Volkswagen has given its midsize SUVs a major makeover for 2024. The Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport have been updated with new styling, more power, and enhanced technology. Here’s what you need to know about these refreshed models.
New Look, New Attitude
The 2024 Volkswagen Atlas and Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport have a sharper and more aggressive appearance than their predecessors. They feature revised front and rear bumpers, new LED headlights and taillights, and new wheel designs. The R-Line trim adds sporty touches, such as a gloss black grille, black roof rails, and 21-inch wheels.
The interior of the 2024 Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport has also been upgraded with more premium materials and features. The dashboard has a new design with a 12-inch touchscreen infotainment system that supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The seats are heated and ventilated, and the steering wheel is also heated. There are six USB-C ports with fast charging capability and a wireless charging pad for compatible devices. The cabin also offers plenty of space and comfort, with up to 77.6 cubic feet of cargo room in the Atlas Cross Sport and 96.8 cubic feet in the Atlas.
More Power, More Fun
The 2024 Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport have ditched the optional 3.6-liter V6 engine and now offer only one powertrain option: a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that delivers 245 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. This is an increase of 15 horsepower and 15 lb-ft of torque over the previous engine version. The engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and either front-wheel drive or 4Motion all-wheel drive.
The 2024 Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport also benefit from improved driving dynamics, thanks to a new steering system, a retuned suspension, and a revised brake system. The SUVs offer a smooth and composed ride, with a choice of four driving modes: Eco, Normal, Sport, and Custom. The 4Motion all-wheel drive system also has a dedicated off-road mode and an off-road custom mode that allows the driver to adjust various settings such as steering, throttle, and traction control.
More Tech, More Safety
The 2024 Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport are equipped with a host of advanced technology and safety features that make them smarter and safer than ever. The SUVs come standard with IQ.DRIVE, Volkswagen’s suite of driver-assistance systems that includes:
- Forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking and pedestrian detection
- Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert
- Lane-keeping assist with lane departure warning
- Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go function and lane-centering
- Travel assist, which combines adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist to provide semi-autonomous driving on highways
- Emergency assist, which can bring the vehicle to a stop if the driver is unresponsive
- Park assist, which can steer the vehicle into parallel or perpendicular parking spaces
The 2024 Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport also offer other optional features such as a head-up display, a digital gauge cluster, a panoramic sunroof, a Fender premium sound system, and a 360-degree camera system.
How They Compare
The 2024 Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport are among the best midsize SUVs on the market, but they face stiff competition from other models in the segment. Here’s how they compare to some of their rivals:
| Model | Starting Price | Engine | Horsepower | Torque | Cargo Space |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 Volkswagen Atlas | $38,065 | 2.0L turbo I4 | 245 hp | 273 lb-ft | 96.8 cu ft |
| 2024 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport | $36,985 | 2.0L turbo I4 | 245 hp | 273 lb-ft | 77.6 cu ft |
| 2024 Kia Telluride | $37,355 | 3.8L V6 | 291 hp | 262 lb-ft | 87 cu ft |
| 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander | $44,465 | 3.5L V6 + electric motors | 306 hp (combined) | N/A | 84.3 cu ft |
| 2024 Mazda CX-90 | $40,970 | 2.5L turbo I4 | 250 hp | 320 lb-ft | 71.2 cu ft |
| 2024 Mazda CX-90 Hybrid | $48,820 | 2.5L turbo I4 + electric motor | 227 hp (combined) | 310 lb-ft (combined) | 70.2 cu ft |
| Ford Bronco | $41,025 | 2.3L turbo I4 | 300 hp | 325 lb-ft | 83 cu ft |
As you can see, the 2024 Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport offer a competitive balance of performance, space, and price. They also have an edge over some of their rivals regarding technology and safety features. However, they may not be as exciting or engaging to drive as some of the more dynamic models in the segment.
The 2024 Volkswagen Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport are impressive midsize SUVs that have been improved in many ways. They have a more attractive and modern design, a more powerful and efficient engine, and a more sophisticated and spacious interior. They also have a generous array of technology and safety features that make them smart and reliable companions on the road. Whether you need a seven-seater family hauler or a five-seater sporty cruiser, the 2024 Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport have you covered.
