2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport Arriving in March

The 2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport was unveiled to the world in early October at the Volkswagen plant in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Scheduled to arrive in March 2020, the all-new Atlas Cross Sport is more than just a new version of the Atlas mid-size SUV. It’s actually a whole different model aimed at a different segment and a different type of buyer.

More Than Just a Volkswagen Atlas Version

The new Atlas Cross Sport is still a mid-size SUV, but it’s a five-seat model compared to the seven-seat configuration of the larger Atlas. The Atlas Cross Sport will take on the Honda Passport. Chevrolet Blazer, Ford Edge, and Nissan Murano in the growing two-row, mid-size sport utility vehicle segment. In order to stand out, the 2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport will emphasize luxury and comfort while its design is certainly upscale and elegant. It’s gorgeous in person and unlike other coupe SUVs like the Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe or the BMW X6, the Atlas Cross Sport doesn’t look out of proportion. Every angle looks good, especially the ¾ front view.

It may display the Atlas name, but the Cross Sport looks more compact than its larger brother. It’s also lower to the ground and wider overall. In simple terms, it looks sportier and more dynamic. Built on the MQB platform, it does share the same wheelbase as the Atlas which translates into similar interior space for passengers and cargo space as well. The 2020 VW Atlas Cross Sport offers 1,141 litres of total cargo space with all seats in place, making it more spacious than the Chevrolet Blazer, Nissan Murano or Ford Edge. Lower the rear seats and you get 2,203 litres of cargo space.

Pricing hasn’t been confirmed just yet, but we know the engine options. Like the three-row Atlas, the Cross Sport will offer a base 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder with 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Most buyers will likely turn to the more powerful 3.6-litre V6 with 276 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque, however.

First Volkswagen entirely designed and built in the U.S., the Atlas Cross Sport is designed for traditional North American families. That said, there’s a twist. The new Volkswagen SUV offers more space and versatility than its competitors, but it also offers a more dynamic on-road behaviour and more noticeable design. It’s the German answer to mid-size SUV demand and unlike many of its competitors, it doesn’t think that driving pleasure should be sacrificed in the name of interior space.

There will be four versions of the Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport. Stay tuned for more details on the new VW utility vehicle including a first drive coming in January!