The smaller Atlas Cross Sport is VW’s edgier take on the Atlas three-row SUV. This five-passenger version shares mechanical underpinnings with the regular Atlas but loses some cargo volume in favor of a more angular design and look. We found it a pleasant-driving SUV that doesn’t sacrifice too much functionality for its new style.
The base 235-horsepower, turbocharged four-cylinder engine is responsive and felt reasonably strong, especially considering the size and weight of the Cross Sport. The turbo gives the engine healthy power at low-to-mid rpms, helpful for those occasions when you need a quick burst of acceleration. We did find that the engine gets a bit loud when pushed. The uplevel 276-horsepower, 3.6-liter V6 feels meatier at times and sounds more robust, but ultimately doesn’t provide much stronger performance. We got 21 mpg overall with the turbo-four in the Cross Sport, and 20 mpg overall with the V6 we tested in the three-row Atlas. The Cross Sport is available with front- or all-wheel drive.
The Cross Sport handles capably on winding roads, exhibiting a more nimble character than you’d expect from such a large vehicle. It was predictable and secure when pushed to its limits around our test track, making it easy for the driver to adjust the line mid-corner. The suspension absorbs larger bumps well, but overall the ride is on the firm side. The Cross Sport’s width and tall hood can make it feel cumbersome in crowded parking lots. Its sleek roofline, thick rear pillars, and wide but squat back window make for difficult rearward views.
There’s plenty of space inside the quiet cabin, with generous head- and elbow room up front. Seats are comfortable and supportive both front and rear, and the rear seat has considerably more legroom than the three-row Atlas. Although the Cross Sport loses some cargo room vs. the regular Atlas, the space back there is still ample.
The controls are a model of clarity, especially those for the touch-screen infotainment system. Our drivers appreciated the clear display, straightforward layout, and large buttons and on-screen text.
Standard advanced safety features include forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind spot warning, and rear cross traffic warning. Lane departure warning and lane keeping assistance are optional.