VW Atlas Cross Sport vs. Honda Passport: Denver Midsize SUV Comparison
The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport takes on the rugged, redesigned Honda Passport — an honest look at how these midsize SUVs compare for Denver drivers.
2026 Atlas Cross Sport vs. Honda Passport at a Glance
Two capable two-row midsize SUVs with different missions. The Passport counters with a V6, standard all-wheel drive, and more maximum cargo; the Atlas Cross Sport answers with a much lower starting price, better fuel economy, more torque, and a longer basic warranty with free maintenance. Here is where each pulls ahead.
Starting MSRP excludes destination. The Atlas Cross Sport uses a 269-hp 2.0T (FWD standard, 4MOTION® available); the redesigned Passport uses a 285-hp V6 with standard AWD. Manufacturer figures, subject to change.
Value and Efficiency vs. V6 Ruggedness
The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport and the redesigned Honda Passport are two of the most cross-shopped two-row midsize SUVs in Denver. The Passport leans into rugged capability: a 285-hp V6, standard all-wheel drive, a more upright body with more maximum cargo, and available TrailSport off-road gear. The Atlas Cross Sport answers with a much lower starting price, better fuel economy, more torque, a coupe-inspired design, and a longer basic warranty with two years of complimentary maintenance.
For Denver drivers the decision often comes down to priorities: the Passport maximizes rugged capability, V6 power, and cargo, while the Atlas Cross Sport prioritizes value, efficiency, on-road refinement, and style — with available 4MOTION® all-wheel drive when you want it for I-70 and Front Range winters.
Both are sold and serviced right here in Denver, and at Emich Volkswagen you can drive the Atlas Cross Sport back-to-back with your other finalists before you decide.
Full Specification Comparison
| Specification | 2026 VW Atlas Cross Sport | Honda Passport |
|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP* | $38,300 | $44,750 |
| Engine | 2.0L turbocharged I-4 | 3.5L V6 |
| Horsepower | 269 hp | 285 hp |
| Torque | 273 lb-ft | 262 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | 10-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD or 4MOTION® AWD | AWD standard |
| Fuel economy (comb) | 23 mpg (FWD) | 21 mpg (AWD) |
| Cargo behind rear seats | 40.3 cu ft | 44.0 cu ft |
| Max cargo (seats folded) | 77.6 cu ft | 83.2 cu ft |
| Max towing | 5,000 lbs | 5,000 lbs |
| Basic warranty | 4 yr / 50,000 mi | 3 yr / 36,000 mi |
| Powertrain warranty | 4 yr / 50,000 mi | 5 yr / 60,000 mi |
| Complimentary maintenance | 2 yr / 20,000 mi | — |
Bold = advantage. *Excludes destination. The Passport includes standard AWD and a V6 with more maximum cargo; the Atlas Cross Sport offers a lower price, better economy, more torque, and available 4MOTION®. Manufacturer figures, subject to change — confirm current pricing and specs with Emich Volkswagen.
Where Each SUV Pulls Ahead
An honest look at the metrics that separate them. The Atlas Cross Sport leads on torque and fuel economy; the Passport leads on horsepower and maximum cargo.
Why Denver Drivers Pick the 2026 Atlas Cross Sport
A much lower starting price
The Atlas Cross Sport starts at $38,300 — roughly $6,450 less than the redesigned Passport, while still offering a turbocharged engine and available all-wheel drive.
Better fuel economy
The Cross Sport’s turbocharged four returns up to 23 mpg combined versus the Passport V6’s 21 — a welcome edge on Denver commutes.
More torque
With 273 lb-ft, the Cross Sport 2.0T delivers strong low-end pull for merging and mountain grades.
Coupe-inspired style
The Atlas Cross Sport’s sloped roofline gives it a sportier, more distinctive look than the boxier Passport, without giving up a roomy two-row cabin.
Available 4MOTION® AWD
Available 4MOTION® all-wheel drive with selectable drive modes keeps the Cross Sport sure-footed on I-70 and in Front Range winters.
Longer basic warranty and free maintenance
Volkswagen covers the Cross Sport for 4 years / 50,000 miles versus Honda’s 3 / 36,000 — plus two years of complimentary scheduled maintenance.
A Premium, Tech-Forward Cabin
The 2026 Atlas Cross Sport puts a standard digital cockpit in front of the driver and a large standard touchscreen at the center of a clean, upscale dash, with wireless App-Connect, wireless charging, and a Wi-Fi hotspot.
Move up the lineup for leather seating, ventilated and massaging front seats, a panoramic sunroof, a Harman Kardon® audio system, and ambient lighting. Standard IQ.DRIVE® bundles adaptive cruise, lane assistance, and Travel Assist for confident miles on I-25 and I-70.
How the Atlas Cross Sport Compares to the Passport
The redesigned Honda Passport is a genuinely rugged two-row SUV. It offers a 285-hp V6, standard all-wheel drive, a more upright body with more maximum cargo (up to 83.2 cu ft), and available TrailSport off-road hardware. If a V6, standard AWD, maximum cargo, or trail capability tops your list, it is a compelling pick.
Where the 2026 Atlas Cross Sport answers back is on value and efficiency: a much lower starting price, better fuel economy, more torque, a sleeker design, a longer basic warranty with free maintenance, and available 4MOTION® all-wheel drive. For drivers who want style and value with all-weather capability on tap, the Cross Sport makes the sharper case.
Which SUV Is Right for You?
Choose the 2026 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport if…
you want a much lower starting price, better fuel economy, more torque, a sleeker design, and a longer basic warranty with free maintenance, with available 4MOTION® AWD for Colorado weather.
Consider the Honda Passport if…
your top priorities are a V6, standard all-wheel drive, maximum cargo, or the Passport’s available TrailSport off-road gear.
See the 2026 Atlas Cross Sport for Yourself in Denver
Compare trims, check current offers, and browse live Atlas Cross Sport inventory at Emich Volkswagen — serving Denver, Aurora, and Lakewood. The best way to settle a comparison is a test drive.
Specifications and pricing are manufacturer figures gathered from Volkswagen and Honda and are subject to change. Comparison is for general information — confirm details and current pricing with Emich Volkswagen. Honda, Passport, and TrailSport are trademarks of Honda Motor Co., Ltd., used here for identification and comparison only.