Volkswagen Atlas vs Atlas Cross Sport
Compare the Volkswagen Atlas vs. Atlas Cross Sport
Searching for the Perfect SUV? Let Flow Volkswagen of Winston-Salem Help You Decide Between the Volkswagen Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport
At Flow Volkswagen of Winston-Salem, we understand that choosing the right SUV for your lifestyle isn't always easy. With so many options out there, it can be overwhelming to find one that checks all the boxes-whether you're looking for maximum interior space, head-turning style, or a mix of practicality and performance. That's where the Volkswagen Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport come in. These two bold SUVs are built to meet different needs, but both deliver the high-quality craftsmanship, advanced technology, and German-engineered performance that Volkswagen is known for.
Need a full-size SUV with room for the whole crew? The Volkswagen Atlas offers three rows of spacious seating-perfect for families, carpoolers, and road trip enthusiasts. Prefer something a bit sleeker and sportier? The Atlas Cross Sport dials up the style with its coupe-inspired silhouette while still providing generous cargo space and two roomy rows for passengers. Whether you prioritize third-row versatility or a dynamic design with a commanding presence, we're here to help you explore your options. Read on to see how the Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport compare, and discover which Volkswagen SUV fits your lifestyle best-right here at Flow Volkswagen of Winston-Salem.
2025 Volkswagen Atlas
- Rows of Seating: 3
- Seating Capacity: Up to 7
- Cargo Volume: 96.6 cu ft with the rear seats folded
- Fuel Economy: 20-22 combined EPA MPG
- Starting MSRP: $38,200
2025 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport
- Rows of Seating: 2
- Seating Capacity: Up to 5
- Cargo Volume: 77.6 cu ft with the rear seats folded
- Fuel Economy: 21-23 combined EPA MPG
- Starting MSRP: $37,190
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is bigger: the VW Atlas or VW Atlas Cross Sport?
The VW Atlas is bigger than the Atlas Cross Sport. It offers three rows of seating for up to seven passengers and more overall cargo space. The Atlas Cross Sport has a sleeker, two-row design for five passengers, making it slightly smaller and sportier in appearance. If you need a spacious SUV with third-row seating, the VW Atlas is the better choice. If you prefer a bold design with a more compact footprint, the Atlas Cross Sport is a great alternative.
Does the Volkswagen Atlas have a third row?
Yes, the Volkswagen Atlas comes standard with a third row of seating, offering space for up to seven passengers. It's a great choice for families or anyone who needs extra room for passengers or cargo.
Is the Volkswagen Atlas more expensive than the Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport?
Yes, the Volkswagen Atlas is generally more expensive than the Atlas Cross Sport, primarily due to its larger size and standard third-row seating. The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas starts at $38,200, while the 2025 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport starts at $37,190.
What trims are available on the VW Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport?
The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas is available in several trims to fit a range of needs and budgets. Trims include the SE, SE with Technology, Peak Edition SE with Technology, SEL, and the top-of-the-line SEL Premium R-Line. The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport offers similar trims with a sportier, two-row layout. Trims include the SE, SE with Technology, SEL, SEL R-Line Black, and SEL Premium R-Line. Both SUVs come standard with Volkswagen's IQ.DRIVE driver-assistance suite, making them smart and stylish choices no matter which trim you choose.
Which is better: the Volkswagen Atlas or Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport?
It depends on your needs. The VW Atlas is better if you need three rows and space for up to seven passengers, making it great for families. The Atlas Cross Sport offers a sleeker, two-row design with sporty styling and a lower starting price. Both provide advanced tech, safety features, and strong performance-it just comes down to whether you prefer more space or a more compact, stylish SUV.
Interior Tech & Features: VW Atlas vs. Atlas Cross Sport
When it comes to interior technology and features, both the Volkswagen Atlas and the Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport deliver a premium in-cabin experience, but each caters to slightly different needs. The VW Atlas, designed with family utility in mind, offers a spacious three-row layout with seating for up to seven and ample cargo space. The VW Atlas Cross Sport, on the other hand, features a bold, coupe-inspired design with two rows and room for five-making it ideal for drivers who want style without sacrificing comfort.
Both SUVs come standard with a 12-inch touchscreen infotainment system, complete with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, voice control, and navigation on higher trims. Volkswagen's Digital Cockpit Pro is also standard across both models, providing a customizable, high-resolution digital instrument display that enhances both form and function.
In terms of comfort, the Volkswagen Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport both offer available features like heated and ventilated front seats, leather upholstery, multi-color ambient lighting, and a premium Harman Kardon sound system. The VW Atlas holds an edge for larger families with its third row, more cargo capacity, and tri-zone automatic climate control, which helps keep all passengers comfortable.
Photo shows the interior of a 2025 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport
Performance: VW Atlas vs. Atlas Cross Sport
The Volkswagen Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport both offer impressive performance, combining turbocharged power with refined handling to meet the demands of daily driving and weekend escapes. For 2025, both models come standard with a 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, delivering an impressive 269 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain provides strong acceleration and smooth highway cruising, whether you're driving through the Triad or taking a longer road trip.
Both the VW Atlas and VW Atlas Cross Sport are equipped with an 8-speed automatic transmission and available 4MOTION® all-wheel drive, which enhances traction in challenging conditions like rain, snow, or gravel roads. The main performance difference comes down to size and weight-because the Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport is slightly smaller and lighter, it offers a more agile, sporty feel behind the wheel. It's a great option for drivers who want SUV capability without the bulk of a full-size vehicle.
Meanwhile, the Volkswagen Atlas offers a more planted ride and added towing capability, with a maximum towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped-ideal for families who need to haul a trailer, camper, or boat. The VW Atlas Cross Sport also tows up to 5,000 pounds, but the VW Atlas' longer wheelbase and additional space may provide more stability for larger loads
Photo shows the rear exterior of a 2025 Volkswagen Atlas
Who Should Buy the Volkswagen Atlas?
Families needing three rows and seating for up to seven passengers
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Drivers who need extra cargo space for daily life, travel, or weekend activities
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Carpoolers or parents who regularly transport kids, friends, or teammates
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Outdoor enthusiasts who need up to 5,000 lbs of towing capacity for boats, campers, or trailers
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Road trippers who want comfort, space, and tech for long drives
Who Should Buy the Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport?
Drivers who prefer a bold, sporty SUV design with a coupe-inspired silhouette
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Couples or small families who don't need a third row but want generous passenger and cargo space
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Commuters and weekend travelers who want a smooth, powerful ride with turbocharged performance
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Style-conscious shoppers who want modern design with premium finishes and R-Line trim options
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Tech lovers who value features like a 12-inch touchscreen, Digital Cockpit Pro, and wireless smartphone connectivity
Volkswagen SUVs For Sale in Winston-Salem, NC
No matter which SUV is best suited for your needs, Flow Volkswagen of Winston-Salem is your trusted destination for all things VW. In addition to the Atlas and the Atlas Cross Sport, our premier Volkswagen dealership carried a large selection of the most popular SUVs. Browse our SUV online and easily shop online or in person! We are located just a short distance away from drivers in Clemmons, Kernersville, and Lewisville. Some customers even make the trip from Charlotte, NC to visit us! We make every car buying journey easy, transparent, and fun.
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Flow Volkswagen of Winston-Salem
425 Silas Creek Parkway
Winston-Salem, NC 27127
- Sales: 336-723-3524
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