2025 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport New Design Comparison

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport brings exciting changes to Volkswagen’s midsize SUV lineup. The 2024 model came with a fresh design and significant upgrades, which continue in the newest version. An additional SEL R-Line Black trim features blacked-out details and 20-inch black aluminum alloy wheels, while new exterior color options include Mountain Lake Blue and Avocado Green.

The infotainment system’s 12-inch floating display enhances the user experience with advanced connectivity options. With a competitive starting MSRP of $37,190, the Atlas Cross Sport offers strong value in the midsize SUV segment. Read as we make a 2024 vs. 2025 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport comparison so you can decide if the newest model meets your needs for your daily San Juan Capistrano, California, drive.

Detailed Review of the 2025 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport New Design

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport showcases the brand’s latest design philosophy with a bold exterior appearance. The SEL R-Line Black trim stands out with its blacked-out details. The new paint options give you more opportunity to make a unique statement.

The design emphasizes style and functionality, with the Atlas Cross Sport offering an impressive cargo capacity of 40.3 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats, expanding to 77.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The spacious interior makes the Atlas Cross Sport practical for daily driving around San Juan Capistrano and longer trips exploring the rest of California.

Exterior Enhancements and Styling Differences

The 2025 Atlas Cross Sport features full LED exterior lighting and a black grille on the base trim. The SE with Technology trim has an illuminated light bar integrated into the front grille, adding a modern touch to the vehicle’s appearance, with other trims adding unique elements. The vehicle is 195.6 inches long, 78.3 inches wide, and 67.8 inches tall.

Wheel options range from 18 to 21 inches, depending on the trim level. The new SEL R-Line Black trim package adds blacked-out exterior elements and 20-inch black aluminum alloy wheels for a more aggressive appearance. The Cross Sport’s 6.3 inches of ground clearance is adequate for typical driving conditions.

Interior Redesign and Comfort Features

The interior emphasizes comfort with premium materials. The cabin features a leatherette-trimmed soft-touch dash and upgraded materials throughout. The passenger volume measures 112 cubic feet, providing ample space for front and rear passengers.

Comfort features include heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and tri-zone climate control. Upper trims come with eight-way power-adjustable front seats with lumbar support. The SEL Premium R-Line trim adds quilted leather seats for an extra touch of luxury. The interior layout maximizes space efficiency with a well-designed center console configuration that contributes to the open feel of the cabin while maintaining easy access to controls and storage.

Seating Configuration and Material Upgrades

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport’s five-passenger configuration provides generous space for all occupants. Front legroom measures 41.7 inches, while rear passengers enjoy 40.4 inches. The base model has leatherette seating surfaces, with the upper trims featuring leather seats.

Dashboard Layout and Infotainment System Innovations

The 2025 Atlas Cross Sport features a 12-inch floating infotainment display as its centerpiece. The Volkswagen Digital Cockpit Pro provides a 10.3-inch fully configurable instrument cluster. The system includes wireless App-Connect and wireless charging capabilities.

Six strategically placed USB-C ports with fast-charge capability add to the convenience. The SEL Premium R-Line trim adds a Harman Kardon premium audio system for enhanced sound quality.

Performance Upgrades: Engine, Transmission, and Handling

Performance sees a notable boost for 2025, with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine delivering 269 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain enables acceleration from 0 to 60 mph in 6.7 to 6.9 seconds.

An eight-speed automatic transmission delivers power to either the front wheels or all four wheels through the available 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system. Fuel economy ratings are 20 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway for front-wheel-drive models, while all-wheel-drive versions achieve 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. The Atlas Cross Sport can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.

Safety Features: New Additions and Enhanced Assistance Systems

The IQ.DRIVE suite of driver-assistance features includes Travel Assist for semi-automated driving assistance, Front Assist with forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking, and Side Assist with active blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The system also includes Emergency Assist and Lane Assist.

Standard safety equipment includes six airbags and a rearview camera. Higher trim levels add an area view 360-degree camera system. The head-up display, available on select trims, projects essential information directly in your line of sight.

Comparative Analysis With Previous Model Years

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport brings significant improvements over the 2024 model. The new turbocharged engine delivers increased power, from 235 hp in the 2024 model to 269 hp in the 2025 version. Interior comfort sees upgrades with enhanced materials and a new 12-inch infotainment display.

The 2025 model’s starting MSRP of $37,190 represents competitive pricing in the segment. The new SEL R-Line Black trim and additional exterior colors provide more personalization options than in previous years.

Match-Up Against Competitors

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport competes directly with the Ford Edge, Honda Passport, and Chevrolet Blazer in the midsize SUV segment. Its engine provides competitive performance metrics.

The Atlas Cross Sport’s maximum cargo capacity and passenger volume position it well against its rivals. Its starting price makes it a competitive option in the segment, especially considering its standard features and technology.

Unique Selling Propositions of the Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport

Key advantages of the 2025 Atlas Cross Sport include the IQ.DRIVE suite of driver-assistance features, the new SEL R-Line Black trim’s distinctive styling elements, the powerful turbocharged engine, and the spacious interior.

Volkswagen backs its reputation for quality with a four-year/50,000-mile new vehicle limited warranty. The Carefree Coverage program includes scheduled maintenance for the first two years or 20,000 miles at no additional charge.

Experience the 2025 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport at Capistrano Volkswagen

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport is a compelling choice in the midsize SUV segment with its updated design, powerful turbocharged engine, and advanced technology features. Volkswagen continues to expand its SUV lineup while moving toward electric vehicles and sustainability. The Atlas Cross Sport combines performance, comfort, and practicality in an affordable package. It’s an attractive option if you want a modern, well-equipped midsize SUV for your daily San Juan Capistrano drive. If you’re ready to see this impressive vehicle, visit us at Capistrano Volkswagen or contact us for more information.