2021 VW Atlas Cross Sport V-6 SE with Technology

Atlas Cross Sport comes in eight trims, presenting a coupe like appearance. VW Atlas SE will be my focus.

My Tourmaline Blue Metallic exterior and Dark Beige Leatherette Interior Cross Sport rests on 20-inch alloy wheels with all-season tires is complimented by automatic LED headlights and LED daytime running lights and LED taillights.

The side mirrors with integrated turn signals assist rain-sensing, variable intermittent front wipers and rear window washers and wipers. These features are topped off by silver roof rails.

The handsome three-bar chrome front grille makes for a bold attention getter at the Cross Sport’s approach.

The large beige leatherette cabin is roomy and attractive with its soft touch dash and door panels. The tilting and telescoping adjustable steering column, heated driver’s seat and 10-way power seats (including lumbar support) complement the 60/40 split-folding seats. The arm rests complete a comfortable ensemble.

Photo: VW

All seating is spacious, and the Climatronic dual-zone automatic climate control with 2^nd row air vents adds to the comfort level. The center console has a USB data port, cup holders, and armrest with storage.

The features I enjoyed most were the front footwell lights, illuminated vanity mirrors, and reading lights.

The SE with Technology comes with an 8-inch touchscreen and graphics you can zoom into by either swiping or pinching. Also the buttons and dials for controlling stereo and climate system were most helpful. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are part of the information gathering app.

Atlas Cross Sport SE has a 6-speaker sound-system, while upper trim models will have a 12-speaker premium system.

The easy open power liftgate with Kick Sensor is very easy to use, and allows viewing of the 40.3 cu. ft. storage behind the second-row seats. Tie down hooks are also present.

The 3.6-Liter 24 valve DOHC narrow angle V-6 with Engine Start-Stop System with Front Wheel Drive is accompanied by an 8-speed automatic transmission.

Photo: VW

The Cross Sport delivers 276 horsepower and has an average 23 mpg.

The Atlas goes 60 mph in a modest 7.3 seconds. It’s fast enough to handle most any freeway access or passing situations.

Atlas was fun to drive, generally smooth, but a little bumpy as speed increased. Steering was adequate, and maneuvers quite well for a vehicle weighing 4,300 pounds.

Technology appeared to be a little dated, which I liked. You get a medium-size color digital driver’s display between the analogue dials, which is so much better for me than little tiny buttons or light touch points.

The best overall features were the backup camera with tremendous visual quality gridlines, and the quality room in the second and third rows.

Technology like Sirius XM, Bluetooth, and Apple Connect smart phone integration were all available.

Over a dozen standard safety and driver assist features like Front Assist (Forward collision Warning and Autonomous Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Monitor.), Hill Hold Control, and Tire Pressure Monitoring System are included.

Warranty

4-year/50,000-mile, whichever comes first New Vehicle Warranty

4-year/ 50,000-mile, whichever comes first Powertrain Warranty.

7/year/100,000-mile,, whichever comes first Corrosion-Perforation Warranty.

2-year/20,000-miles Carefree Maintenance Plan.

Stats

Weight 4,279 Lbs.

Length 195.5 inches

Width 78.5 inches

Height 68.3 inches

Finally Assemble Location Chattanooga, Tenn.

Durhl Caussey writes a car column read around the world. He may be reached at this paper or [email protected].