2020 VW Atlas Cross Sport Adds Itself To SUV Coupe Segment

VW just unveiled the all-new 2020 Atlas Cross Sport as a shorter, lower and arguably more stylish version of its regular mid-size SUV.

In terms of size, the Cross Sport is 2.8 inches (7.1 cm) shorter than the current Atlas, and sits 2.3 inches (5.8 cm) lower. However, its wheelbase is identical, allowing for generous space inside – 111.8 cu.ft (3,165 liters) of passenger space with 40.3 cu.ft (1,141 liters) of luggage space. Fold down the second row and you get a massive 77.8 cu.ft (2,203 liters).

“Building off the success of the Atlas seven-seater midsize SUV, we see an opportunity for a five-seater model that offers even more style and almost as much interior space,” said VW Group of America CEO, Scott Keogh. “We look forward to entering this growing segment with the Atlas Cross Sport, which offers outstanding Volkswagen technology, driver-assist features, style, and value.”

Aesthetically, the Cross Sport has a sleeker profile than the Atlas thanks to the raked rear pillar. The rear end also features new lights and a sculpted bumper to give the crossover more road presence. The chrome accents on the lower body sides, rear bumper and windows also help with that.

Meanwhile, R-Line trims come with even more heavily sculpted bumpers, boasting chrome and piano black treatments to go with the 21-inch alloy wheels. Overall, the Atlas Cross Sport is definitely a more stylish-looking product than the model on which it is based.

Moving on to the interior, we spot a new steering wheel, contrast stitching on the door inserts and seats, and there are also new tech features like available wireless mobile charging. Buyers who don’t mind spending a little extra can also opt for heated rear seats and steering wheel, ventilated front seats, rear sunshades, and the 12-speaker Fender Premium Audio system.

Eight trim levels will be made available in total: S, SE, SE w/Tech, SE w/Tech R-Line, SEL, SEL R-Line, SEL Premium and SEL Premium R-Line.

There are also upgraded Volkswagen Car-Net connected features through the mobile app (offered at no additional charge for five years from the purchase date). Owners can remote start and stop the engine, lock and unlock the doors remotely, honk remotely, flash the lights, find the last parked location and check the vehicle status – fuel level, mileage, door and window status. Furthermore, Car-Net Hotspot allows passengers to connect to the internet with up to four devices simultaneously, using 4G LTE-enabled speeds.

Moving on to driver assistance systems, the following two are new: Traffic Jam Assist (TJA) and Dynamic Road Sign Display. The former uses the front camera and front radar sensor to maintain a following distance from the car in front, operating alongside the Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Keeping System. As for the latter, it can display speed limits, no passing zones, school zones and so on.

Also read: New 2020 VW Atlas Cross Sport – Here’s The Production Version

Finally, the engine range. There are two available powertrains in a 276 HP V6 and a 235 HP four-cylinder turbocharged TSI gasoline unit. Both work with an eight-speed automatic gearbox and are available with 4Motion all-wheel drive. Also, the V6 version is said to have a 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) towing rating when equipped with the V6 Towing Package.

Pricing for the 2020 VW Atlas Cross Sport will be announced closer to the model’s launch date, which is this upcoming Spring.