2025 Honda Passport EX-L vs 2026 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport SE
On paper, the 2026 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport SE wins on $2,200 less. The 2025 Honda Passport EX-L has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: 280 vs 269 hp, 21 vs 22 MPG.
The Atlas Cross Sport SE leads on $2,200 less. The spec table compares 6 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 6 specifications.
Full Specification Comparison
Specifications and pricing reflect available data as of early 2026 and may not match current manufacturer figures. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision.
| Spec | 2025 Honda Passport EX-L | 2026 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport SE |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $42,400 | $40,200 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 3.5L V6 | 2.0L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 280 hp | 269 hp |
| Torque | 262 lb-ft | 273 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 9-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 19 | 20 |
| Highway MPG | 24 | 26 |
| Combined MPG | 21 | 22 |
| Fuel Tank | 19.5 gal | 18.6 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $2,100/yr | No published data |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 4,236 lbs | 4,341 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 110.9" | 117.3" |
| Length | 189.1" | 195.6" |
| Width | 78.6" | 78.3" |
| Height | 72.2" | 68.1" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | TSP+ | TSP+ |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 4yr/50k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 4yr/50k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 12yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 3yr/36k | 4yr/50k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Honda Passport EX-L and 2026 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport SE?
The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport SE starts at $40,200, $2,200 less than the 2025 Honda Passport EX-L at $42,400. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $39/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Honda Passport EX-L?
The 2025 Honda Passport EX-L is the stronger pick when you prefer the Honda approach to the midsize SUV segment.
Who should choose the 2026 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport SE?
The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport SE is the stronger pick when you want to keep $2,200 in your pocket and the 2026 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport SE covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $91/year less on fuel.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Honda Passport EX-L or 2026 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport SE?
The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport SE rates 22 combined MPG, 1 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Honda Passport EX-L or 2026 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport SE?
The 2025 Honda Passport EX-L produces 280 hp, 11 more than the 2026 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport SE at 269 hp. The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport SE also leads in torque at 273 lb-ft vs 262 lb-ft. The 2025 Honda Passport EX-L runs a 3.5L V6; the 2026 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport SE uses a 2.0L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2025 Honda Passport EX-L bigger than the 2026 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport SE?
The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport SE is 6.5″ longer at 195.6″ vs 189.1″. The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport SE has a 6.4″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
The Honda Passport comes with 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain. The Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport offers 4yr/50k bumper-to-bumper and 4yr/50k powertrain. Longer warranty coverage can offset higher maintenance costs over time.
Explore more: Honda trims, Honda Passport trims, Volkswagen trims, Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport trims
The Passport–Atlas Cross Sport Decision
Cross-shopping midsize SUVs means weighing interior space, ride quality, and ownership costs. Here is how the Passport and Atlas Cross Sport compare. The $-2,200 gap is about $39/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
What Powers Each Vehicle
The 2025 Honda Passport EX-L runs a 3.5L V6; the 2026 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport SE uses a 2.0L I4 Turbo. The 11 hp difference (280 vs 269) is marginal in daily driving. Both use AWD.
The Ownership Math
The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport SE saves roughly $91/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $455.
Living With the Passport vs the Atlas Cross Sport
The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport SE has a 6.4″ longer wheelbase, typically meaning a smoother ride and more rear-seat legroom.
The Decision
Choose the 2025 Honda Passport EX-L when you prefer the Honda approach to the midsize SUV segment. Choose the 2026 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport SE when you want to keep $2,200 in your pocket and the 2026 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport SE covers your needs.
Specifications shown combine licensed third-party automotive data with official manufacturer, EPA, and NHTSA source material. Actual pricing, features, and availability may vary by region and dealer. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision. TrimAtlas is not affiliated with Honda or Volkswagen or any dealership.