Two Exceptional Volkswagen SUVs: The Atlas & Atlas Cross Sport

If you’re in the market for an attractive, peppy, and well-equipped SUV, the Volkswagen Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport fit the bill. These two models have several similarities in size, power, and equipment, but they satisfy different passenger and cargo needs. Understanding the differences can help you make the best choice for your driving needs, and the team at Bob Boast Volkswagen near Sarasota and Palmetto is here to help.

Get to Know the Volkswagen Atlas

The Volkswagen Atlas is a roomy midsize SUV with three rows of seating and a versatile cargo area, especially with the back rows folded. Its practicality doesn’t end there, as the midsize SUV can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.

When it’s time to use the Atlas for hauling cargo, the flexible space starts with 20.6 cubic feet behind the third row. Lowering the third-row seats increases the space to 55.5 cubic feet. Folding the second- and third-row seats creates 96.8 cubic feet of cargo space. The entry-level Atlas SE comes with a manual liftgate, while all others have a hands-free power liftgate.

How the Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport Differs

From the front, the Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport look the same, but the sides and back look significantly different. The Atlas Cross Sport has two rows, seating for five, and a sloped rear. Like the Atlas, the Atlas Cross Sport can also tow 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.

The sloped rear and lack of a third row alter the cargo capacity. With the second row upright, the Atlas Cross Sport has 40.3 cubic feet of space. With the rear seat lowered, the cargo space increases to 77.6 cubic feet. Like the Atlas, the Atlas Cross Sport SE is the only trim with a manual liftgate, while the other trims have a hands-free power liftgate.

Trim Differences & Powertrain Similarities

For 2025, the Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport have four similar trims: SE, SE with Technology, SEL, and Premium R-Line. The Atlas has the Peak Edition, while the Atlas Cross Sport has the SEL R-Line Black. The Premium R-Line is the top trim in both models.

The Atlas Peak Edition is an off-road-ready model equipped with all-terrain tires on 18-inch wheels, standard all-wheel drive, black exterior trim, rugged bumpers, a panoramic sunroof, and LED ambient interior lighting. The Atlas Cross Sport does not have an off-road equipped model.

Regardless of the trim, all Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport models have the same powertrain featuring a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The engine delivers 269 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. Most trims come with standard front-wheel drive and available all-wheel drive.

Explore the VW Atlas & Atlas Cross Sport at Bob Boast Volkswagen in Bradenton, FL

At Bob Boast Volkswagen in Bradenton, FL, our friendly sales team is here to show you the differences between the roomy Volkswagen Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport. We can help you arrange a test drive, show you the latest specials and incentives, and arrange financing so you can enjoy the innovative tech, roomy interior, and comfortable ride in your favorite VW midsize SUV.