What To Know
- Choosing the right SUV can be a daunting task, especially when you’re considering two popular contenders like the Ford Explorer and the Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport.
- The Explorer leans towards a more modern and sporty aesthetic, featuring a sleek dashboard, a large touchscreen infotainment system, and premium materials throughout.
- Both the Ford Explorer and the Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport prioritize safety, offering a comprehensive suite of active and passive safety features.
Choosing the right SUV can be a daunting task, especially when you’re considering two popular contenders like the Ford Explorer and the Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport. Both vehicles offer spacious interiors, advanced technology, and capable performance, but they cater to slightly different needs and preferences. This comprehensive comparison will dive deep into the key features, strengths, and weaknesses of each SUV, helping you make an informed decision that aligns with your lifestyle and priorities.
Performance and Handling: A Tale of Two Engines
The Ford Explorer and the Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport offer distinct driving experiences, largely influenced by their engine options. The Explorer comes standard with a 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. For those seeking more power, a 3.0-liter V6 engine with 365 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque is available. The Explorer’s standard engine provides adequate acceleration for everyday driving, while the V6 delivers a thrilling performance with its robust power delivery.
In contrast, the Atlas Cross Sport is available with a single engine option, a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder producing 235 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. While this engine provides sufficient power for daily commutes and highway driving, it lacks the punch and responsiveness of the Explorer’s V6. The Atlas Cross Sport prioritizes fuel efficiency over raw power, achieving an EPA-estimated 21 city/29 highway mpg compared to the Explorer’s 20 city/27 highway mpg with the standard engine.
Interior Comfort and Technology: A Blend of Luxury and Functionality
Both the Explorer and the Atlas Cross Sport offer comfortable and spacious interiors, but their design philosophies differ. The Explorer leans towards a more modern and sporty aesthetic, featuring a sleek dashboard, a large touchscreen infotainment system, and premium materials throughout. The Atlas Cross Sport, on the other hand, prioritizes practicality and family-friendly features. Its interior is spacious and well-appointed, with ample storage compartments and comfortable seating for up to seven passengers.
Technology-wise, both SUVs offer a comprehensive suite of features. The Explorer boasts Ford‘s SYNC 4 infotainment system, which is known for its intuitive interface, fast processing speeds, and seamless smartphone integration. The Atlas Cross Sport comes equipped with Volkswagen’s MIB3 infotainment system, which offers a user-friendly experience, advanced navigation capabilities, and a wide range of app compatibility.
Cargo Space and Versatility: Meeting Your Needs, Big or Small
When it comes to cargo space, the Ford Explorer offers a slight advantage. With the rear seats folded down, the Explorer provides up to 87.8 cubic feet of cargo space, compared to the Atlas Cross Sport’s 77.8 cubic feet. Both SUVs offer ample space for luggage, groceries, and other cargo, making them practical choices for families and adventurers alike.
Furthermore, the Explorer offers a variety of seating configurations, including a third-row option for additional passenger capacity. The Atlas Cross Sport, though spacious, is limited to a two-row configuration, which might be a drawback for larger families or those frequently carrying multiple passengers.
Safety Features: Keeping You and Your Loved Ones Secure
Both the Ford Explorer and the Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport prioritize safety, offering a comprehensive suite of active and passive safety features. Both SUVs come standard with a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control.
The Explorer stands out with its available Co-Pilot360 Assist+ package, which adds features like evasive steering assist, lane centering assist, and a head-up display. The Atlas Cross Sport also offers a comprehensive suite of safety features, including Volkswagen’s IQ.DRIVE system, which provides a range of driver assistance technologies designed to enhance safety and convenience.
The Final Verdict: Choosing the Right SUV for Your Lifestyle
Ultimately, the choice between the Ford Explorer and the Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize power, performance, and a more luxurious experience, the Ford Explorer is an excellent choice. Its powerful engine options, sporty handling, and advanced technology features make it a compelling option for drivers who enjoy a spirited drive.
However, if you value practicality, spaciousness, and fuel efficiency, the Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport might be a better fit. Its spacious interior, ample cargo space, and fuel-efficient engine make it an ideal choice for families or individuals who prioritize practicality without sacrificing comfort.
Beyond the Comparison: Exploring Other Considerations
While the Ford Explorer and the Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport are excellent choices, it’s important to consider other factors that might influence your decision. These include:
- Budget: The Ford Explorer is generally more expensive than the Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport, particularly when opting for higher trim levels or optional features.
- Reliability: Both vehicles have a reputation for reliability, but it’s wise to research their long-term reliability ratings and consider factors like warranty coverage.
- Resale Value: The Ford Explorer typically holds its value better than the Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport, which could be a factor if you plan to sell the vehicle in the future.
What You Need to Learn
Q: Which SUV has better fuel economy?
A: The Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport has better fuel economy than the Ford Explorer, achieving an EPA-estimated 21 city/29 highway mpg compared to the Explorer’s 20 city/27 highway mpg with the standard engine.
Q: Which SUV offers more cargo space?
A: The Ford Explorer offers more cargo space than the Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport, providing up to 87.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down compared to the Atlas Cross Sport’s 77.8 cubic feet.
Q: Which SUV is better for families?
A: Both SUVs are suitable for families, but the Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport might be a better choice for larger families or those who frequently carry multiple passengers due to its third-row seating option.
Q: Which SUV is better for off-roading?
A: The Ford Explorer offers more off-road capability with its available Terrain Management System and optional four-wheel drive. The Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport is primarily designed for on-road driving.
Q: Which SUV is better value for money?
A: The Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport is generally more affordable than the Ford Explorer, offering a good balance of features and value for the price.
