2024 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport

The outgoing two-row Atlas Cross Sport was already one of our favorite midsize SUVs (we ranked it third in the class), but we found room for improvement. This year's refreshed Cross Sport addresses some of those concerns, especially under the hood where a new turbocharged four-cylinder replaces the earlier four- and six-cylinder options. The new engine makes similar power to the outgoing V6 and Volkswagen says it's about half a second quicker from 0 to 60 mph — good news, considering the last Cross Sport's lackluster acceleration. There are more than a dozen new standard features, from a synthetic leather-wrapped dash top to ventilated front seats, but the highlight might be the 12-inch touchscreen, double the size of the previous display. What it gains in size, though, it also gains in complexity. We're not overly fond of the same distracting touch-sensitive controls we've seen in newer VWs, or the menu-diving required for basic functions.

We haven't rated a new Atlas Cross Sport yet, though we don't see it dropping in our midsize SUV rankings. But if you're shopping in this segment, the class-leading Honda Passport merits a close look, for its similar power and features but also for its off-road-oriented TrailSport trim. Of course, if trail capability is a priority, the Subaru Outback and Jeep Grand Cherokee are better choices with taller ground clearance and more robust all-wheel-drive systems. The Chevrolet Blazer is better suited to pavement and receives praise for its potent V6 engine and agile handling, but cargo capacity and rear passenger headroom are limited.