Arguably the most significant SUV segment in the country, midsize 2-row 5-seater SUVs are the ones taking over from family sedans as the vehicle to have to live life at the fullest. It’s no surprise then that there have been numerous additions made to the segment recently, such as the all-new Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport, or that nearly all the other members have recently been revamped, as has the Ford Edge.

The drive to deliver something for everyone has pushed all segment players to offer a variety of options, features, powertrains and luxury amenities to please all walks of buyers. The Ford Edge has over a decade of experience compared to the Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport however this means little to nothing when considering specifications and capabilities.

The 2020 Atlas Cross Sport comes standard with VW’s 4MOTION AWD system while the 2020 Edge is delivered with Ford’s Intelligent All-Wheel Drive. Both are powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine. The VW’s puts out 235-horsepower and 258 lb.-ft. of torque on regular petrol. The Ford’s unit delivers 250-horsepower and 280 lb.-ft. of torque on 93-octane fuel. As well, 8-speed automatic transmissions send power to all four wheels in the two SUVs. Tipping the scale at roughly 4,100 lb, both deliver similar performance and fuel-consumption values.

Optionally, the Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport can be equipped with a 3.6-liter V6 which is good for 276-horsepower and 266 lb.-ft. of torque. The Edge ST is delivered with a standard 335-horsepower 2.7-liter turbocharged V6 although at a much higher price point. With the V6, the Volkswagen handily out-tows all versions of the Edge with a 5,000 lb towing capacity. The Ford’s V6 is limited to 3,500 lb.

The major differences are in styling. The Ford Edge looks like most other midsize SUVs while the Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport has true swagger and attitude. Its design is unique and vibrant – you will never mistake it for anything else. Same goes for the cabin which features a dynamically-styled dashboard with ideal ergonomics and plenty of useable storage.

The new 2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport is an emotional and extremely functional option is the segment. Come see one for yourself.