2025 Volkswagen Taos Vs. Honda HR-V

The 2026 Atlas and 2026 Atlas Cross Sport have a lot in common—besides the similar name, they both offer a spacious and stylish interior, tons of standard comfort and tech features, and a powerful engine. However, there are a couple of major differences to be aware of before you decide on one or the other. Check out our quick comparison below, then visit our Volkswagen dealership near Mansfield, TX to test drive both. more How Are the Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport Different? First, let’s check out what sets these two models apart. Atlas vs. Atlas Cross Sport Size Looking at them side-by-side, the most obvious difference is that the Atlas is quite a bit bigger than the Atlas Cross Sport. While they share a similar front profile and fascia, when viewed from the side, you’ll notice the Atlas has a boxier rear end and larger back window, while the Atlas Cross Sport has a more tapered roofline, giving it a sportier appearance. Here’s a comparison of their exterior measurements: 2026 Atlas 2026 Atlas Cross Sport Length 200.7 in 195.6 in Width 78.3 in 78.3 in Height 70.4 in 68.1 in Ground clearance 6.3 in 6.3 in Approach angle 20.8 in 20.8 in Departure angle 21.3 in 25.1 in Because of its increased length and height, the Atlas has more interior space, while the Atlas Cross Sport is a bit easier to maneuver. Atlas vs. Atlas Cross Sport Dimensions Most shoppers agree that the interior space is the biggest difference between the two—the Atlas is a three-row SUV, while the Atlas Cross Sport comes standard with two rows, and the difference in layouts has a major effect on passenger and cargo capacity: 2026 Atlas 2026 Atlas Cross Sport Max passenger capacity 7 5 Head room (1 st /2 nd /3 rd) 41.3 / 40.4 / 38.3 in 39.4 / 37.8 / -- in Leg room (1 st /2 nd /3 rd) 41.7 / 37.6 / 33.7 in 41.7 / 40.4 / -- in Total passenger volume 153.7 cu ft 112.0 cu ft Cargo volume behind 3 rd 20.6 cu ft -- Cargo volume behind 2 nd 55.5 cu ft 40.3 cu ft Cargo volume behind 1 st 96.6 cu ft 77.6 cu ft Additionally, the Atlas can be optioned with second-row captain’s chairs, which reduces its seating capacity to six. Meanwhile, the Atlas Cross Sport is only available with a bench second row. Atlas vs. Atlas Cross Sport Price and Trims Considering their varying dimensions, it’s no surprise that they come with different starting MSRPs. However, they may not be as different as you think. 2026 Atlas trims and MSRP: SE: $39,310 SE with Technology: $43,730 Peak Edition: $48,060 SEL: $49,620 SEL Premium R-Line: $54,630 2026 Atlas Cross Sport trims and MSRP: SE: $38,300 SE with Technology: $42,720 SEL: $48,610 SEL R-Line Black: $50,560 SEL Premium R-Line: $53,620 How Are the Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport Similar? Now that we’ve gone through all the significant ways that they differ, let’s check out some of the features they have in common. Atlas vs. Atlas Cross Sport MPG and Performance The Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport both come with a single engine option: a 2.0-liter Turbo engine that produces 269 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. Both are capable of towing up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped, and both come with a choice between front-wheel drive or 4MOTION® all-wheel drive. Additionally, both FWD models come with Drive Mode Select with Eco, Sport, Comfort, Snow, and Custom modes, while 4MOTION models add an Offroad mode. Both also have nearly identical fuel economy ratings, with front-wheel drive models achieving up to 20 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. Atlas vs. Atlas Cross Sport Interior Both come quite well-equipped with standard comfort features, including: Climatronic® multi-zone climate control Perforated V-Tex leatherette seating Heated and ventilated front seats 8-way adjustable power driver’s seat Heated steering wheel with multifunction buttons Available features in both include: Remote start Panoramic sunroof Leather seating Massaging front seats with memory function Heated rear seats 115-volt AC power outlet Atlas vs. Atlas Cross Sport Infotainment and Tech A 12-inch floating center touch screen display is standard across all trims in both models, along with features like wireless App-Connect (Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™), SiriusXM®, wireless device charging, myVW+ connected services, the 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit Pro display, and available Plus Speech with AI. Both also come outfitted with multiple USB ports throughout the cabin; however, the Atlas gets six due to having more seats, while the Atlas Cross Sport gets four. Atlas vs. Atlas Cross Sport Safety Like other popular VW models, both come standard with IQ.DRIVE, which includes the following features: Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) Stop and Go Travel Assist (semi-automated driving assistance) Front Assist (Forward Collision Warning and Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Monitoring) Lane Assist (Lane Keeping System) Emergency Assist (semi-automated vehicle assistance in a medical emergency) Rear Traffic Alert Other available features in both include Park Assist, Park Distance Control, Head-up Display, Area View, and more. Shop Volkswagen SUVs for Sale near Cleburne, TX Now that we’ve covered all the key differences and similarities between these two models, you’re ready to make your decision when you shop at Family Volkswagen of Burleson. But if you’re still unsure or you still have questions, simply contact us online or call us at 682-349-1946, and we’ll be happy to help you. While you shop, don’t forget to check our new vehicle specials and exclusive manufacturer incentives, which include low APR financing, VW lease deals, and more.

Have you or your child just gotten your license? If so, welcome to the world of driving and the limitless possibilities of the open road. With these travel options come the risks of being a new driver on the road; however, there are certain vehicles that are better for newer drivers than those who have been road-tested. VW SUVs come highly rated and with a host of comfort and driver assistance features that can protect you as you get your feet, or wheels, underneath you. In this guide, we’ll review the 3 best SUVs for new drivers and why VW is the right choice to protect you and yours. Read on to learn the must-have safety features and tech in your next VW SUV. more Best VW SUV Before we begin, there is no singular best VW SUV. Each one has its own identity and personality; all you need to do is find the one that’s an expression of you and has the features you need. SUVs are positioned to be better for newer drivers because of their larger size (and therefore increased visibility) and higher driver seating for better situational awareness while on the road. While VW sedans are also incredibly safe and tech-forward, when it comes to new drivers, their shorter stature can work against them. Best VW SUV for New Drivers: VW Atlas Cross Sport The VW Atlas Cross Sport isn’t as big as its sibling that shares its name (and appears on this list), the Atlas, but it’s a crossover with enough power to get out of tense situations on the highway and tech to get you from A to B safely. It seats up to five passengers, which limits the amount of possible distractions when piling in for a road trip. The engine across all trims is a turbocharged 2.0L, 4-cylinder worth 269 horsepower, so if you have an adventurous new driver on your hands, they’ll be able to handle off-road driving for camping trips, especially when equipped with all-wheel drive. However, the real benefits of the VW Atlas Cross Sport are the safety features, which include: A rear-view camera Available parking assist Available head-up display Auto emergency braking Forward collision warnings Blind-spot monitoring Lane assist And more. The VW Atlas Cross Sport received a 5-star rating from NHTSA. Best VW SUV for New Drivers: VW Atlas The bigger sibling to the VW Atlas Cross Sport, the Volkswagen Atlas is one of the best 3-row SUVs around, with seating for up to seven passengers. Like the Atlas Cross Sport, it shares the same engine across all trims: a 2.0L, 4-cylinder that puts out 269 horsepower. You once again have your choice between front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, though we’d recommend the latter for better handling both off-road and on suburban streets. Safety features include: Standard wireless charging to ensure connectivity and availability Forward assist Available head-up display Lane Assist Rear-view camera Available parking assist Blind-spot monitoring Available adaptive cruise control And more The VW Atlas received a 5-star rating from NHTSA. Best VW SUV for New Drivers: VW ID.4 If you’ve been considering an electric vehicle, the VW ID.4 is an attractive option thanks to its efficient range and affordable pricing. This VW EV gives you the choice of two engine options, which are tied to the specific trim you choose: A single electric motor is worth 282 horsepower and 291 miles of range. A dual-electric motor setup worth 335 horsepower and 263 miles of range. Let’s look at the safety features: Dynamic road sign display Forward collision assist Lane assist Light assist Park Assistant Plus Rear-view camera Available overhead-view camera Emergency assist Wireless charging And more. Like the Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport, the VW ID.4 received a 5-star rating from NHTSA. Test Drive the Best SUVs for New Drivers If you or a member of your family is a new driver in the Burleson, Arlington, or Fort Worth area, head down to Family Volkswagen of Burleson to explore our lineup of the safest SUVs for new drivers. Contact us today to learn more and to schedule a test drive!

Families all over the Greater Dallas and Fort Worth area are in love with 3-row SUVs, and it’s easy to see why. For one, they have spacious and versatile interiors that allow you to seat plenty of people with room to spare for storage, making them perfect for road trips. At the same time, they also tend to have superior power and drivability compared to minivans and other large people movers. Considering how popular they are, it’s no shocker that most major carmakers have at least one 3-row SUV in their lineup. So, how do you narrow it down to the best one? We don’t have time to compare all of them, but today, let’s take a look at two of the most popular—the 2025 VW Atlas and 2025 Ford Explorer—to see which one comes out on top. more Atlas vs. Explorer Price First, let’s check out the Atlas and Explorer’s starting MSRP to figure out which is the most affordable 3-row SUV. 2025 Volkswagen Atlas trims and price: SE: $38,200 SE with Technology: $42,305 Peak Edition: $46,655 SEL: $48,200 SEL Premium R-Line: $53,205 2025 Ford Explorer trims and price: Active: $39,775 ST-Line: $44,615 Platinum: $52,250 ST: $54,260 It starts out pretty close, with the base-level Explorer being about $1,500 more expensive. However, the Explorer quickly skyrockets in price, and it doesn’t offer shoppers as many mid-range options as the Atlas does, which makes our 3-row Volkswagen SUV far more affordable for families who don’t need all the extra bells and whistles. Atlas vs. Explorer Performance The Volkswagen Atlas is motivated by a turbocharged engine that puts out 269 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. It can be optioned with either front-wheel drive or 4MOTION® all-wheel drive, and it’s capable of towing up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. The Explorer has two available engine options. The standard motor is an inline 4-cylinder that puts out 300 horsepower, and there’s also an available V6 engine that churns out 400 horsies. Rear-wheel drive is standard, and four-wheel drive can be featured as an upgrade. The Explorer is also able to tow a maximum of 5,000 pounds. Despite having more powerful engine options, the Explorer and Atlas haul the same amount of weight, and they have very similar real-world performance, so this category is effectively a tie. Atlas vs. Explorer Interior Now that we’ve discussed their respective price tags and power specs, let’s take a look at their dimensions to see which is the 3-row SUV with the most room. Here’s a side-by-side look at their passenger and cargo dimensions: 2025 Volkswagen Atlas 2025 Ford Explorer Seating capacity 7 7 Total passenger volume 154 cu. ft. 152.7 cu. ft. Head room (1 st /2 nd /3 rd) 41.3 in. / 40.4 in. / 38.3 in. 40.7 in. / 40.5 in. / 38.9 in. Legroom (1 st /2 nd /3 rd) 41.7 in. / 37.6 in. / 33.7 in. 43.0 in. / 39.0 in. / 32.2 in. Cargo capacity (behind 3 rd) 20.6 cu. ft. 18.2 cu. ft. Cargo capacity (behind 2 nd) 55.5 cu. ft. 47.9 cu. ft. Cargo capacity (behind 1 st) 96.6 cu. ft. 87.8 cu. ft. While the Explorer has slightly more legroom in its front two rows, it has significantly less space in all other respects, especially when you consider its storage capacity and third-row dimensions, which means this one goes to the 2025 Atlas. Atlas vs. Explorer Features Both SUVs benefit from some recent refreshes that make their interiors stand out—the Atlas got some massive upgrades for the 2024 model year, while the Explorer just received an update for 2025. Every 2025 Atlas model comes with a 12.0-inch center touch screen display and the 10.25-inch VW Digital Cockpit system. Standard features include App-Connect® to allow wireless device connection and streaming, wireless device charging, 6 standard USB ports, SiriusXM®, and myVW with connected services through Car-Net ®, including an in-vehicle Wi-Fi hotspot and interfacing with Alexa. Other available features include a Harmon Kardon® premium sound system and, starting next year, Plus Speech with AI powered by ChatGPT. The Explorer’s recently upgraded infotainment setup includes a 13.2-inch center touch screen and a 12.3-inch digital information cluster. It also comes with Alexa Built-in, 8 USB ports, and the Ford Digital Experience with in-vehicle Wi-Fi. They both exhibit some truly upscale standard features and interior design, and the question of which is better will likely come down to the shopper’s own personal preference. However, the Atlas does come with a few more standard features. Atlas vs. Explorer Safety The Atlas and Explorer have been lauded for their safety features—the 2024 models both won Top Safety Pick awards from the IIHS. They each come with their own proprietary driver assistance packages, IQ.DRIVE and Co-Pilot360, respectively. Both include: Adaptive cruise control Automatic emergency braking Forward collision warning Lane keeping assistance Blind spot monitoring Exit warning IQ.DRIVE in the 2025 Atlas also includes features like high beam assist, as well as other available features like parking assist and road sign assistance. They also both have different levels of semi-automated driving. The Atlas’s standard Travel Assist required hands-on action, while the Explorer has available BlueCruise, which allows for hands-free highway driving, but can generally only be equipped on upper-level trims. So, to sum up the matter of safety, both SUVs provide a solid collection of safety and driver assistance features. Lease the 2025 Volkswagen Atlas Near Mansfield, TX The 2025 Ford Explorer offers competitive performance and technological features, but the Atlas simply provides more bang for your buck, with a larger interior and a superior list of standard features. If you’re interested in test driving the new VW Atlas, Family Toyota of Burleson is your go-to spot near Fort Worth. Contact us online or give us a call at (682) 349-1946, and don’t forget to check out our special offers, including discounts for first responders, military, and recent college grads.