22 MPG combined isn’t going to win any hypermiling contests, but for the 2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport with the 2.0L 4-cylinder engine, it’s an understandable trade-off for the space, style, and driving experience. This isn’t a stripped-down economy car, it’s a stylish, mid-size two-row SUV for buyers who prioritize design and practicality over fuel efficiency. These buyers need room for cargo and passengers, but don’t want the bulk of a traditional three-row SUV like the standard Atlas. They appreciate the sleeker roofline and bolder looks of the Cross Sport, knowing that comes at a price, a slightly higher fuel bill.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport 2.0L at 21 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway. These figures show the engine’s reliance on turbocharging to deliver power. In stop-and-go city driving, the engine works harder, leading to lower fuel economy. On the highway, at a steady speed, the engine operates more efficiently. The eight-speed automatic transmission, standard with this engine, helps optimize fuel efficiency by keeping the engine in its most efficient rev range.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport 2.0L at $2,000. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using a mix of city and highway driving, and assuming the national average fuel price. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use, and any changes in fuel prices. For example, mostly city driving or frequent hard acceleration will increase your real-world fuel costs compared to EPA estimates. Before buying, browse ATLAS MPG across all years.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides an estimate, real-world fuel economy will vary based on driving style, road conditions, and even tire pressure. Owners who prioritize fuel efficiency and drive conservatively can likely match or slightly exceed the EPA numbers. However, those who frequently drive aggressively or live in hilly areas should expect lower MPG figures. Load also has an impact; fully loading the cargo area or regularly carrying multiple passengers will decrease fuel economy compared to driving with only the driver.

How it compares

The 2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport 2.0L’s fuel economy is competitive but generally lower than other similar-sized SUVs with smaller engines. For example, the Honda Passport, with its standard V6 engine, achieves around 22 MPG combined, roughly the same. Some competitors, like the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, offer better fuel economy, achieving upwards of 40 MPG combined. However, the RAV4 Hybrid is a different vehicle with a different driving experience and a smaller cargo area. The Nissan Murano, another stylish two-row SUV, also achieves around 23 MPG combined. Potential Cross Sport buyers need to weigh the MPG differences against things like cargo-carrying ability, interior features, and the driving feel offered by the 2.0L turbo engine. See all Volkswagen fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The 2.0L turbocharged engine in the Atlas Cross Sport responds well to smooth acceleration. Avoid sudden bursts of speed and try to maintain a steady throttle position whenever possible to reduce fuel consumption. This minimizes the turbocharger’s engagement and keeps the engine operating efficiently.

Checking tire pressure regularly is important for fuel economy. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder. Consult the sticker on the driver’s side doorjamb for the recommended tire pressure, and check your tires at least once a month, especially during temperature changes.

The Atlas Cross Sport’s eight-speed automatic transmission optimizes fuel efficiency, and you can improve MPG by using the transmission’s Eco mode, if equipped. This mode adjusts the shift points to keep the engine in its most efficient range, sacrificing some performance for better fuel economy.

Reduce unnecessary weight in the vehicle. Carrying extra cargo that is not needed will negatively affect fuel economy. Remove any items from the trunk or backseat that are not essential, such as sports equipment or tools, to lighten the load and improve efficiency.