Ford Explorer vs Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport

2022 Ford Explorer
2022 Ford Explorer
$35,510MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2024 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport
2024 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport
$36,985MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 Ford Explorer
$35,510MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2024 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport
$36,985MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
Overview

MSRP

$35,510

MSRP

$36,985

Average price

$25,539

Average price

$31,153

Listings

9371

Listings

8099
Ratings & Reviews
User Reviews
User Reviews

Expert reviews

7.5 out of 10

Expert reviews

7.0 out of 10
Pros
  • Multiple powertrain options
  • Plenty of cargo space
  • Great safety ratings
Cons
  • Cramped third row
  • Outdated infotainment technology
  • Unimpressive value equation
Pros
  • Standard advanced safety features
  • Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
  • Plenty of cargo space
Cons
  • Cramped back seat
  • Fairly pedestrian performance
  • Poor ride quality

Reviews Summary

Two years ago, Ford redesigned its popular Explorer midsize three-row SUV. It moved to a rear-drive platform, added an optional hybrid powertrain, and offered everything from a value-rich base model to a luxurious Platinum trim level. Since then, Ford has added ST-Line, Timberline, and King Ranch trim levels while simultaneously honing the Explorer’s packaging to appeal to the broadest cross-section of Americans possible.

Reviews Summary

Volkswagen's efforts to grow its appeal in the United States have developed over a long process of trial and error, but VW showed it finally understood American tastes when it launched the Atlas three-row crossover SUV. And because not everyone needs three rows, VW followed up the standard Atlas with the two-row Cross Sport for the 2020 model year. Both versions get a significant refresh for 2024.

The 2024 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport gets most of the same updates as its three-row sibling, including different styling, more standard features, and the discontinuation of its six-cylinder engine option in favor of a more powerful turbocharged four-cylinder engine. These changes are aimed at making the Cross Sport more competitive against other midsize crossovers like the Chevrolet Blazer and Honda Pilot, the aged Ford Edge and Nissan Murano, and the more truck-like Jeep Grand Cherokee.

The 2024 Atlas Cross Sport lineup includes SE, SE with Technology, SEL, SEL R-Line, and SEL Premium R-Line trim levels. We drove the range-topping SEL Premium R-Line for this review.

Search for a Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport on CarGurus

No video found
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Popular Features & Specs

Engine

2.3L 300 hp I4

Engine

2.0L 269 hp I4

Drive Train

RWD

Drive Train

FWD

Seating Capacity

7

Seating Capacity

5

MPG City

20

MPG City

20

MPG Highway

28

MPG Highway

27
2022 Ford Explorer
2022 Ford Explorer
$35,510MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2024 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport
2024 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport
$36,985MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 Ford Explorer
$35,510MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2024 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport
$36,985MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
Overview
MSRP
$35,510
$36,985
Average price
$25,539
$31,153
Listings
Ratings & Reviews
User reviews
4.2
4.8
Expert reviews

7.5 out of 10

Read full review

7.0 out of 10

Read full review
Pros & cons
Pros
  • Multiple powertrain options
  • Plenty of cargo space
  • Great safety ratings
Cons
  • Cramped third row
  • Outdated infotainment technology
  • Unimpressive value equation
Pros
  • Standard advanced safety features
  • Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
  • Plenty of cargo space
Cons
  • Cramped back seat
  • Fairly pedestrian performance
  • Poor ride quality
Summary
Two years ago, Ford redesigned its popular Explorer midsize three-row SUV. It moved to a rear-drive platform, added an optional hybrid powertrain, and offered everything from a value-rich base model to a luxurious Platinum trim level. Since then, Ford has added ST-Line, Timberline, and King Ranch trim levels while simultaneously honing the Explorer’s packaging to appeal to the broadest cross-section of Americans possible.

Volkswagen's efforts to grow its appeal in the United States have developed over a long process of trial and error, but VW showed it finally understood American tastes when it launched the Atlas three-row crossover SUV. And because not everyone needs three rows, VW followed up the standard Atlas with the two-row Cross Sport for the 2020 model year. Both versions get a significant refresh for 2024.

The 2024 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport gets most of the same updates as its three-row sibling, including different styling, more standard features, and the discontinuation of its six-cylinder engine option in favor of a more powerful turbocharged four-cylinder engine. These changes are aimed at making the Cross Sport more competitive against other midsize crossovers like the Chevrolet Blazer and Honda Pilot, the aged Ford Edge and Nissan Murano, and the more truck-like Jeep Grand Cherokee.

The 2024 Atlas Cross Sport lineup includes SE, SE with Technology, SEL, SEL R-Line, and SEL Premium R-Line trim levels. We drove the range-topping SEL Premium R-Line for this review.

Search for a Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport on CarGurus

Video
No video found
No video found
Popular Features & Specs
Engine
2.3L 300 hp I4
2.0L 269 hp I4
Drive Train
RWD
FWD
Seating Capacity
7
5
MPG City
20
20
MPG Highway
28
27
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By: CarGurus + AI

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