2020-2023 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport 4motion 3.6L

Overview

The Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport represents a strategic expansion of the brand’s North American SUV lineup. Introduced for the 2020 model year, this vehicle serves as a two-row, coupe-inspired variant of the larger, three-row Atlas. By shortening the rear overhang and lowering the roofline, Volkswagen aimed to capture buyers seeking a more athletic aesthetic and a focus on passenger comfort rather than maximum seating capacity. The vehicle utilizes the modular MQB platform, which allows for shared components across the Volkswagen Group, ensuring consistent manufacturing standards and parts availability.

Engineered specifically for the North American market, the Atlas Cross Sport is manufactured at the Volkswagen Chattanooga Assembly Plant in Tennessee. The 3.6-liter VR6 engine option, paired with the 4Motion all-wheel-drive system, provides a traditional powertrain experience for those prioritizing towing capability and linear power delivery. Throughout its production run from 2020 to 2023, the model received various updates to its interior technology and exterior styling, maintaining its position as a mid-size competitor against rivals like the Honda Passport and Ford Edge.

Vehicle Overview
Brand	Volkswagen
Model	Atlas Cross Sport 4motion
Model Year	2020-2023
Generation	1st Generation
Trim	SE, SEL, SEL Premium
Body Style	5-Door SUV
Vehicle Segment	Mid-size SUV
Vehicle Class	Small Sport Utility Vehicle 4WD
Market	USA
Platform	MQB
Assembly Plant	Chattanooga, Tennessee
Country of Origin	USA
Production Start	2020
Production End	2023
VIN Identifier	1VW
Base MSRP	$32,000 (approx)
Destination Charge	$1,295
Total MSRP	–
Powertrain
Powertrain Type	Internal Combustion Engine
Engine Family	VR6
Engine Name	EA390
Engine Code	CDVC
Engine Configuration	V6 (Narrow-angle)
Displacement	3.6 Liters
Bore x Stroke	89.0 mm x 96.4 mm
Compression Ratio	11.4:1
Aspiration	Naturally Aspirated
Fuel Delivery	Direct Injection
Valve Train	DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Engine Block Material	Cast Iron
Cylinder Head Material	Aluminum Alloy
Oil Capacity	6.0 Quarts
Oil Specification / Viscosity	VW 508 00 / 0W-20
Horsepower	276 hp @ 6,200 rpm
Torque	266 lb-ft @ 2,750 rpm
Redline	6,500 rpm
Drivetrain	All-Wheel Drive
Transmission	Automatic (S8)
Final Drive Ratio	3.60:1
Axle Ratio	–
Fuel Economy
Fuel Type	Regular Gasoline
Recommended Octane	87
EPA City MPG	17
EPA Highway MPG	23
EPA Combined MPG	19
Fuel Economy (L/100 km)	12.4
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)	18.6
Estimated Driving Range	350 miles
Annual Fuel Cost	$2,600
CO₂ Emissions	450 g/mile
Greenhouse Gas Score	3
Smog Rating	5
Performance
0-30 mph	2.8 s
0-60 mph	7.5 s
0-100 mph	21.0 s
Quarter Mile	15.8 s
Top Speed	125 mph
Braking Distance (60-0 mph)	128 ft
Lateral Acceleration	0.81g
Power-to-Weight Ratio	16.2 lb/hp
Dimensions & Capacities
Length (in)	195.5
Width (Without Mirrors) (in)	78.3
Width (With Mirrors) (in)	87.1
Height (in)	67.8
Wheelbase (in)	117.3
Front Track (in)	67.2
Rear Track (in)	67.4
Ground Clearance (in)	8.0
Curb Weight (lbs)	4,450
GVWR (lbs)	5,800
Towing Capacity (lbs)	5,000
Payload Capacity (lbs)	1,150
Passenger Volume (cu ft)	111.8
Cargo Volume (Behind Rear Seats) (cu ft)	40.3
Cargo Volume (Max) (cu ft)	77.8
Turning Circle	40.5 ft
Approach Angle	20.4 degrees
Departure Angle	23.3 degrees
Breakover Angle	17.5 degrees
Safety Ratings
NHTSA Overall Rating	5 Stars
NHTSA Frontal Crash	4 Stars
NHTSA Side Crash	5 Stars
NHTSA Rollover	4 Stars
IIHS Award	Top Safety Pick
Small Overlap Front	Good
Moderate Overlap Front	Good
Side Impact	Good
Headlights Rating	Acceptable
Front Crash Prevention	Superior
Technology & Connectivity
Infotainment Display	8.0-inch touchscreen
Instrument Cluster	Digital Cockpit
Apple CarPlay	Standard
Android Auto	Standard
Navigation System	Available
Audio System	Fender Premium
Speaker Count	12
Wireless Charging	Available
Wi-Fi Hotspot	Available
OTA Updates	No
Digital Key	No
Warranty & Ownership
Basic Warranty	4 years / 50,000 miles
Powertrain Warranty	4 years / 50,000 miles
Corrosion Warranty	7 years / 100,000 miles
Roadside Assistance	3 years / 36,000 miles
Complimentary Maintenance	2 years / 20,000 miles
Specs.Autos Exclusive Data
Engine Assembly Plant	Salzgitter, Germany
Transmission Supplier	Aisin
Gear Ratios	1st: 5.25, 2nd: 3.03, 3rd: 1.98, 4th: 1.45, 5th: 1.22, 6th: 1.00, 7th: 0.82, 8th: 0.67
Differential Type	Open with Electronic Differential Lock
Cooling System Capacity	10.5 Quarts
Roof Load Capacity (lbs)	165
Safety Recall Count	–
Production Volume	–
Units Sold in USA	–

Consumer Insights & Market Appeal

The Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport with the 3.6L VR6 engine is widely regarded for its composed ride quality and spacious cabin, which remains a primary draw for families who do not require a third row. While the VR6 engine is known for its durability and smooth power delivery, prospective buyers should be aware of its relatively high fuel consumption compared to modern turbocharged four-cylinder alternatives. Common maintenance items to monitor include the cooling system components and standard wear on the 8-speed automatic transmission. On the used market, this vehicle offers strong value for those prioritizing interior space and a premium, understated aesthetic over class-leading fuel efficiency. Its robust safety ratings and intuitive infotainment interface continue to make it a competitive choice in the pre-owned mid-size SUV segment.