Volkswagen SUVs are popular for their comfortable accommodations, plentiful practicality, and bold yet refined style. The automaker's two largest models are the two-row VW Atlas Cross Sport and the three-row VW Atlas. Both of these midsize SUVs received significant midcycle refreshes for the 2024 model year. While they have many similarities, each offers a few unique characteristics to suit different needs and lifestyles. To help you determine which best fits your Sarasota-area drives, here's a quick look at some of their shared and distinguishing attributes.
Volkswagen Atlas vs. Atlas Cross Sport: Size and Accommodations
Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport
- Dimensions – L x W x H (inches): 195.5 x 78.3 x 67.8
- Seats: 5
- Headroom (1st/2nd row): 39.4 / 37.8 inches
- Legroom (1st/2nd row): 41.7 / 40.4 inches
- Cargo Capacity(behind 2nd/1st row): 40.3 / 77.8 cubic feet
Volkswagen Atlas
- Dimensions – L x W x H (inches): 100.7 x 78.3 x 70.1
- Seats: 6 – 7
- Headroom (1st/2nd/3rd row): 41.3 / 40.4 / 38.3 inches
- Legroom (1st/2nd/3rd row): 41.7 / 37.6 / 33.7 inches
- Cargo Capacity(behind 3rd/2nd/1st row): 20.6 / 55.5 / 96.8 cubic feet
The primary distinction between the Atlas Cross Sport and Atlas is their size. Both offer impressively spacious cabins. However, the Atlas sacrifices a bit of second-row legroom to add a third row. And while most three-row crossovers have relatively cramped back seats, the VW Atlas provides enough space for adults in all outboard positions.
Volkswagen Atlas vs. Atlas Cross Sport: Features
- VW Atlas Cross Sport Trim Levels: SE, SE with Technology, SEL, SEL R-Line, SEL Premium R-Line
- VW Atlas Trim Levels: SE, SE with Technology, SEL, SEL Premium R-Line
The VW Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport have very similar feature lists, and the recent midcycle refresh gave each model an impressively equipped base trim, including amenities typically reserved for higher tiers. Both models come standard with:
- 18-inch wheels
- Steering-responsive headlights
- Kessy proximity entry
- Three-zone automatic climate control
- Heated and ventilated front seats
- Heated steering wheel
- V-Tex leatherette upholstery
- Power driver's seat
- 10.25-inch VW Digital Cockpit Pro instrument panel
- 12-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
- Wireless charging pad
- Front Assist (automatic emergency braking) with Pedestrian and Cyclist Monitoring
- Side Assist (Blind-spot monitoring / lane-change system)
- Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
- Adaptive Cruise Control with Travel Assist
- Safe Exit Warning System
- Lane Assist
- Emergency Assist (brings the vehicle to a safe stop if the driver appears unresponsive)
While the trim levels are mostly the same, the VW Atlas offers an exclusive Peak Edition package for SE with Technology and SEL trim levels. This rugged equipment group adds unique bumpers and exterior accents, all-terrain tires, a panoramic sunroof, and ambient interior lighting.
Volkswagen Atlas vs. Atlas Cross Sport: Performance
Both models are powered by a potent 2.0-liter turbo-four engine with 269 horsepower, 273 pound-feet of torque, and an 8-speed automatic transmission.
Test-Drive New Volkswagen SUVs near Venice and Lakewood Ranch, FL
Reach out to Sunset Volkswagen for more information about the latest VW SUVs, including their available configurations, financing offers, and reservation opportunities. If you'd like to try out the VW Atlas or Atlas Cross Sport for yourself, we welcome you to visit our Sarasota dealership for a test drive. We'll be happy to show you around.