While Volkswagen will tell you that the 2027 Atlas Cross Sport is brand new, looking at it might tell a different story. Yes, it gets entirely new sheet metal. However, it does ride on an upgraded version of the MQB chassis. The powertrain gets a similar treatment — improved but not new. So, really, this feels like a story of “It wasn’t broken, so don’t fix it; just make it that much better.”
At first glance, it appears Volkswagen has succeeded.
Exterior Polish
The front grille, illuminated on all but the base SE trim, gets a double bar lighting signature that echoes at the rear. It’s futuristic yet instantly recognizable as a Volkswagen. The overall shape of the 5-seat midsize SUV remains the same, but its all-new sheet metal gets a more streamlined and refined appearance.
The Atlas Cross Sport rides on the same platform as its longer 3-row sibling the Atlas, but it loses 5.4-inches off the back end, which accommodates that third row. The flush bumper adds to the Atlas Cross Sport’s, well, sporty look.
The base SE model comes with 18-inch wheels, but you can get 20- or 21- versions on higher trims.
Getting Into It
The interior gets even better with three color themes: a light pebble gray, traditional black, or sophisticated brown. Leatherette upholstery covers seats and surfaces on lower trims, and there are two different leather options available on the higher SEL and SEL R trims. Designers implemented contrast stitching, piping, texture, open pore wood, and premium looking materials, giving the interior an upgraded and luxe feel.
The seats feel comfortable, with supportive bolstering that will accommodate a variety of body types. You’ll also get heating, ventilation, and even massaging seats depending on which trim you choose.
An ambient lighting feature surrounds the cabin in a rainbow of colors. A new Driver Experience Dial on the center console makes it easy to toggle between different themes depending on your mood. If you’re mood says no lights, you can turn them off, too.
Both passenger and cargo room in the Atlas Cross Sport feel cavernous. Second-row passengers will enjoy excellent leg- and headroom. We do not have exact specs yet, but we fit a 6-foot 4-inch colleague in there just fine. Cargo space also looks impressive – official numbers on both are coming shortly.
Depending on trim level — either SE, SE Tech, SEL, or SEL R — you can get extra features including a panoramic sunroof and upgraded Harman Kardon audio system, among other creature comforts.
All models get a digital instrument cluster and either a 12.9- or 15-inch touchscreen for infotainment tasks. Either way, both are big, so you don’t feel stiffed if you opt for a lower trim.
Power Up
While the Atlas Cross Sport gets the same 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine the previous model did, now it’s upgraded to produce more power, to the tune of 282 horses. Of course, we don’t know how that translates while driving but we’ll let you know as soon as we get behind the wheel. The Atlas Cross Sport can tow up to 5,000 pounds regardless of which trim you buy.
A hybrid powertrain is coming but that won’t be for several years yet, according to the folks at Volkswagen.
We currently don’t have information on pricing, fuel economy, or more detailed specifications, but those should arrive before the Atlas Cross Sport launches in early 2027.
