New Volkswagen Compare 2021 VW Atlas Cross Sport vs 2021 Ford Explorer for Sale in San Antonio, TX
Compare 2021 VW Atlas Cross Sport vs 2021 Ford Explorer
2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport Overview
Volkswagen is serious about having an impact in the crossover market, which is the most popular vehicle type in America and which has transformed the U.S. automotive market. Toward this end, Volkswagen has recently introduced a couple of midsize crossover SUVs. One of those is the Atlas Cross Sport, which seats up to five. The five-passenger midsize is an increasingly popular choice among Americans because it eschews the third row that they do not need in favor of the extra roominess they do. Comparing the 2021 VW Atlas Cross Sport vs 2021 Ford Explorer is an interesting juxtaposition because Ford has taken the more traditional approach and opted for the third row and seating for up to seven passengers.
Exterior – Volkswagen Dealer serving San Antonio TX
Ask the average consumer of an appropriate age how they characterize the Explorer aesthetic, and they are apt to use words like boxy and rugged. But that is no longer the case. For the 2021 Ford Explorer, Ford has opted for the sleeker and more modern design that is so prevalent on modern crossovers. It is Volkswagen who has opted for the boxier front end and paired it with a sloped roofline that gives the Atlas Cross an elongated feel. In truth, however, the vehicles are quite similar in size. The Atlas Cross measures about 196 inches overall—or about 16.3 feet—whereas the Explorer measures almost 199 inches. In terms of standard and optional exterior features, you can expect much of the same, including alloy wheels ranging from 18 to 20 inches, a hands-free liftgate and LED lighting from stem to stern.
Interior – 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport in San Antonio TX
The big difference between the 2021 VW Atlas Cross Sport and the 2021 Ford Explorer is the maximum seating capacity. The Atlas Cross Sport can seat five. The Explorer can seat either six or seven. This distinction will probably inform your choice more than any other. If five-passenger seating is enough for you, then the added space provided by the Atlas Cross Sport is a tremendous plus. On the other hand, if you find yourself leaving toward the third row, then we highly recommend examining the Atlas Cross, which is similar in design to the Atlas Cross Sport but with the third row. Between the Atlas Cross Sport and the Explorer, where you notice the biggest difference is in the dedicated cargo area. The Volkswagen model provides 40 cubic feet whereas the Ford model only manages less than half that.
Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport Mechanical specs
The mechanical aspect of this 2021 VW Atlas Cross Sport vs 2021 Ford Explorer comparison is interesting because both automakers take a similar approach in that they offer a fuel-efficient and yet reasonably powerful turbo four-cylinder in addition to a more powerful V6. Perhaps the biggest difference is that the Volkswagen is front-wheel drive standard and offers all-wheel drive as an option whereas the Ford model is rear-wheel drive standard and offers all-wheel drive as an option. All Atlas Cross Sport models have an eight-speed automatic transmission. All Explorer models have 10-speed automatic. With trailering equipment, both of these vehicles can tow up to 5,000 pounds.
Tech – Volkswagen Dealership in San Antonio TX
Both vehicles earned a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. The base package for the 2021 VW Atlas Cross Sport at Ancira Volkswagen of San Antonio includes a color HD touchscreen with numerous infotainment bells and whistles, a rearview camera system, a forward collision avoidance system with pedestrian detection and a blind-spot monitoring system with rear cross-traffic detection. Overall, both automakers offer similar equipment, but it is available earlier in the lineup with the Volkswagen. Adaptive cruise control can be had with the up-level trim whereas Ford requires you to step all the way up to the Limited. In some cases, there is tech that Ford does not offer, such as blind-spot intervention.
Request more Compare 2021 VW Atlas Cross Sport vs 2021 Ford Explorer information
The Atlas Cross Sport is still a relatively new nameplate, and the team at Ancira Volkswagen of San Antonio wants everyone who loves midsize crossovers to get to know it. We think you are going to be impressed. Test-drives of the 2021 VW Atlas Cross Sport are available at our location at your convenience. Drivers who prefer an appointment can schedule online or by phone. If you want any additional information, you can reach us in a hassle-free manner via text or email. Our website offers online shopping, and we also have team members available to assist you there via live chat!