Diving into the world of Volkswagen SUVs, it’s easy to get lost in the myriad of options. Two models that often cause confusion are the Atlas and the Atlas Cross Sport. While they share a name and a brand, there are key differences that set them apart.
Difference Between Atlas And Atlas Cross Sport
Volkswagen exhibits prowess in its range of SUVs, particularly with the Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport models. The Atlas, marketed since 2017, exemplifies a versatile family vehicle, boasting a three-row seating arrangement accommodating up to seven passengers. Additionally, it excels in cargo space, lending ample room for luggage and gear.
In contrast, the Atlas Cross Sport, introduced in 2020, targets a different consumer base. Removing the third row, it yields a sportier, coupe-like silhouette. The Cross Sport model offers seating for five with luxurious legroom and an emphasis on style and aesthetics.
Regardless of the model, Volkswagen maintains its high safety standards in both vehicles. Safety features, from advanced airbag systems to Anti-lock Braking Systems (ABS), set a benchmark. It’s worth noting that both the Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport come with a robust set of tech features, enhancing the driving experience.
Design and Styling Differences
In assessing the design differences, the Atlas showcases a traditional squared-off exterior, speaking volumes of its practical origins. Its bold grille, sharp lines and boxy silhouette mirror its function as a solid, traditional three-row family vehicle. Contrarily, the Atlas Cross Sport dons a more appealing and modern outlook. It embraces a raked rear roofline with a streamlined silhouette and coupe-like aesthetics, closely resembling its sporty character. This two-row model emanates a sportier vibe, aiming for onlookers who prioritize style and aesthetics along with utility.
Shifting focus to interior styling, the Atlas provides ample space, harnessing its box-like design. It provides three rows of seating, suitable for a larger family. The Atlas Cross Sport, with its two rows, offers sportier designs and comfort to five passengers, emphasizing style in a compact family configuration. Optimized passenger space and well-thought-out little nuances, translate the models’ styling and design language effectively.
Performance and Engine Options
Shifting the focus to what’s beneath the hood, both Atlas models share similar engine options. Offering a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine generating 235 horsepower, it’s a standard powertrain in both models. A V6 engine, pumping out 276 horsepower, exists as an optional upgrade for those wanting additional power.
Additionally, Volkswagen introduced an eight-speed automatic transmission for a seamless driving experience on both vehicles, prioritizing driving comfort over raw performance. While outright acceleration isn’t the main concern in these SUVs, both the Atlas and the Atlas Cross Sport assure competent performance for city cruising and highway drives.
For driving dynamics, the Atlas leans towards family-oriented practicality, while the Atlas Cross Sport leans towards a sportier drive, thanks to its sport mode and tweaked suspension setup. This means the latter offers a tighter turn and responsive cornering, making it appealing to driving enthusiasts considering the Cross Sport.
In fuel efficiency, both engines offer near-identical fuel economy figures, ensuring economical running costs on the daily commute.
Both Volkswagen SUVs demonstrate potency in their respective segments, underlining their power and performance capabilities while not compromising on their signature driving comfort.
Warranty and Maintenance Offers
Volkswagen’s Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport both stand out in the crowded SUV market with their unique selling points. While the Atlas is designed for families needing extra space, the Atlas Cross Sport leans toward those seeking a sportier ride. They’re both equipped with top-notch safety features and tech enhancements, backed by powerful engines. The Atlas starts at an affordable base price around $31,000, while the Atlas Cross Sport offers a range of pricing options up to $50,000. Ultimately, the choice between these two models comes down to a buyer’s preference for space, style, and driving experience. Volkswagen’s competitive pricing strategy assures value for money, making both the Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport compelling options in their respective segments.