Engineered Performance Technologies (EPT) Group confirmed in May its acquisition of Hondata, a leading provider of engine tuning solutions for Honda and Acura platforms. The news, initially surfaced through industry channels and subsequently verified by Motor1, highlights EPT's continued expansion in the enthusiast market. Headquartered in Torrance, California, Hondata was co-founded in 1999 in New Zealand by Derek Stevens and Doug Macmillian, who later relocated operations to the United States in the early 2000s. Post-acquisition, both Stevens and Macmillian, along with the existing Hondata team, are slated to remain in their current leadership roles, ensuring continuity and leveraging their extensive expertise. Jeff King, the head of EPT, expressed enthusiasm for the integration, stating that Hondata will now benefit from enhanced resources to "accelerate technological leadership," broaden its customer support network, and "bring even more innovations" to the competitive marketplace. EPT Group's website characterizes itself as a "consumer-focused automotive aftermarket company that invests in and builds products that deliver premium, differentiated software-based solutions for their customers." This latest acquisition of Hondata, one of eight such transactions since 2007, solidifies EPT's position as a key player in the performance tuning segment, integrating Hondata into a diverse group of brands including ECUTek.

This acquisition by EPT Group represents a pivotal moment for Hondata and the broader automotive tuning community. While the infusion of private equity resources promises accelerated innovation and expanded support for enthusiasts, it also prompts reflection on the evolving landscape of specialized aftermarket companies. The balance between maintaining a brand's unique identity and integrating into a larger corporate structure will be crucial. For consumers, the hope is that this new chapter will lead to even more advanced and accessible tuning solutions for their beloved Honda and Acura vehicles.

Volkswagen has released the pricing details for its comprehensively updated 2027 Atlas, a mid-size SUV receiving a significant overhaul. This new generation boasts a sophisticated exterior, a more efficient four-cylinder engine, and a thoroughly modernized cabin featuring an expansive infotainment screen and customizable ambient illumination. However, these enhancements come with a notable price adjustment, as the entry-level 2027 Atlas SE model, equipped with front-wheel drive, will retail for $43,135, marking a $2,350 increase over its 2026 predecessor. For those seeking the advanced 15-inch touchscreen display, an upgrade to the SE with Technology trim is necessary, commencing at $47,135. At the pinnacle of the range, the SEL Premium R-Line, priced from $58,135, offers a suite of luxury appointments, including supple Nappa leather upholstery, front seats with massage functionality, and distinctive 21-inch wheels.

Elevated Design and Core Features of the 2027 Atlas

The base SE trim of the 2027 Volkswagen Atlas, starting at $43,135 for the front-wheel-drive variant, builds upon its predecessor with a series of significant upgrades. Buyers can opt for the 4Motion all-wheel-drive system for an additional $2,000, bringing the price to $45,135. This trim level offers a robust suite of standard amenities, including heated side mirrors with an automatic-dimming function on the driver’s side, a convenient power liftgate, and both front and rear parking sensors for enhanced maneuverability. Inside the cabin, occupants will appreciate genuine wood accents, a 10-color ambient lighting system that sets a sophisticated mood, a high-quality nine-speaker audio system, and dual 15-watt wireless phone chargers. A 10.3-inch digital gauge cluster is standard across all models, complemented by a 12.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system in this entry-level configuration.

As customers explore the higher echelons of the 2027 Atlas lineup, the SE with Technology trim presents a compelling upgrade. Priced at $47,135 for the front-wheel-drive model—a $1,930 increase from 2026—this trim offers a more dynamic visual presence. The all-wheel-drive option maintains its $2,000 premium. Exterior enhancements include a shift from 18-inch to stylish 20-inch wheels, along with illuminated front and rear badges, sleek LED strips integrated into the grille, and illuminated door handles for a touch of elegance. The interior experience is further elevated with an expanded ambient lighting system, while the infotainment system receives a significant upgrade to a more expansive 15-inch touchscreen, enhancing usability and visual appeal for all occupants.

Premium Trims and Enhanced Driving Experience

Stepping up to the SEL R-Line trim, the 2027 Atlas commands a starting price of $53,635, reflecting a $2,540 increase from the previous year. This trim comes standard with all-wheel drive, emphasizing its performance-oriented character. The R-Line designation signifies a more athletic aesthetic, featuring redesigned bumpers and sleek black trim elements. Additional premium features include full LED headlights for superior illumination, a panoramic sunroof that bathes the cabin in natural light, and a head-up display that projects vital driving information onto the windshield. The interior ambiance is further enriched by a sophisticated 30-color ambient lighting system, while second-row outboard seats offer both heating and ventilation for enhanced comfort. These seats are meticulously upholstered in luxurious Varenna leather, and the passenger seat gains 12-way power adjustability with four-way lumbar support, ensuring exceptional passenger comfort.

At the apex of the 2027 Atlas range sits the SEL Premium R-Line, with a starting price of $58,135, representing a $2,030 increase over the 2026 model, and also includes standard all-wheel drive. This top-tier variant distinguishes itself with exclusive 21-inch wheels, unique puddle lights that project the Volkswagen logo, and power-folding mirrors for added convenience. The interior is a sanctuary of luxury, featuring Nappa leather seating surfaces throughout and an immersive 14-speaker Harman Kardon sound system. A truly indulgent feature is the massage function integrated into the front seats, providing unparalleled comfort on long journeys. The 2027 Atlas lineup is scheduled to arrive in showrooms this autumn, continuing its assembly tradition at Volkswagen’s manufacturing facility in Chattanooga, Tennessee, underscoring its commitment to North American production.