Jeep Compass vs Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport

Volkswagen's design approach for both the Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport was oriented towards delivering a sophisticated blend of functionality and aesthetics. The 2024 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport seamlessly aligned with its three-row counterpart concerning styling, predominantly revitalized with fresh lighting elements at the front and rear. The illuminated Volkswagen logos in the grille (white) and on the tailgate (red) were eye-catching enhancements, previously seen on the electric Volkswagen ID.4.

Moreover, the Atlas Cross Sport showcased an intricate light bar bridging the daytime running lights, integrated into the new LED headlights, contributing to a more Americanized appearance. Created in Chattanooga, Tennessee, with a focus on the U.S. market, the vehicle exuded an American essence.

The rear of the Atlas Cross Sport featured redesigned taillights blending into a light bar, incorporating a second illuminated VW logo. This detail, accompanied by a lower roofline compared to the standard Atlas, endowed the Cross Sport with a unique silhouette reminiscent of German luxury crossover coupes. The Cross Sport's slightly shorter length (5.2 inches) and lower stance distinguished it further from the standard Atlas.

All trim levels of the Cross Sport were updated with new wheel designs for 2024. The SE model featured 18-inch alloy wheels, while SE with Technology and SEL models sported 20-inch wheels, with a black wheel package available optionally. The SEL R-Line included model-specific 20-inch wheels and sportier styling elements like extended side skirts and distinct bumpers. The SEL Premium R-Line boasted these features alongside 21-inch wheels. Unlike the three-row Atlas, the Cross Sport did not receive the rugged Peak Edition package.

Internally, the Cross Sport mirrored its three-row sibling's updates. The central touchscreen was redesigned to stand upright, complemented by a raised center console and a more efficient electronic shifter. Interior trims, such as standard leatherette upholstery and leather seats in higher trims, added to the luxurious feel, while the elevated SEL Premium R-Line trim showcased quilted leather upholstery. Despite improvements in material quality, the interior still largely consisted of various plastic types, aiming to mimic wood and carbon fiber.

In contrast, the 2024 Jeep Compass was tested in Michigan, near Jeep's U.S. headquarters. The experience commenced with a mix-up, leading to the realization that the test vehicle was a base white Compass Sport, exuding a rental-car persona. In this guise, the Compass lacked distinct Jeep identifiers, save for its seven-slot grille, resembling other small crossovers with similar body shapes and design elements.

However, the Compass's interior on higher trims, like the Limited, displayed remarkable improvements, with premium materials and a well-thought-out design. Post-2022 revisions introduced better fit and finish, larger screens, supportive cloth seats with blue stitching, and tasteful silver plastic accents. Despite the lack of uniqueness in its exterior, the 2024 Compass provided a cohesive and modern interior experience.

The 2024 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport marked the end of an era for VW's 3.6-liter VR6 engine, transitioning to a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Available in both front-wheel drive (FWD) and optional 4Motion all-wheel drive (AWD), this engine produced 269 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque, slightly less horsepower but more torque than the outgoing VR6. The new turbo-four engine promised better performance, with torque peaking at a lower 1,550 rpm compared to the VR6's 3,600 rpm, suggesting a quicker 0-to-60 mph time.

While the Cross Sport's powertrain delivered adequate performance, the engine noise was noticeable, which detracted from the driving experience. The vehicle, though named "Sport," failed to live up to sporty expectations, offering an uninspiring drive. The ride quality, especially with the test vehicle's 21-inch wheels, was subpar. Nonetheless, the Cross Sport's 5,000-pound towing capacity remained competitive, though those requiring more substantial towing capabilities could consider alternatives like the two-row Jeep Grand Cherokee.

Meanwhile, the 2024 Jeep Compass replaced its previously underwhelming 2.4-liter engine with a turbocharged 2.0-liter Inline four-cylinder engine, producing 200 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD, the Compass exhibited improved performance, easily navigating city streets and highways. Engine noise was reduced, and the need for heavy throttle input was minimized.

The Compass featured three driving modes (auto, snow, sand/mud) and a torque-lock feature for optimal traction. A rear-axle disconnect system aimed to save fuel but responded sluggishly under hard acceleration. The Trailhawk trim included additional off-road features such as a low-range transfer case, "rock" driving mode, all-terrain tires, and metal skid plates, enhancing its capabilities but at a higher cost. The maximum towing capacity was uniformly 2,000 pounds across all models.

Steering and handling were less impressive in the Compass, with excessive play and lack of precision, most noticeable compared to competitors like the Chevrolet Equinox and Toyota RAV4. The Compass offered a comfortable ride, but its handling was unremarkable. Fuel economy was rated at 24 mpg city, 32 mpg highway, and 27 mpg combined, aligning closely with other compact SUVs.

In terms of interior amenities, the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport received several enhancements. The base SE model now included heated side mirrors, a two-zone automatic climate control system, a heated steering wheel, and ventilated front seats. Higher trims, such as the SE with Technology, added a power liftgate and tow hitch, while the SEL featured heated second-row seats and leather upholstery. These updates placed desirable features lower on the trim hierarchy.

The Cross Sport's roofline, while stylish, compromised rear-seat headroom, making the back seats feel cramped for taller passengers. Nevertheless, legroom was comparable to rivals, and the first row offered a good amount of space. Cargo capacity in the Cross Sport was also noteworthy, with 40.3 cubic feet of space behind the second row and 77.6 cubic feet with the seats folded down, surpassing competitors like the Chevy Blazer and closely matching the Honda Passport.

The Cross Sport's cabin was designed with functionality in mind, featuring a redesigned center console with ample storage, generously sized cupholders, and accessible door pockets.

On the 2024 Jeep Compass, utility and ease of use were significant strengths. The driver's seat offered clear visibility, with analog gauges flanking a large color display. Controls were intuitive, including a regular PRNDL gear selector and physical climate controls, despite the absence of temperature readouts. Rear seats provided ample legroom and headroom, complemented by rear vents, USB ports, and a fold-down center armrest.

Cargo space in the Compass was competitive, with 27.2 cubic feet available behind the rear seat and 59.8 cubic feet when folded. The manual front passenger seat that also folded flat for carrying longer items was particularly advantageous.

The 2024 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport came standard with an impressive array of tech features, including a 12-inch touchscreen, 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and wireless phone charging. The infotainment system's intuitive layout and high-quality graphics were user-friendly, though the haptic touchpads for controls lacked physical feedback, making adjustments challenging.

Standard four USB-C ports could be upgraded to six, with a dedicated USB-C dash cam port added on SE with Technology and higher trims. The SEL trim featured a head-up display, and the SEL Premium R-Line came with a 12-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, enhancing the audio experience.

In comparison, the 2024 Jeep Compass featured a 10.1-inch touchscreen with Uconnect 5 software as standard. The display was sharp and responsive, with straightforward menus and settings. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM, 4G Wi-Fi, and USB-C ports were included. Factory navigation, wireless charging, and a 10.3-inch digital instrument panel with full-screen maps were optional on higher trims. Features like Alexa, remote start, and additional USB ports were available through the Elite Group package.

On higher trims, options such as a nine-speaker Alpine stereo, panoramic moonroof, and semi-automated driving system (Active Driving Assist) expanded the technology suite, enhancing convenience and entertainment.

The 2024 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport earned a five-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), with top scores in side-impact crash tests. Though the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) hadn't rated the 2024 model, the 2023 model scored well in most categories.

Volkswagen's IQ.Drive package became standard on all 2024 Cross Sport models, including features such as forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims added predictive adaptive cruise control, park assist, and a surround-view camera system. All models included post-collision braking, VW's crash response system, and emergency assist.

Meanwhile, the 2024 Jeep Compass had yet to be rated by the NHTSA, but the structurally similar 2022 model earned a four-star rating overall. The IIHS awarded the identical 2023 Compass a Top Safety Pick, with top ratings in all crash tests.

Standard safety features on the Compass included forward emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and driver attention monitoring. Adaptive cruise control was optional on Latitude Lux and Altitude trims and standard on higher trims. Optional on Latitude Lux and above were parking sensors and 360-degree cameras. Rain-sensing wipers were standard on higher trims, enhancing visibility in adverse weather.