2025 Volkswagen Atlas vs. Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport | Merrillville, IN

If you’re interested in a sophisticated mid-sized SUV, you might find the 2025 Volkswagen Atlas or 2025 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport to be of interest. Both are spacious vehicles with cutting-edge technology systems, comfortable interiors, and elegant style. The key difference between the two is that the Atlas is a three-row SUV, while the Atlas Cross Sport offers two rows of seating. For more information, continue reading this 2025 VW Atlas vs. VW Atlas Cross Sport comparison crafted by the pros at Team Volkswagen.

If you’d like to explore the Atlas or Atlas Cross Sport in more detail, we also have an Atlas review and an Atlas Cross Sport review that you can peruse.

The new VW Atlas and VW Atlas Cross Sport are now available at our dealership. Find your favorite configuration in the inventory at our dealership in Merrillville, IN, then use our online form to schedule a test drive. Be sure to also consider our current finance and lease offers. If you have any questions for our team, you can give us a call at (219) 947-1581 or message us online.

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2025 VW Atlas vs. VW Atlas Cross Sport

2025 Volkswagen Atlas vs. Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport Size & Cargo Space

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas and Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport are both generously sized SUVs with roomy interiors. There is about a 5-inch difference in their exterior length, with the Atlas being the longer of the two. Inside the Atlas, you’ll find seating for up to seven passengers, up to 96.6 cubic feet of cargo space with both rear rows lowered, and 37.6 inches of second-row legroom. The Atlas Cross Sport, meanwhile, has seating for up to five passengers, 77.6 cubic feet of cargo space with the second row lowered, and up to 40.4 inches of legroom for second-row passengers to stretch out. For versatile cargo and passenger configurations, you can turn to the 60/40 split-folding second-row seat in both SUVs, as well as the 50/50 split-folding third-row seat in the Atlas.

Dimensions for both SUVs are shown in the accompanying table.

2025 VW ModelAtlasAtlas Cross Sport
Max. Passenger CapacitySevenFive
Max. Cargo Space96.6 cu.-ft.77.6 cu.-ft.
Cargo Space Behind Second/Third Row55.5 / 20.6 cu.-ft.40.3 / – cu.-ft.
Headroom (First/Second/Third Row)41.3 / 40.4 / 38.3 in.39.4 / 37.8 / – in.
Legroom (First/Second/Third Row)41.7 / 37.6 / 33.7 in.41.7 / 40.4 / – in.
Exterior Length/Width/Height200.7 / 78.3 / 70.4 in.195.6 / 78.3 / 68.1 in.
2025 VW Atlas Exterior On Country Road Turn

2025 VW Atlas

2025 VW Atlas Cross Sport Exterior On City Street

2025 VW Atlas Cross Sport

2025 Volkswagen Atlas vs. Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport Exterior Design

The 2025 VW Atlas and 2025 VW Atlas Cross Sport both boast broad stances and handsome style. No matter which SUV you opt for, you’ll find 18- to 21-inch wheels throughout the lineup, each distinctly designed. The LED exterior lighting on both SUVs keeps the roads lit no matter the time of day. Pulling into your garage or parking spot is made easier thanks to the available power-folding side mirrors offered on either SUV. When winter is in full swing, you’ll appreciate the heating functionality standard on the side mirrors.

Shared exterior features:

  • 18- to 21-in. wheels
  • Heated, power-folding side mirrors with position memory and passenger-side auto-tilt function
  • Heated washer nozzles
  • Power tilting and sliding panoramic sunroof
  • Front and rear exterior illuminated light bar and VW emblem
  • LED headlights with adaptive lighting system, dynamic cornering lights, and poor weather lights
  • LED daytime running lights and taillights
  • Rain-sensing windshield wipers
  • Roof rails
  • Hands-free, easy open/close, remote, power liftgate
2025 VW Atlas Interior Front Seats And Dash

2025 VW Atlas

2025 VW Atlas Cross Sport Interior Cargo Space Seats Down

2025 VW Atlas Cross Sport

2025 Volkswagen Atlas vs. Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport Interior Design & Technology

Within the 2025 VW Atlas and 2025 VW Atlas Cross Sport, you’ll discover interiors built for comfort and functionality. Both SUVs offer front-row seats with standard heating and ventilation, as well as available power adjustment, lumbar support, massage functionality, and driver’s side memory settings. Second-row passengers in select higher-level trims can also access heated seats, as well as second-row sunshades designed to block the sun. The Atlas offers a unique gesture-activated experience for the overhead lights to make turning them on and off quick and easy. You’ll also find that while both offer a Climatronic® automatic climate control system, the Atlas boasts three zones of climate control, while the Atlas Cross Sport offers two zones of climate control.

The intuitive tech options in either SUV are made to elevate your driving experience. Both come with a standard 12-inch infotainment display which you can easily use to view smartphone apps and information using wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™. You’ll also find a standard 10.25-inch fully configurable VW Digital Cockpit Pro system on either SUV. When you’re in the mood to rock out to your favorite driving playlists, turn to the available 12-speaker Harman Kardon® premium audio system available in either SUV. While both offer USB-C ports with 45-watt fast-charging, the Atlas does offer six ports to the Atlas Cross Sport model’s four.

Shared interior features:

  • Eight-way power-adjustable front seats with lumbar support, massage, and driver’s side memory
  • Heated front and second-row seats
  • Ventilated front seats
  • Heated, leather-wrapped steering wheel
  • Multi-color adjustable ambient lighting
  • Stainless steel pedals
  • Auto-dimming interior rearview mirror
  • Second-row window sunshades

Shared technology features:

  • Six-speaker sound system or 12-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio system
  • 12-in. center touchscreen display with navigation
  • Wireless App-Connect® (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto)
  • HD Radio™
  • SiriusXM® with 360L capability
  • 10.25-in. fully configurable VW Digital Cockpit Pro
  • Wireless charging

VW Atlas interior and technology features:

  • Climatronic three-zone automatic climate control
  • Gesture-activated overhead lights
  • 50/50 split-folding third row
  • Six USB-C ports (45W fast charging)

VW Atlas Cross Sport interior and technology features:

  • Climatronic dual-zone automatic climate control
  • Four USB-C ports (45W fast charging)

2025 Volkswagen Atlas vs. Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport Engine Specs & Fuel Economy

You’ll find that the energy output from the 2025 VW Atlas and 2025 VW Atlas Cross Sport is virtually indistinguishable. Both come equipped with the same standard 2.0L TSI® turbo four-cylinder engine, which produces 269 horsepower and 26 highway MPG. Plus, it’s standard with an eight-speed automatic transmission with Tiptronic®, and can be paired with either front-wheel drive (FWD) or 4MOTION® all-wheel drive (AWD). You’ll also be able to tow up to 5,000 pounds regardless of which SUV you select.

Engine specs are shown in the accompanying table.

2025 VW ModelAtlasAtlas Cross Sport
Engine2.0L TSI turbo four-cylinder2.0L TSI turbo four-cylinder
Horsepower269 HP269 HP
Torque273 lb.-ft.273 lb.-ft.
Max. MPG (City/Hwy)20 / 2620 / 26
Max. Towing Capacity5,000 lbs.5,000 lbs.
DrivetrainFWD / 4MOTION AWDFWD / 4MOTION AWD
TransmissionEight-speed automatic with TiptronicEight-speed automatic with Tiptronic
2025 VW Atlas Interior Safety Backup Camera

2025 VW Atlas

2025 VW Atlas Cross Sport Interior Rear Camera

2025 VW Atlas Cross Sport

2025 Volkswagen Atlas vs. Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport Safety Options & Features

Protect your crew with confidence thanks to the driver assistance and safety features available with the 2025 VW Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport. Both are standard with the IQ.DRIVE® suite of features, which includes tools like adaptive cruise control, a blind spot monitor, and rear traffic alert. Plus, you can experience semi-automated driving thanks to the travel assist system included with the IQ.DRIVE suite. To further enhance your awareness of your surroundings, consider the available area view camera, which provides overhead views of the vehicles around you.

Shared driver assistance and safety features:

  • Light assist (high beam control for headlights)
  • Rearview camera system
  • Exit warning system
  • Front and rear park distance control
  • Dynamic road sign display
  • Parking steering assistant (park assist)
  • Head-up display
  • Area view (overhead view camera)
  • IQ.DRIVE suite
    • Travel assist (semi-automated driving assistance)
    • Front assist (forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking with pedestrian monitoring)
    • Blind spot monitor
    • Rear traffic alert
    • Adaptive cruise control with stop and go
    • Lane assist (lane-keeping system)
    • Emergency assist (semi-automated vehicle assistance in a medical emergency)

2024 VW Atlas vs. Atlas Cross Sport Comparison | Highland, IN

Whether you’re seeking a new SUV with two rows of seating or three, the 2024 Volkswagen lineup has an option for you! Enter the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas and 2024 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport. Each includes spacious interior design, plenty of technology, and potent performance; so, which one is right for you? Learn more about the differences and similarities between the 2024 VW Atlas three-row SUV and 2024 VW Atlas Cross Sport two-row SUV with the following comparison guide from the specialists at Team Volkswagen. For an in-depth look at each SUV individually, see our 2024 VW Atlas review and VW Atlas Cross Sport review. 

Take a look at the differences between the VW Atlas and VW Atlas Cross Sport in person when you schedule a test drive with your favorite models from the new inventory at our dealership near Highland, IN. We’re just a short drive away in Merrillville, IN. Be sure to compare our Atlas lease offer and Atlas Cross Sport lease offer as well, to see which has the rate you prefer. 

Have a question for our team? Contact us online or give us a call at (219) 947-1581. 

2024 VW Atlas vs. Atlas Cross Sport Interior Comfort & Tech

Plenty of comfortable options and loads of advanced tech fill both the 2024 VW Atlas and 2024 VW Atlas Cross Sport. Sink back into available Vienna leather seats and banish winter morning chills with standard heated front seats. Ventilated front seats are standard, too. In elevated trim lines, heating elements extend to the rear seats as well. The interior differences in the Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport relate to their three-row and two-row configurations. A 50/50 split-folding third-row seat is standard in the Atlas, and you can equip either second-row captain’s chairs or a second-row bench seat. The Atlas Cross Sport features a standard second-row bench seat. Enjoy a Climatronic® dual-zone automatic climate control system on the Atlas Cross Sport and a Climatronic tri-zone automatic climate control system on the Atlas.

In terms of technology, a similar selection greets you from the moment you step inside either the Atlas or Atlas Cross Sport. Both models feature a standard 12-inch touchscreen which runs Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ wirelessly or via USB connection using the App-Connect® system. View key vehicle information on a standard multi-color Digital Cockpit Pro. When it comes to keeping your devices charged, both SUVs include a wireless charging pad, but the Atlas has six USB ports and the Atlas Cross Sport has four. 

Other shared available interior and technology features include:

  • Eight-way power front seats
  • Auto-dimming rear view mirror
  • Leatherette-wrapped, heated steering wheel 
  • Perforated V-Tex leatherette, leather, or Vienna leather seat upholstery
  • Power tilting and sliding panoramic sunroof
  • Head-up display
  • Multi-color adjustable ambient lighting
  • Harman Kardon® premium audio system 

2024 VW Atlas vs. Atlas Cross Sport Storage Capacity & Seating

One of the key differences between the 2024 VW Atlas and 2024 VW Atlas Cross Sport is their size and seating capacity. The Atlas is a three-row SUV that seats up to seven people, while the Atlas Cross Sport seats up to five in two rows of seating. This size difference translates to overall storage capacity as well, with a maximum cargo space of 96.6 cubic feet of space in the Atlas and 77.6 cubic feet of cargo space in the Atlas Cross Sport. 

Compare the interior specs for both VW SUVs in the accompanying chart:

Model

2024 VW Atlas

2024 VW Atlas Cross Sport

Seating

Seven

Five

Headroom (First/Second/Third Row)

Up to 41.3 / 40.4 / 38.3 in.

Up to 39.4 / 37.8 / – in.

Legroom (First/Second/Third Row)

41.7 / 37.6 / 33.7 in.

41.7 / 40.4 / – in. 

Storage Capacity (Max. / Behind Second Row / Behind Third Row)

96.6 / 55.5 / 20.6 cu.-ft. 

77.6 / 40.3 / – cu.-ft. 

2024 VW Atlas vs. Atlas Cross Sport Powertrain Specs & Performance

The 2024 VW Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport both feature the same 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired to an eight-speed automatic transmission that makes identical performance specs and fuel economy numbers. Get up to 23 combined MPG with either the Atlas or Atlas Cross Sport equipped with front-wheel drive (FWD) or up to 22 MPG combined when your SUV is equipped with 4MOTION® all-wheel drive (AWD). With a braked trailer, tow up to 5,000 pounds in either model.

Engine

2.0L turbo four-cylinder 

Horsepower

269 HP

Torque

273 lb.-ft. 

FWD MPG

20 city / 27 hwy 

4MOTION AWD MPG

19 city / 26 hwy 

Max. Towing Capacity

5,000 lbs. 

Gas Tank Size Differences

Having a big enough gas tank makes road trips easier and helps eliminate excess stops at the gas station after work when all you want to do is get home and put your feet up. That’s why both the 2024 VW Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport feature an 18.6-gallon gas tank and have an identical maximum estimated range of 428 miles. 

2024 VW Atlas vs. Atlas Cross Sport Colors

Do you have a particular exterior color in mind for your next SUV? Whether you’re looking for gray, black, red, or white, both SUVs have an option for you. The Atlas Cross Sport uniquely offers Kingfisher Blue Metallic and Pure Gray, while Opal White is a unique Atlas color option. 

2024 VW Atlas

  • Platinum Gray Metallic
  • Silver Mist Metallic
  • Deep Black Pearl
  • Pure White
  • Aurora Red Metallic
  • Opal White

2024 VW Atlas Cross Sport

  • Platinum Gray Metallic
  • Silver Mist Metallic
  • Deep Black Pearl
  • Pure White
  • Aurora Red Metallic
  • Kingfisher Blue Metallic
  • Pure Gray

2024 VW Atlas vs. Atlas Cross Sport Price

The 2024 Volkswagen Atlas starts at $37,725 MSRP, while the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport starts at $36,715 MSRP.

2023 Volkswagen Atlas vs. Atlas Cross Sport Near Highland, IN

If you’re searching for a premium Volkswagen SUV, consider either the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas or 2023 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport. These VW SUVs share two energetic engines, modern amenities like wireless smartphone connectivity, and more. What are the differences between the VW Atlas and VW Atlas Cross Sport? The VW Atlas is larger and offers a third row of seats, while the Atlas Cross Sport is a two-row SUV. For more details, read through this 2023 VW Atlas and VW Atlas Cross Sport review curated by the professionals at Team Volkswagen. 

Interested in more information? Head over to our VW Atlas review and VW Atlas Cross Sport review.

Schedule a test drive at our Merrillville, IN, dealership to experience one or both of these VW SUVs in person. Also, be sure to take a look at our new VW Atlas inventory and new VW Atlas Cross Sport inventory to see current availability, then pair your ideal model with a VW Atlas offer or VW Atlas Cross Sport deal. Have questions? Give us a call at (219) 947-1581 or message us through our online form. We are also proud to serve the community of Highland, IN, as well as other surrounding communities. 

The 2023 Volkswagen Atlas starts at $36,445 MSRP, while the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport has a starting MSRP of $35,755. 

Length & Exterior Design

The 2023 Volkswagen Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport are sleek SUVs with eye-catching features. The Atlas is the longer of the two at 200.7 inches, while the Atlas Cross Sport is 195.5 inches long. Load heavy items into the trunk with help from the hands-free easy open remote power rear liftgate on both SUVs. Other available 2023 VW Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport exterior features include: 

  • 18- to 21-in. wheels
  • Power-folding, heated, power-adjustable side mirrors with position memory and passenger’s side auto-tilt function
  • Trailer hitch
  • Silver roof rails
  • Heated washer nozzles
  • Rain-sensing front wipers
  • LED headlights and daytime running lights

2023 VW Atlas vs. Atlas Cross Sport Interior Features

Get comfortable in a modern cabin when you choose the 2023 VW Atlas or Atlas Cross Sport. Regulate the cabin temperature with help from the Climatronic® dual-zone automatic climate control on the Atlas Cross Sport or Climatronic tri-zone automatic climate control on the Atlas. You’ll also be able to easily access important vehicle information from the 10.25-inch Volkswagen Digital Cockpit Pro on both models. Other available 2023 VW Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport interior and infotainment features include:

  • Heated and ventilated front seats
  • Heated rear outboard seats
  • Memory settings for driver’s seat
  • Eight-way power front seats
  • Power tilting and sliding panoramic sunroof
  • Ambient interior lighting
  • Remote engine start
  • Fender® premium audio system
  • Wireless App-Connect® (Apple CarPlay®/Android Auto™)
  • Wireless charging

Cargo Space & Seating Capacity

The 2023 Volkswagen Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport offer spacious accommodations and a 60/40 split-folding second-row seat. The Atlas also includes 50/50 split-folding third-row seats with easy entry. For VW Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport interior dimensions, view the following table. 

Atlas

2023 VW Model

Atlas Cross Sport

Seven

Max. Passenger Capacity

Five

96.8 cu.-ft.

Max. Cargo Capacity

77.8 cu.-ft.

55.5 cu.-ft.

Cargo Behind Second Row

40.3 cu.-ft.

20.6 cu.-ft.

Cargo Behind Third Row

N/A

Engine, Fuel Economy, & Towing Capacity

Reach your destination with efficiency thanks to the performance capabilities of the 2023 VW Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport. Both SUVs offer a choice between the same two engines, each paired with an eight-speed Tiptronic® automatic transmission. The only difference between their engine capabilities is that the Atlas Cross Sport produces 20 city and 24 highway MPG when paired with the 3.6L V6 engine, while the Atlas achieves up to 18 city and 24 highway MPG. View full 2023 VW Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport engine specs in the accompanying chart. 

Engine

2.0L turbo I4

3.6L V6

Horsepower

235 HP

276 HP

Torque

258 lb.-ft.

266 lb.-ft.

MPG (city/hwy)

21/25

18/24 (Atlas)

20/24 (Atlas Cross Sport)

Towing Capacity

2,000 lbs.

5,000 lbs.



2023 VW Atlas vs. Atlas Cross Sport Colors

The 2023 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport and Atlas can be painted anything from a subtle white to a stand-out blue. The Atlas Cross Sport offers one paint color that is unique to this model — Pure Gray. Other than that, the colors offered remain the same between the two SUVs.

2023 VW Atlas

  • Tourmaline Blue Metallic
  • Aurora Red Metallic
  • Platinum Gray Metallic
  • Pyrite Silver Metallic
  • Deep Black Pearl
  • Pure White
  • Opal White Pearl

2023 VW Atlas Cross Sport

  • Pure Gray
  • Tourmaline Blue Metallic
  • Aurora Red Metallic
  • Platinum Gray Metallic
  • Pyrite Silver Metallic
  • Deep Black Pearl
  • Pure White
  • Opal White Pearl

Safety & Driver Assistance Technology

The 2023 VW Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport feature advanced driver assistance systems that work together to help protect your loved ones. Both of them offer virtually indistinguishable driver assist and safety features, including IQ.DRIVE®, a dynamic road sign display, and more. View other available 2023 VW Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport driver assistance features in the following list. 

  • Area view
  • Blind spot monitor
  • Park distance control
  • Light assist
  • IQ.DRIVE
    • Travel assist
    • Adaptive cruise control 
    • Active blind spot monitor
    • Rear traffic alert
    • Front assist
    • Emergency assist
    • Lane assist
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We're sorry, availability of some equipment, options or features may be limited due to global supply issues affecting the auto industry. Please be sure to verify that the vehicle you purchase includes all expected features and equipment.


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