Coming in 2019: Atlas Cross Sport

The Volkswagen Atlas is a success story in the making. It has become one of the top selling vehicles for 2018 for us. The three-row space and access, superb engineering, great driver assistance features, and great versatility are among the many reasons why you have been flocking to our family SUV.

It is no surprise that the Atlas is seen as a platform for a future SUV. One that will fit with active lifestyles, while offering all of the great features and capabilities of our popular mid-sized SUV.

Introduced at the New York International Auto Show is the next chapter in the Atlas success story – the Atlas Cross Sport concept.

The idea behind the Atlas Cross Sport is to take the best of its bigger brother and create a more flexible SUV with the option of electrification.

Both the Atlas and the Cross Sport concept shares the same wheelbase, while the concept is 7.5 inches shorter than the three-row version. The Cross Sport has a two-row cabin that can still offer superb cargo space in comparison to its potential competitors.

The rear profile is more rakish and coupe-like. This befits the name Cross Sport perfectly – a compliment to the Atlas lineup.

Electrification is the key to this concept. Customers could choose a plug-in hybrid driveline connected to a gasoline V6 engine. Two electric motors – one up front and one on the rear axle – not only will keep the Atlas Cross Sport going without using fuel, it is designed to improve traction when it is needed. All told, there is 355 combined horsepower on hand with a choice of five drive modes: E-Mode where a fully charged battery will start off your daily drive in, Hybrid that combines the V6 and the electric motors, GTE for a more sporting drive using all 494 pound-feet of torque to achieve improved driving, Off-Road for improved traction away from normal surfaces and in inclement weather, and  Battery Hold/Battery Charge which allows the battery to be charged while driving.

A 310-horsepower mild hybrid version of the same driveline would also be available – one that use the same driveline, but without the need to charge up using a plug.

The Atlas Cross Sport will also use a 4MOTION Active Control system that offers further options on both on- and Off-Road situations.