2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport vs 2019 BMW X5

The 2019 BMW X5, despite its hefty 5,000-pound weight, aimed to deliver a sedan-like driving experience. BMW's focus on on-road performance over off-road capabilities was evident, as the X5 provided a smooth ride on pavement, which was more in line with consumer preferences. The X5 offered a five-passenger layout, expandable to seven, though the third row was notably cramped. Power came from two turbocharged engines: a 3.0-liter inline 6-cylinder for the xDrive40i and a 4.4-liter V8 for the xDrive50i, both paired with a ZF 8-speed automatic transmission.

The 2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport, with its SUV coupe styling, was shorter and lower than the larger Atlas, appealing to those who prioritized aesthetics over cargo space and a third-row seat. The SEL Premium trim with the R-Line package featured striking 21-inch wheels and a sleek Pure Gray paint, giving it a custom look. Inside, the Burgundy and Titan Black two-tone color scheme added a touch of elegance, though hard plastics were noticeable upon closer inspection. The ambient lighting and overall design were well-executed for the segment.

The 2019 BMW X5's performance was a standout feature. The xDrive40i's turbocharged inline 6-cylinder engine delivered 335 horsepower and 330 pound-feet of torque, propelling the vehicle to 60 mph in just over 5 seconds. The xDrive50i's V8 engine offered even more power, with 456 hp and 479 lb-ft, achieving 60 mph in around 4 seconds. The 8-speed ZF automatic transmission was praised for its smooth operation and efficiency, contributing to the X5's impressive fuel economy of 20 mpg city, 26 highway, and 22 combined. The adjustable air suspension provided a smooth yet sporty ride, with the ability to raise or lower the vehicle for different driving conditions.

The 2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport came standard with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. However, the optional 3.6-liter V6 engine, with 276 hp and 266 lb-ft, was more suitable for the vehicle's 4,103-pound curb weight. The V6 engine allowed for a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds. Both engines were paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, and the 4Motion AWD system was available for enhanced traction. The Atlas Cross Sport's performance was adequate, though the lack of an adaptive damping suspension affected ride quality. The vehicle achieved a combined fuel economy rating of 19 mpg.

Inside the 2019 BMW X5, the design featured aggressive angles and dual 12.3-inch screens for the updated iDrive infotainment system. While the design was modern, some materials felt cheap compared to competitors. The seats were not the most comfortable, with issues in lumbar support and ventilation. However, the X5 offered ample space, with 33.9 cubic feet of cargo space expandable to 72.3 cubic feet. The split rear tailgate and air suspension made loading cargo easier, and the vehicle could tow up to 7,200 pounds.

The 2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport, despite being smaller than the Atlas, offered a spacious interior. The front seats were large, heated, and ventilated, providing comfort for long drives. The second row was equally comfortable, with ample legroom and headroom for adults. The vehicle featured dual-zone automatic climate control, though it struggled in direct sunlight. Storage space was plentiful, and the cargo area offered 40.3 cubic feet of space, expandable to 77.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down.

The 2019 BMW X5's technology was a mixed bag. The gesture control and voice commands were inconsistent, and the iDrive interface, while well-designed, was not as user-friendly as competitors. The Driving Assistance Plus package, offering semi-autonomous driving, was unreliable at high speeds. However, the Extended Traffic Jam Assistant worked well in stop-and-go traffic. The Parking Assistant Plus package, with a 3D camera, was a useful addition. The Harman Kardon stereo provided excellent sound quality, and a Bowers & Wilkins Diamond surround sound system was available for audiophiles.

The 2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport featured three infotainment systems, with the top-trim test vehicle including an 8-inch touchscreen display and a 12-speaker Fender premium sound system. The system supported two Bluetooth device pairings and offered robust Car-Net connected services. However, the lack of a natural voice recognition system was a drawback, as it struggled with basic commands. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were necessary for better voice control functionality.

The 2019 BMW X5 included a new brake-by-wire setup, providing a nearly natural feel with some feedback during the final moments of braking. The vehicle received a 4-star rating from the NHTSA, with 5-star ratings in side crash tests. The IIHS named it a Top Safety Pick+, awarding top scores in all tests.

The 2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport came with a comprehensive suite of advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS), including an automatic post-collision braking system. The SEL Premium R-Line trim featured additional systems like Traffic Jam Assist and road-sign recognition. While crash-test results for the Atlas Cross Sport were not available, the larger Atlas performed well in safety tests.