Volkswagen Atlas cross sport problems

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The Volkswagen Atlas is a mid-size crossover SUV manufactured by the German automaker Volkswagen since 2017. Developed mainly for the North American and Chinese market, the vehicle is based on the Volkswagen Group MQB platform. Outside the US, Canadian, and Chilean markets, the vehicle is marketed as the Volkswagen Teramont. It is positioned above the long-wheelbase Tiguan and below the smaller but more upmarket Touareg.

Overview

Marketed as the Atlas in North America, Chile, and Israel, the vehicle is known as the Teramont elsewhere, including the rest of the Middle East Africa, as well as in Mexico, Russia, Colombia and China, where production in Ningbo began in 2017. For markets outside China, the Atlas/Teramont is produced in the Chattanooga plant in Chattanooga, Tennessee, United States.

The vehicle features a transverse mounted four-cylinder or Volkswagen's VR6 engine. Up to the introduction of the China-only Viloran, the Atlas was the largest vehicle produced on the Volkswagen Group MQB platform.

photo of Volkswagen Atlas cross sport car production

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Volkswagen Atlas cross sport model years

volkswagen atlas cross sport 2024 photo
Atlas cross sport 2024
Volkswagen

22

4

34

3.2
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volkswagen atlas cross sport 2023 photo
Atlas cross sport 2023
Volkswagen

13

5

32

3.7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volkswagen atlas cross sport 2022 photo
Atlas cross sport 2022
Volkswagen

48

7

22

3.9
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volkswagen atlas cross sport 2021 photo
Atlas cross sport 2021
Volkswagen

112

14

18

3.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volkswagen atlas cross sport 2020 photo
Atlas cross sport 2020
Volkswagen

71

11

13

3.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

Common Volkswagen Atlas cross sport problems

The 2024 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport is a two-row SUV with a focus on providing space, road presence, and a familiar badge at a competitive price. It has been designed with the unique requirements of North American families in mind, offering plenty of scale at an affordable price. The 2024 Atlas Cross Sport is available from $36,715, which is lower than the average price for a new, non-luxury vehicle in the U.S.

However, the Atlas Cross Sport has been criticized for not being engaging enough from behind the wheel or distinctive enough in its features to eclipse its competitors, such as the Kia Telluride, Hyundai Palisade, Honda Pilot, and Mazda CX-90. The new Atlas is good, but it may not be memorable until Volkswagen's fully electric options are available.

One of the most common problems with the Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport is its reliability. Consumer Reports predicts that the 2024 Atlas Cross Sport will be less reliable than other new cars based on limited data from the Atlas Cross Sport and the Volkswagen brand scores. The reliability data is obtained from a questionnaire sent to subscribers, asking them to note any problems with their cars that occurred in the past 12 months. A typical model has about 200 to 400 samples for each model year.

Another issue with the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport is a recall campaign for some of its SUVs due to a potentially catastrophic engine problem. Contaminants on engine rod bearings could damage the oiling circuit, leading to wear and damage inside the engine and eventually a catastrophic failure. The recall impacts 1,323 Atlas SUVs and 695 Atlas Cross Sports built between June 16 and July 25 of this year. Volkswagen expects only about 2% of those 2,018 vehicles will have a problem. However, considering the engines can completely fail, resulting in less of oil containment and even a fire, this is a issue worth addressing quickly.

In summary, the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport has been criticized for not being engaging enough from behind the wheel or distinctive enough in its features to eclipse its competitors. The new Atlas is good, but it may not be memorable until Volkswagen's fully electric options are available. Additionally, the Atlas Cross Sport has been predicted to be less reliable than other new cars based on limited data from the Atlas Cross Sport and the Volkswagen brand scores. Lastly, there is a recall campaign for some of its SUVs due to a potentially catastrophic engine problem.

Volkswagen Atlas cross sport

What is the problem with the VW Atlas Cross Sport?

Volkswagen's 2024 Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport Recalled Due to Potential Engine Issues. Who: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. Why: The Volkswagen vehicles are recalled due to potentially damaged connecting rods that may lead to an oil leak, resulting in a vehicle fire. When: The recall was issued on August 25, 2023.

Does the VW Atlas have engine problems?

ENGINE & FUEL SYSTEM

Many Atlas owners have also complained about the check engine light illuminating randomly. Other common problems include engine stalling caused by a fuel system leak which increases the chance of fire risk.

Is Atlas reliable or unreliable?

Volkswagen Atlases rank near the middle of the pack in terms of reliability. Overall reliability often stems from an affordable cost of ownership, high safety ratings, above-average fuel efficiency, below-average repair costs, and measured dependability.

Are Volkswagen Cross Sport reliable?

We expect the 2024 Atlas Cross Sport to be less reliable than other new cars. This prediction is based on limited data from the Atlas Cross Sport, plus the Volkswagen brand scores.

Percentage distribution of complaints by Volkswagen Atlas cross sport years

We have researched Volkswagen problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Volkswagen Atlas cross sport cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Volkswagen Atlas cross sport model years:

Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Volkswagen Atlas cross sport model years.

Distribution of the number of complaints by Volkswagen Atlas cross sport years

We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:

Volkswagen Atlas cross sport car problems categorized by type of issue

After analysing all complaints related to Volkswagen Atlas cross sport , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:

  • Electrical system problems
  • Service brakes problems
  • Air bags problems
  • Forward collision avoidance problems
  • Engine problems

The graph below shows statistics for all Volkswagen Atlas cross sport vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Atlas cross sport model years

A total of 12 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Atlas cross sport model years

There were a total of 3 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Atlas cross sport model years

There were a total of 9 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

The NHTSA has received 266 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Volkswagen Atlas cross sport . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Volkswagen Atlas cross sport vehicles.

Latest 25 complaints

Volkswagen Atlas cross sport 2021
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-06-19
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-24
  • VIN: 1V2GC2CA6MC
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: The recall has been an ongoing issue; since I am from a smaller valley, Imperial Valley, my dealership has not been able to provide the parts for the repair, this is a major recall seeing as the passenger seat airbag may not deploy. I see no urgency to repair and no customer care. I personally have had to call the dealership asking for updates multiple times and no one is able to assist with the repair due to not having parts. I use my vehicle to rent on the TURO app and this has held up part of my income due to not being able to list the vehicle due to the safety concern. A prompt response or repair would greatly be appreciated from the dealer if they truly car about the safety of their customers.
Volkswagen Atlas cross sport 2024
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-10-20
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-21
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • VIN: 1V2JE2CA1RC
  • Components: PARKING BRAKE,POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2024 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport. The contact stated that after pressing the engine Start/Stop button to start the vehicle in the driveway, she exited the vehicle and sat in the front passenger's seat. After 4-5 minutes, the vehicle inadvertently rolled backward while the transmission was in park (P). No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle rolled over her daughter's left knee before stopping at the end of the driveway. Additionally, the "Error: Drive System. Please Service Vehicle" message was previously displayed while driving, and the parking brake was inoperable. The police arrived on the scene and filed a report. The contact's daughter received medical treatment at the hospital for knee pain and tire scratches on her right knee and feet. The dealer was made aware of the failure and scheduled an upcoming appointment for diagnosis. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 21,350.
Volkswagen Atlas cross sport 2024
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-10-01
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-16
  • VIN: 1V2KE2CA7RC
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: When pushing the gas car will not accelerate then they’ll be like a big “clunk” like it’s not into gear and then the car will slow slowly accelerate then it’ll shoot off. Also my screen goes crazy like something electrical is happening .
Volkswagen Atlas cross sport 2022
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-10-08
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-08
  • VIN: 1V2DC2CA6NC
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the crankcase ventilation valve had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 51,346.
Volkswagen Atlas cross sport 2024
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-10-05
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-07
  • VIN: 1V2AE2CAXRC
  • Components: POWER TRAIN,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: To the best of my knowledge, the transmission failed to function appropriately causing danger. After pulling onto a major highway, the car stopped in front of oncoming traffic and the rpm’s shot up. After letting off the gas and pressing again, the car then shifted and was able to drive. This happened after several instances of delayed shifting noted but this is the first time it has stalled out while driving. Stalling on a major highway puts me and others at risk of crashing if I am unable to move my vehicle suddenly. No warning lamps were present then or now. According to my owners manual, I am to alert the NHTSA and Volkswagen. My next step is to reach out to Volkswagen.
Volkswagen Atlas cross sport 2020
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-10-04
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-05
  • VIN: 1V2ME2CA1LC
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: At a stop or slow speed the vehicle stalls. Acted like the start stop feature was engaging. Stalling out crossing lanes of traffic you have to out it in park and restart. Start stop feature is disabled but dangerous to stall in traffic this way
Volkswagen Atlas cross sport 2024
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-01-22
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-01
  • VIN: 1V2HE2CA7RC
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: Dear National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, I am writing to express my frustration with the ongoing issues with my Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport. Despite repeated repair efforts, the situation has become unsustainable. As a one-car household, visiting the dealership multiple times a month is both financially and personally stressful. While the service department has been excellent in trying to address the problems, the recurring issues are straining my relationship with the dealership. I need a reliable vehicle, especially given the $19,000 down payment we cannot afford to lose. We chose the SE model for ethical reasons (no leather), but it has been problematic, and we are now open to other solutions. Here is a list of issues we’ve encountered over the last 10 months: Atlas Number 1 (2 months): Loose exhaust shield Auto Start/Stop feature not functioning Start button unresponsive Rear windows would not close Infotainment system freezing Dashboard speaker grill falling off Rattle in rear door Atlas Number 2 (7 months): Front bumper damaged; required body shop repair Driver's window scratched and replaced Front parking sensors failed Windows malfunction and don’t auto close Infotainment system freezing; display going black Console cover broke twice Headlights repeatedly replaced, failing calibration Backup camera feed going black; needed replacement Headlight control module needed replacement Rattle in front door Dashboard speaker grill falling off Persistent front-end shake at highway speeds (tires rebalanced twice) Steering-responsive headlights fail to return to center, requiring a vehicle restart Recent repairs haven’t resolved these issues. The headlights still fail to center, the infotainment system continues to go black, and the backup camera still malfunctions. A software update is expected in January, but I need a solution in the meantime. Please help us resolve this situation—it's financially and practically unsustainable.
Volkswagen Atlas cross sport 2020
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-09-01
  • Date Complaint: 2024-09-24
  • VIN: 1V2GC2CA1LC
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the air bag warning light illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or the dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 63,000.
Volkswagen Atlas cross sport 2021
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-06-29
  • Date Complaint: 2024-09-24
  • VIN: 1V2JE2CA5MC
  • Components: AIR BAGS,TIRES
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport. The contact stated that the TPMS warning light illuminated and turned on and off. The contact inflated the tires. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V464000 (Air Bags); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was not contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was unknown. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Volkswagen Atlas cross sport 2020
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-08-23
  • Date Complaint: 2024-09-21
  • VIN: 1V26E2CA2LC
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: Airbag front passenger side has defect will not deploy. The dashboard light alert is on, as per dealership review stated airbag defect will not deploy and needs to be replaced. Car has never used airbag. Other same vehicles have been recalled but this batch of atlas cross sport suvs were not included.
Volkswagen Atlas cross sport 2023
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-09-16
  • Date Complaint: 2024-09-16
  • VIN: 1V2FE2CA6PC
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2023 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V464000 (Air Bags); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Volkswagen Atlas cross sport 2022
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-09-06
  • Date Complaint: 2024-09-16
  • VIN: 1V2KE2CA0NC
  • Components: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: This vehicle is burning excessive engine oil. My vehicle required two quarts of oil before my oil change. This occurred at the 20,000-mile interval and again at 30,000 miles. This vehicle also had two coolant repairs before 30,000 miles. The car has not been in any accidents. The vehicle had no oil.
Volkswagen Atlas cross sport 2022
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-06-01
  • Date Complaint: 2024-09-12
  • VIN: 1V2SE2CA5NC
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: There is a recall on my airbags in my vehicle. Volkswagen dealership states they do not have the remedy to this issue currently and do not know when it will be available. They also would not offer a rental car for the safety risk. This is putting my life and any other passengers at a high safety risk!
Volkswagen Atlas cross sport 2021
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-09-08
  • Date Complaint: 2024-09-08
  • VIN: 1V2FE2CA7MC
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: -Engine and yes. -Safety put at risk due to car not on when the street light turn green and I'm not aware that the car had turned off. -No -Message appeared on the dashboard stating Engine will shut off automatically to conserve battery.
Volkswagen Atlas cross sport 2020
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-08-20
  • Date Complaint: 2024-09-06
  • VIN: 1V21E2CAXLC
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: Air bag light illuminated. VIN number not associated with current air bag recall even though it is exhibiting the very identical problem. Dealer will not acknowledge the recall since the VIN doesn’t show on the recall site.

Latest 5 recalls Volkswagen Atlas cross sport

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 41 recalls for different components of the Volkswagen Atlas cross sport.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.

  • Model: Volkswagen Atlas cross sport 2024
  • Report Received Date: 2024-09-27
  • Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:MASTER CYLINDER
  • Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2024 Atlas and 2024 Atlas Cross Sport vehicles. The brake master cylinder may have been assembled with an incorrect secondary piston spring retainer, which can block the brake fluid port.
  • Consequence: An obstructed brake fluid port can cause a loss of brake function, increasing the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: Dealers will replace the brake master cylinder, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 21, 2024. Owners may contact Volkswagen Customer Relations at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 471F.
  • Model: Volkswagen Atlas cross sport 2024
  • Report Received Date: 2024-06-27
  • Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
  • Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION:SOFTWARE
  • Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (VW) is recalling certain 2022-2024 Golf R, Golf GTI, 2024 Atlas, and 2024 Atlas Cross Sport vehicles. The rearview camera image may be delayed or deactivated after shifting into reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
  • Consequence: A rearview camera with a delayed or deactivated image reduces the driver's view of what is behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of injury or crash.
  • Remedy: Dealers will update the infotainment system software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 15, 2024, and July 16, 2024. Owners may contact VW customer service at 1-800-893-5298. VW's number for this recall is 91US.
  • Model: Volkswagen Atlas cross sport 2022
  • Report Received Date: 2024-06-20
  • Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
  • Components: AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION:FRONT PASSENGER
  • Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Atlas and 2020-2024 Atlas Cross Sport vehicles. The passenger occupant detection system (PODS) may experience a fault in the wiring and deactivate the front passenger air bag when the seat is occupied.
  • Consequence: A deactivated passenger air bag increases the risk of injury during a crash.
  • Remedy: Dealers will replace the PODS sensor mat and wiring harness, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on September 30, 2024, October 18, 2024, and December 31, 2024. Owners may contact Volkswagen's customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 69PZ.
  • Model: Volkswagen Atlas cross sport 2023
  • Report Received Date: 2024-06-20
  • Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
  • Components: AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION:FRONT PASSENGER
  • Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Atlas and 2020-2024 Atlas Cross Sport vehicles. The passenger occupant detection system (PODS) may experience a fault in the wiring and deactivate the front passenger air bag when the seat is occupied.
  • Consequence: A deactivated passenger air bag increases the risk of injury during a crash.
  • Remedy: Dealers will replace the PODS sensor mat and wiring harness, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on September 30, 2024, October 18, 2024, and December 31, 2024. Owners may contact Volkswagen's customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 69PZ.
  • Model: Volkswagen Atlas cross sport 2021
  • Report Received Date: 2024-06-20
  • Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
  • Components: AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION:FRONT PASSENGER
  • Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Atlas and 2020-2024 Atlas Cross Sport vehicles. The passenger occupant detection system (PODS) may experience a fault in the wiring and deactivate the front passenger air bag when the seat is occupied.
  • Consequence: A deactivated passenger air bag increases the risk of injury during a crash.
  • Remedy: Dealers will replace the PODS sensor mat and wiring harness, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on September 30, 2024, October 18, 2024, and December 31, 2024. Owners may contact Volkswagen's customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 69PZ.

Latest negative Volkswagen Atlas cross sport car reviews

  1. Reed Eichmann 2025-02-18

    Vehicle year: 2024

    I recently traded in my 2020 Silverado for the Cross Sport because it seemed like a great vehicle with a standard 5K lb towing capacity (no extra package needed). The car has some amazing features like digital cockpit, infotainment, wireless charging, and it tows my 3,500 lb boat nicely. However, I have had a few frustrating experiences with it. Three days after I picked it up, the infotainment system went dark, which was a big deal since so many things are operated through that system. The dealer service team was not very helpful, but I did my own research and found out how to do a soft reset, which worked. Then, a week later, as I was pulling out of my driveway for a 350-mile holiday weekend, the engine light came on. The manual said not to drive it, but I did not want to cancel my vacation because of this brand new car, so I departed. Three days later, the light went out on its own and has not come back on. Again, the dealer was not very helpful and wanted to keep the car for a week, with no courtesy vehicle, just to see if there was an error code. Some of the safety features do not work as they should, which is frustrating. So, it is a nice car, but I have zero confidence in it. When it is working, it is a great car. If you are thinking of buying one, proceed with caution or buy two if you need reliable transportation.

  2. Jeremy Jacobson 2025-01-21

    Vehicle year: 2020

    I purchased my 2020 VW Atlas Cross Sport in July 2020 and while it looks great and has a very roomy interior design, I have unfortunately experienced some performance issues. Despite having to replace the stabilizer bars shortly after purchase, I have had to bring the car in for multiple repairs since the fall of 2021 due to the 'Check Engine' light repeatedly turning on. Although the car is currently in the shop awaiting parts for an indefinite period, I am confident that the issue will be resolved once the necessary parts arrive. While I did encounter an additional issue with the 'Check Air Bag' light turning on, I have been informed that the electrical harness needs to be replaced and the part is currently unavailable. Despite this setback, I remain optimistic that the car will be fully repaired and perform to the best of its abilities once I receive it back. While I have considered other options, I am confident in the quality of my VW and plan on continuing to drive it once it is fully repaired.

  3. Enrique Shields 2025-01-12

    Vehicle year: 2024

    It looks good, but I've been having some issues with the engine light coming on frequently, the parking brakes activating by themselves, and the windows not opening at times. It's frustrating, especially since the car is less than a year old. I'm considering going back to Nissan.

  4. Arch Stanton 2025-01-11

    Vehicle year: 2024

    Congratulations on your new R-line Volkswagen Cross Sport Atlas V6 with front-wheel drive! I had the chance to test drive both the 4-motion and front-wheel drive, but I agree that the price increase for the 4-motion wasn't worth it, especially with the extra mark-ups Volkswagen has added due to the chip shortage. Your unique and beautiful color combination and interior design caught my attention, and the exterior is very Audi-inspired. The cabin is the largest SUV I've ever sat in, and the legroom is perfect for people who are 6'5 and taller. The large trunk is also a plus, and it's impressive that you can't even reach all of it at 6 feet tall! However, I do agree that the V6 engine is a bit sluggish, especially for such a sporty vehicle design. The acceleration does improve in sport mode, which is how I drive my vehicle daily. Another downside is the sound system, which doesn't have much bass and doesn't compare to other SUVs in the same price range. I'm glad you were able to upgrade your sound system with an aftermarket subwoofer and new door speakers. Overall, the ride in the vehicle is great, and it's impressive that it doesn't come with air suspension. Enjoy your new ride!The seats are very comfortable for all sizes, including larger frame occupants. The entertainment console, particularly the wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless phone charging, is a game changer. It's so nice to have all the features mirroring from your phone to the vehicle without the clutter of phone cords. Believe me, once you experience the wireless Apple CarPlay, you will never go back to the old cord method. The panoramic sunroof is large and, to my surprise, is tinted to provide the right mix of sunlight into the cabin. One thing you will notice immediately is just how quiet this vehicle is. I have gotten out of the vehicle a few times and forgot that the vehicle was still running, thankfully the dashboard alerted me to turn off the ignition. Overall, this is a lot that you get for the money, regardless of whether you get the 7-seater Atlas or the 5-seater Cross Sport Atlas. I reviewed several vehicles, including the Jeep Grand Cherokee, Mazda CX-9, Toyota Highlander, Toyota 4Runner, and Kia Telluride, and none had the upscale looks and feel of the VW Cross Sport. I added the 5-year, 150,000 bumper-to-bumper extended warranty since I drive around 30,000 miles a year, just in case I run into any mechanical issues down the road. My prior vehicle was a 2018 Jeep V8 Grand Cherokee Summit, which was a wonderful vehicle even at 70,000 miles. So, just to recap, the highlights are great Audi-inspired exterior views, a great ride, the largest deep trunk space, the most legroom in all rows vs anything priced under $60,000.00, great technology, and safety features. The negatives are a very sluggish V6 engine and the worst sound system I've ever heard in my 23 years of driving. Even my old Buicks from the 90s honestly sounded better than this.

  5. Edmund Stehr 2025-01-02

    Vehicle year: 2023

    Consider looking elsewhere for a more reliable vehicle at this price point. This car has required a new steering rack, new sway bar links, new AC Schrader valves, 3 air bag modules, and a new transmission after two separate leaks, all in under 10,000 miles. It is worth noting that other owners have reported similar issues.

Latest positive Volkswagen Atlas cross sport car reviews

  1. Mervin Littel 2025-02-17

    Vehicle year: 2021

    I bought my 2021 ATLAS Cross Sport V6 in September 2021. Unfortunately, I have experienced some issues with the car. For example, the car has cut off while waiting in line at a red light, even though the eco was off. I took it to the dealership twice, but they couldn't find anything wrong. They suggested that I may have forgotten to turn off the eco, but I am certain that I did not. Additionally, the crash alert would randomly turn on for no reason, and the emergency brake would randomly turn on as well. The brakes also sound like they are grinding sometimes, and the car will occasionally lurch when I accelerate from a stop. Despite these issues, I still love the way this car looks. However, I am disappointed that I cannot fully enjoy driving it. I hope that these issues can be resolved soon.

  2. Mohammad Jones 2025-02-07

    Vehicle year: 2022

    I brought the Cross Sport simply because at 6’8 tall there were no other two row SUV’s I could fit in. The car rides nice and has adequate power for a turbo 4. I love all the technology and it’s pretty easy to learn how everything works. My only complaint is the radio. I think VW should’ve made the Fender audio an option. I love my music and the radio is below average. Other than that, I would highly recommend this car.

  3. Paris Blick 2025-02-05

    Vehicle year: 2024

    I got the top of the line model and I absolutely love it! The driving experience is so luxurious and reminds me of my usual Audi purchase/lease. The car's design is very thoughtful and even though it's big, it drives small and relatively quick (note that I own the 3.6 V6 and didn't test drive the smaller engine). The other car in our household is an Audi Q5, but I always choose to drive the VW Atlas Cross Sport. While I do agree with other reviews that the fuel consumption is relatively inefficient, it doesn't matter much to me since I don't drive much. I would highly recommend anyone to take this beauty for a spin!

  4. Fermin Will 2025-01-26

    Vehicle year: 2024

    I purchased this vehicle in November 2020 and I'm thrilled with my decision. The 2.0T AWD engine drives very smoothly and has enough power for driving around town. It's a great SUV for big and tall people or anyone who prefers a spacious cabin.

  5. Bertram Jones 2025-01-21

    Vehicle year: 2023

    UPDATE: It's been a year and I still love this car for its roominess and spunky attitude. Now, onto the not-so-great parts: it was a bit annoying to find out about the wire harness recall, but luckily my vehicle didn't have any issues after inspection and dealer fix (probably due to the climate we live in). There was also another recall for a different issue, but it didn't seem as urgent as the first. So, I'm just waiting for a push or my next service appointment. The only thing that's really bothering me is the infotainment system. The User Interface isn't as mature as I expected, and there are definitely more intelligent systems out there. After 10 months of ownership, the Apple Play BT would get confused and bounce back and forth from the car to my AirPods (if they weren't in the case). Or general radio/media controls would simply freeze up and I'd need to restart the entire vehicle. These are just small, annoying instances that happen from time to time. But overall, it's not a deal breaker. First of all, I knew this wasn't a sports car and it never claimed to be one. I had no expectations for quick pick-up, but it does respond when it counts! It drives as it should, like a utility vehicle with sporty/stylish lines. I've read many reviews claiming disappointment in acceleration, but honestly, most SUVs I've driven never drove like sports cars. They're far too heavy and cumbersome to do so. It does have enough pick-up where it matters. Now, onto the part I love - it's roomy! There's space for everything - car seats, strollers, and even trips to Costco. And it's all-wheel drive! We didn't go with the special badging option, as it seemed a bit frivolous. We could see where some folks might have issues with the technology, but frankly, we figured it out quickly and it's actually very advanced for normal consumers.We're glad to hear that you're enjoying your car! Despite the recall for the door harness that seems to affect those in wetter climates, we're happy to hear that you're still satisfied with your purchase. We live in a dryer climate, so we're less likely to have the issues in the recall, but we're still waiting for a fix. The car is spacious and stylish, and it can turn heads of even Audi Q8 owners. It reminds us of a less techie version without the high-end finishes, and we're perfectly fine with that.

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