The Touareg That Should Have Been? | 2020 Atlas Cross Sport First Drive

[@PunxsutawneyDave]

Watching Alex is like taking a class on whatever car he's talking about. He is literally the best.

[@spacejaime]

Alex and Sofyan Bey are the two best, and here they are together again.

[@nathansheeren]

Alex living that Costco executive member lifestyle.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

Actually, that wasn’t my wallet LOL

[@eatabagel]

@@AAutoBuyersGuide Alex living the pickpocket lifestyle.

[@LeoTheShortGuy]

Vancouver, Canada 🇨🇦 is super awesome - close to my area. AoA is extraordinary and high quality.

[@naarealy]

Touareg: an expensive off-road focused luxury SUV with a premium interior, powerful engines, an Audi price tag and a VW logo. Atlas Cross Sport: an expensive o̶f̶f̶-̶r̶o̶a̶d̶ ̶f̶o̶c̶u̶s̶e̶d̶ ̶l̶u̶x̶u̶r̶y̶ ̶S̶U̶V crossover with a̶ ̶p̶r̶e̶m̶i̶u̶m̶ ̶i̶n̶t̶e̶r̶i̶o̶r̶,̶ ̶p̶o̶w̶e̶r̶f̶u̶l̶ ̶e̶n̶g̶i̶n̶e̶s̶, an near Audi price tag and a VW logo. It's not terrible, but it wont be a top seller, just like most other VWs in the USA.

[@neergewleinad]

no way this is a crossover... this is a large SUV, any way you look at it, in terms of heft and driving dynamics...

[@craig5042]

Too bad about the hard plastics and cheaper switches. Glad to see VW offering VR6 again other than the turbo 4. My worry is that those turbo engines won't have the durability of my 2001 Jetta GL 2.0, 5sp manual I had for 17 years. Good review. I agree the Touareg was a premium vehicle compared to this.

[@trippspeed]

@TheGoat This !! , that turbo motor (E888) is pulled straight from the MQB platform. I have a GTI with this motor and beat the crap out of it. It never complains.

[@rl6210]

I have 16 Touareg and test drove cross sport sel vr6 premium yesterday -- totally different! But I did like it. Interior quality on Touareg superior, and much tighter suspension. The cross sport quieter and more comfortable, with much much lighter steering. The cross sport feels twice as large, but better than I expected

[@kennethcoleman6769]

I like it for all the reasons you mentioned. After 17 years in 6spd manual coupe things, I am ready for some room with a view.

[@herbieherb8982]

Omg thank you. I was waiting for you to do this video. Freaking love your Channel. You talk about everything. Love it. Thinking about getting this SUV in couple weeks.

[@2004cyrus]

Herbie Herb I bought one last night!

[@LlyleHunter]

In this range I’d most likely choose either a Honda Passport or a Ford Edge as a pragmatist. I simply wouldn’t invite the maintenance costs and repair costs of a Volkswagen. Were Toyota to offer an entry between a RAV4 and a Highlander I’d choose that.

[@prnclgn7772]

Bruce Solomon I think that's the 4runner

[@prnclgn7772]

Or a two-row highlander bc I believe a third row is an option

[@LlyleHunter]

@@prnclgn7772 The 4Runner is a truck based SUV and is even larger than the Highlander. Both the RAV4 and Highlander are unitbody based crossover CUVs.

[@LlyleHunter]

@@prnclgn7772 I’d be interested in a vehicle that is an in between size.

[@apexconnexion]

@@LlyleHunter Too funny, I was just thinking this. I did see somewhere that there was an unconfirmed Toyota crossover project to be released in 2021 as a 2022 model. I would love to see a sportlike Venza re-release, with the modern appointments that most of us look for when we opt out of a luxury performance brand for the mainstream names like Hyundai, Toyota, etc. This CrossSport has so many great things going for it, especially the Q8 design mimicry and interior space. But knowing VW, this vehicle will likely have a terrible residual value and therefore lease poorly, aside from someone wanting to spend the equivalent of an optioned BMW X3, LR Disco Sport, or Acura RDX A-Spec.

[@DMCarReviews]

Love it! Looks gorgeous. You can definitely tell the plastic, trim, and many other touches are straight out of the Audi Q5 (which is awesome). Tune the 2.0T with an APR+ tune, and get over 300hp/300tq, while being covered under a powertrain warranty. A regular stage 1 tune will probably yield around 320hp/340tq.

[@2004cyrus]

Dima K I bought one last night. Still some hollow scratchy plastic where the knees rest near

[@edipires15]

Much better looking than the normal Atlas, but still not a Touareg

[@StuinNR]

The Atlas is crap compared to the Touareg.

[@edipires15]

Stuart Hancock that’s why it’s cheaper

[@stephenhendricks103]

No, it's not. But VW has found repeatedly that their Euro-spec vehicles are severely challenged in the US market. Americans like their VW's bigger and cheaper than their European counterparts.

[@ilipan2668]

Don't know why they wouldn't just give us Touraeg instead of this

[@edipires15]

Ilipan would you pay $70,000 for a Touareg?

[@abbasjafiya21]

My two favorite car Reviewers together yaaay !!

[@spacejaime]

Agree!

[@Jbiglin]

@Alex - well done as always. I appreciate the level of detail, but I also really enjoyed listening to the conversation about the different models and opinions of each. Personally I really like the look of this SUV and the width of the inside space. I’m just concerned about reliability after researching the 3-Row Atlas.

[@kevinb8887]

Alex.....you need to do something about your intro...that’s nails on a chalkboard!! Great review as always. I actually suggested your reviews for a cousin buying a new car as I think you explain important details out in a way that most can relate to. Good work!

[@2004cyrus]

kevin batt he has said he likes his intro and won’t change it

[@girlperson1]

What a nice smooth road. Definitely not driving in New Jersey...LOL!!!

[@stephenhendricks103]

Welcome to British Columbia. You'll also find and absence of litter and delightful, well maintained roads.

[@austing4321]

Try PA. They're even worst

[@a.a.a.r5238]

Drive south to Bellingham over I5 and you will be shocked!

[@sprague49]

I love listening to Alex and Soyfan talk shop.

[@anthonycbrown1952]

They have very good rapport with one another and amazing 1+ 1 = 4 when the 'club together'.

[@ptingz9307]

The Touareg was already perfect

[@weirdshibainu]

Especially with the rare V-10

[@edm3184]

Always enjoy your thorough videos! I was looking at the original Atlas but those fake exhausts were such a turnoff.. I had my 19 Durango GT for over a year now, not regrets! (and real dual exhausts!)

[@hellkitty1014]

Remember when American automakers would get killed for doing something like fake vents and exhausts. But Audi/VW gets away with it, even on $125k luxury cars(Audi A8)...

[@kencoleman8929]

Looking forward to your full take back at home.

[@CalvinHikes]

Sorry aboot the rain. -Canada

[@kencoleman8929]

For me, its seems to always come back to Atlas and CX9. No Sante Fe or Suburu for me, thanks. Also, Telluride/Palisade seem good initially, but compared together at auto show, just not as substantive. Gas mileage is a concern, would also like some nicer trim in Atlas/Cross Sport.

[@joeykitty2892]

The current Touareg, not currently for sale in the US, looks totally different, and a darn-site better than this Atlas mess.

[@scottmeans2]

Alex you do get around. I enjoyed the review especially, the banter with red line commentator He's knowledgeable, but you're still the King. Your top 3 picks was an interesting, but helpful twist that worked well with the end analysis; where you discuss the pro and con of the the trim levels.

[@2004cyrus]

lytton mienze the manufacturers fly him to test their new cars

[@THEFIRE360]

1:12 full LED....but the turn signals are still halogen?

[@afcgeo882]

THEFIRE360 Full rear and headlamp LED, but front turn signals are incandescent.

[@ericd.4460]

I would change them to LED straight away.

[@peterlemonjello1626]

None of those engines are as excellent as the 3.0 tdi in my 2012 Touareg. 406 pound feet torque.

[@rightlanehog3151]

Alex, I hope you enjoyed your visit to Canada but I hope you did not have to pay for gasoline. 19 mpg is shockingly bad for a brand new entry whether you are paying US or Canadian gas prices. BTW it hardly ever rains in Vancouver............

[@stephenhendricks103]

Nor in Seattle. :)

[@bill7481]

In this trim, this thing looks so much better than the Atlas. I like the exterior look and the interior space, even though the design of the dashboard and the quality of the materials used in some parts of the cabin is questionable. Overall, great job, Volkswagen! Now, if only they could make something reliable.

[@austing4321]

Not worth anywhere near $50k with that interior

[@DMCarReviews]

Kia's faux wood is better lmao????

[@austing4321]

@@DMCarReviews Didn't refer to Kia at all or wood of any kind. Faux Wood doesn't bother me (except GMs who can make anything look cheap), it's the design, the graining on the materials, the build quality (sat in two of these at the car show last month). It's all so... lacking. The seats also suck, at least for my body type. As for the Kia comment, It depends which Kia you're talking about. If you're talking about the Sorento or Sporage than no, the Faux Wood isn't better than VW but if you're talking about the Cadenza and Telluride, that's where their faux wood and most other materials are far above this VW. However, it would be more acceptable for Kia to have an interior like this because they don't charge well over $50k for a family SUV.

[@DMCarReviews]

@@austing4321 VW has the best seats. Kia interiors suck regardless.

[@BrogeKilrain]

My test drive of Atlas found it noisy and hard riding . Rode harder than my Colorado pickup. V6 felt great

[@LlyleHunter]

You have to admit that the Colorado’s ride bests the ride of many premium sedans. It’s astonishingly velvety.

[@jimmacmurdo355]

I still prefer the Santa Fe, with the Outback as a close second. Will have to test drive the Cross Sport before making my last pick, but right now I'd choose the GC.

[@TheMichaelRN]

Nope. Touareg overseas is more premium inside and out.

[@LlyleHunter]

When the Touareg was available in the US it could not be found for little less than a concurrent Q5 at the time that it was offered. It made no sense in the US market with the exchange rates at all. There’s no question that the Touareg was a premium vehicle but it was not what Americans expected of a Volkswagen in our marketplace. We’re happy with Audi to fill that market.

[@afcgeo882]

Far more expensive though.

[@DMCarReviews]

@@LlyleHunter In Europe and Russia, Touareg's reach $105,000-$110,000, for top-line models. They are more luxurious than an Audi Q8.

[@LlyleHunter]

@@DMCarReviews w Wow! I really liked the VW Phaeton. However different markets respond differently to products in different ways and Volkswagen wasn’t able to sell many at all in the US or Canada. The same was the case with the Touareg. I don’t think that VW even marketed that trim level here yet not many Touaregs sold in the North American market though quite a bit more sold than Phaetons. At $105,000-$110,000 most North American customers would a select fully optioned Porsche Cayenne.

[@stephenhendricks103]

I recall in an earlier review (of the Sorento, I believe) that Alex noted the "midsize" crossover segment should be subdivided into smaller and larger vehicles. Since then the comment has only become more true. An entire category of smaller crossovers (188' to 192" in length) has joined their larger siblings that range from 195" to 204" in length. Hyundai has the Santa Fe and Palisade. KIA has the Sorento and Telluride. Ford has the Edge and Explorer. Honda has the Passport and Pilot. Subaru has the Outback and Ascent. Chevy has the Blazer along with the Traverse (a vehicle that painted yellow could be mistaken for a school bus.) In every case but one it's a division between two and three row vehicles. (The exception is the KIA Sorento that provides a surprisingly accommodating third row with as much legroom as the Telluride.) Now VW has joined the crowd with the Cross Sport. But unlike other brands VW opted for the Cross Sport to be nearly the size of the Atlas with the difference in length less than 3". The length of other brands' smaller footprint vehicles ranges from 6" to well over a foot less than their larger midsize siblings. In fact, at over 195" the Cross Sport is longer than a three row Highlander and within an inch or two of a number of 3 row rivals. (Note: The 2021 Atlas has been increased in length by about 2", making the difference between the Atlas and the Cross Sport about 5". That is still the smallest difference between the smaller and larger midsize crossovers from a single brand.) So what's the rationale for the Cross Sport? Its advantage over the Atlas doesn't lie in its greater maneuverability or ability to fit in a crowded garage or parking lot space. Some consumers will see the absence of a third row as an advantage but that's an odd claim given the fact that a third row can be stowed under the floor with no loss of cargo space. Don't need a third row? Don't use it. Keep in mind, though, that even if it's rarely used a third row can be extremely convenient when the need arises to accommodate six or seven passengers and the alternative is using two vehicles for a short trip. So it seems to come down to the slightly "coupe-like" styling of the Cross Sport versus the Atlas, reminiscent of several Range Rover SUV's. Though it reduces cargo space practicality to some extent the Cross Sport retains an abundance of interior room. As a VW fan I hope the Cross Sport does well but I have a feeling that it won't add many customers as much as it will steal a few sales from the larger Atlas.

[@apexconnexion]

At 5'11", the third row of the Sorento is unusable. I know it's not designed for a full size adult but it's a ridiculous option. In contrast, the Telluride was bearable. So while the measurements might be telling you one thing, I can confirm the physical space I occupied disagrees with you ;) With the overall length of cars increasing across all entries, I would not buy a three-row, mid-size vehicle "just in case." I concur with the CS being in a niche segment of comfortable and stylish 2-row mid-size crossovers. I also concur with the logic of getting a third-row if you do not have the space to accommodate a full size SUV. In my opinion, I do not find many second-row CUVs to be comfortable and it's pretty strange considering some of those cars have a third row option. Therefore, the release of the CS and hopefully a design trend of comfortable second-rows will offer a better balance of what is on offer in the market today, in brands that are not at the luxury/performance level. EDIT: I also recognize that I won't be driving the car from the second row, and this logic of wanting a very comfortable second row probably does not apply to the general car buyer. My point being that I personally appreciate the entry and would choose the CS time and time again over the Atlas only to fold the third row down.

[@stephenhendricks103]

​@@apexconnexion Let's stick to some facts here. The MEDIAN height of adult American males is 5'9" and that of adult females is 5'4", meaning 50% of males and females are or taller or shorter than those measurements. About 14.5% of American males and 1% of females are at least 5'11" in height. So when one speaks of "average" size American adults, those are the measurements. The typical comment that 3rd rows of most midsize crossovers are only suitable for "children" is simply untrue. My "average" 15 y/o daughter is 5'3" tall and when we chauffeur her and her girlfriends on local trips, most fit comfortably in the third row of our KIA Sorento. So does our a teenager and our 60 lb 32" tall dog. Would I want to transport 6 or 7 adults on a long trip in our Sorento? Of course not. Apart from the fact that there's a big difference between a 30-45 minute and a six hour trip, trying to include that many adults AND their luggage/gear in the space behind the third row would be uncomfortable at best and impossible at worst. Nor would I try to fit the local boys' HS basketball team for an "away" game in our Sorento. But I wouldn't try to use any midsize crossover, even the largest, for that particular use case. That's minivan territory. On the other hand, when the choice is between using our Sorento for my family and three more passengers on a short trip versus taking a second vehicle, the 189" long KIA with 31.7" of rear seat legroom is an excellent alternative, especially considering that the third row significantly more legroom than a Toyota Highlander (27.7") or a Mazda CX-9 (29.7"). And as far as second row legroom is concerned, the Sorento (and the Santa Fe) offers 39.4" compared to the Cross Sports, 40.4". Not bad considering the Sorento (and the Santa Fe) is over half a foot shorter than the Cross Sport.

[@whosoever1639]

Hey Alex, this AWD VW or the 2020 RDX SH-AWD Advanced? Around same price and mpg.

[@froidd758]

The moment I saw the MpG...I stopped watching.

[@hideawayinc.9561]

So unfortunate, I had high hopes for this car. 😑

[@ogalief]

Still better than the Touareg. Mine averages 14 mpg with premium gas and conservative driving - though it does have the V8

[@diego9x]

Can't agree with you Alex, the Touareg is better looking, and it's already big enough for many

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

True, but you can't buy one here...

[@ast5515]

So the 3.6 AWD has better city fuel economy than the 3.6 FWD? I have no idea what the EPA is smoking but I would like some of it.

[@gregkramer5588]

The mfg put up this number not the EPA themselves I believe.

[@carstenkrogh4561]

Tough call. Considering replacing my 2012 Toureg which I love driving, but the CrossT just hasn’t offered the same driving experience...although I do enjoy the space.

[@Rouse209]

Have you reviewed the 2021 SEL R line Arteon as a family sedan

[@Atl404sFinest]

If Volkswagen would have exclusively upgraded the interior of the crosssport to act as an ode to the Touareg, it would be more tasteful. The atlas is okay with being a large hunk of plastic, bc it’s made for families. But this has potential to please Touareg fans and new buyers alike, given it upgrades the interior.

[@adventuretraveling8957]

👍👏👏👏👏 Excellent review on cars 🚗 well done 👍 buddy

[@georanchurchill2774]

The People’s Q8!!

[@mudcat508]

Interior says $30k. What happened to the concept? Another missed opportunity by VW. I'll take a Telluride.

[@2004cyrus]

Mudcat did you buy a Telluride ?

[@damilolaakanni]

I don't think this is a direct successor to the Touareg, it looks shorter and more aggressive than that, this is FWD based, not RWD based like the Touareg. Also, that was body on frame, as opposed to the atlas, and had engine options ranging from a gasoline V6 to a diesel V10.

[@serhiidrashpul8172]

I believe Touareg is not and was not body on frame, although the previous generation really acted much like a truck-ish SUV.

[@Jaymac720]

Damilola Akanni the Touareg was not a body in frame vehicle in any iteration. It was a RWD crossover built on the same platform as the Q7 and Cayenne

[@stephenhendricks103]

This is a "direct successor to the Touareg" only in North America. The Atlas (and I assume the Cross Sport) is not sold in most of Europe or other international markets while the Touareg lives on in with a new generation.

[@girlperson1]

The poor guy in the rear seat....LOL!!!

[@madmaxine12]

girlperson1 yeah, who was that guy?!

[@tomwatson9062]

@@madmaxine12 Soyfan's photographer, Rob.

[@johnholst]

I love your reviews Alex! In this video, you said the Santa Fe costs the same as this? It definitely does not. A fully loaded awd Santa Fe tops out at 38K. So, yes, it's a bit smaller and not quite as powerful. But it's also 13K cheaper.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

It depends on how you configure them. SEL 2.0T and LImited 2.0T are similar to where the Atlast CS 2.0T will likely be after the average VW discount on dealer lots. The V6 will still be more.

[@afcgeo882]

Alex on Autos You can’t compare a price with discounts to a price without them. Hyundai discounts very well too.

[@gregkramer5588]

You are all right IMO. In my mind it boils down to value most of the time and the Santa Fe just nails it.

[@afcgeo882]

Greg Kramer Value is crucial in big purchases. When VW was at its peak in the US, it became a premium Euro brand with premium prices. Since then, it moved all manufacturing to Mexico and Tennessee (for US models) and created American designs that no longer look, feel or drive like premium European cars. What stayed the same was the premium pricing. Despite their very generous discounts and the great warranty they had for a few years (and just reduced for 2020), a lot if people just skip them when shopping, simply because their MSRPs simply don’t match their cars anymore. There’s no value proposition for paying that premium. I think VAG made a huge mistake by not sticking to world cars. Had they assembled the regular (Euro spec) Passat, Golf and Jetta in the US and kept the two lengths of Tiguan, they’d be able to sell them at a higher premium. Instead, we basically get Seat grade products at VW prices.

[@apexconnexion]

@@AAutoBuyersGuide I disagree, John Holst is right. While incentives and dealer discounts vary immensely by region, dealership, and buyer, the residual values are typically found to be within a single percentage change. I am willing to bet that this excellent looking VW CS will have a horrid residual value in contrast to a top trim Hyundai Sante Fe, and upon release especially in the west coast, the CS will not be discounted like you assert. Your dollar goes much farther in a fully loaded Hyundai Sante Fe. I seriously love both of these cars for all of the things they do well, despite how spiritless they drive for the price.

[@sideskraft]

I sat in a new Atlas at the local car show and was not at all impressed, neither was the wife. We just bought a '12 Touareg Executive TDI and it's far and away superior aesthetically and comfort wise in every way. I think VW made a major mistake releasing this vehicle. Frankly I think it's downright homely.

[@benniewalker312]

Alex has a heavy foot, caught and passed everything on the road.

[@Teo-io4yw]

Again very informative video , please for the new models , show the rear turn signals how the flashing ( red or amber) , it's very important for the people in Europe who want to buy vehicle from USA or Canada.

[@SIGINT007]

It’s amber

[@Ulvaeus]

They need to put another $800.00 into upgrading the interior plastics. I like the look of it though.

[@pokerfred68]

Currently own a Grand Cherokee Overland V6 and will be replacing it March 2021...this Cross Sport is tops on the list as of now. Want to see if the new Sorento will be worth the look as the 2014 Sorento we had was a very decent vehicle and priced right. VW is making some decent vehicles, just wish they would have a bit more power. My son just bought a 2020 Jetta GLI Autobahn and that is quite impressive, in relation to the Audi S3 is replaced. I get it that VW will not be up to the same performance specs that Audi is, since pricing reflects the “get what you pay for” in comparison.

[@apexconnexion]

I drove a 2019 Sorento for work and was pleasantly surprised at how smooth and moderately powerful even the base 2.4L engine was. I haven't driven their V6 offering, I imagine it's quite good being that the Sorento is one of the smaller mid-size CUVs. But the interior is so unbelievably boring and the sound system was open ass. The new Sorento redesign looks pretty dang slick, I just hope they do something about the interior. And the second row comfort of the GC is leagues better than the second row comfort of the current Sorento. At first I scoffed that a V6 GC with some minor luxury appointments was asking for $44k but now I see that it just does it better than most.

[@pokerfred68]

Brett Crawford you can look at phots of the 2021 Sorento and it looks great. The V6 was very peppy in the 2014. No V6 for the 2021, but the new 4 cylinder will have about as much power and more torque.

[@brodiwheeler7583]

Outside is UGH-LEE! Too busy with way too much style lines and chrome trim... inside’s nice though. For me, I think this vehicle illustrates North America’s illogical lust for SUVs... a full size wagon would be a better choice for the majority of buyers, cuz seriously... who’s actually going to need the 8in. of ground clearance- small minority.

[@2004cyrus]

Brodi Wheeler true But people aren’t buying these for ground clearance

[@velboone6041]

I love the cross sport..

[@aperxmim]

I was excited about Volkswagen Atlas Cross, until read the combined Miles per Gallon only 19, in the Honda Passport you get a combined 24 miles per gallon. The top trim for the Volkswagen cost more, so not for me.

[@davidjohnson3166]

Ah, my two favorite auto reviewers, discussing the failing Murano........ with one of the many reasons Nissan/Infinity is

[@MatrixDiscovery]

Nissan/Infinity needs to separate from Renault if they ever want to survive the next 10 years. Nissan needs to get back to their goods days (1999) when they made great cars and engines.

[@T16-s5o]

Murano sales figures have been very consistent since it's launch in 2003. So how is it failing?

[@Ken-vl4wk]

Murano V6 engine is the least powerful V6 engine on the planet

[@afcgeo882]

T 16 The failing part is that the discounts on the Murano are huge now. It is by far the cheapest car in the segment on out the door prices. That means it’s less profitable for Nissan than it used to be.

[@austing4321]

@@MatrixDiscovery That will only make their situation worst. They need to do four things to help sales and their reputation in North America: 1. Ditch Jatco 2. Offer longer powertrain warranty 3. Redesign the Rouge, Pathfinder, Frontier, and Murano 4. Make a plan for consistent update/facelift cycles for core models like Hyundai/Kia, Ford, and Honda have been doing the last decade. I will say, I'd buy a Nissan Murano over a VW any day Talk about quality issues and out of date interiors LOL.

[@katmanjenks1961]

Flying solo is much better!

[@katmanjenks1961]

Big Time!

[@mark8684]

Alex - when you and Sofyan were reviewing the Atlas Cross Sport in Vancouver, you mentioned some rumors about upcoming Hyundai Santa Fe changes/updates; can you elaborate? Thanks. BTW, I think you are the best auto reviewer on U-tube. No one else provides the same level of detail and shopping comparisons as you!

[@JT-fq2bl]

The updates mirrors the new Kia Sorento with a 2.5 N/A 4 cylinder engine with 8 speed auto, 2.5t 4 cylinder engine with 8 speed DCT, and a 1.6t 4 cylinder engine HEV /PHEV with 8 speed DCT.

[@mark8684]

J T What is the source of your information?

[@JT-fq2bl]

@@mark8684 thekoreanblog.com. This guy follows all the latest rumors and news on upcoming Hyundai/Kia/Genesis vehicles. I also follow Asain Petrohead (KZbin) on all Korean premieres, first day and night driving reviews.

[@brandonyen7837]

I like the front grill on this than the 3 rows Atlas buy if I buy one I'll pick the 3 rows for a back up seats

[@alexmalafeev5344]

​@UC3qM33hHgedfi7qTKKgIApg - How do you think this compares to the RDX, given that the price range is basically the same?

[@roddewey5347]

As a VW dealer, we are really looking forward to the arrival of the Cross Sport! Great review as always, but I have to ask what road you were on for your test drive? I'd love to get my Harley on that road...let me know if you get a chance. Nice job!

[@stephenhendricks103]

Head to British Columbia. As someone who has done many of those roads on two wheels, I'll guarantee you'll love it.

[@nathanq.1104]

See to sky highway

[@Ulvaeus]

Rod Dewey and on nice day the views are absolutely stunning. They revamped this road for the 2010 Olympics. Smooth and twisty with views galore.

[@KKMDStyle]

The interior needs a serious update. It needs a larger screen and a piano black interior like on the Audi’s

[@noobwow2009]

The honda passport touring or elite trim come with 265 tire too. And honda passport come with better engines and ivtm4 awd system!

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

And sadly a questionable German transmission. The oddity here is that the VW uses a Japanese (Toyota/Aisin) transmission while Honda uses a German ZF 9-speed.

[@hellkitty1014]

I still don't understand the constant comparisons to car-based vehicles like this, the Murano, Blazer, Passport, Edge, etc....with the Grand Cherokee. There are two similarities that standout: Two-rows and $30k base price. That's it. The GC offers 4 engines, tows over 7000lbs, has 3 different 4WD systems, considerably more luxurious on Overland and up models, offers air-suspension, and so much more. The GC could in theory be compared to the Audi Q8, BMW X5, and RR Sport using the logic here. **Not surprising Sofyan didn't like the Grand Cherokee. It is an FCA product after all...🤔🙄

[@mohammadfarajzadehtehrani88]

I miss Touareg ! Atlas looks good outside but horrible mpg, awful plastics inside, unnecessarily big, ... I will wait for 2021 Sorento

[@xplaur]

Touareg still exists and it's a gorgeous car! The Atlas it's just another big fat ass, truck like, American style, SUV.

[@2004cyrus]

Laurentiu Dumitru lol ok

[@MrDblum619]

Optional 8 inch screen? That should be base

[@Ficon]

It's technically a VR6 which has a number of advantages over a V-6 in terms of long-term durability.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

VR is a Volkswagen created word, it's a V engine with a narrow V. All VR engines are V engines but not every V engine is a VR engine.

[@Ficon]

Alex on Autos Technically yes but when you consider that it uses a single set of cams it's closer to a straight-6. Odd choice since it's not a very efficient design but I guess VW doesn't have another inexpensive V-6 they can use (Audi/Porsche 2.9 and 3.0 engines would be it). Super solid engine though and good enough for previous-gen base Porsche Cayenne (in a higher tune). Is it mounted transversely in the Atlas? That's probably a part of why they made it so wide.

[@haithamal-qaderi2588]

No diesel?

[@heightenedaestheticsnation3940]

I’m so disappointed in the cheap signal bulbs at the front - my Touareg has nicer signals... new atlas cross sport should have LED everywhere including the boot!

[@DaciaProject]

Alex, does it come with a rear locker?

[@2004cyrus]

Dacia Project no

[@JTR253]

Hasn’t Atlas run into problems with its reliability recently?

[@gladdy02]

That is accurate

[@rightlanehog3151]

All VWs have reliability issues.

[@LlyleHunter]

@@rightlanehog3151 but the Atlas is their worst by a very wide margin

[@LlyleHunter]

@@rightlanehog3151 the Atlas has VW’s worst repair record by a very wide margin

[@Jbiglin]

Bruce Solomon wow. That’s good to know because I was considering this for my wife who is ready for her next ride after two super-reliable Acura MDX’s. I dislike the look and price of the current MDX, and I’ve heard they have some reliability issues these days too. Ugh...now what?

[@johnnyd.7998]

Why would you have the AC on, in a cool rainy day like this?

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

The system was on auto. AC is used to dehumidify the air in most cars with automatic climate control

[@T16-s5o]

The Ford Edge ST or Nissan Murano Platinum AWD would be what I'd buy with my own money.

[@Ken-vl4wk]

Murano's moonroof opens inwards which is very weird. Good luck with the water not getting inside of your car.

[@T16-s5o]

@@Ken-vl4wk My aunt has a Murano and water doesn't get into the interior. Also, why would you open the roof while it wet outside? Dumb

[@apexconnexion]

@@T16-s5o A better question is why would anyone own a Nissan or Infiniti in the first place.

[@T16-s5o]

@@apexconnexion with 10million units sold in 2019. I believe a lot of people don't give AF what people like you have to say about their purchases.

[@OP941nine]

Redline reviews brought me here

[@MrApplesaucestuff]

what focus groups tell them to make fake exhaust tips???? just because of that its a no buy for me.

[@serhiidrashpul8172]

Thanks for thorough reviews, but it would be a bit more informative for me to have metric dimensions also mentioned in subtitles. I believe I am NOT the only one outside the US who is enjoying watching AoA channel. Otherwise, I have to stop the video, open a calc and put the numbers...

[@afcgeo882]

Serhii Drashpul Are you Canadian? This is a US channel that tests US market vehicles, so they use US metrics that are published for the US market.

[@serhiidrashpul8172]

@@afcgeo882 No I'm not, I'm from Europe. US market is interesting cause lots of cars, like the atlas, are not simply available in my country, and moreover - considering the probability of importing a much cheaper car from US/Canada for myself (e.g. tuareg in my country starts from $55k, and would rather have atlas for $40k). And I believe Alex is interested in spreading his audience beyond the coasts, so simply adding figures in m/cm in the smallest noticeable font while keeping imperial measures in the narrative could be helpful.

[@NedNew]

Agreed, add metric measurements please do that the rest of the world will understand!

[@tamake4492]

Having had the Passport for 10000 miles I have notice the ride is smoother after an initial "break in" period. The ZF in the Passport is still way better then the Subaru CVT hands down. This Atlas would have been a close second had it come out last year!

[@mrcn119t6]

If you want 'leather' (i.e. American-low-grade composite 'leather') it'll be $47,000. Hmmm, good deal lol. Get the cloth...

[@Mhike-m2x]

I wish they had a better interior color. Otherwise, looks solid for VW.

[@apexconnexion]

Have you seen the maroon color? It looks awesome with that "combat" grey exterior. It's being advertised on the VW site.

[@blackwhirlwind1245]

For 50K, why would not you get something like telluride? Cross sport is way too expensive for mainstream brand car.

[@JT-fq2bl]

I agree. For $50k, i will go for the Palisade / Telluride, and Durango. To make matters worse, you can buy an V8 Jeep Cherokee, and the refresh Santa Fe / new Sorento will be out by year's end. Want max reliability / low running cost? Buy 2.5 NA engine with 8 speed auto. Want Germanic powertrains? Buy the 2.5t engine with the 8 speed wet DCT. Want a plug / hybrid on the Germanic side? Buy the 1.6t engine with the 8 speed wet DCT. You can get all these choices with above average reliability (not Toyota level) while saving $5-10k.

[@neergewleinad]

VW hinted a couple years ago at bringing a PHEV version of this to the US for sale, but that doesn't appear to be happening. And they've got a great new Touareg PHEV in Europe, which again won't be coming to the US. More lost sales, VW.... I'll be looking to other brands...

[@2004cyrus]

Dan Green they know what they are doing. Nobody bought the damn Touareg when it was here

[@KKMDStyle]

This is hardly what the Touareg should have been. The Touareg may not be for sale in the US anymore but that is only because they didn’t want it to compete with the Audi Q8. The atlas looks like a truck. The Touareg is much more elegant. Also, if you look back to when the Touareg was still for sale in the US, VW claimed that the US market didn’t want a 2 row SUV. I knew that it wasn’t true then and based on this it seems I was right,

[@Orange-yp9bl]

A Black Edition would sell great.

[@2004cyrus]

Hennessy * is that right ?

[@2004cyrus]

Oh ?

[@james7017]

I was waiting for the cross sport to come out all last year and was going to get it over the reg atlas as I don’t need 3 rows..... common sense would tell you the cost would be cheaper!!!!! Than the reg atlas as your are getting less car and all else is the exact same.... but nope! In my area it’s 2500 more ish!!! Big mistake vw..... I was going to be a first time vw buyer but I just don’t like games like that. I am going for the Nissan Murano... better bang for your buck considering everything..... Alex I know you commented on price here but I am in Canada and we got screwed with options and base prices.

[@future62]

I was excited when I heard about this, but it's as big as a 3 row crossover and slower than a lot of them too. Missed opportunity. There is a rumored Tiguan R in the works that sounds much more interesting

[@apexconnexion]

That would definitely be an interesting release, considering how terribly slow the Tiguan drives. It is great value across all trims. Personally, the biggest disappointment that I could not get over was how abysmal the second row seats were. I've sat in more comfortable chairs in dilapidated college auditoriums. It felt essentially like a $15 Walmart chair cushion laid flat atop a concrete bench, and far too short on the thigh length.

[@future62]

@@apexconnexion for many I'd bet the second row seats serve as nothing more than places to put child seats, so while comfort should be a priority they can get away with it

[@cyrilmatthew2995]

alex is the engine V6 or VR6?

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

V6 us all-encompassing but this is a VR6 in VW-speak

[@tag1pumpkin]

Does the Cross Sport have updated mpg numbers? On my FWD v6 Atlas , I manage 27-26 HWY,

[@afcgeo882]

Daniel Salinas Something doesn’t add up in those numbers. How is the V6 AWD more economical than V6 FWD in the city?

[@2004cyrus]

Daniel Salinas these are current EPA numbers

[@2004cyrus]

George L it’s complex but possible

[@AlaskaErik]

No matter how nice a German car is, I can't get past the reliability and incredibly expensive repairs that seem to plague German vehicles once the warranty runs out. Sure, one could spends many thousands more for an extended warranty, but you're still dealing with something that spends a lot of time in the shop.

[@a.avineshbalkumar8260]

Not even close to a Touareg. My 2007 V8 was awesome

[@EdgarRenje]

The side line reminds me on the Citroen C4 Cactus, you guys didn't get that one over there.

[@cyrilmatthew2995]

Me wish if this had a transverse mounted engine with a zf gearbox or a transversely mounted engine having anawd system thats rear biased

[@BucksMom218]

Maybe if vw hadnt lied to their customers and made us go through their scandal, they’d have some more customers, returning or new. This is beautiful though...I have the Jeep GC.

[@gerhardjinks6581]

VW sales on Tiquans and Atlases are way up.

[@affinity3281]

VW didnt lie to customers. They only deceived on emission quantities. They couldnt achieve the economy and performance they wanted while adhering to regulations. They didnt cut gas mileage or power, they fudged emission output so they could meet stupid requirements. CARB and the like are bullshit.

[@BucksMom218]

Affinity Right- right, my bad. They lied to the regulators. Produced a vehicle that was deceptive.

[@tangchiprathomo819]

A better one

[@homelessmillionaire1]

Touareg's *Successor

[@bond12]

I don't understand why people complains about "Fake Exhausts". It's not that Serious People!!! #FakeExhausts #Fake #Exhausts

[@zaven3584]

So that whole "we're sorry for dieselgate and we'll be cranking out electrics" thing didn't last very long? Disappointing fuel economy.

[@2004cyrus]

Zaven wrong. Electrics are on the way but it takes time. They bought an old Ford plant in Michigan to make their electric vehicles. Do a little research before trashing a large successful company. If you could do better, go apply to be president of Volkswagen product development, sheesh.

[@alexmorangelli3319]

why are manufacturers still using incandescent bulbs on vehicles in 2020

[@razvandobos9759]

VW should’ve made the W12

[@Ken-vl4wk]

So many people are reporting issues with Atlas. I think Atlas Cross Sport looks great but it is going to be as unreliable as its big brother.

[@razorsedge7501]

I'd stay clear of the German makes, reliability is shoddy at best. Not to mention that fuel economy...yikes! Ford Edge top trim(not ST) is 44k with far better reliability and fuel economy, not to mention just as good of cargo room. Subaru again is falling off in terms of quality, and the Hyundai is good

[@dannyfalcon9104]

Why is it so expensive?

[@johnfuller3598]

Nobody cross shops a Subaru Outback with anything except maybe another Subaru.

[@kpicha]

Those quad exhaust tips look like StormTrooper's mouths!