Oct 22, 2021

atlas vs cross sport

A Side-by-Side Volkswagen Atlas Comparison

Trying to choose between two Volkswagen SUVs for sale is like trying to choose between BBQ brisket and ribs. You really can’t go wrong with either option. It just comes down to a matter of preference.

That’s the exact position we find ourselves in when comparing the 2022 VW Atlas vs. the 2022 VW Atlas Cross Sport. They’re both SUVs, they both pack a lot of convenience and safety features, and they both have a ton of power under the hood. So, what’s the difference between these two VW SUVs? Are they really just two sides of the same coin? Let’s break this down.

Volkswagen Atlas vs. Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport At-a-Glance

To start out, let’s do a side-by-side comparison of the main specs to give you an idea of how these two Atlases measure up against each other.

2022 Volkswagen Atlas

Starting MSRP (base trim): $34,670
Fuel economy (base trim): 18 city/24 highway
Engine type: SE 2.0L Turbo 8-speed Auto with Tiptronic
Horsepower: 276 hp
Torque: 266 Lb-ft.
Seating capacity: 7
Passenger volume: 154.0 cubic ft.
Cargo volume: 20.6 (volume behind 3rd row) / 55.5 (volume behind 2nd row) / 96.8 (volume behind 1st row) cubic ft
Wheelbase: 117.3 in.
Length: 200.7 in.
Height: 70.1 in.
Curb weight: 4,262 lbs.

2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport

Starting MSRP (base trim): $32,775
Fuel economy (base trim): 20 city/24 highway
Engine type: SE 2.0L Turbo 8-speed Auto with Tiptronic
Horsepower: 235 hp
Torque: 258 Lb-ft.
Seating capacity: 5
Passenger volume: 112.0 cubic ft.
Cargo volume: 40.3 (volume behind 2nd row) / 77.8 (volume behind 1st row) cubic ft.
Wheelbase: 117.3 in.
Length: 195.5 in.
Height: 67.8 in.
Curb weight: 4,123 lbs.

The Main Takeaways on the Volkswagen Atlas Comparison

Although both vehicles fly under the same VW Atlas banner, there are some distinct differences between the standard Atlas and the Cross Sport. At first glance, the sticker price slightly leans in favor of the Cross Sport…but only slightly. The difference between the two is practically negligible; however, when you consider the Cross Sport’s slightly more efficient fuel economy along with its leaner curb weight (another fuel economy advantage), it becomes clear that the Cross Sport is the clear choice for the price conscious VW SUV driver.

With the VW Atlas’s higher sticker price does come some unique advantages. Although both vehicles run on the same engine, the Atlas eclipses the Cross Sport in terms of horsepower and torque. Additionally, the Atlas can seat two additional passengers compared to the Cross Sport and has far more cargo space. If you’ve got a big family or find yourself going on cross-country trips that require a lot of luggage or gear, the VW Atlas is probably going to be your best bet.

It’s like we said earlier…you really can’t go wrong with either VW SUV. It’s all a matter of what your personal preferences are.

Safety and Convenience Features

When making the VW Atlas vs. VW Atlas Cross Sport comparison, many of the differences apply to performance, pricing, and dimensions. As far as safety and convenience features are concerned, it’s a close race between the two.

Safety features such as blind-spot monitoring system, rear cross-traffic warning, and forward collision warning with mitigation are standard on both of the Atlas models. The same can be said for much of the features. For instance, both base trim levels of the VW Atlas and VW Atlas Cross Sport feature a 6.5” touchscreen receiver that has Apple CarPlay/Android Auto along with the Volkswagen super slick and convenient Car Net app. As with any VW vehicle, the higher the trim level you select, the more features you can expect. If you were to go with the highest trim level for either vehicle, your stereo would be upgraded to a 12-speaker Fender system.

Volkswagen Atlas Carefree Coverage

One of the huge benefits of going with a new VW SUV is the best-in-class coverage plan. This applies to any late model Volkswagen SUV for sale. It includes

2 yrs. Service – Scheduled Carefree Maintenance (2 years or 20,000 miles)
3 yrs. Help – Roadside Assistance (3 years or 36,000 miles)
4 yrs. Coverage – New Vehicle Limited Warranty (4 years or 50,000 miles)
5 yrs. Access – Car-Net Remote Access

In the event that you ever need VW parts, service, or routine maintenance, you can simply stop by a VW service center. Your Carefree Coverage will appear in our records, making the process simple and easy.

Test Drive the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas or Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport Today

Now that you know most of the key differences and similarities between the VW Atlas and VW Atlas Cross Sport, the next step is to take them both out for a test spin. Nothing beats getting behind the wheel and seeing how these VW SUVs handle in person. Shop today at the Volkswagen Cypress dealership to get VIP Access to our pipeline of incoming vehicles and reserve the Atlas that fits your lifestyle.

We are conveniently located at 19550 Northwest Fwy in Houston. Feel free to contact us with any questions you may have, and be sure to check out our specials for great deals on VW vehicles.

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