Top 3 Best Improvements on the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport
The Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport underwent a large overhaul for the 2024 model year. Not quite a new generation of the big SUV, the update is more than just a few new styling updates.
Always a good combination of space, utility, and style, the refresh has addressed a few key areas. These aren’t necessarily weaknesses of the old model, but areas that could benefit from an improvement to better match the competition.
None of these are more prominent, or noticeable, than the three we have listed below.
Engine
Gone are the old engine choices. The 3.6-liter V6 and previous 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder have been put out to pasture. In their place is a singular engine, a new 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder. It makes 269 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque on regular pump gas.
Compared to the old 2.0-liter, the new engine has a healthy increase in power across the board. In relation to the V6, the new turbo engine is a bit down on power, but up in terms of torque. The numbers don’t tell the whole story though.
The new engine has abundant power throughout the rpm range and never feels strained or overworked. It’s a smooth operator that makes a nice, mellow sound. Even when the Atlas Cross Sport is loaded up, the turbo is up to the task.
The icing on the cake is fuel economy. The 2024 Atlas Cross Sport AWD achieves 19 mpg (12.2 L/100 km) in the city and 26 mpg (9.2 L/100 km) on the highway. That’s 1 mpg more in the city and 2 mpg more on the highway compared to the V6 it replaces.
Chassis
The previous Atlas Cross Sport always had a decidedly SUV feel behind the wheel. It didn’t drive like Volkswagen’s other products, as it was akin to the feel of a large American utility vehicle. With the 2024 model, this has changed.
The Cross Sport doesn’t drive as large as it used to. It feels more nimble, more responsive, and overall easier to operate. There's hints of Volkswagen driving DNA throughout. It’s not a sporty SUV, but it’s not a large lumbering one either. Ride quality has been affected by these updates and is acceptable for this segment.
Interior
The interior of the Atlas was always nice, but that’s as far as we would go to describe it. It was acceptable for the segment, but not a standout. The 2024 model has improved the overall style, look, and material quality of the Atlas Cross Sport.
It’s a minimalist approach with a large infotainment screen that now protrudes out of the dash. Gone are the buttons and dials for the HVAC as well as the audio system. The dashboard features a large in-lay that gives the vehicle a bit more visual appeal. Even the conventional gear selector has been ditched for a cool toggle switch and button combo.
Overall, the new interior makes the Atlas Cross Sport look and feel more premium and special. The new engine and driving experience complement that, further increasing the appeal of Volkswagens big SUV.
A 20+ year industry veteran, Mike rejoins the AutoGuide team as the Managing Editor. He started his career at a young age working at dealerships, car rentals, and used car advertisers. He then found his true passion, automotive writing. After contributing to multiple websites for several years, he spent the next six years working at the head office of an automotive OEM, before returning back to the field he loves. He is a member of the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC), and Midwest Automotive Media Association (MAMA). He's the recipient of a feature writing of the year award and multiple video of the year awards.
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