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Sizing Up the VW Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport for Summer Car Shopping

vw atlas vs atlas cross sport

How the VW Atlas Cross Sport Compares to Its Upsized Counterpart

Another summer is upon us, and you know what that means – it’s time to travel. Whether you’re planning a trip to the Lake of the Ozarks or a day trip to St. Joe to check out Chiefs training camp, you and your family will be spending more quality time in the car together.

If you’re rolling with a large crew with sizable summer plans, you’ll need ample seating and interior space, enough cargo room for your gear, and plenty of infotainment and comfort features to keep your passengers happy. Family road trips can be rough if you don’t have the right vehicle.

Fortunately, the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas for sale is one of the best options for big families with demanding storage needs. Its slightly smaller counterpart – the VW Atlas Cross Sport – is leaner in build while delivering the same performance metrics as its big brother.

It can be difficult to differentiate between the two at first glance, which is why we’re going to break down how the VW Atlas and VW Atlas Cross Sport are unique. However, before we dive into that, let’s review the attributes they have in common.

Overlapping Stats the VW Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport Share

On paper, the VW Atlas and the VW Atlas Cross Sport are practically twins. Both SUVs can be outfitted with either a four-cylinder 2.0L turbo 8-speed engine with Tiptronic or the same engine with 4MOTION® all-wheel drive. Because they’re outfitted with the same engine, that means both iterations of the VW Atlas deliver 266 lb-ft of torque and 276 horsepower. Further, they both can tow up to 5,000 pounds.

Regarding the Volkswagen Atlas’ gas mileage, it probably comes as no surprise those stats are also mirrored. Both VW Atlas models provide an estimated 21 miles per gallon in the city and 25 miles per gallon on the highway, and each SUV has a fuel capacity of 18.6 gallons.

Moving on to features and infotainment, there’s a lot of consistency between the two. Both the VW Atlas and the VW Atlas Cross Sport are offered in five different trim levels; each trim level has its own distinct set of features and aesthetic upgrades. Drivers will notice IQ.DRIVE, touchscreen media display, and VW Digital Cockpit appear throughout the various trim levels. You’ll be hard pressed to find a feature offered by one Atlas that isn’t offered by the other.

Finally, both models of the VW Atlas come with the same new vehicle warranty – Carefree Coverage. It consists of a package of protections and services that helps Atlas owners keep their SUVs in tip-top condition. It also provides limited-time roadside assistance and access to remote features via the myVW app.

How Is the VW Atlas Different from the VW Atlas Cross Sport?

Although the VW Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport have a lot in common, there are some key things that set them apart. The most noticeable difference pertains to size and seating. The standard VW Atlas is the larger of the two SUVs and features three rows of seating that can hold up to seven passengers. The VW Atlas Cross Sport is slightly scaled down and sportier looking in terms of design and build. It can accommodate up to five passengers within its roomy cabin featuring two-toned seating.

Different vehicle sizes means different storage capacities between these two SUVs. The standard VW Atlas offers up to 96.8 cubic feet of storage while the VW Atlas Cross Sport offers 77.8 cubic feet. In both models, the rear seats must be folded down for max storage.

Finally, there’s a slight price difference between both Atlas models. The standard Atlas has a starting MSRP of $35,150 while the Atlas Cross Sport clocks in at $34,460. No matter which trim level you’re comparing, the Atlas Cross Sport always has a slightly smaller price tag.

Deciding Which Volkswagen Atlas for Sale Is Right for You

Choosing between the VW Atlas and VW Atlas Cross Sport is far easier to do in person, especially once you’ve had a chance to test drive them. Some drivers find the behind-the-wheel experience is an effective tiebreaker. The best way to take advantage is by stopping by the VW Lee’s Summit dealership. Once you’ve had a chance to experience both varieties of the VW Atlas, you’ll have a much easier time deciding which one is right for you and your family.

As a nice little incentive for our customers, we’re always running great deals on Volkswagen products, services, and VW parts in our specials section. Make sure to check back every month to see what type of deals we’re currently running. Well qualified buyers can usually secure low rates or discounts other dealerships can’t match.

You can visit VW Lee’s Summit at 2225 NE Independence Ave. For questions, call us at (816) 841-7252 or email us using the contact form on our website.

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vw atlas cross sport driving on a mountain road

What's the Difference Between the 2024 VW Atlas Cross Sport and the Atlas?

Volkswagen Lee’s Summit Compares the Latest Model Year of These Two New SUVs Kansas City is coming in hot right now. Chiefs Kingdom is officially back in action, our new airport is capturing national attention, and there’s an entire fleet of new Volkswagen vehicles revved up and ready to go at VW Lee’s Summit. Meteorologists are forecasting an especially challenging winter here in the Midwest. Locals should expect brisk temperatures with plenty of ice, sleet, and snow in the mix. If you’ve yet to consider a new Volkswagen SUV, now may be the perfect time to do so. The 2024 VW Atlas and VW Atlas Cross Sport are primed to be two of our top-sellers. They deliver size, storage, and plenty of power under the hood. The Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport also make perfect tailgating companions, offering a highlight reel of infotainment and comfort features the entire family can enjoy. After breaking down the main differences between these SUVs, we’ll provide info on how to check them out at our Volkswagen dealership in Lee’s Summit. What’s New With the 2024 Model Year? Before making a head-to-head comparison between the VW Atlas Cross Sport and standard Atlas, let’s do a quick overview of how the 2024 models have changed from the previous year. Significant refinements and enhancements have been implemented in terms of aesthetics, cabin experience, and technological features. The new Volkswagen SUVs showcase: Ventilated and heated front seats Heated steering wheel Full-width taillamps and c-shaped headlamps Illuminated VW logo Updated grille with integrated light bar and a large rear spoiler Expanded 12-inch infotainment display Updated wheel designs Upgraded interior materials and design New ambient lighting system Similarities Between the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport and Atlas The VW Atlas Cross Sport and VW Atlas share more beyond their namesake. In fact, they can be difficult to tell apart at first glance. For starters, the main performance specs of these SUVs are a spot-on match. Outfitted with a 2.0L Turbo 8-speed automatic engine with Tiptronic, both vehicles deliver 273 pound-feet of torque and 269 horsepower, the same max towing capacity (5,000 lbs), and the same fuel economy (20 mpg city/27 mpg highway). Additionally, the Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport and standard Atlas include feature packages more comprehensive than Andy Reid’s playbook. Popular technology and convenience features include: myVW app suite of remote and connected features IQ.DRIVE suite of driver assistance features Volkswagen Digital Cockpit Pro Premium sound system with satellite radio capability App-Connect (Apple CarPlay/Android Auto) Rear view camera system Intelligent Crash Response System (ICRS) Six stability-enhancing systems Another major thing the Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport share is their warranty coverage. Any late model vehicle you purchase from our Volkswagen dealership in Lee’s Summit comes with Carefree Coverage, which is a suite of warranties that help make vehicle ownership easy and convenient. It includes limited-time coverages for scheduled maintenance, vehicle warranty, roadside assistance, and more. VW Atlas Cross Sport Versus the Standard Atlas: What Makes Them Distinct? By now, you may be thinking the Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport are practically twins; however, there are a few key elements and features that set them apart. First, the VW Atlas Cross Sport is a midsize SUV whereas the standard Atlas is full-sized. This means drivers will see some differences in the following areas: Physical dimensions Seating capacity Storage capacity Interior layout Owners of the VW Atlas Cross Sport can comfortably accommodate up to five passengers and use a maximum storage capacity of 77.6 cubic feet. By comparison, the standard Atlas offers a third row of seating, which bumps passenger capacity up to seven. In terms of storage, the Atlas provides up to 96.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. The final difference worth pointing out is price. For example, the SE trim level for the VW Atlas Cross Sport has a starting MSRP of $36,715. The same trim level for the standard Atlas runs a little bit more at $37,725. If you opt for the additional storage space and seating the Atlas provides, you won’t have to pay much more to get it. Visit Our Volkswagen Dealership in Lee’s Summit to Take a Test Drive When you buy a new Volkswagen SUV, you get more than just a vehicle. You get a tailgating partner, road-trip companion, and family-friendly daily driver. To get behind the wheel of a new Volkswagen SUV for a test drive, visit the VW Lee’s Summit dealership, located at 2225 NE Independence Ave. Looking for a used Volkswagen near you? VW Lee’s Summit has you covered! As one of the leading used vehicle dealerships in the area, we carry a wide selection of used cars and SUVs, including the VW Atlas Cross Sport and standard Atlas. We even carry certified preowned models that have undergone a rigorous inspection process and include limited warranty coverage. For vehicle questions or to arrange an appointment, call (816) 841-7252 or use our contact form to send an email. A member of the VW Lee’s Summit team will respond as soon as possible.

Forest Green VW Atlas drives through desert

An Overview of the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas and Why It’s a Great Summer Vehicle

A Look at the Main Specs of the All-New VW Atlas Summertime is the perfect time to consider a brand-new SUV. People in Lee’s Summit want to be able to haul their boats to the lake and carry plenty of cargo for those weekend camping trips. They also want an SUV that delivers big time in the power and performance department. If this sounds like you, then look no further than the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas. Not only does it pack a punch in terms of power and towing capacity, but it also scores plenty of style points with its design, feature package, and overall aesthetic. Additionally, the VW Atlas is a Consumer Reports recommended vehicle for its performance, convenience, and overall comfort for drivers and passengers. An Overview of the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Leave it to Volkswagen to give their drivers plenty to choose from. The new VW Atlas comes in five different trim levels, each with more features, upscale design elements, and performance upgrades than the last. For the sake of comparison, we’re going to size up the VW Atlas SE (the entry-level trim) to the VW Atlas SEL Premium R-Line (the highest-level trim). 2022 VW Atlas SE Starting MSRP: $34,335 Engine: SE 2.0L Turbo 8-speed Auto with Tiptronic Transmission type: Automatic Fuel economy: 21 city/25 highway Drivetrain: FWD Horsepower: 235 (using premium gasoline)* Torque: 258 lb-ft.* Towing capacity: 2,000 lbs./up to 5,000 lbs. (depending on configuration) Cargo volume: up to 96.8 cubic ft. (with seats folded down) Wheel diameter: 18” *The VW Atlas SE can be upgraded to SE with 4MOTION® 2.0L Turbo 8-speed Auto with Tiptronic engine, which would improve performance 2022 VW Atlas SEL Premium R-Line Starting MSRP: $51,505 Engine: 4MOTION® 3.6L V6 8-speed Auto with Tiptronic Transmission type: Automatic Fuel economy: 17 city/23 highway Drivetrain: AWD Horsepower: 276 Torque: 266 lb-ft.* Towing capacity: 2,000 lbs./up to 5,000 lbs. (depending on configuration) Cargo volume: up to 96.8 cubic ft. (with seats folded down) Wheel diameter: 21” These are both great SUVs – no doubt about that. What you probably noticed is that the cost of ownership for the VW Atlas SE is lower compared to the VW Atlas SEL Premium R-Line. However, by going with the R-Line you’re going to get a more powerful engine, more horsepower, more torque, and the most upscale trim and feature package. The Premium R-Line trim is a racing-inspired trim that’s bound to turn heads. It also includes a trailer hitch with 5,000-lb. towing capacity. Of course, you can always check out one of the trims in the middle of the pack. The VW Atlas comes in an SE with Technology trim, SEL trim, and SEL R-Line trim. We have every trim of the VW Atlas on our lot, so feel free to visit us so we can help you figure out which is the best fit for you. Other Great Features that Come with the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Trim levels aside, you’re going to get a great SUV no matter which version of the VW Atlas you decide to go with. For instance, IQ.DRIVE comes standard on all versions of the 2022 VW Atlas. You can think of this feature as your extra set of eyes and ears keeping a look-out on your surroundings. IQ.DRIVE includes: Travel Assist Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) Active Blind Spot Monitor Rear Traffic Alert Front Assist Emergency Assist (automatic transmission only) Lane Assist The recently updated myVW is another offering that comes standard with all new VW vehicles. It makes ownership and maintaining your vehicle easier than ever before. It includes: Routine maintenance and service reminders Request for roadside assistance Remote locking and unlocking Vehicle alerts Last parked location (great for stadiums and big parking lots) Step Into an Industry-Leading Warranty with Carefree Coverage All late-model VW vehicles come with Carefree Coverage, which provides a full suite of services for maintenance, assistance, so forth. It breaks down as follows: 2 yrs. Service - Scheduled Carefree Maintenance (2 years or 20,000 miles) 3 yrs. Help - Roadside Assistance (3 years or 36,000 miles) 4 yrs. Coverage - New Vehicle Limited Warranty (4 years or 50,000 miles) 5 yrs. Access - Car-Net Remote Access When you visit the Volkswagen service center, Carefree Coverage will appear in your records, making the process of getting your vehicle serviced simple and easy. Come Test Drive the Brand-New Volkswagen Atlas at VW Lee’s Summit Now that you know about all the power, storage, and advanced safety features the VW Atlas brings to the table, the next step is for you to test drive one for yourself. Arranging a test drive is easy. Simply come down to the VW Lee’s Summit dealership, which is conveniently located at 2225 NE Independence Ave. Not yet in the market for a new car? No problem! VW Lee’s Summit is one of the leading used car dealerships near you that carries a wide variety of used cars and certified pre-owned vehicles that have undergone a 100+ point inspection. Don't forget to check out our specials section for more great deals on VW products and services. Contact us at (816) 841-7252 or email us using the contact form on our website to make an appointment. If you’re a current VW owner in need of routine maintenance or service, contact the Volkswagen service center to make an appointment.

Atlas and Jetta Rank #1 on Lowest Maintenance Costs! Tiguan, Passat and Arteon also rate lower costs of maintenance than competitors

2021 Volkswagen models perform top of segment for lowest maintenance costs according to Vincentric study Atlas family and Jetta models rank #1 for lowest cost of maintenance in Midsize SUV and Compact Sedan segments respectively Tiguan, Passat and Arteon rate at lower costs of maintenance than key competitor brands in their segments Volkswagen of America, Inc. recently announced the results from a maintenance cost study that established best rankings for lowest cost of maintenance for several of the brand’s core models. The analysis, performed by automotive data firm Vincentric, found Atlas family and Jetta models topping their segments for lowest cost of maintenance over the first five years of ownership, while Tiguan, Passat and Arteon all performed better than models from key competitive brands with respect to maintenance costs over the first five years of ownership. “It’s a great day when we can announce results like this,” said Duncan Movassaghi, executive vice-president, Sales and Marketing, Volkswagen of America, Inc. “The data from this study by Vincentric shows that our brand’s commitment to engineering and quality is paying off. Putting a VW in your driveway is not just a fun decision to make; it’s a smart and sensible one as well.” Vincentric’s maintenance cost analysis found that select 2021 Volkswagen models have a lower cost of maintenance than key competitors in their categories. Specific VW highlights of the study include: 2021 Atlas Family of vehicles has the lowest cost of maintenance among midsize SUVs. The Atlas Cross Sport ranked #1 for lowest cost of maintenance in the category. 2021 Jetta ranks #1 for lowest cost of maintenance among compact sedans. 2021 Tiguan has a lower cost of maintenance than competitive models by Honda, Toyota and Subaru in the compact SUV segment. 2021 Passat and Arteon models have lower cost of maintenance than competitive models by Toyota, Honda and Hyundai in the midsize sedan segment. The high rankings can be largely attributed to factors such a s the brand’s focus on improving scheduled maintenance requirements, as well as the Carefree Maintenance program that is now standard on 2021 Volkswagen vehicles. About Vincentric Vincentric provides data, knowledge, and insight to the automotive industry by identifying and applying the many aspects of automotive value. Vincentric data is used by organizations including Mercedes-Benz, Toyota, JD Power, Automotive Fleet Magazine, AAA, Nissan, and many others as a means of providing automotive insight to their clientele. Vincentric, LLC is a privately held automotive data compilation and analysis firm headquartered in Bingham Farms, Michigan. About Volkswagen Founded in 1955, Volkswagen of America, Inc. is an operating unit of Volkswagen Group of America and a subsidiary of Volkswagen AG, with headquarters in Herndon, Virginia. Volkswagen’s operations in the United States include research and development, parts and vehicle processing, parts distribution centers, sales, marketing and service offices, financial service centers, and its state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Chattanooga, Tennessee. The Volkswagen Group is one of the world's largest producers of passenger cars and Europe's largest automaker. Volkswagen sells the Arteon, Atlas, Atlas Cross Sport, Golf, Golf GTI, Jetta, Jetta GLI, Passat, and Tiguan vehicles through more than 600 independent U.S. dealers. Visit Volkswagen online at www.vw.com or media.vw.com to learn more.   Atlas Family claim based on the model level analysis of midsize SUV/Crossovers performed by Vincentric, LLC using competitive vehicles available for sale and on the Vincentric database as of December 8, 2020.  2021 Atlas Cross Sport and 2021 Atlas ranked #1 and #2 respectively.  Assumes 5 years/75,000 miles of operation.  Does not include repair costs. Jetta claim based on the model level analysis of compact sedans performed by Vincentric, LLC using competitive vehicles available for sale and on the Vincentric database as of December 8, 2020.  Assumes 5 years/75,000 miles of operation.  Does not include repair costs. Tiguan claim  based on the model level analysis of compact SUV/Crossovers performed by Vincentric, LLC using competitive vehicles available for sale and on the Vincentric database as of December 8, 2020.  Comparison versus Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Subaru Crosstrek and Subaru Forester.  Assumes 5 years/75,000 miles of operation.  Does not include repair costs. Passat and Arteon claim based on the model level analysis of midsize sedans performed by Vincentric, LLC using competitive vehicles available for sale and on the Vincentric database as of December 8, 2020.  Comparison versus Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Hyundai Sonata.  Assumes 5 years/75,000 miles of operation.  Does not include repair costs. VW’s Carefree Maintenance program provides the 10,000- and 20,000-mile scheduled maintenance services or scheduled maintenance services for two years (whichever occurs first) as stated in the vehicle’s maintenance booklet on most new MY2020 and 2021 VW vehicles.  For vehicle eligibility details, visit vw.com/coverage.  See dealer or owner’s literature for provided services, exclusions, and time and other limitations.  The Carefree Maintenance program does not provide tire rotations, or other services or parts not specified in the owner’s literature.

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