2023 Ford Explorer Vs. Vw Atlas Cross Sport: Which Three-row Suv Reigns Supreme?

The Ford Explorer and VW Atlas Cross Sport stand as prominent contenders in the midsize SUV segment, captivating drivers with their spacious interiors, impressive performance, and advanced technology. As you embark on your quest for the ideal SUV, it’s essential to delve into a comprehensive comparison of these two automotive stalwarts. This blog post will meticulously analyze the Ford Explorer vs VW Atlas Cross Sport, highlighting their strengths, weaknesses, and distinctive characteristics to help you make an informed decision.

Performance and Power:

1. Engine Options:

• Ford Explorer: The Explorer offers a diverse range of engine options, including a 2.3L EcoBoost turbocharged 4-cylinder, a 3.0L EcoBoost turbocharged V6, and a 3.3L hybrid powertrain.

• VW Atlas Cross Sport: The Atlas Cross Sport comes standard with a 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, with the option to upgrade to a more potent 3.6L V6 engine.

2. Horsepower and Torque:

• Ford Explorer: The Explorer’s 2.3L EcoBoost engine generates 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, while the 3.0L EcoBoost V6 produces 365 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque. The hybrid powertrain delivers a combined 318 horsepower.

• VW Atlas Cross Sport: The Atlas Cross Sport’s 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine produces 235 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, while the 3.6L V6 engine generates 276 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque.

3. Fuel Efficiency:

• Ford Explorer: The Explorer’s fuel efficiency varies depending on the chosen engine option. The 2.3L EcoBoost provides an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, while the 3.0L EcoBoost achieves 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway. The hybrid powertrain offers an impressive 27 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.

• VW Atlas Cross Sport: The Atlas Cross Sport’s fuel efficiency is also affected by engine choice. The 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine delivers an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, while the 3.6L V6 engine provides 18 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway.

Interior and Comfort:

1. Seating and Cargo Space:

• Ford Explorer: The Explorer boasts three rows of seating, accommodating up to seven passengers, with ample headroom and legroom throughout the cabin. Behind the third row, it offers 18.2 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 87.8 cubic feet with both rear rows folded.

• VW Atlas Cross Sport: The Atlas Cross Sport also features three rows of seating for up to seven passengers, providing generous space for all occupants. It offers 20.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, which expands to 77.8 cubic feet with both rear rows folded.

2. Interior Features and Amenities:

• Ford Explorer: The Explorer’s interior is well-equipped with an array of comfort and convenience features, including a SYNC 3 infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, a premium audio system, heated and ventilated front seats, and a panoramic sunroof.

• VW Atlas Cross Sport: The Atlas Cross Sport’s interior is equally well-appointed, featuring a user-friendly infotainment system with a 10.1-inch touchscreen, a premium audio system, heated and ventilated front seats, and a panoramic sunroof.

Safety and Technology:

1. Safety Features:

• Ford Explorer: The Explorer comes standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control.

• VW Atlas Cross Sport: The Atlas Cross Sport also offers a range of advanced safety features, such as automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control.

2. Technology Features:

• Ford Explorer: The Explorer’s infotainment system, SYNC 3, provides seamless connectivity and entertainment options, including voice-activated controls, smartphone integration, and a premium audio system.

• VW Atlas Cross Sport: The Atlas Cross Sport’s infotainment system features a user-friendly interface, offering navigation, smartphone integration, and a premium audio system.

Off-Road Capabilities:

1. Four-Wheel Drive Systems:

• Ford Explorer: The Explorer offers a choice of four-wheel drive systems, including intelligent 4WD and a terrain management system with seven selectable drive modes for enhanced off-road performance.

• VW Atlas Cross Sport: The Atlas Cross Sport comes standard with 4Motion all-wheel drive, which provides improved traction and stability in various driving conditions.

2. Ground Clearance:

• Ford Explorer: The Explorer features a ground clearance of 8.7 inches, allowing it to navigate rough terrain with confidence.

• VW Atlas Cross Sport: The Atlas Cross Sport offers a ground clearance of 8.2 inches, providing decent off-road capabilities.

Price and Value:

1. Starting Prices:

• Ford Explorer: The Ford Explorer’s starting price is $33,865 for the base XLT trim.

• VW Atlas Cross Sport: The VW Atlas Cross Sport’s starting price is $32,590 for the base S trim.

2. Trim Levels and Options:

• Ford Explorer: The Explorer is available in six trim levels: XLT, Limited, Timberline, ST, King Ranch, and Platinum. Each trim level offers various features and options to cater to different preferences and budgets.

• VW Atlas Cross Sport: The Atlas Cross Sport comes in four trim levels: S, SE, SEL, and SEL Premium R-Line. Similar to the Explorer, each trim level provides a range of features and options to suit diverse needs.

In a nutshell:

The Ford Explorer and VW Atlas Cross Sport are both compelling choices in the midsize SUV segment, offering a blend of performance, comfort, technology, and off-road capabilities. While the Explorer excels in terms of engine options, off-road prowess, and cargo space, the Atlas Cross Sport stands out with its user-friendly infotainment system, spacious interior, and competitive pricing. Ultimately, the decision between these two exceptional SUVs depends on your specific requirements and preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Which SUV has better fuel efficiency, the Ford Explorer or VW Atlas Cross Sport?

• The Ford Explorer offers better fuel efficiency than the VW Atlas Cross Sport, particularly with the hybrid powertrain option.

2. Which SUV has a more spacious interior, the Ford Explorer or VW Atlas Cross Sport?

• Both SUVs offer spacious interiors, but the VW Atlas Cross Sport has a slight edge in terms of overall passenger and cargo space.

3. Which SUV is better for off-roading, the Ford Explorer or VW Atlas Cross Sport?

• The Ford Explorer is the better choice for off-roading, thanks to its more capable four-wheel drive systems and higher ground clearance.

4. Which SUV has a more user-friendly infotainment system, the Ford Explorer or VW Atlas Cross Sport?

• The VW Atlas Cross Sport has a more user-friendly infotainment system with a larger touchscreen and a more intuitive interface.

5. Which SUV offers a better value for the price, the Ford Explorer or VW Atlas Cross Sport?

• The VW Atlas Cross Sport offers a better value for the price, with a lower starting price and a generous list of standard features.