Family Space versus Adventure Gear: How the 2025 Volkswagen Atlas Models Handle Summer Towing

Summer adventures require balancing passenger comfort with gear-hauling capability. The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas prioritizes seating for seven alongside 2,735 litres of cargo space, while the Atlas Cross Sport offers five-passenger luxury with 2,197 litres for equipment—both providing identical 2,268 kg (5,000 lbs) towing capacity.

Ontario summers invite endless outdoor possibilities, from lakeside camping to mountain biking expeditions. Your vehicle plays a critical role in making these adventures possible, especially when boats, trailers, or recreational equipment enter the equation. The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas lineup gives you options that match your specific adventure style.

Towing Capability: Equal Strength, Different Personalities

Both the 2025 Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport deliver impressive pulling power through their shared 2.0 TSI turbocharged engine. With 269 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque, these SUVs handle boats, campers, and trailers with confident performance. The 8-speed automatic transmission with Tiptronic 4MOTION technology optimizes power delivery while maintaining fuel efficiency.

The standard towing package equips both models with everything needed for your summer adventures, including:

• Electronic Stability Control with specific trailer stabilization features
• Factory-integrated hitch receiver (mount and ball sold separately)
• Specialized cooling systems to manage engine and transmission temperatures
• Trailer-specific electrical connections pre-integrated into the vehicle systems

This engineering creates a drama-free towing experience that makes hauling your summer gear straightforward and secure, whether you're backing a boat into a lake or connecting a camper for a weekend getaway.

Summer Cargo Solutions: Different Approaches to Space

While towing capability remains identical between models, interior cargo configurations create distinct advantages depending on your summer activities.

The seven-seat Atlas maximizes versatility with its three-row layout. With all seats up, you still have 583 litres of cargo space—enough for coolers, beach gear, and day trip essentials. Fold the third row for 1,571 litres, perfect for longer trips with additional equipment. With both rear rows folded, the 2,735-litre capacity handles mountain bikes, paddleboards, and camping gear with room to spare.

The Atlas Cross Sport takes a different approach, offering 1,141 litres behind its second row—77% more than the Atlas with all seats occupied. This creates a substantial advantage for families of four or five who regularly transport bulky summer gear without needing the third row. With seats folded, the 2,197-litre capacity easily accommodates weekend adventure equipment.

Both models feature thoughtful details that enhance summer functionality:

• Power tailgate with Easy Open/Close function for when your hands are full
• 12V power outlet in the cargo area for portable coolers or air pumps
• Cargo tie-downs to secure loose items during transport
• Available cargo area cover to protect gear from sun and curious eyes

All-Weather Capability for Unpredictable Summer Conditions

Summer adventures often take you beyond paved roads, and both Atlas models are well-equipped for these challenges. The standard 4MOTION All-Wheel Drive system automatically distributes power between front and rear wheels based on traction needs, proving especially valuable on boat ramps, gravel roads, and campsite terrain.

The Driving Profile Selection feature lets you customize performance for different conditions with specific modes:

• Off-Road mode adjusts throttle response and traction control for unpaved surfaces
• Snow mode provides enhanced stability on slippery terrain
• Eco mode maximizes fuel efficiency during highway travel
• Custom mode allows personalized settings based on your preferences

The Atlas Peak Edition adds 18-inch Magnum black alloy wheels with all-terrain tires (255/60 R18 108T), providing additional capability for more rugged summer adventures. Both models maintain 8 inches of ground clearance, striking a balance between off-road capability and on-road comfort.

Passenger Comfort During Summer Journeys

Long summer drives to your destination should be enjoyable, not endured. The Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport offer different passenger configurations that align with various family needs.

The Atlas accommodates seven passengers across three rows (or six with optional captain's chairs), making it ideal for larger families or those who frequently travel with friends or extended family. The "Easy Access" system to the third row simplifies entry and exit, while the available captain's chairs create a convenient pass-through to the back row.

The Atlas Cross Sport focuses on premium comfort for five, eliminating the third row in favor of additional second-row legroom and a more spacious feel. This configuration works perfectly for families with older children or those who prioritize passenger comfort over maximum seating capacity.

Both models share summer-friendly features across various trim levels:

• Ventilated front seats for cooling during hot weather
• Available panoramic sunroof that spans nearly the entire roof
• Three-zone climate control to keep all passengers comfortable
• Multiple USB-C charging ports throughout the cabin
• Optional second-row sunshades to reduce heat and glare

Technology That Enhances Summer Adventures

Modern summer journeys benefit from thoughtful technology that enhances safety and convenience. Both Atlas models include:

• 12.0" touchscreen infotainment system with wireless App-Connect
• Volkswagen Digital Cockpit Pro (10.25" configurable instrument cluster)
• Available navigation system with dynamic route guidance
• Wireless charging for compatible devices
• myVW app with Car-Net connected services for remote functions

When towing, specific technology features prove especially valuable:

• Area View 360° camera system helps position your vehicle perfectly relative to trailers
• Park Distance Control assists with maneuvering in tight spaces
• Dynamic Road Sign Display keeps you informed of changing speed limits
• Travel Assist combines adaptive cruise control with lane-keeping for reduced highway fatigue

Safety Features for Precious Cargo

Summer adventures should create memories, not worries. Both Atlas models earned the coveted 5-Star Overall Safety Rating and include comprehensive safety features:

• Front Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking
• Side Assist (Blind Spot Monitor) with Rear Traffic Alert
• Trailer stability control integrated with Electronic Stability Control
• Hill Hold Assist and Hill Descent Control for challenging terrain

These systems work together to provide peace of mind while towing precious cargo to your summer destinations, whether that's a family boat or camping trailer filled with gear.

Which Atlas Fits Your Summer Adventure Style?

Your ideal Atlas depends on your specific summer adventure profile:

The seven-seat Atlas makes sense if:

• You regularly travel with more than five people
• You need to balance people and gear frequently
• Maximum cargo flexibility is essential
• You want the option of third-row seating for occasional guests

The five-seat Atlas Cross Sport is better suited if:

• Your adventures typically involve 2-5 people
• You prioritize a more dynamic, sporty design
• Second-row passenger comfort is a priority
• You prefer more cargo space behind the second row

Both models share exceptional towing capabilities, ensuring your summer adventures aren't limited by what you can bring along.

Experience Summer Towing Capability at Guelph Volkswagen

The difference between reading about towing capability and experiencing it firsthand is substantial. Visit Guelph Volkswagen to explore both the 2025 Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport in person. Our team can help match your specific summer adventure needs to the right Atlas model, ensuring you have the perfect combination of passenger space, cargo capacity, and towing capability for unforgettable Ontario summers.