GMC Yukon XL vs Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport

2016 GMC Yukon XL
2016 GMC Yukon XL
$51,015MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2026 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport
2026 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport
$38,300MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2016 GMC Yukon XL
$51,015MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2026 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport
$38,300MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

Overview

Years produced

2000-Present

Years produced

2020-Present

MSRP

$51,015

MSRP

$38,300

Listings

551

Listings

274

Ratings & Reviews

User Reviews
User Reviews

Expert reviews

6.7 out of 10

Expert reviews

7.2 out of 10

Pros

  • Well-crafted interior

  • Spacious back seat and deep cargo area

  • Well equipped for the money

Cons

  • Underpowered

  • Firm ride

  • Annoying climate controls

Reviews Summary

With options quickly disappearing in the near-luxury large SUV segment, the GMC Yukon XL seems to deliver with a duo of powerful engines, a wealth of seating and storage, and 8,000 pounds of towing capacity. But manufacturing oversights and some competent competition mean you should strongly consider alternatives before making your decision. Before you discount the Yukon entirely, take a look at improvements that have been added to the 2016: a faster processor for its IntelliLink system, Apple CarPlay, and added safety features like lane-keep assist and auto high beams, plus SLT trims and above are now fitted with a hands-free power rear liftgate.

Reviews Summary

Unless buyers want a luxury model, the herd of midsize two-row crossovers is thinning as buyers gravitate to three-rows. Like the Mazda CX-70 and the Honda Passport, the Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport is a two-row version of a more popular three-row crossover, but its lowered roof and unique tail make it feel like a distinctive, standalone model akin to the Nissan Murano or the Chevrolet Blazer. Last refreshed for the 2024 model year, the Atlas Cross Sport is essentially unchanged for 2026, ahead of the arrival of a redesigned model for 2027. For this review, we grabbed a lower-level front-wheel drive (FWD) SE with Technology model to experience the value equation of this Volkswagen at a palatable price.

Verdict: The Atlas Cross Sport is a great value and well made, even if it's not enjoyable to drive.

No video found

Popular Features & Specs

Engine

5.3L 355 hp V8 Flex Fuel Vehicle

Engine

2.0L 269 hp I4

Drivetrain

4X2

Drivetrain

FWD

Seating Capacity

9

Seating Capacity

5

Horsepower

355 hp @ 5600 rpm

Horsepower

MPG City

16

MPG City

20

MPG Highway

23

MPG Highway

27
2016 GMC Yukon XL
2016 GMC Yukon XL
$51,015MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2026 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport
2026 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport
$38,300MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2016 GMC Yukon XL
$51,015MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2026 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport
$38,300MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

Overview

Years produced
2000-Present
2020-Present
MSRP
$51,015
$38,300
Listings

Ratings & Reviews

User reviews

4.6

4.6

Expert reviews

6.7 out of 10

Read full review

7.2 out of 10

Read full review
Pros & cons

Pros

  • Well-crafted interior

  • Spacious back seat and deep cargo area

  • Well equipped for the money

Cons

  • Underpowered

  • Firm ride

  • Annoying climate controls

Summary
With options quickly disappearing in the near-luxury large SUV segment, the GMC Yukon XL seems to deliver with a duo of powerful engines, a wealth of seating and storage, and 8,000 pounds of towing capacity. But manufacturing oversights and some competent competition mean you should strongly consider alternatives before making your decision. Before you discount the Yukon entirely, take a look at improvements that have been added to the 2016: a faster processor for its IntelliLink system, Apple CarPlay, and added safety features like lane-keep assist and auto high beams, plus SLT trims and above are now fitted with a hands-free power rear liftgate.

Unless buyers want a luxury model, the herd of midsize two-row crossovers is thinning as buyers gravitate to three-rows. Like the Mazda CX-70 and the Honda Passport, the Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport is a two-row version of a more popular three-row crossover, but its lowered roof and unique tail make it feel like a distinctive, standalone model akin to the Nissan Murano or the Chevrolet Blazer. Last refreshed for the 2024 model year, the Atlas Cross Sport is essentially unchanged for 2026, ahead of the arrival of a redesigned model for 2027. For this review, we grabbed a lower-level front-wheel drive (FWD) SE with Technology model to experience the value equation of this Volkswagen at a palatable price.

Verdict: The Atlas Cross Sport is a great value and well made, even if it's not enjoyable to drive.

Video
No video found

Popular Features & Specs

Engine
5.3L 355 hp V8 Flex Fuel Vehicle
2.0L 269 hp I4
Drivetrain
4X2
FWD
Seating Capacity
9
5
Horsepower
355 hp @ 5600 rpm
MPG City
16
20
MPG Highway
23
27

2016 GMC Yukon XL for Sale

551 results
See all

2026 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport for Sale

274 results
See all

2016 GMC Yukon XL for Sale

Shop Now
551 results

2026 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport for Sale

Shop Now
274 results

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