2025 Hyundai Tucson SE vs 2026 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport SE
$9,995 less and 4 mpg better vs 82 more hp and 95 more lb-ft torque. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $9,995 price gap, 187 vs 269 hp, 26 vs 22 MPG.
The Tucson SE leads on $9,995 less, 4 MPG better. The Atlas Cross Sport SE leads on 82 more hp, 95 more lb-ft torque. 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 Hyundai Tucson SE | 2026 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport SE |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $30,205 | $40,200 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 | 2.0L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 187 hp | 269 hp |
| Torque | 178 lb-ft | 273 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 24 | 20 |
| Highway MPG | 30 | 26 |
| Combined MPG | 26 | 22 |
| Fuel Tank | 14.3 gal | 18.6 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,700/yr | No published data |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,572 lbs | 4,341 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 108.5" | 117.3" |
| Length | 182.7" | 195.6" |
| Width | 73.4" | 78.3" |
| Height | 66.3" | 68.1" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | No published data | TSP+ |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 5yr/60k | 4yr/50k |
| Powertrain | 10yr/100k | 4yr/50k |
| Corrosion | 7yr/unlimited | 12yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/unlimited | 4yr/50k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE and 2026 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport SE?
The 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE starts at $30,205, $9,995 less than the 2026 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport SE at $40,200. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $176/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE?
The 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE is the stronger pick when you want to keep $9,995 in your pocket and the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $294/year less on fuel; you prefer a smaller vehicle that is easier to park and maneuver.
Who should choose the 2026 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport SE?
The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport SE is the stronger pick when the extra 82 hp matters for your commute or driving style; you want the larger footprint for passengers or cargo.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE or 2026 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport SE?
The 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE rates 26 combined MPG, 4 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE or 2026 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport SE?
The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport SE produces 269 hp, 82 more than the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE at 187 hp. The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport SE also leads in torque at 273 lb-ft vs 178 lb-ft. The 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE runs a 2.5L I4; the 2026 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport SE uses a 2.0L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE bigger than the 2026 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport SE?
The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport SE is 12.9″ longer at 195.6″ vs 182.7″. The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport SE has a 8.8″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
The Hyundai Tucson comes with 5yr/60k bumper-to-bumper and 10yr/100k 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: Hyundai trims, Hyundai Tucson trims, Volkswagen trims, Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport trims
The Tucson–Atlas Cross Sport Decision
Cross-shopping compact SUVs means weighing interior space, ride quality, and ownership costs. Here is how the Tucson and Atlas Cross Sport compare. The $9,995 gap adds up to $176/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
What Powers Each Vehicle
The 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE runs a 2.5L I4; the 2026 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport SE uses a 2.0L I4 Turbo. The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport SE has 82 more hp (269 vs 187). You will feel the difference merging, passing, and driving with a full car. The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport SE adds 95 more lb-ft of torque (273 vs 178), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use AWD.
The Ownership Math
The 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE saves roughly $294/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,470. The 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE wins on both sticker price and running costs, making it the stronger value on paper.
Living With the Tucson vs the Atlas Cross Sport
The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport SE is 12.9″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages. The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport SE has a 8.8″ longer wheelbase, typically meaning a smoother ride and more rear-seat legroom. The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport SE weighs 769 lbs more. Heavier vehicles tend to feel more planted at highway speed but use more fuel and are harder to stop quickly.
The Decision
Choose the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE when you want to keep $9,995 in your pocket and the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport SE when the extra 82 hp matters for your commute or driving style. At $176/month more, the 2026 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport SE needs to earn that gap with something you use weekly.
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 Hyundai or Volkswagen or any dealership.