The 2024 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport is basically a regular Atlas with the third-row seat yanked out and a sloped roofline. If you can look past poorly executed tech and a finicky touch-sensitive steering wheel, take a closer look at the Cross Sport. If not, you might want to look elsewhere.Read full review
Roomy interior with streamlined, tech-centric design
Appealing combination of athletic handling and everyday comfort
All-wheel drive available for all trims
Cons
Distracting infotainment interface and controls
Sporty look but not really that sporty
Interior materials don't keep up with the competition's offerings
What's new
More powerful four-cylinder replaces former V6
Revised front and rear styling
Comprehensive driver assist tech comes standard
Part of the first Atlas Cross Sport generation introduced for 2020
Overview
by the Edmunds Experts
8/12/2024
With shorter proportions than its larger Atlas counterpart, the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport distills the winning traits of its namesake — stylish, Audi-esque looks, ample cabin space, generous bundle of standard features — into a tidy footprint for buyers who don't need three rows or massive cargo space. The Cross Sport measures 5.2 inches shorter in length and more than 2 inches shorter in height and genuinely looks like a smaller SUV thanks to its sporty tapering roofline. This year brings significant updates inside the cabin, under the hood, and within its tech bundle, making the Cross Sport an even more compelling pick among its midsize rivals.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport SE 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $2.71 per gallon for regular unleaded in Texas.
The outgoing two-row Atlas Cross Sport was already one of our favorite midsize SUVs (we ranked it third in the class), but we found room for improvement. This year's refreshed Cross Sport addresses some of those concerns, especially under the hood where a new turbocharged four-cylinder replaces the earlier four- and six-cylinder options. The new engine makes similar power to the outgoing V6 and Volkswagen says it's about half a second quicker from 0 to 60 mph — good news, considering the last Cross Sport's lackluster acceleration. There are more than a dozen new standard features, from a synthetic leather-wrapped dash top to ventilated front seats, but the highlight might be the 12-inch touchscreen, double the size of the previous display. What it gains in size, though, it also gains in complexity. We're not overly fond of the same distracting touch-sensitive controls we've seen in newer VWs, or the menu-diving required for basic functions.
Competitors to consider
We haven't rated a new Atlas Cross Sport yet, though we don't see it dropping in our midsize SUV rankings. But if you're shopping in this segment, the class-leading Honda Passport merits a close look, for its similar power and features but also for its off-road-oriented TrailSport trim. Of course, if trail capability is a priority, the Subaru Outback and Jeep Grand Cherokee are better choices with taller ground clearance and more robust all-wheel-drive systems. The Chevrolet Blazer is better suited to pavement and receives praise for its potent V6 engine and agile handling, but cargo capacity and rear passenger headroom are limited.
Edmunds Expert Rating
edmunds TESTED
by the Edmunds Experts
Good
7.7
out of 10
We drove the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport on our test track and on real roads. Our Edmunds team conducts rigorous independent vehicle testing, driving 500,000 miles a year.The Edmunds Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.
Performance
8/10
How does the Atlas Cross Sport drive? The Cross Sport is a pleasant-driving midsize SUV. Its surprisingly agile handling and accurate steering belie the size of this large people-mover. At our test track, it accelerated from zero to 60 mph in 7.5 seconds. It's not going to blow anyone's doors off, but it finally feels like it has the right amount of power given its considerable mass.
The rest of the Cross Sport's driving experience is agreeable. The steering is light and easy to manage, and combined with the car's spritely engine it makes this SUV feel smaller than it is. We do think the transmission's shifting isn't as smooth as we'd like for daily driving, especially when moving off the line, but beyond that the Atlas Cross Sport is quite pleasant to drive thanks to the engine's power and its composed handling.
Comfort
7.5/10
How comfortable is the Atlas Cross Sport? The Atlas Cross Sport trades a bit of comfort for its agility. It isn't rough-riding, but there are cushier SUVs in this class. On the other hand, it does feel more buttoned-down at higher cruising speeds. The front seats are decently comfortable but don't have a whole lot of extra adjustability or bolstering. The rear seatbacks recline a generous amount, which can help your rear passengers get comfortable on long trips.
The climate control system works effectively but is dual-zone only, so the rear passengers can't control what comes out of their vents. Wind and road noise on the highway is minimal, so you and your passengers can hold a conversation without much trouble.
Interior
7.5/10
How’s the interior? The Cross Sport features an excellent step-in height with wide squared-off doors that make climbing in and out effortless. Once inside, you'll be impressed by the roomy interior. Dimensionally, the Honda Passport and Cross Sport are pretty comparable, but the VW feels roomier despite its slightly coupe-like rear roofline.
There's plenty of seat and steering-wheel adjustment range to suit a wide variety of drivers. The view outward is pretty expansive all around. The big side mirrors are good for giving you a clear view back, but their bulky housings can obstruct your vision a little when you need to make a turn. The rear window is a bit smaller than the one in the regular Atlas.
And while we love those aspects of the interior, the rest of it falls flat. The tech user interface may look sophisticated but it is a pain to use. The touch-sensitive controls on the steering wheel are distracting to use while driving. Additionally, there is an abuse of cheap-feeling piano black plastic everywhere, and the physical climate controls are touch-sensitive pads and sliders that are annoying at best and impossible to use accurately at their worst.
Continue reading Edmunds Expert Rating below
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2024 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport pricing in Houston, TX
How’s the tech? The Atlas Cross Sport shares its entire interior layout and tech stack with the more conventionally shaped Atlas. There are plenty of USB-C ports so you can charge a litany of devices, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and a standard wireless charging pad. The 12-inch center touchscreen is big and has easy-to-find menus, though the graphics look a little dated and the onboard navigation system doesn't work as well as smartphone-based nav apps. We also think it takes too many taps to get to exactly where you want to go inside the user interface.
The Atlas' advanced driver aids work well overall and are easy to switch on and off. Adaptive cruise control maintains tight gaps and doesn't overreact to changing traffic conditions, for instance. And the lane keeping system keeps the Atlas in the middle of your lane without bouncing between the lane markers.
Storage
8/10
How’s the storage? Cargo space behind the rear seats is a big 40.3 cubic feet, which is just shy of the Honda Passport's 41.2 cubic feet. We love all the space. But it lacks any helpful means for securing bags or cargo, and consequently this wide and flat area can end up being a roller derby for your groceries. Cargo liftover height is also a bit high. The 60/40-split folding seats lie mostly flat. The seatback releases are only accessible from the rear seating area and not from the cargo area.
The cupholders up front can accommodate 32-ounce bottles, and they have a good anti-tip design so smaller drinks won't go flopping around. The overall storage isn't quite as clever as Honda's, but it's better than most others. Got small kids? There's plenty of space for any child safety seat, though the anchors are surprisingly difficult to access behind the slits in the seatback. Unlike the Passport, there are only two sets of anchors.
Continue reading Edmunds Expert Rating below
Fuel Economy
7/10
How’s the fuel economy? The EPA estimates that the Atlas Cross Sport should get 22 mpg in combined city/highway driving on models with all-wheel drive like our test car had. (That figure goes up to 23 mpg on front-wheel-drive models.) In our real-world testing, the Cross Sport managed 21.7 mpg combined, right on par with the EPA's estimates.
Value
7/10
Is the Atlas Cross Sport a good value? The front of the cabin looks upscale in certain areas thanks to trim such as faux wood trim and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and gearshift. But other areas have really cheap-looking textured black plastic. It's not nearly as luxury-looking inside as the Honda Passport. The Atlas Cross Sport is also a bit more expensive than many of its rivals. But VW does provide two years/20,000 miles of free scheduled maintenance, something most manufacturers in this class don't offer. The warranty is four years/50,000 miles for both basic and powertrain coverage.
Wildcard
8.5/10
Volkswagen set out to make a slightly sleeker but still chiseled mass of an SUV, and it achieved that with the Atlas Cross Sport. It makes the Honda Passport look a bit doofy and the Chevrolet Blazer overstyled. It's a happy balance between the two, and its recent face-lift only made it more handsome and easier to recommend from a style point of view. Plus, in a class of SUVs that are all relatively lackluster to pilot, the Cross Sport stands out as the one that's actually nice to drive.
Which Atlas Cross Sport does Edmunds recommend?
With the wealth of new standard features and singular engine choice, the base SE is a compelling choice. But we still think it's worth upgrading to the SE with Technology. Some of its upgrades are more style than substance — larger wheels, front and rear light strips — but the power liftgate and parking sensors are mighty handy. Plus it can also be equipped with a towing package rated up to 5,000 pounds and a sunroof.
2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport SE w/Technology 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 8A)
I traded in my 2020 Silverado for the Cross Sport because it seemed like a nice vehicle and 5K lb towing capacity is standard (no extra package needed). The car drives will and has some nice features like digital cockpit, infotainment, wireless charging etc; and it does tow my 3,500 lb boat nicely. But, its a very frustrating vehicle....
three days after I picked it up the … infotainment system went dark. So many things are operated through that system, its a big deal. The dealer service team was no help (they are really bad) but I did my own research and found out how to do a soft reset; that worked.
Then, a week later (that car is now two weeks old) as I am pulling out of my driveway memorial day weekend, 5:30 am for a 350 mile holiday weekend, the engine lite comes on. the Manual says not to drive it but I am not canceling my vacation because of this brand new car so I departed. three days later the light went out on its own and has not come back on. Again the dealer is no help. they want to keep the car for a week, with no courtesy vehicle, just to see if there is an error code; unbelievable. I contacted VW, they are less help than the dealer.
some of the safety features dont work at they should, again, very frustrating...
So, its a nice car but I have zero confidence in it.
When its working, its a nice car. Proceed with caution if you are thinking of buying one. Or Buy two if you need reliable transportation.
Update: it’s still not a Sports Car!
5 out of 5 stars
Ru2bsi, 12/05/2021
2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport SE w/Technology 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A)
UPDATE: it’s been a year and I still love this car for its roominess and spunky attitude.
Now the dirty: it was annoying to learn of the wire harness recall of which my vehicle did not appear to have those issues after inspection and dealer fix (primarily due to the climate we live in). And another recall for yet another issue, that didn’t seem as urgent as the first. So, I’m … waiting for a push or my next service appointment.
2nd the only thing that is really annoying is the infotainment system. The User Interface is not as mature as one would expect. In fact, there are far more intelligent systems out there.
After 10 mos of ownership, the apple play bt would get confused and bounce pack and forth from the car to my AirPods (if they were not in the case). Or general radio/media controls would simply freeze up and I’d need to restart the entire vehicle. Strange little things. Or the BT would play in stereo one moment and simply switch to mono a few yards later and switch back. These are small annoying instances experienced in the last two months - simply annoying things that happen from time to time.
But overall not a deal breaker.
First, knowing this is NOT a Sports Car, it never claimed it was. I had no expectations for quick pick-up. But it does respond when it counts!! It drives as it should, a utility vehicle with sporty/stylish lines. I've read all many reviews claiming the disappointment in acceleration. And honestly, most suv's I've driven NEVER drove like sports cars. They are far too heavy and cumbersome to do so. It does have enough pick up where it matters.
Now, to the part I love - its roomy!! There is space for everything!! Carseats, strollers, and trips to Costco. AND ALL WHEEL DRIVE!!
We didn't go with the special badging option, that was to frivolous.
We could see where folks might have issues with the technology - frankly we figured it out quickly and it's actually very advanced for normal consumers.
We're impressed - So far, so good, we're grandparents who refuse to drive a minivan!
UPDATE: from my first review - we still love the car!! Despite the recall for the door harness that seems to effect those in “wetter” climates. We live in a dryer climate, and are less likely to have the issues in the recall, so we wait for a fix. Despite all of that - the car still is a favorite of ours. Spacious and Stylish, it can and does turn heads of the Audi Q8 owners. It reminds us of the less techie version without the high end finishes. And we’re actually ok with that.
Why did I get rid of my Outback Wilderness???
1 out of 5 stars
flukezilla, 02/05/2024
2024 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport SE w/Technology 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A)
My wife and I made the decision to pair down to 1 vehicle to save money and be more aware of how much needless driving we do. We looked at a number of SUV's that would align to our lifestyle. We landed on the VW Atlas Cross Sport. I will start with it is a beautiful and very solid vehicle. Infotainment is no more confusing than anyone else's and it takes time to learn but not too bad. … Interior is lovely and not leather which I love. I don't need or want leather so the V-Tex is awesome. That's about where it stops. we have just about 400 miles on it and the following things have gone south. Passenger side rear window refuses to close. Takes several tries to get it up and stay up. there was an exhaust shield rattle that was found to be incorrectly installed and was loose. Car would not start. Pressed the start button 15 or so times before it started. Car would not restart after I stopped at a light and the auto shut off engaged. There is now a rattle in the passenger's rear door. All of this in 400 miles. I have owned literally 25 cars in my 33 years of driving and the only other one to give me trouble like this was my 1997 VW Golf. I have owned 7 Subaru's since 2012 and every one of them was well built, reliable and never gave me an ounce of trouble. To think I gave that up for this. I would say it's safe to assume that the VW will be leaving my life before it see's 1000 miles and I am confident it will be the last time I buy this brand. Such a shame.
This vehicle has it where it counts
5 out of 5 stars
Robert, 02/19/2022
2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport SE w/Technology 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 8A)
First this is the Off Road mode is great and augments the other adjustable AWD drive modes. The acceleration is just as good as most of its competitor's with one exception...It uses REGULARE GAS to achieve Real world MPG ! The exterior is very sporty even though the VW group has 3 other versions like the Q8, the Porsche and the Uris Lamborghini. Same shape but less luxurious and a lot … less money. I have the SE Tec with the 6 cylinder and 4 motion. This is not a small vehicle, it's the same size as 2021 MDX and just about a second slower with 5000lbs towing capacity. Pretty good for a vehicle that runs on REGULAR GAS!
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport, so we've included reviews for other years of the Atlas Cross Sport since its last redesign.
Volkswagen launched its Atlas Cross Sport back for the 2020 model year as the stylish sidekick to the seven-passenger Atlas. Now it's back for 2024 with an updated Cross Sport that changes up pretty much everything on the SUV from the styling to the interior, and even under the hood.
VW will also be adding a bunch of standard features to its five-passenger 2024 Cross Sport. Traditionally premium features like ventilated front seats and tri-zone climate control can now be found on every Cross Sport, from the base SE to the line-topping SEL Premium R-Line. (Volkswagen says the trim levels are unchanged.) All trims also come with a 12-inch touchscreen and 10.3-inch instrument cluster display. Safety features have been enhanced, with rear seat-belt detection and a vehicle exit warning system now added.
On the outside, the 2024 Cross Sport has an updated look for its headlights, grille and bumper. An illuminated VW logo and a LED light bar that lights up across the grille are standard on all but the base trim. In back, there's a similar styling refresh that also includes an illuminated bar/logo across the tailgate.
What's under the Atlas Cross Sport's hood?
Last year's turbocharged four-cylinder and V6 engine options bite the dust. In their place is a new turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder that's standard on every Cross Sport trim. It's way up on power: 269 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque, versus 235 hp and 258 lb-ft from the prior version of this engine. The new output is similar to what the V6 made (276 hp, 266 lb-ft).
Volkswagen says the Cross Sport is now about half a second quicker from 0 to 60 mph with the new engine than it was with the old V6. This is a welcome update as we've previously critiqued the Cross Sport for its lackluster acceleration. An eight-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters is standard, as is front-wheel drive. All-wheel drive is an option.
How's the Atlas Cross Sport's interior?
Volkswagen's minimalist motif that it's been applying throughout much of its lineup arrives for the 2024 Cross Sport. The look is undeniably sleek but we're not fond of the touch-sensitive controls. As we've learned from the ID.4 and Golf GTI, these touch-sensitive controls are distracting to use while driving. Some features are buried deep in menus that we'd like to have easier access to. Underneath the touchscreen are sliders for the climate control temperature and volume, but like in our long-term ID.4 they are not illuminated at night, making them difficult to use.
The dashboard is now covered in synthetic leather and there's a cool illuminated Cross Sport graphic over in front of the passenger. In the center console, the shifter has been redesigned to allow space for a new storage cubby underneath that's an ideal place to stash a small purse or bag. Adjustable 30-color ambient lighting is optional, as is leather upholstery with a diamond-quilted pattern on the seats.
Edmunds says
The 2024 Volkswagen Atlas Sport has taken a big step forward in standard equipment, adding ventilated front seats and a new digital display. We still have issues with Volkswagen's infotainment system, but the new powertrain is plenty powerful for most shoppers. It's worth considering alongside the Honda Passport, Hyundai Santa Fe and Toyota Venza.
FAQ
Is the Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport a good car?
The Edmunds experts tested the 2024 Atlas Cross Sport both on the road and at the track, giving it a 7.7 out of 10. Edmunds’ consumer reviews show that the 2024 Atlas Cross Sport gets an average rating of 4 stars out of 5 (based on 36 reviews) What about cargo capacity? When you're thinking about carrying stuff in your new car, keep in mind that the Atlas Cross Sport has 40.3 cubic feet of trunk space. And then there's safety and reliability. Edmunds has all the latest NHTSA and IIHS crash-test scores, plus industry-leading expert and consumer reviews to help you understand what it's like to own and maintain a Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport. Learn more
What's new in the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport:
More powerful four-cylinder replaces former V6
Revised front and rear styling
Comprehensive driver assist tech comes standard
Part of the first Atlas Cross Sport generation introduced for 2020
To determine whether the Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport is reliable, read Edmunds' authentic consumer reviews, which come from real owners and reveal what it's like to live with the Atlas Cross Sport. Look for specific complaints that keep popping up in the reviews, and be sure to compare the Atlas Cross Sport's 4-star average consumer rating to that of competing vehicles. Learn more
Is the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport a good car?
There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport is a good car. Edmunds' expert testing team reviewed the 2024 Atlas Cross Sport and gave it a 7.7 out of 10. Our consumer reviews show that the 2024 Atlas Cross Sport gets an average rating of 4 stars out of 5 (based on 36 reviews). Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2024 Atlas Cross Sport is a good car for you. Learn more
How much should I pay for a 2024 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport?
The least-expensive 2024 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport is the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport SE 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $36,985.
Other versions include:
SE 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A) which starts at $36,985
SE 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A) which starts at $38,885
SE w/Technology 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A) which starts at $41,090
SE w/Technology 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A) which starts at $42,990
SEL 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A) which starts at $47,870
SEL R-Line 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A) which starts at $49,320
SEL Premium R-Line 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A) which starts at $51,880
What are the different models of Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport?
If you're interested in the Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport, the next question is, which Atlas Cross Sport model is right for you? Atlas Cross Sport variants include SE 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A), SE 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A), SE w/Technology 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A), and SE w/Technology 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A). For a full list of Atlas Cross Sport models, check out Edmunds’ Features & Specs page. Learn more