Volkswagen Atlas vs Atlas Cross Sport 2025: what are the differences

Volkswagen Atlas vs Atlas Cross Sport 2025: what are the differences
header image - Volkswagen Atlas vs Atlas Cross Sport 2025

What are the major differences between the Atlas and the Atlas Cross Sport? The Arbour VW dealer in Laval shows what sets them apart.

Design and dimensions: the differences

Right from the start, the design of the two vehicles is different. With its lower, elongated roofline and a more steeply inclined rear window, the Cross Sport exudes a sporty and aerodynamic look.

While the lower roofline reduces the height of the side windows, the Atlas presents a more conventional style and, comparing the Atlas with the Cross Sport, distinct designs emerge.

For enthusiasts of sportiness, the combination of a long wheelbase and a low roofline gives the Atlas Cross Sport character. In contrast, the VW Atlas embraces a modern and dynamic appearance.

In terms of dimensions, here are the differences:

Dimensions VW Atlas 2025 VW Atlas Cross Sport 2025
Wheelbase 2,980 mm 2,980 mm
Length 5,097 mm 4,966 mm
Width 1,989 mm 1,989 mm
Height 1,780 mm 1,723 mm

It is mainly in length and height where the differences between the Volkswagen Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport are noticeable.

side view of a 2025 VW Atlas Volkswagen Atlas 2025
side view of a 2025 VW Atlas Cross Sport Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport 2025

Performance and powertrains

At the outset, both models benefit from a 2.0 L 4-cylinder turbocharged engine. This powerplant delivers 269 horsepower and a torque of 273 lb-ft. It works in tandem with an 8-speed automatic transmission featuring manual mode and steering-mounted paddles.

The towing capacity remains identical for both models at 5 000 lb. Differences appear rather in cargo volume:

  • Atlas: 583 to 2 735 litres
  • Cross Sport: 1 141 to 2 197 litres

In short, when comparing the Atlas with the Atlas Cross Sport, there are no significant differences in this area.

Technologies and equipment

From the start, the 2025 Atlas offers four trim levels: Comfortline, Peak Edition, Highline, and Execline. Each version comes equipped with an array of features tailored to different preferences and needs.

The most remarkable is the brand new Peak Edition, which features unique interior and exterior details, including distinctive body finishes, unique rims, all-terrain tires, accented exterior details, and a characteristic interior design.

Meanwhile, the Atlas Cross Sport is also available in four trim levels, similar to the Atlas lineup, except the Peak Edition is replaced by a Black Edition trim.

The features are largely similar to those of the other Atlas trims, but it does not include the third row of seats or the associated functions.

For 2025, in the Execline trims, you will benefit from enhanced seats and new, more inviting colours for both models.

Additionally, starting with the Highline trims, you can rely on built-in GPS navigation or enjoy the Harman Kardon sound system with 11 speakers.

Finally, both vehicles offer a 12-inch touch screen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, wireless charging, etc. The Atlas comes with six USB ports, while the Cross Sport has four.

cockpit and dashboard view of a 2025 VW Atlas Volkswagen Atlas 2025
cockpit and dashboard view of a 2025 VW Atlas Cross Sport Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport 2025

VW Atlas vs VW Atlas Cross Sport: price

Now the comparison between the Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport extends to the pricing of both vehicles:

Version Atlas 2025 Atlas Cross Sport 2025
Comfortline $54,388 $53,288
Peak Edition / R-Line Black Edition $58,388 $57,288
Highline $61,388 $60,288
Execline $64,388 $63,288

Based on the data in the table above, the differences between the Atlas and the Cross Sport in terms of initial costs are quite minimal.

cockpit view of a 2025 VW Atlas Volkswagen Atlas 2025
cockpit view of a 2025 VW Atlas Cross Sport Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport 2025

Volkswagen Canada has developed two talented midsize SUVs that offer space and an excellent utility volume. Versatile and capable of towing up to 5 000 lb as well, the family SUVs, offering a sleek presentation and an attractive price range, make the 2025 Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport both powerful and appealing.

Come and discover them at the Volkswagen dealer, Arbour VW in Laval, near Boisbriand, Blainville, and the North Shore of Montreal.

Take advantage of the Volkswagen promotions in Laval as well as the attractive Volkswagen auto credit. A professional team will take the time to answer all your questions and help you make the right choice.

Let's review once more the main differences between the two vehicles:

Features Atlas 2025 Atlas Cross Sport 2025
Number of passengers 7 5
Power 269 horsepower 269 horsepower
Torque 273 lb-ft 273 lb-ft
Towing capacity 5,000 lb 5,000 lb
Cargo volume Up to 2,735 litres Up to 2,197 litres
Price range $54,388 to $64,388 $53,288 to $63,288
rear side view of a 2025 VW Atlas