Volkswagen Atlas 
Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport
Like night and day!?
Let’s find out!
It’s worth exploring when it comes to the difference between the VW Atlas and the VW Atlas Cross sport, Volkswagen’s two largest SUVs. While closely related, there are key differences that set these two SUVs apart. From size and style right down to mechanical differences, see how these two contrast. Are they like night and day? Let’s find out!!
Exterior look
Essentially a shorter Atlas — the five-passenger version of the larger seven-seat Atlas — the Cross Sport is made by chopping 5.2 inches from the length of the Atlas, resulting in a lower and more graceful roofline as well as a more steeply raked back window. While the Cross Sport and the Atlas are both built on the same line at VW’s Chattanooga, Tenn. plant, the lower roofline of the Atlas Cross Sport has its perks as does the long wheelbase. It results in a muscular look through and through in its coupe-like design.
Other differences include an upright front grille for the Cross Sport compared to the Atlas, as well as squared-off sheet walls and a prominent body-side crease. Modern in its design, the Cross Sport is definitely sportier when compared to the Atlas.
The two vehicles also have differed in their front and rear fascias, but a refresh this year has the Atlas looking more like the Cross Sport due to updated styling. It now boasts a wide grille accented by three bright slats and sharper-looking headlights with LED inserts, resulting in a more subtle rear end. This new look is more aggressive than before, made clear in the black-accented outboard fascia vents and a faux front skid plate.
Interior cues
While the Atlas is considered more of a family-oriented vehicle, the Cross Sport has a jazzy interior, complete with door-panel stitching and two-tone color schemes, including a combination of red and black. Cargo space is less than the Atlas but still generous, offering more luggage room than many of its competitors. Inside is where these two crossovers do show similarities, apart from a few slight variations in the back seat.
However, the Cross Sport interior is presented with new lighting up front that extends the width of the center bar of the three-bar chrome grille. By comparison, the basic look of the Atlas has been updated to include a new steering wheel, emblazoned with the VW logo, optional contrast stitching and savvy technology.
Considered to have room for all, the all new-Atlas is family-friendly, with every road trip rooted in comfort.
Their power
Similar in their mechanics, both the Atlas and the Atlas Cross Sport are presented with a choice between VW’s 235 hp 2.0 turbocharged four-cylinder engine and its 276 hp 3.6 liter V6, both coupled with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
While the Cross Sport is a couple hundred pounds lighter than the seven-seat Atlas, the acceleration is comparable and the ride and handling nearly the same. That being said, the Cross Sport does hold the edge in being a bit quicker, with a recorded 7.2 second 0-60 mph time with front wheel drive and the turbo four, and 7.9 seconds with all-wheel-drive and the V6.
However, the Cross Sport’s SEL Premium model has an upgraded engine that features a 3.6 liter V6 instead of the base four.
For the new model, the four-cylinder Atlas is now available with all-wheel-drive for the first time. With its V6, the Atlas can now tow 5,000 pounds.
Their technology
New technologies are brought forth in the Cross Sport, including the CarNet app of connected features. It is important to note that the all-new Cross Sport holds the designation of being the first vehicle to take advantage of this new app, which not only allows drivers to start and stop their vehicle remotely, but also allows drivers to set a navigation destination well in advance. It also connects to smart home devices like Amazon Echo and Google Home, thus bringing Alexa along with you! Drivers have the ability to connect up to four devices to Car-Net Hotspot for Internet access. Other highlights include a large 10.1 inch touchscreen, as well as a even bigger completely digital 12.3-inch digital cluster.
With the exception of the entry-level 5 variant, every Atlas comes with an 8.0 inch touchscreen that displays information. WiFi is also available for those drivers who pay a monthly data plan, and the software is compatible with the app that has been updated for this model year.
Safety first
The all-new Atlas is presented with a wide array of driver-assistance technology, also found in the Cross Sport. Key features include standard forward-collision warning and automatic emergency braking; standard blind-spot monitoring and rear-cross traffic alert as well as available adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go technology
Two driver-assistance features in the Cross Sport include Traffic Jam Assist and Dynamic Road Sign Display. The first uses the front camera and front radar sensor to help maintain following distance from the car in front, while the latter is a road sign detection system that alerts drivers to speed limits and school zones, among other signs. The Cross Sport also features collision warning and autonomous braking as well as blind spot monitoring and Rear Traffic Alert.
The price tag….
Due to its smaller size comes a smaller price tag for the Atlas Cross Sport, with the basic front-wheel-drive Cross Sport S listing for $31,565, while the low-end Atlas S with the same powertrain listing for $32,565. At the highest end, last year’s Cross Sport SEL Premium R-Line with V6 engine and all-wheel-drive lists at $50,815. VW does not offer an R-Line package in the range-topping Atlas SEL Premium, so it tops out cheaper than the Cross Sport at $50,215 with the V-6/AWD powertrain.
While many features are similar, it is important to note how these two SUVs stand apart. The Cross Sport, while considered ultra sporty, is truly an upscale version of an already established leader. Both SUVs have plenty to offer for today’s drivers, young and old alike. From design and technology to mechanics and safety, it is worth exploring the differences before making your final decision. Robust, reliable and a leader in the VW lineup, the Cross Sport and the Atlas represent a true driving experience. Take a test drive today!
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