VW’s sportiest SUV is about to get a massive upgrade
A few months after unveiling the new 2027 Atlas, Volkswagen has now teased the all-new second-generation Atlas Cross Sport. Unlike the Atlas, this is a sportier two-row midsize SUV with a coupe-like roofline. Up until now, the Cross Sport has shared its engine and other major components with the larger Atlas, which is expected to continue as we head into the new model year. The teaser doesn’t give much away at all, but the 2027 VW Atlas gives us a good idea of what to expect from the next Atlas Cross Sport.
Sportier Looks For VW’s Midsizer
Volkswagen
In the single teaser image shared by VW (the 2026 model is pictured immediately above), we can see a portion of the Atlas Cross’ back window, which has a more angled slant than the boxier Atlas’ window. There’s also a neat rear spoiler, but that’s all that VW has been willing to share at this stage. From the front, the outgoing Atlas Cross Sport was very similar to the Atlas, so it will be interesting to see if VW adds even more distinguishing features for this next-gen model. Features like the illuminated VW grille badge on the 2027 Atlas will likely be available on the 2027 Atlas Cross Sport, too.
Inside, we expect the new Atlas Cross Sport to adopt the more upscale finishes, new infotainment system, and attractive ambient lighting we saw in the 2027 Atlas (pictured below). That should include an available touchscreen up to 15 inches in size. Cargo space should be generous, although the Cross Sport will likely be shorter than the Atlas, so total utility space won’t be as capacious.
VW
Under the hood, we expect the new Atlas Cross Sport to use the same 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine as found in the Atlas. It now produces 282 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. An eight-speed automatic transmission and optional all-wheel drive are expected. The new Atlas is getting a hybrid powertrain at a later stage, which we hope comes to the Atlas Cross Sport, too.
Pricing, Reveal Date, and Key Rivals
VW
There’s no word on pricing just yet. However, we do know that the 2027 VW Atlas starts at $41,610. The Atlas Cross Sport has typically been a little cheaper than the Atlas, so expect a starting price of just over $40,000. VW will reveal the five-seater crossover on August 10, 2026, so there’s only a few days to go before we see the full redesign.
In the two-row midsize crossover segment, the Atlas Cross Sport will once again go up against rivals like the Honda Passport and Toyota Crown Signia. The Passport is one of the most popular vehicles in this segment right now, so that’s one of the key vehicles the new VW will have to beat.
About the author
Karl Furlong
Senior Editor, Autoblog