VW Atlas Cross Sport vs. Honda Passport: Boulder Comparison
Two all-new two-row midsize SUVs, closely matched on power: the turbocharged Atlas Cross Sport versus the V6, standard-AWD Honda Passport.
The short version
Turbo-4 and tech vs. V6 and standard AWD
The redesigned 2026 Passport and the all-new 2027 Cross Sport are among the most capable two-row midsize SUVs you can cross-shop. They’re nearly tied on power — the Passport’s 3.5-liter V6 makes 285 hp and 262 lb-ft, the Cross Sport’s 2.0-liter turbo 282 hp and 258 lb-ft — and both tow up to 5,000 pounds.
The Passport comes standard with all-wheel drive and a rugged, cargo-rich body (up to 83.8 cu ft), and its off-road-focused TrailSport is a genuine draw. The Cross Sport counters with VW’s newest cabin tech — an available 15-inch touchscreen and standard 10.25-inch digital gauges — and available (not standard) 4MOTION. VW’s pricing, mpg and cargo figures arrive at launch.
Cross Sport vs. Passport: what we know
| Spec | VW Atlas Cross Sport (2027) | Honda Passport (2026) |
|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP | Announced early 2027 | $44,950 (RTL) + $1,495 |
| Engine / power | 2.0L turbo · 282 hp / 258 lb-ft | 3.5L V6 · 285 hp / 262 lb-ft |
| Standard drivetrain | FWD (4MOTION AWD available) | AWD standard (i-VTM4) |
| Max towing | Up to 5,000 lb | 5,000 lb |
| Cargo (max) | Not yet published | 83.8 cu ft |
| Touchscreen | Up to 15-inch | 12.3-inch standard |
| Powertrain warranty | 4 yr / 50,000 mi | 5 yr / 60,000 mi |
VW has not published 2027 Cross Sport pricing, EPA mpg or cargo — added here at launch. Passport figures: 2026 RTL, Honda + fueleconomy.gov. Passport photo: MercurySable99, CC BY-SA 4.0, resized. Sep 2026.
Where each pulls ahead
Power and towing are effectively tied. The difference comes down to V6-and-standard-AWD (Passport) vs. turbo-and-newest-tech (Cross Sport), plus price — confirmed at launch.
Three reasons Boulder buyers pick the Atlas Cross Sport
An available 15-inch touchscreen and standard 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit Pro give the Cross Sport a modern, screen-forward interior.
282 hp and up to 5,000 pounds of towing match the V6 Passport’s capability from a more efficient turbo four.
The Cross Sport is expected to undercut the $44,950 Passport — we’ll confirm pricing at launch.
Where the Passport genuinely wins
The redesigned Passport is excellent. Its naturally aspirated V6 is smooth and proven, all-wheel drive is standard, it offers more published cargo space, and the TrailSport adds real off-road hardware. It’s also on sale now, with known pricing.
The Cross Sport matches the Passport’s power and tow rating from a turbo four, adds VW’s newest cabin technology, and is expected to start below the Passport’s $44,950 — though pricing, mpg and cargo aren’t official yet. If you want a proven V6 and standard AWD today, the Passport delivers; if you want the newest tech and likely better value, reserve a Cross Sport at Emich.
Which one is right for you?
- You want VW’s newest cabin technology.
- You want turbo capability at a likely lower price.
- You’ll add 4MOTION when you want it.
- You prefer a proven naturally aspirated V6.
- You want standard AWD and maximum cargo now.
- You want an off-road TrailSport trim.
Drive the Atlas Cross Sport in Boulder
We are at 2470 49th Street, minutes off the Diagonal. Come drive a Atlas Cross Sport on real Boulder roads and compare for yourself.
Specifications and pricing are sourced from Volkswagen of America, Honda and fueleconomy.gov and are subject to change. MSRP excludes destination, taxes, title, registration, options and dealer charges. Comparison prepared by Emich Volkswagen of Boulder; not affiliated with or endorsed by Honda.