2027 VW Atlas Cross Sport Adopts a Clean New LookVolkswagenThe new 2027 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport moves into its second generation with smoother exterior lines and a very fetching interior.It's powered by the EVO5 version of the EA888 turbocharged and direct-injected 2.0-liter, which now makes 282 hp (up 13) and delivers improved fuel economy.Sold in SE, SE Tech, SEL R-Line, and SEL Premium R-Line, this five-seat version of the Atlas goes on sale in early 2027.The 2027 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport is still the two-row version of the three-row Atlas, and both enjoy similar improvements across the board. After all, they're built on the same platform as one another (the MQB Evo architecture), so they share a wheelbase, front overhang, and basic width. Both have a more squared-off hood, and their flanks are smoother and trade the awkwardly prominent bulging character line for a much more subtle one. Each has wide-spaced stacked daytime running lights outside of stacked headlights, and most trims will have double light lines across the front framing an illuminated VW badge.VolkswagenMuch of the difference for the Cross Sport comes above the glass line, where the greenhouse has been shortened by 2.1 inches. The windscreen has a bit more rake to go along with that, and some 5.4 inches have been lopped off the rear overhang. The glass on the rear hatch is more angled, giving it extra sleekness, and the tailgate is nearly flush from the taillights down to the rear bumper. It adds up to a Cross Sport that looks more svelte and tidy, even though it still rides on the same wheelbase as the Atlas.More Horsepower, Better Fuel EconomyPower comes from a turbocharged and direct-injected 2.0-liter four-cylinder TSI engine that is shared with the Atlas. This essentially all-new engine is the EVO5 version of the EA888, and it employs the Miller cycle and a new variable-geometry turbocharger to deliver 282 horsepower. That's 13 hp more than its predecessor, but its torque output of 258 pound-feet is slightly down. The engine is backed by the same eight-speed automatic as before, and any trim level can be had in front-wheel drive or 4Motion all-wheel drive.AdvertisementAdvertisementFuel economy is up, although no official EPA figures are available for the Cross Sport. We do know that last year the five-seat Cross Sport and seven-seat Atlas were rated the same, and the three-row 2027 Atlas' fuel-economy figures are indeed published by the EPA. For that reason, we expect a 2-mpg increase for the Cross Sport. Expect around 25 mpg combined for the FWD version and 23 mpg for those equipped with the AWD system.It's Nicer InsideThe interior has been upgraded to be more sleek and elegant. It starts off with a dashboard that is nearly vertical and spans across the cabin, and it's rimmed with real wood. The base grade has a 12.9-inch central infotainment touchscreen, but all other grades (some 90 percent) will have a 15-inch display. The instruments are virtual as part of the 10.3-inch Digital Cockpit Pro, which is standard across the board.VolkswagenThe shifter has been moved up to the steering column to open up space on the center console for two wireless chargers (with magnetic phone grippers), cupholders, and something called a Driver Experience Dial. This is mainly a volume knob, but it can also temporarily become a way for setting Drive Modes or Atmospheres, the latter being a shortcut for access to a fantastic new ambient lighting menu. After a few seconds of inactivity, the Driver Experience Dial reverts to its volume function.There are other niceties, such as the inside door-release handles, which are moved onto the front of the door armrests and have a nice mechanical pull-up action. The rear side windows come standard with pull-up sunshades too. A nine-speaker audio system is now standard, and the top trim now offers a 14-speaker Harmon Kardon premium audio system. This top trim level also brings with it nappa leather seating, and it rides on 21-inch wheels.VolkswagenAvailable in Early 2027Both the Atlas and the Cross Sport are exclusively built in Volkswagen's plant in Chattanooga, Tennessee. The regular Atlas will go on sale this October, but the Cross Sport won't join it until early next year. We'll know more specific details as we get closer to production, but for now we know enough to be optimistic about the 2027 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport.AdvertisementAdvertisement➡️ Skip the lot. Let Car and Driver help you find your next car.Shop New Cars Shop Used CarsYou Might Also LikeGift Guide: Best Ride-On Electric Cars for KidsFuture Cars Worth Waiting For: 2025–2029