The Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport isn’t a trim level of the Volkswagen Atlas. Instead, it’s a smaller SUV than the Atlas to attract drivers that are interested in a more compact option.

So, let’s catch you up to speed with what you should know about the Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport. 

The Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport Is Boring

Getting started in the Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport costs about $30k, making this option a higher-priced SUV. 

It’s up there with the Honda Passport, while competitors such as the RAV4 only start around $25k. 

Also, the Atlas Cross Sport has a lackluster fuel economy. It only gets up to 21 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway. 

Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport Performance 

There are two engine options available in the VW Atlas Cross Sport. The base engine is a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder option that pumps out 235 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. 

You can also upgrade to the 3.6-liter V6 engine option with an output of 276 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque. 

The Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport can tow up to 5,000 lb, while the RAV4 can only tow up to 3,500 lb. 

But the Cross Sport only has a standard amount of pep. It takes 7.3 seconds to go from 0 to 60 mph. That doesn’t make it the fastest or slowest option. 

The VW Atlas Cross Sport is available in all-wheel-drive if you need it to tackle snow or other challenges. 

With the twist of a dial, you can automatically switch between different AWD modes, including snow, off-roading, and on-road mode. 

The independent wheel suspension with coil springs, telescopic dampers, and a sway bar in the front provides a smooth ride. 

There is also a multi-link suspension with telescopic shock absorbers and a sway bar in the rear. 

Volkswagen Cross Sport Atlas Features 

The VW Atlas Cross Sport has a pretty nice interior. While higher quality build materials could have been used in the dash, the leather seats are spacious. Each seat is heated as well. 

There is also a fair amount of cargo space. The 40.3 cubic feet in the rear provide a ton of trunk space. But you can only access up to 77.8 cubic feet of cargo space total. 

The 8” infotainment center seems adequate. It can connect to Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Like most SUVs. 

You can connect to the CarNet app on your phone to unlock the doors, start the engine, and more with a touch of a button. 

We didn’t find anything to be amazing about the safety features, either. There is post-collision automatic braking, but no mention of collision prevention. 

The Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport mentions its rigid frame to protect drivers and passengers, but that’s also standard across the board. 

It seems like this SUV is nothing special. The Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport lacks in comfort, safety, and tech. 

We suggest avoiding this option for something with more standard safety features like lane-keeping assistance, more off-roading features, more space, and a better fuel economy.