2027 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport Unveiled

The second-generation Atlas Cross Sport arrives with smoother exterior lines and a more compact greenhouse. The roof-line is lowered by 2.1 inches, the rear overhang is trimmed by 5.4 inches, and the tailgate is nearly flush with the rear bumper, giving the model a sleeker profile while retaining the same wheelbase as the three-row Atlas. Both vehicles share Volkswagen’s MQB Evo architecture, which also underpins the revised front-end styling, including wider-spaced stacked daytime-running lights and a double-light front fascia framing an illuminated VW badge.

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All trims are powered by the EVO5 version of the EA888 2.0-liter turbocharged, direct-injected four-cylinder TSI engine. Car and Driver notes that the engine now produces 282 hp—13 hp more than the prior model—while torque is modestly reduced to 258 lb-ft. The powertrain is paired with an eight-speed automatic and is available with front-wheel drive or Volkswagen’s 4Motion all-wheel-drive system. Although official EPA ratings have not been released, the outlet estimates a 2-mpg improvement over the previous generation, projecting roughly 25 mpg combined for front-wheel-drive models and 23 mpg for all-wheel-drive versions.

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Inside, the Cross Sport receives a more upscale cabin. The dashboard is nearly vertical and wrapped in real wood trim. A 12.9-inch central touchscreen is standard on the base SE trim, while higher trims receive a 15-inch display. All models feature a 10.3-inch Digital Cockpit Pro and a shifter relocated to the steering column, freeing space for two wireless chargers, cupholders, and a multifunction “Driver Experience Dial” that controls volume, drive modes, and ambient lighting. Additional interior upgrades include door-release handles on the front armrests, pull-up sunshades on rear side windows, and a nine-speaker audio system as standard. The top SEL Premium R-Line trim adds a 14-speaker Harman Kardon system, Nappa leather seating, and 21-inch wheels.

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Both the Atlas and the Cross Sport are built exclusively at Volkswagen’s Chattanooga, Tennessee plant. The three-row Atlas is slated to begin sales in October of the current year, while the two-row Cross Sport is scheduled to launch in early 2027. Trim levels will include SE, SE Tech, SEL R-Line, and SEL Premium R-Line, each offered with either front-wheel drive or 4Motion all-wheel drive.

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