2020 VW Atlas Cross Sport Review: Stylish And Sporty SUV

by Alex Braham 57 views

Hey guys! Today, we’re diving deep into the 2020 VW Atlas Cross Sport, a vehicle that’s been turning heads with its sleek design and sporty appeal. If you're in the market for a mid-size SUV that blends style with practicality, you've come to the right place. Let’s explore everything this vehicle has to offer, from its performance and interior features to its overall driving experience. Is the 2020 VW Atlas Cross Sport the right choice for you? Keep reading to find out!

Overview of the 2020 VW Atlas Cross Sport

The 2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport is essentially a shorter, sportier version of the popular Volkswagen Atlas. It caters to those who want the practicality of an SUV but prefer a more stylish and dynamic design. Unlike the three-row Atlas, the Cross Sport offers two rows of seating, emphasizing rear passenger space and cargo capacity. This makes it an excellent choice for small families, couples, or anyone who frequently hauls gear. The sloped roofline gives it a coupe-like appearance, setting it apart from more traditional SUVs.

Key Features and Highlights

When it comes to standout features, the 2020 Atlas Cross Sport doesn't disappoint:

  • Sleek Design: The coupe-like roofline and updated front and rear fascias give it a modern and sporty look.
  • Spacious Interior: Despite the sloped roof, the rear seats offer ample headroom and legroom. The cargo area is also generous, providing plenty of space for luggage, groceries, and sports equipment.
  • Advanced Technology: The Cross Sport comes with a range of tech features, including an intuitive infotainment system, smartphone integration, and advanced driver-assistance systems.
  • Engine Options: You can choose between a turbocharged four-cylinder engine for efficiency or a V6 for more power and towing capability.

Performance and Handling

Let's get down to the nitty-gritty of how the 2020 Atlas Cross Sport performs on the road. The driving experience is a crucial factor for many buyers, so we'll break down the engine options, handling, and overall performance.

Engine Options and Performance

The 2020 Atlas Cross Sport offers two engine choices:

  1. 2.0-liter Turbocharged Four-Cylinder: This engine produces 235 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. It’s a solid choice for those prioritizing fuel efficiency and everyday driving. The turbocharger provides decent low-end torque, making it responsive in city traffic. However, it can feel a bit strained when fully loaded or when climbing steep hills.
  2. 3.6-liter V6: The V6 engine delivers 276 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque. This is the preferred option if you need more power for towing or frequently carry passengers and cargo. The V6 provides smoother acceleration and a more confident driving experience overall. It also offers a higher towing capacity, making it suitable for weekend adventures.

Both engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, which provides smooth and timely shifts. Front-wheel drive is standard, but all-wheel drive is available for enhanced traction in various weather conditions.

Handling and Ride Quality

The Atlas Cross Sport offers a comfortable and composed ride, making it suitable for long road trips and daily commutes. The suspension effectively absorbs bumps and road imperfections, providing a smooth experience for both the driver and passengers. The steering is light and responsive, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. However, it's not the most engaging SUV to drive, as the focus is more on comfort than sporty handling.

For those who opt for the all-wheel-drive version, the Atlas Cross Sport offers decent off-road capability. While it's not designed for serious off-roading, it can handle gravel roads and light trails without any issues. The elevated ride height and available drive modes further enhance its versatility.

Interior and Technology

Stepping inside the 2020 Atlas Cross Sport, you'll find a well-designed and spacious cabin. Volkswagen has paid attention to detail, creating an interior that is both functional and comfortable. Let's take a closer look at the interior features and technology.

Interior Design and Comfort

The interior of the Atlas Cross Sport is characterized by its clean lines and straightforward layout. The materials used are generally of good quality, with soft-touch surfaces in key areas. The seats are comfortable and supportive, making them ideal for long drives. Rear passengers will appreciate the generous legroom and headroom, even with the sloped roofline.

The dashboard is well-organized, with easy-to-reach controls. The infotainment screen is integrated seamlessly into the dashboard, and the physical buttons and knobs make it easy to adjust the volume and climate settings. Overall, the interior design is functional and user-friendly.

Technology and Features

The 2020 Atlas Cross Sport comes with a range of technology features, including:

  • Infotainment System: The standard infotainment system features a touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. Higher trims offer a larger screen with enhanced features such as navigation and a premium sound system.
  • Digital Cockpit: Available on higher trims, the Digital Cockpit replaces the traditional instrument cluster with a customizable digital display. This provides the driver with a wealth of information, including speed, fuel economy, and navigation directions.
  • Driver-Assistance Systems: The Atlas Cross Sport offers a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. These features enhance safety and make driving easier in various conditions.
  • Connectivity: The vehicle offers multiple USB ports, a wireless charging pad, and a Wi-Fi hotspot, ensuring that you and your passengers stay connected on the go.

Trim Levels and Features

The 2020 VW Atlas Cross Sport comes in several trim levels, each offering a different set of features and equipment. Here’s a breakdown of the key trims:

S Trim

The base S trim is well-equipped with standard features like a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and basic safety features like forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking. It's a great value option for those who want the essentials without breaking the bank.

SE Trim

Stepping up to the SE trim adds more comfort and convenience features, including a larger 8-inch touchscreen, heated front seats, and keyless entry. It also includes additional safety features like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The SE trim strikes a good balance between price and features.

SEL Trim

The SEL trim adds luxury and technology features, such as a panoramic sunroof, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist. It also includes a premium audio system and a navigation system. The SEL trim is a popular choice for those who want a more upscale experience.

R-Line Trims (SE R-Line and SEL R-Line)

The R-Line trims add sporty styling elements, such as unique exterior trim, sporty wheels, and interior accents. They offer a more aggressive and distinctive look compared to the other trims. The R-Line trims are available on both the SE and SEL models.

Premium SEL Trim

The top-of-the-line Premium SEL trim includes all the features of the lower trims, plus leather upholstery, ventilated front seats, and a surround-view camera system. It offers the ultimate in luxury and convenience.

Fuel Efficiency

Fuel efficiency is an important consideration for many buyers. The 2020 Atlas Cross Sport offers reasonable fuel economy for its class, but it's not the most fuel-efficient SUV on the market. Here’s what you can expect:

  • 2.0-liter Turbocharged Four-Cylinder: This engine achieves an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway with front-wheel drive. Adding all-wheel drive slightly reduces the fuel economy.
  • 3.6-liter V6: The V6 engine achieves an EPA-estimated 17 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway with front-wheel drive. Again, adding all-wheel drive slightly reduces the fuel economy.

Keep in mind that your actual fuel economy may vary depending on your driving habits and conditions. However, these estimates provide a general idea of what to expect.

Pros and Cons

To give you a clear picture of the 2020 Atlas Cross Sport, let’s summarize the pros and cons:

Pros:

  • Stylish Design: The coupe-like roofline and updated styling give it a modern and sporty appearance.
  • Spacious Interior: The rear seats offer ample legroom and headroom, and the cargo area is generous.
  • Comfortable Ride: The suspension provides a smooth and comfortable ride, making it suitable for long trips.
  • User-Friendly Technology: The infotainment system is intuitive and easy to use, and the available driver-assistance systems enhance safety.

Cons:

  • Fuel Economy: The fuel economy is not the best in its class, especially with the V6 engine.
  • Driving Experience: While comfortable, it's not the most engaging SUV to drive.
  • Base Engine Performance: The four-cylinder engine can feel strained when fully loaded or when climbing hills.

Final Verdict

So, what’s the final verdict on the 2020 VW Atlas Cross Sport? Overall, it’s a solid choice for those who want a stylish and practical mid-size SUV. It offers a spacious interior, a comfortable ride, and a range of technology features. While the fuel economy and driving experience may not be the best in its class, the Atlas Cross Sport excels in other areas.

If you prioritize style and comfort over sporty handling and fuel efficiency, the 2020 Atlas Cross Sport is definitely worth considering. It’s a well-rounded SUV that offers a lot of value for the money. Whether you’re a small family, a couple, or an individual, the Atlas Cross Sport has something to offer.

Thanks for joining me on this in-depth review. I hope this article has helped you make a more informed decision. Happy driving, guys!