2025 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport
Our VerdictThe 2025 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport comes with bold styling, great space, and tech-rich value in a midsize SUV package. It's roomy and loaded with features, though the single powertrain and touch controls may not suit all. Ideal for stylish families; less so for those needing third-row seating or top-tier fuel economy.
Families, Those wanting stylish cars
Efficiency-focused, Large families
The Case For
- Bold coupe-style design
- Roomy interior & cargo
- High-tech cabin (standard 12" screen)
- Smooth turbocharged engine
Considerations
- No hybrid option
- Some distracting touch controls
- Less fuel-efficient than rivals
Who It's For
The Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport is a bold, two-row SUV with sleek styling, spacious seating, and over 40 cu ft of cargo room. Its 269-hp turbo engine delivers strong performance, while available AWD adds confidence. Inside, every trim gets a 12-inch infotainment screen and digital cockpit, making it a smart pick for style-conscious midsize SUV buyers.
Choose Your Specification
SE
$37,190Smart features, strong value
Offers strong value with a 12" touchscreen, digital cockpit, wireless CarPlay/Android Auto, heated/ventilated seats, synthetic leather, dual-zone climate, and VW’s IQ.Drive safety suite. AWD optional.
SE w/ Technology
$41,295More tech, more comfort
Adds remote start, hands-free liftgate, 20" wheels, parking sensors, sunshades, and a household outlet. AWD available; often includes towing hardware.
SEL
$47,190Luxury meets capability
Upgrades to leather seats, panoramic sunroof, navigation, head-up display, ambient lighting, and standard AWD. Heated rear seats included.
SEL R-Line Black
$49,140Style with a bold edge
Adds bold blacked-out styling with 20" wheels, R-Line bumpers, logos, and stainless pedals. Combines SEL features with sporty flair.
SEL Premium R-Line
$52,195All-out premium experience
Top trim with quilted leather, massaging seats, 12-speaker Harman Kardon audio, 360º camera, 21" two-tone wheels, and illuminated badging.
- Combines affordability with advanced tech & comfort
- Adds remote start, power liftgate, sunshades, and rear outlet
- Standard digital cockpit and wireless smartphone integration
- Optional AWD expands all-weather confidence
- Excellent value before premium pricing kicks in
- Great resale potential due to popular equipment
Trim by Trim
Select your car trims and compare them instantly
| Specification | SE (FWD/AWD) | SE w/ Technology (FWD/AWD) | SEL (AWD) | SEL R-Line Black (AWD) | SEL Premium R-Line (AWD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0L Turbo I4 | 2.0L Turbo I4 | 2.0L Turbo I4 | 2.0L Turbo I4 | 2.0L Turbo I4 |
| Horsepower | 269 hp | 269 hp | 269 hp | 269 hp | 269 hp |
| MPG (City/Hwy) | 20/27 | 20/27 | 19/26 | 19/26 | 19/26 |
| Seating | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Cargo (cu ft) | 40.3 | 40.3 | 40.3 | 40.3 | 40.3 |
| Transmission | 8-speed auto | 8-speed auto | 8-speed auto | 8-speed auto | 8-speed auto |
| MSRP | $37,190 | $41,295 | $47,190 | $49,140 | $52,195 |
| Car Type | Midsize SUV | Midsize SUV | Midsize SUV | Sport SUV | Luxury SUV |
The Cost of Ownership
The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport's annual ownership costs:
Assumptions: Based on average U.S. driver (12,000 miles/year, fuel price ~$3.75/gal, good driving record).
From Every Angle
Exterior
4Bold and modern from every angle
The coupe-like shape gives the Atlas Cross Sport a distinct profile among boxier midsize SUVs. LED lighting elements, available 21-inch wheels, and blacked-out R-Line styling add sophistication. The new Avocado Green and light bar across the grille are conversation starters.
Interior
4Spacious, upscale, and tech-forward
Room for five adults and 40.3 cu ft of cargo make it highly practical. The digital cockpit and ambient lighting are eye-catching. Touch sliders for volume/climate take getting used to.
Safety
5Top-tier safety comes standard
All trims get VW’s IQ.Drive suite: forward collision warning, blind-spot monitor, adaptive cruise, and lane-keeping. IIHS Top Safety Pick+ for 2024 likely carries over.
Fuel Economy
3.5Efficient enough, but not a leader
EPA rates FWD trims at 22 MPG combined; AWD drops to 21. Real-world mileage is close. Lacks hybrid option, trailing Kia and Toyota rivals.
Tech & Infotainment
4Modern and immersive experience inside
All models get a 12" touchscreen and wireless CarPlay/Android Auto. Touch-sensitive climate/audio controls are sleek but can be finicky.
Performance & Handling
4Smooth and capable, not sporty
The 269-hp turbo delivers satisfying punch. Ride is smooth and composed, especially on highways. Steering is light; cornering is secure but not agile.
New This Year
- New SEL R-Line Black trim adds blacked-out wheels, trim, and unique styling
- Still uses refreshed 2024 engine and interior (no mechanical changes)
- Slight price increases across all trims (up ~$400)
- New paint colors: Mountain Lake Blue and Avocado Green
- All trims get Light Assist (auto high beams) and a 15W wireless charger
Cars Similar to the Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport
Here’s how the Atlas Cross Sport, Chevrolet Blazer, and Kia Sorento stack up across performance, comfort, tech, and practicality.
Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport
Chevrolet Blazer
Kia Sorento| Aspect | Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport | Chevrolet Blazer | Kia Sorento |
|---|---|---|---|
| Performance | 269-hp turbo; 8-speed | 228-hp turbo or 308 V6 | 191–281 hp or hybrids |
| Tech & Interior | High-tech, minimalist | Simple UI, sporty feel | Near-luxury on top trims |
| Practicality | Huge 40.3 cu ft cargo | Less cargo, 2-row only | 3-row; flexible seating |
| Comfort & Space | Plush & roomy for five | Sporty, firm ride | Smooth, quiet ride |
| Who’s It For | Style & tech lovers | Drivers wanting edge | Budget-savvy families |
| Best Choice For | Comfort & bold design Spacious 2-row SUV with upscale tech Big cargo needs | Fun, urban drivers Sporty styling and responsive handling Simple, modern interface | Efficiency & space Budget 3-row buyers Hybrid with upscale options |
Asked & Answered
Does the Atlas Cross Sport have AWD?
Yes. AWD (4MOTION) is standard on SEL and up, optional on SE trims.
Is there a third row?
No. The Atlas Cross Sport only seats 5. For 3-row, choose the standard Atlas.
Does it have Apple CarPlay/Android Auto?
Yes. Wireless CarPlay/Android Auto is standard on all trims.
What is the towing capacity?
With the towing package, it can tow up to 5,000 pounds.