Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid vs Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport

The Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid remains a great option for families who want the benefits of electrification without adopting a fully electric-vehicle lifestyle. Introduced for the 2017 model year and essentially unchanged for 2024, the Pacifica Hybrid is the only minivan available in the United States with a plug-in hybrid powertrain. That gives it an emissions advantage over the rival Honda Odyssey, Kia Carnival, and Toyota Sienna.

Verdict: A plug-in hybrid powertrain enhances a well-executed minivan.

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.

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