2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport

　　

2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport Review

byAlex NishimotoCorrespondent

　　Alex Nishimoto has worked in the automotive industry since 2007. He was a staff writer for MotorTrend for 10 years and since then has contributed to CNET, PRI, AutoWise and other publications.

　　A smaller, more stylish version of the standard Volkswagen Atlas with a raked roofline and unique design touches, the 2022 Atlas Cross Sport is yet another option in VW's expanding crossover SUV lineup. The Cross Sport is shorter in length than its three-row sibling, and it doesn't have quite as much cargo space. But the Cross Sport does set itself apart from the regular Atlas with its emphasis on style.

　　

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport SE 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.78 per gallon for premium unleaded in North Dakota.

Monthly estimates based on costs in North Dakota

　　$207/mo  for Atlas Cross Sport SE

　　Atlas Cross Sport SE

　　SE 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A) - $33,635 MSRPSE 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A) - $35,535 MSRPSE w/Technology 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A) - $37,805 MSRPSE w/Technology 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 8A) - $39,555 MSRPSE w/Technology 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A) - $39,705 MSRPSE w/Technology 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 8A) (Most Popular) - $41,455 MSRPSEL 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A) - $43,405 MSRPSEL 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 8A) - $45,155 MSRPSEL R-Line 4dr SUV AWD w/Prod. End 04/22 (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A) - $44,805 MSRPSEL R-Line 4dr SUV AWD w/Prod. End 04/22 (3.6L 6cyl 8A) - $46,555 MSRPSEL R-Line Black 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A) - $45,355 MSRPSEL R-Line Black 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 8A) - $47,105 MSRPSEL Premium R-Line 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 8A) - $50,805 MSRP

　　vs

　　$229/mo

　　Avg. Large SUV

　　We like the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport and think it's a smart pick for a midsize SUV. But there are alternatives to consider such as the Honda Passport, redesigned Jeep Grand Cherokee and Subaru Outback. Check out our in-depth Expert Rating for more detail on where the Cross Sport shines and where it comes up a little short.

　　zzdcar Expert Rating

　　Our VerdictThe zzdcar Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.

　　Good

　　7.9

　　out of 10

　　zzdcar TESTED

　　Rated for you by America's best test team.

　　

Performance

8.0/10

　　How does the Atlas Cross Sport drive? The Cross Sport is a pleasant-driving midsize SUV. Its surprisingly agile handling and accurate steering belie the size of this large people-mover. Our test model had the V6 engine. It's responsive and it seems pretty strong at low speeds but starts to get winded at highway speeds. In our testing, our Cross Sport needed 8.4 seconds to go from 0 to 60 mph, which is more than a second slower than the Honda Passport. Braking performance in the Cross Sport, however, is smooth and confident.

　　

Comfort

7.5/10

　　How comfortable is the Atlas Cross Sport? The Atlas Cross Sport trades a bit of comfort for its agility. It isn't rough-riding, but there are cushier SUVs in this class. On the other hand, it does feel more buttoned-down at higher cruise speeds. The front seats are decently comfortable but don't have a whole lot of extra adjustability or bolstering. The rear seatbacks recline a generous amount, which can help your rear passengers get comfortable on long trips.

　　The climate control system works effectively but is dual-zone only, so the rear passengers can't control what comes out of their vents. Wind and road noise on the highway is minimal, so you and your passengers can hold a conversation without much trouble.

　　Continue reading zzdcar Expert Rating below