Dan spent many years covering the go-fast, look-good, get-loud corners of the automotive universe. First, he served as editor of enthusiast magazines AutoSound and Honda Tuning, then as executive editor at SEMA News, the publishing arm of the trade group that produces the annual SEMA Show (yes, that show). As a contributor to Edmunds, he now likes to keep the volume low and the speed limit legal, providing expert car-shopping advice to drivers looking for the perfect match.
Pros
Robust power from new turbo four-cylinder engine
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
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
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 $3.50 per gallon for regular unleaded in Ohio.
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.
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.
Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport models
The 2024 Atlas Cross Sport is a midsize crossover SUV that seats five. It's available in five trim levels: SE, SE with Technology, SEL, SEL R-Line and SEL Premium R-Line. All are powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine (269 horsepower, 273 lb-ft of torque) joined to an eight-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard on the first two trim levels, but all-wheel drive is optional. All-wheel drive is standard on SEL and above trims.
SE
The base model SE starts off with:
18-inch alloy wheels
Adaptive LED headlights (swivel as you turn the steering wheel for better illumination in curves)
Proximity keyless entry and push-button start
Synthetic leather upholstery
Heated and ventilated front seats
Power-adjustable driver's seat
Heated steering wheel with paddle shifters
Dual-zone automatic climate control
10.25-inch digital instrument display
12-inch touchscreen
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration
2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport SE w/Technology 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 8A)
I had my 2021 Cross Sport SE Premium 14 months before I traded it in.
I love the Cross Sport, I miss it, but I think my particular vehicle was a lemon not necessarily all Cross Sports.
I love driving it. It was comfortable, and I personally think it is the most gorgeous car on the road, but the issues...
The first issue I had was the strut rattle. When I took it to the dealership, … they said they couldn't find anything wrong. I persisted with another visit and they had to replace a part of the strut, which fixed the rattle.
The second issue I had was with the crash avoidance system. The first time it engaged was not a situation as I was far enough back that I could have avoided the collision, but it engaged and almost killed the motorcycle cop behind me. One thing is for sure, this system defies the laws of physics! I turned the collision avoidance system off so it would not do that again. With the system off. It engaged twice in a 1 week period and immediately after the 2nd incidence the brakes were making a grinding noise. Before I could get it to the shop, the car turned itself completely off at a red light with the error that the door was open. It took opening and shutting the doors several times to get to where I could get the car in park to get it started again. Fortunately I had the oil changed with full point inspection to prove that I had not been riding the brakes. The service department refused to believe the anti collision system could cause the damage to the rotors and I had to fight to get VW to pay for replacing them. The only thing that saved me from having to pay for the replacement is that inspection 2 weeks prior. The electrical issue was a sensor.
I had to take it back to the shop a few months later because I was still having issues with the door sensor.
This last time, time number 4, was the same door sensor issue. Along with the door sensor replacement, the wiring harness in the door had to be replaces, which they now think was the issue causing the sensor to continue to fail.
4 times was enough for me to get out while the getting was good.
I do think the issues I was having was that particular car and I would have gotten another Cross Sport had they had the same or step up from mine but they didn't.
Oh, there is also the horrible gas mileage, but it's a V6 so I expected that.
Mixed feelings
3 out of 5 stars
Tray, 09/18/2021
2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport SEL R-Line 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 8A)
I just bout an r-line Volkswagen cross sport atlas v6 with front wheel drive. I test drove both the 4 motion and front wheel drive but honestly for the large price increase I couldn’t justify the large price increase especially with the extra mark ups Volkswagen has added on top of the window sticker price tag due to the chip shortage. I ended up paying an extra 2400.00 on top of the … 43,000 window sticker tag price which I think is ludicrous. The color combination and looks of the interior of my vehicle are very unique and beautiful. The exterior is very Audi inspired. The cabin is the largest suv that I’ve ever sat foot into including the front seats , rear seats and especially the large trunk. People who are 6’5 and taller will have no problems at all with leg room when compared to any other suv on the market. If you need a large trunk for luggage the cross sport is very large in fact I cannot fully reach all of the trunk even at 6 feet tall. Some negatives are why make such a sporty vehicle design with such a horrible sluggish v6 engine. I test drove the v6 with 4 motion and the acceleration was even worse from a dead stop. My prior vehicle was a grand Cherokee v8 and a 2016 Kia cardenza v6 both which much stronger acceleration. The acceleration does greatly improve in sport mode at least which is the only way I drive this vehicle daily. The other biggest negative that I have is the horrible sound system for a 43,000 suv. It has no bass and the volume even at the max setting doesn’t compare at all to the Kia product or jeep products. The sound even on my r-line upgraded model was so bad that I literally just added an after market subwoofer with all new door speakers and amplifier. So for me to spend an additional $1,000.00 should help you to understand just how horrible the system is especially if you listen to rap music or heavy metal music or r&b. The ride in the vehicle is great especially considering that the vehicle doesn’t come with air suspension. The seats are very large and provide great comfort for all sizes including larger frame occupants. The entertainment console particular the wireless apple car play and wireless phone charging is a positive game changer. It’s so nice to have all the features mirroring from your phone to the vehicle without the clutter of phone cords. Believe me once you experience the wireless apple CarPlay you will never ever go back to the old cord method. The panoramic large sunroof is large and to my surprise is tinted to provide the right mix of sunlight into the cabin. One thing you will notice immediately is just how quiet this vehicle is. I have gotten out of the vehicle a few times and forgot that the vehicle was still running , thankfully the dashboard alerted me to turn off the ignition. Overall this is a lot that you get for the money regardless of whether you get the 7 seater atlas or the 5 seater cross sport atlas. I reviewed several vehicles from the Jeep Grand Cherokee, Mazda CX-9, Toyota Highlander , Toyota 4 runner , Kia telluride and non had the upscale looks and fee as the vw cross sport. I added the 5 year 150,000 bumper to bumper extended warranty since I drive around 30,000 miles a year just in case I run into any mechanical issues down the road. My prior vehicle was a 2018 jeep v8 grand Cherokee summit which was a wonderful vehicle even at 70,000 miles. So just to recap the highlights are great Audi inspired exterior views, great ride, largest in my opinion deep trunk space, most leg room in all rows vs anything priced under $60,000.00, great technology and safety features. The negatives are very sluggish v6 engine, and the worse sound system I’ve ever heard in my 23 years of driving. Even my old Buick’s from the 90s Honestly sounded better this.
Dont expect everything to work
3 out of 5 stars
Frustrated owner, 06/13/2022
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.
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. Edmunds’ consumer reviews show that the 2024 Atlas Cross Sport gets an average rating of 4 stars out of 5 (based on 59 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. Our consumer reviews show that the 2024 Atlas Cross Sport gets an average rating of 4 stars out of 5 (based on 59 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