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2024 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport vs Audi Q5 Comparison - 21Motoring

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2024 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport vs Audi Q5: Which is Better?

The Atlas Cross Sport is a two-row SUV derived from the three-row Volkswagen Atlas. It features a sportier appearance with a fastback roofline and forfeits the third-row seating of the standard Atlas for a sleeker look. Despite these styling and seating differences, the two models are very similar. While the Cross Sport appears athletic, it is more suited for cruising than aggressive driving. On the other hand, the Audi Q5 is known for its precise build quality, good performance, and refined appearance. While other luxury SUVs may have similar tech features and flashier styling, the Q5 guarantees satisfaction, especially for technophiles who appreciate digital-friendly features and driver assists.

Volkswagen Atlas Cross SportAudi Q5
Dimensions195.5–195.6 in x 78.3 in x 67.8–68.1 in184.3 in x 74.5 in x 65.3
Engine2.0L turbo-charged inline-42.0L turbocharged inline-4
Horsepower269 hp362 hp
Torque273 lb-ft369 lb-ft 
0-60 MPH6.7–6.9 sec4.5 sec
0-100 MPHNA12.2 sec
Top-Speed120 mph125 mph
Specs

Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport

Engine, Power & Performance

The 2024 Atlas Cross Sport receives an upgraded turbocharged 2.0-liter engine that delivers 34 additional horsepower compared to the previous inline-four-cylinder engine. And 7 more pound-feet of torque compared to the previous VR6 six-cylinder engine, resulting in a total output of 269 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. This engine is the sole option available for the 2024 model. The transmission promptly downshifts, and the throttle response is commendable. While the Cross Sport may not be the fastest SUV in its segment. It offers an appropriate amount of power for its intended purpose.

Price & Features

Before the 2024 update, we highly recommended the base SE model due to its exceptional value. This recommendation is now even stronger as Volkswagen has added more standard features to the Atlas Cross Sport. These include heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, steering-wheel-mounted shift paddles, a 12-inch infotainment display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, wireless charging, and six USB-C ports with fast charging capability. Furthermore, the V-6 engine has been replaced with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and eight-speed automatic transmission for all Cross Sport models this year. The Atlas Cross Sport starts at $38,065.

Audi Q5

Engine, Power & Acceleration

The Q5 40 comes equipped with a standard turbocharged four-cylinder engine, a seven-speed automatic transmission, and Quattro all-wheel drive. Opting for the 45 models provides a horsepower boost of 261. The turbo four-cylinder engine delivers ample power for zipping around town or accelerating onto the highway, and it operates smoothly, quietly, and with a pleasing sound. During testing, the Q5 45 showcased its agility by reaching 60 mph in just 5.5 seconds. For those seeking even more performance, the plug-in hybrid variant combines an electric motor with the engine, resulting in a combined output of 362 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, allowing it to sprint to 60 mph in a swift 4.5 seconds.

Price & Features

Audi categorizes the Q5’s powertrains using numbers like 40, 45, and 55, where the first two represent the standard turbo-four engine and the third denotes the optional plug-in hybrid configuration. The starting price for the Q5 is $45,395. Even those who choose the most affordable Q5 model will appreciate the user-friendly infotainment system displayed on a 10.1-inch screen located on the dashboard. The base Q5 includes all the expected infotainment features, such as a Wi-Fi hotspot and compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

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Zora Stowers

Update: 2024-05-17