Not sure if you should get a 2023 Volkswagen Atlas or Atlas Cross Sport? Here are the differences

Not sure if you should get a 2023 Volkswagen Atlas or Atlas Cross Sport? Here are the differences

The Volkswagen Atlas is a three-row midsize SUV manufactured by the German automaker since 2017. It was developed as part of the company’s effort to appeal to more family-oriented customers in North America and other markets. Its success spawned a two-row version known as the Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport. Their spacious interior, advanced safety features, and bold designs have made it popular among those who appreciate a more commanding presence on the road.


The Volkswagen Atlas and the Atlas Cross Sport are two absolutely worthy options among midsize SUVs, but what sets them apart? Let’s dive into some of their differences to help you make an informed decision about which one is right for you.


The Atlas is a more conventionally proportioned SUV featuring clean lines and an angular design that give it a modern look. In comparison, the Atlas Cross Sport has a more sculpted form with its sloping roofline and sporty styling.


The biggest difference between the two vehicles is interior size. The Volkswagen Atlas has three rows of seating and can accommodate up to seven passengers; by contrast, the Atlas Cross Sport only has two rows of seating, making it better suited for five passengers or fewer. Thanks to the Atlas’ roofline and profile, it offers roughly 25% more cargo space behind the 2nd row of seating as it is also 132mm longer overall. As they both share and identically generous 2,890mm long wheelbase, passenger space in the first and second rows is massive.


Performance-wise, both the midsize Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport can be fitted with a pair of powerful engines. As standard, the Volkswagen SUVs come with a 2.0L 4-cylinder turbocharged engine that produces 235 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Optionally, the available 3.6L V6 will put a smile on your face thanks to its 276 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque. Also included with the SUV are Volkswagen’s sophisticated 4MOTION all-wheel drive and an 8-speed automatic transmission with Tiptronic.


When it comes to features, the Atlas Cross Sport’s sportier nature means that gets some unique differentiating touches such as silver roof rails instead of black ones as found on the Atlas. As far as equipment levels are concerned, both can delivered in the same Trendline, Comfortline, Highline, and Execline R-Line trims.


Ultimately, the decision between an Atlas and a Cross Sport comes down to personal preference. If you need a larger vehicle that can seat up to seven passengers, then the Volkswagen Atlas is definitely the way to go. However, if you don’t need as much space and are looking for sportier design then the Atlas Cross Sport might be right for you. Whichever one you choose, rest assured that Volkswagen is known for making quality vehicles that have been built to last.