VW Atlas vs VW Atlas Cross Sport

VW Atlas vs VW Atlas Cross Sport
friendly match-up between the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas (left) and the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport (right)

While both of these SUVs share a German heritage, the Atlas and the Atlas Cross Sport midsize SUVs are actually manufactured in North America. Their style and design reflect the expectations and demands of Canadian consumers and they include many of the features Canadians love. They offer plenty of space and numerous safety technologies and they are packed with equipment, not to mention their decadent comfort and exciting performance on the road. It is available in numerous versions designed to meet the needs of different drivers, so let’s take a closer look and see what’s best for you.

Design of the Atlas Cross Sport vs the Atlas’

The VW Atlas with its three rows of seats can accommodate up to seven people, while the VW Atlas Cross Sport has only two rows, limiting the number of passengers to five. As its name suggests, the Atlas Cross Sport has a decidedly sportier look compared to its Atlas sibling, including its steeply curved rear window and shorter rear end.

Taller and longer, the Atlas delivers more of a “family-vehicle” look vs. the Atlas Cross Sport, but both are equipped the same grille, black wheel arches, black rocker panels, and LED headlights. Depending on the model you choose, you could also get the panoramic sunroof that spans almost the entire roof, making for a very bright interior.

lateral view of the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas

2022 VW Atlas

lateral view of the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport

2022 VW Atlas Cross Sport

Atlas vs Atlas Cross Sport - Engines and Performance

In addition to the undeniable family resemblance, both Volkswagen SUVs offer the same versions and are equipped with the same standard engines. Take a look at them here:

Model Engine Power Torque
Trendline 2.0 L turbocharged 4-cylinder 235 HP 258 lb-ft
Comfortline 2.0 L turbocharged 4-cylinder 235 HP 258 lb-ft
Highline 3.6 L V6 276 HP 266 lb-ft
Execline 3.6 L V6 276 HP 266 lb-ft

Both engines are paired with an 8-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission and 4MOTION all-wheel drive. There’s simply no better way to get through the tough winter conditions in Quebec.

three quarter front view of the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas

2022 VW Atlas

When equipped with the 4-cylinder engine, the 2023 Volkswagen Cross Sport can tow up to 907 kg or 2,000 pounds. The V6 engine boosts those numbers to 2,268 kg or 5,000 pounds. The WV Atlas offers identical capabilities in this category. However, their fuel consumption ratings are slightly different, take a look at them here:

VW Atlas VW Atlas Cross Sport
4 cylinder 2.0 L = 11 (city) 9.3 (highway) L / 100 km 4 cylinder 2.0 L = 11 (city) 9.6 (highway) L / 100 km
V6 = 13.4 (city) 10.4 (highway) L / 100 km V6 = 13.1 (city) 10 (highway) L / 100 km
lateral front view of the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport

2022 VW Atlas Cross Sport

Comparing their Price - 2023 models

How do the 2023 VW Atlas and the 2023 Atlas Cross Sport compare when it comes to their price in Canada? At your Volkswagen Lauzon Boisbriand dealer, located near Laval, we offer you flexible Volkswagen financing plans at very competitive rates, and we also offer both midsize SUVs at the following prices:

Atlas Models Price Atlas Cross Sport Models Price
Trendline $45 439 Trendline $44 339
Comfortline $50 939 Comfortline $49 839
Highline $57 939 Highline $56 839
Execline $61 939 Execline $60 839

Atlas vs Atlas Cross Sport - SUV Interior

With its two rows of seats, it is easy to see that the Cross Sport model is smaller than the Atlas. That being said, you will be surprised just how spacious the Cross Sport is when the rear seats are folded. Take a look at the cargo capacity of both models here:

VW Atlas VW Atlas Cross Sport
Cabin volume = 4,360 L Cabin volume = 3,171 L
Cargo volume = 583 L Cargo volume = 1,141 L
Maximum cargo capacity = 2,741 L Maximum cargo capacity = 2,203 L
view of the steering wheel and dashboard inside of the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas

2022 VW Atlas

These two SUVs are also quite similar when it comes to their onboard equipment and features. To help you make an informed decision, here is a brief overview of what their entry-level versions offer:

  • Heated front seats;
  • Air conditioning;
  • Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration;
  • A 6.5 inch touchscreen;
  • Six speakers;
  • Pedestrian detection system;
  • Rear view camera;
  • Brake assist;
  • Blind spot monitoring;
  • Intelligent brake assist system.
view of the touchscreen and of the blind spot monitoring systeme inside of the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport

2022 VW Atlas Cross Sport

Atlas vs Atlas Cross Sport: Which one is best?

rear view of the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas

2022 VW Atlas

Sleek, sporty, comfortable and safe, both the Atlas and the Atlas Cross Sport deliver an exciting performance and look great doing it. If you are more of the adventurous type who enjoys weekend getaways in the wilderness and doesn't need room for more than four people, the Cross Sport model is definitely for you.

If instead you are looking for a spacious model for you and your family, whether it's for greater passenger comfort, or to carry more luggage and equipment, then the classic Atlas model is better suited for you.

Interested in the Atlas? Learn all about its previous edition here: 2022 Atlas Price & Specs. With 3 rows of seats, it's easy to see why big families love it, especially with its generous cargo capacity. All that's left is for you to stop by and take it out for a test drive!

rear view of the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport

2022 VW Atlas Cross Sport