Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the 2020 VW Atlas Cross Sport review. If you're in the market for a mid-size SUV with a dash of style and a sporty vibe, then you've landed in the right place. Let's get started and see what this vehicle has to offer!

Overview of the 2020 VW Atlas Cross Sport

The 2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport is essentially a shorter, swoopier version of the popular Atlas SUV. VW chopped off a bit of the rear overhang and gave it a more raked roofline, resulting in a coupe-like SUV silhouette. It's aimed at those who want the practicality of an SUV but with a bit more flair and distinctive styling. Think of it as the Atlas's cooler, more athletic sibling. The Atlas Cross Sport offers two engine choices: a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder and a 3.6-liter V6. The interior is spacious, especially in the front and rear seats, providing ample room for passengers. The cargo area is still generous, though not as cavernous as the regular Atlas due to the sloping roofline. However, it's more than adequate for most families' needs. Tech-wise, it comes with VW's user-friendly infotainment system, available with features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a suite of driver-assistance technologies.

Volkswagen introduced the Atlas Cross Sport to cater to a growing segment of buyers who prioritize design and aesthetics in their SUV choices. It competes with other stylish SUVs like the Honda Passport, Jeep Grand Cherokee, and Nissan Murano. The Cross Sport aims to offer a blend of practicality and panache, making it an appealing option for those who don't need the full three rows of the standard Atlas but still want a comfortable and capable SUV. The vehicle maintains a solid ride quality and decent handling characteristics, making it suitable for both city driving and longer road trips. With its distinctive looks and versatile nature, the 2020 VW Atlas Cross Sport stands out in a crowded SUV market, offering a unique proposition for style-conscious buyers.

Exterior Design: Style and Appeal

The exterior design of the 2020 VW Atlas Cross Sport is where it really shines. The most noticeable change from the standard Atlas is the aggressively raked roofline, which gives it that sporty, coupe-like profile. This design element immediately sets it apart from more traditional SUVs. The front fascia also receives some tweaks, with a unique grille and bumper design that add to its distinctive look. The headlights are sleek and modern, and higher trim levels come with LED lighting for improved visibility and a premium feel. Moving to the rear, the Cross Sport features a restyled tailgate and taillights that complement the sloping roofline. A chrome strip connects the taillights, adding a touch of elegance and visual width to the vehicle. The overall effect is a cohesive and stylish design that's sure to turn heads.

Available wheel sizes range from 18 to 21 inches, allowing buyers to further customize the look of their Atlas Cross Sport. The larger wheels, in particular, enhance the vehicle's stance and give it a more aggressive appearance. Color options also play a crucial role in the exterior's appeal, with a range of choices from classic neutrals to vibrant hues. Some trims offer contrasting roof colors, adding another layer of personalization. The attention to detail in the exterior design is evident, with well-integrated lines and surfaces that create a sense of sophistication. The Cross Sport manages to blend the practicality of an SUV with the visual appeal of a sporty coupe, making it a standout in its class. Whether you're cruising through city streets or parked at the trailhead, the Atlas Cross Sport's design makes a statement. Its combination of bold lines, refined details, and customizable options ensures it appeals to a wide range of tastes. This is a vehicle that looks good from every angle, offering a refreshing take on the traditional SUV formula.

Interior Comfort and Technology

When you step inside the 2020 VW Atlas Cross Sport, you'll find a cabin that prioritizes interior comfort and technology. The seats are supportive and well-cushioned, making them ideal for long drives. The front seats are available with heating and ventilation, adding to the comfort level. The rear seats offer plenty of legroom and headroom, even for taller passengers. The overall design is clean and modern, with a focus on functionality. The materials used are generally of good quality, though some may find the abundance of hard plastics a bit disappointing. However, the layout is intuitive, and everything is within easy reach.

On the technology front, the Atlas Cross Sport comes standard with a user-friendly infotainment system. The touchscreen display is responsive and easy to navigate, with clear graphics and logical menus. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are available, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone. Higher trim levels offer features like a larger touchscreen, a premium audio system, and a digital cockpit display. The digital cockpit replaces the traditional instrument cluster with a customizable screen that can display a variety of information, including speed, navigation, and vehicle data. Driver-assistance features are also plentiful, with available options like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. These technologies help to enhance safety and make driving easier. The cabin is also designed to minimize noise intrusion, creating a quiet and comfortable environment. Thoughtful touches like ample storage compartments, multiple USB ports, and a wireless charging pad add to the convenience. Overall, the interior of the 2020 VW Atlas Cross Sport provides a comfortable and tech-savvy experience for both drivers and passengers. It's a space that's well-suited for daily commutes and long road trips alike, blending practicality with modern amenities.

Performance and Handling

Let's talk about performance and handling in the 2020 VW Atlas Cross Sport. You have two engine options to choose from: a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder and a 3.6-liter V6. The four-cylinder produces 235 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, while the V6 churns out 276 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The four-cylinder is adequate for most driving situations, providing decent acceleration and fuel economy. However, if you frequently carry passengers or cargo, the V6 is the better choice. It offers more power and makes the Cross Sport feel more confident on the open road.

The handling is competent, with the Cross Sport feeling stable and composed in corners. The steering is light and responsive, making it easy to maneuver in city traffic. The ride quality is generally smooth, though some may find it a bit firm on rough roads. The available all-wheel-drive system provides added traction in inclement weather. Off-road capability is limited, but the Cross Sport can handle light trails and dirt roads. The eight-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly and efficiently, contributing to a refined driving experience. Fuel economy is respectable, with the four-cylinder achieving slightly better numbers than the V6. Overall, the 2020 VW Atlas Cross Sport offers a balanced driving experience. It's not the sportiest SUV on the market, but it provides adequate power, decent handling, and a comfortable ride. Whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a weekend adventure, the Cross Sport is a capable and versatile performer. Its combination of engine options, smooth transmission, and available all-wheel drive make it a well-rounded choice for a variety of driving needs.

Fuel Economy: What to Expect

Now, let's look at fuel economy for the 2020 VW Atlas Cross Sport. With the 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, you can expect to get around 21 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway. The 3.6-liter V6 engine delivers slightly lower numbers, with an estimated 17 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway. These figures are fairly typical for a mid-size SUV in this class. Of course, your actual fuel economy will vary depending on your driving habits and conditions. If you do a lot of stop-and-go driving or tend to have a heavy foot, you'll likely see lower numbers. Conversely, if you do mostly highway driving and drive conservatively, you may be able to achieve better fuel economy.

The Atlas Cross Sport comes with a fuel-saving feature called start-stop, which automatically shuts off the engine when you come to a complete stop. This can help to improve fuel economy in city driving. However, some drivers find the start-stop system to be intrusive, so you may want to disable it. The fuel tank capacity is 18.6 gallons, which gives you a decent range between fill-ups. Overall, the fuel economy of the 2020 VW Atlas Cross Sport is competitive with other SUVs in its class. It's not the most fuel-efficient vehicle on the market, but it's not the worst either. If fuel economy is a top priority, you may want to consider the four-cylinder engine, but if you need more power, the V6 is a viable option. Keep in mind that regular maintenance, such as keeping your tires properly inflated and using the recommended oil, can also help to maximize your fuel economy. By being mindful of your driving habits and taking care of your vehicle, you can get the most out of every gallon of gas.

Trim Levels and Features

The 2020 VW Atlas Cross Sport comes in a variety of trim levels and features, allowing you to choose the one that best fits your needs and budget. The base trim is the S, which comes standard with features like a 6.5-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a suite of driver-assistance technologies. Moving up to the SE trim adds features like an 8-inch touchscreen, heated front seats, and a power liftgate. The SEL trim includes features like a panoramic sunroof, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist. The SEL R-Line trim adds sporty styling elements, such as unique bumpers and badging.

The top-of-the-line trim is the Premium, which comes with features like leather upholstery, a premium audio system, and a digital cockpit display. Each trim level offers a different combination of features, so it's important to do your research and choose the one that has the amenities you want. Options packages are also available, allowing you to add even more features to your chosen trim level. Some popular options include a panoramic sunroof, a premium audio system, and a tow package. The tow package allows you to tow up to 5,000 pounds, making the Atlas Cross Sport a capable choice for hauling trailers or boats. With its wide range of trim levels and features, the 2020 VW Atlas Cross Sport offers something for everyone. Whether you're looking for a basic and affordable SUV or a fully loaded luxury model, there's a trim level that will meet your needs. Take the time to explore the different options and find the perfect Atlas Cross Sport for you.

Pros and Cons: Is It the Right SUV for You?

Let's wrap things up by looking at the pros and cons of the 2020 VW Atlas Cross Sport to help you decide if it's the right SUV for you.

Pros:

• Stylish exterior design
• Spacious and comfortable interior
• User-friendly technology
• Available V6 engine for added power
• Available all-wheel drive

Cons:

• Fuel economy could be better
• Some may find the ride a bit firm
• Limited off-road capability
• Abundance of hard plastics in the interior

Overall, the 2020 VW Atlas Cross Sport is a stylish and versatile SUV that offers a lot of appeal. It's a good choice for those who want a blend of practicality and panache. If you prioritize design and want an SUV that stands out from the crowd, the Atlas Cross Sport is definitely worth considering. However, if fuel economy and off-road capability are top priorities, you may want to look at other options. Ultimately, the best way to decide if the Atlas Cross Sport is right for you is to take it for a test drive and see how it feels. Consider your needs and preferences, and weigh the pros and cons to make an informed decision. With its unique design, comfortable interior, and available features, the 2020 VW Atlas Cross Sport is a compelling option in the mid-size SUV market.