The Atlas’s edgier sibling
If cargo space isn’t your top priority in an SUV, and you prefer rakish looks even more, look no further than the 2025 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport. The Cross Sport isn’t just a different name; it’s shorter and lower than the Atlas, losing the third row while gaining more second-row legroom and a more assertive attitude.
The Atlas Cross Sport offers the same powertrain as the regular Atlas: a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 269 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque through an eight-speed automatic transmission. Its presence is bolstered by more aggressive styling, with the same refreshed grille, headlights, and taillights carried over from the Atlas. The interior of the Cross Sport also benefits from a standard 12-inch infotainment touchscreen, an upgrade from the 2023 model’s standard 8-inch version. Front-wheel drive is standard, with Volkswagen’s 4Motion all-wheel-drive system being optional. The Atlas Cross Sport competes with the Jeep Grand Cherokee, Honda Passport, and the Hyundai Santa Fe, but Volkswagen’s August lease deal on the Atlas Cross Sport makes it a more attractive option.
2025 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport lease deal for September
Volkswagen is offering an attractive lease special for September. The 2025 Atlas Cross Sport SE Tech with 4MOTION can be leased for $459/month for 36 months with $0 security deposit and $4,999 due at signing. Taxes, title, license, dealer fees, and options are not included. The lease includes a mileage allowance of 10,000 miles per year (for a total of 30,000 miles over the term) and a disposition fee of $395 at lease end. This advertised lease deal is available in major metro areas such as Chicago, New York, and Los Angeles, and it runs through November 3, 2025. Learn more here.
2025 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport SE Tech with 4MOTION highlights
The 2025 Atlas Cross Sport SE Tech with 4MOTION standard features include all-wheel drive, 20-inch machined alloy wheels, exterior illuminated emblems, automatic LED adaptive front headlights with dynamic cornering lights, LED taillights, LED daytime running lights, heated side mirrors, hands-free power liftgate, automatic dimming rearview mirror, heated/ventilated front seats, 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat perforated leatherette seating surfaces, dual-zone automatic climate control, remote engine start, high beam control, park distance control (front and rear), a 12-inch infotainment touchscreen, a configurable instrument cluster, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, wireless device charging, a 6-speaker sound system, and remote keyless access with push-button start.
Just like its sibling, the Atlas Cross Sport has a robust set of standard safety tech, with features such as adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, forward collision warning with autonomous emergency braking and pedestrian/cyclist detection, lane change side assist, and an exit warning system.
The Cross Sport loses some interior volume in exchange for racier styling, but still provides comfortable seating for up to five passengers. The second row has 40.4 inches of legroom, almost three inches more than the Atlas’s 37.6 inches. The headroom in the back measures 37.8 inches, while the Atlas has 40.4 inches. The cargo capacity measures 40.3 cubic feet behind the second row, expanding to 77.6 cubic feet with the rear seats folded flat.
Final thoughts
The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport offers a new level of affordable SUV style thanks to its lower roofline and slanted greenhouse. For those who don’t need the extra row or the additional cargo capacity, the Atlas Cross Sport will draw just the right amount of attention. The September lease deal makes the Atlas Cross Sport even more appealing than it already is, but be sure to review the fine print of any lease contract before signing, as additional costs such as taxes, registration, and dealer fees can vary by location.
*Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes only. The information presented herein is based on manufacturer-provided lease offer information, which is subject to frequent change and may vary based on location, creditworthiness, and other factors. We are not a party to any lease agreements and assume no liability for the terms, conditions, availability, or accuracy of any lease offers mentioned. All terms, including but not limited to pricing, mileage allowances, and residual values, require direct verification with an authorized local OEM dealership. This article does not constitute financial advice or an endorsement of any particular lease or vehicle.
About the author
Amos Kwon
Contributing Writer, Autoblog