Form Takes the Wheel
Volkswagen has officially unveiled the all-new 2027 Atlas Cross Sport, and as expected, it shares much in common with the new 7-seater Atlas revealed earlier this year. The main difference is its two-row cabin and coupe-like roofline, similar to the relationship between the BMW X5 and X6.
Both models use the updated MQB Evo architecture, but the new Atlas Cross Sport is 5.4 inches shorter, measuring 195.6 inches long. It is also 2.1 inches lower than its 7-seat counterpart, adding a sporty stance. Body-colored rocker panels provide another point of differentiation. Otherwise, the all-new, second-generation model should already look and feel familiar to anyone who has seen the new Atlas.
A New Chapter Starts Here
Up front, the Atlas Cross Sport features double lightlines and an illuminated VW badge on all but the base trim. Instead of the more traditional lighting signature found on the outgoing model, the midsize crossover adopts a segmented, pixel-like design that gives it a more modern appearance. The motif carries over to the rear, where a piano-black surround provides a more premium finish reminiscent of the Audi Q8.
The redesigned interior looks airier than that of the outgoing model, thanks to a cleaner, less-busy layout. Stylish gray wood trim comes standard, while buyers can choose from three interior color palettes: Pebble Gray, Black, and Medium Brown. The two highest trims offer Varenna and Nappa leather, respectively, along with 30-color ambient lighting for a cozier cabin.
In terms of technology, the new Atlas Cross Sport features a revised 12-way ergonomic driver’s seat. Upper trims add thigh support and an improved full-back massage function for both the driver and front passenger. A 14-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio system is available on the flagship trim, along with a 15-inch infotainment screen (the base model receives a 12.9-inch display instead). Other equipment includes a standard 10.25-inch configurable Digital Cockpit Pro gauge cluster, an updated Qi2 wireless charging that allows two devices to charge simultaneously, and five USB-C ports.
Like the 7-seater Atlas, the sportier-looking Atlas Cross Sport uses an updated 2.0-liter EA888 Evo5 turbocharged inline-four producing 282 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. That represents a 13-hp increase but a 15-lb-ft decrease compared with the outgoing engine. Volkswagen nevertheless expects improved fuel economy. An 8-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive come standard, while 4Motion all-wheel drive is available across the lineup.
Safety upgrades include a new front-center airbag, bringing the total to seven, along with an improved IQ.DRIVE driver-assistance suite. Travel Assist, the brand’s hands-on semi-automated driving system, now supports driver-initiated lane changes.
More to Come
Additional information, including pricing, will be announced closer to the all-new Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport’s launch in early 2027. A hybrid variant will follow with the model’s midcycle refresh, allowing Volkswagen to capitalize on growing demand for hybrids in the U.S.
That addition could prove important, as rivals such as the Mazda CX-70 already offer electrified powertrains. Others, including the Honda Passport and Chevrolet Blazer, remain gas-only, so the automaker may not feel the need to rush.
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