2023 VW Atlas vs. 2023 VW Atlas Cross Sport
Not everyone is as familiar with the Volkswagen lineup as we are here at Lewisville Volkswagen. So we understand that the model names can get confusing. Many shoppers in Lewisville, Texas, ask us what the differences are between the similarly named 2023 VW Atlas and the 2023 VW Atlas Cross Sport. Here’s a look at how these two SUVs differ.
How are they similar?
To understand the differences between the Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport, you have to know what connections they share. Both SUVs are built on the same unibody platform with an identical wheelbase, ground clearance, and bumper angles. Both received 5-star safety ratings from the NHTSA this year.
As for performance, both 2023 SUVs are powered by the same 2.0-liter Turbo engine that churns out 235 horsepower with premium gas. They both use automatic transmission and front-wheel drive, though 4MOTION® AWD is optional.
Size differences
The defining difference between the two vehicles is their shape. A close look at both SUVs will show you that the Atlas Cross Sport slants its roofline at a sharper angle, which reduces the height of the rear end. While the Atlas is boxy with straight, squared angles, the Atlas Cross Sport resembles a fastback shape. Between the two, you’ll notice larger windows behind the C pillar of the Atlas.
Because of the Atlas Cross Sport’s sleek profile, its height is reduced by two inches. It’s also five inches shorter from bumper to bumper than the boxy Atlas. Simply put, the Atlas Cross Sport looks sleek and squat, while the Atlas looks tall and chiseled.
With its extra materials and size, the 2023 Atlas weighs about 150 pounds heavier than the Atlas Cross Sport (in curb weight). Fuel economy isn’t substantially impacted, though, as both SUVs received the same mpg ratings from the EPA for 2023.
Cabin differences
Why is the Atlas shaped differently than the Atlas Cross Sport? To hold a third row of seats. The smaller Atlas Cross Sport only seats five passengers across its two rows, while the Atlas seats up to seven people with its 50/50-split-folding third row.
The legroom is reduced in the second row to accommodate the Atlas SUV’s small third row. Headroom is diminished in the Atlas Cross Sport, though, due to its lowered roofline. Hip room is identical in both SUVs.
Cargo space is also affected by the SUVs’ differing dimensions. While the rear portion of the 2023 Atlas is larger overall, there’s only 20.6 cubic feet behind the last row; in contrast, the 2023 Atlas Cross Sport has 40.3 cubic feet behind its back row. Total potential cargo space is still larger in the Atlas, though, since you can fold the third row and expand from 20.6 to 55.5 cubic feet.
Design and styling differences
Living up to its name, the 2023 Atlas Cross Sport leans more into its athletic persona by having extra eye-catching details. The Atlas Cross Sport model’s roof rails pop with shiny silver paint rather than blend in as the Atlas SUV’s black rails do. Its wheel spoke design is different, being thicker to emphasize the silver coloring that matches the roof rails. The Atlas Cross Sport also adds flourishes via the side wings near the front fenders.
You’ll find slight differences on the rear ends, such as the taillight designs, dual exhaust pipe positions, and bumper curvature.
Feature and technology differences
The 2023 Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport have the same five identical trim levels, so each configuration carries the same features — apart from a few minor differences. For example, the Atlas Cross Sport comes standard with Side Curtain Protection® head airbags, while the Atlas provides Bluetooth® technology at no extra cost.
Price differences
Being a bit larger, the Atlas also carries a slightly bigger cost. Comparing the base models, the 2023 Atlas has an MSRP around $700 more expensive than the entry-level 2023 Atlas Cross Sport.[1] At the high end, both models have the SEL Premium R-Line as their most expensive trim level, and it goes for approximately $700 more on the 2023 Atlas than the 2023 Atlas Cross Sport.[1] Thus, that marginal difference is reflected across all their trim pricings.
We’d like to alleviate any confusion you have about Volkswagen vehicles. It’s our goal at Lewisville Volkswagen to clear up any confusion you have when you’re shopping at our dealership in Lewisville, Texas. Don’t be afraid to contact us with your questions; we’re here to serve you!
[1] Prices exclude destination, taxes, title, other options, and dealer charges. Dealer sets actual price.