Choosing the perfect midsize SUV can be overwhelming with so many excellent options available. For Columbus drivers seeking a vehicle that delivers on space, style, and technology, the 2025 Volkswagen Atlas and 2025 Toyota Highlander stand out as top contenders. However, when you delve into the details, the Atlas emerges as a clear favorite for those prioritizing versatility and value. The Volkswagen Atlas is designed with families and adventurers in mind, boasting a spacious interior with three-row seating and cutting-edge technology. Its bold design and powerful performance make it a standout choice for drivers who need functionality without sacrificing style. In comparison, the Toyota Highlander offers a well-rounded experience but leans more towards compact practicality and hybrid efficiency. In this comparison, we’ll explore key areas such as design, comfort, technology, performance, safety, and overall value. Whether you’re drawn to the Atlas for its expansive cabin and commanding road presence or considering the Highlander for its hybrid options, Byers Volkswagen is here to guide you. Keep reading to learn more about what makes the Volkswagen Atlas the superior choice and why it’s the perfect fit for drivers in Columbus, OH.
When it comes to design, the 2025 Volkswagen Atlas outshines the 2025 Toyota Highlander with its bold and commanding exterior. The Atlas features a wide stance, sculpted lines, and a distinctive front grille with wraparound LED headlights that give it a rugged yet modern appearance. Its larger dimensions not only make a visual statement but also contribute to its superior interior space. The Toyota Highlander, on the other hand, opts for a sleeker and more compact design. While it offers a polished look with smooth lines and a refined profile, it lacks the imposing road presence of the Atlas. For those who want their SUV to stand out and provide practical advantages like increased headroom and cargo space, the Atlas delivers on all fronts.
The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas offers unparalleled comfort and advanced technology for both drivers and passengers. Its spacious three-row seating comfortably accommodates up to seven adults, with ample legroom in every row. Features like heated and ventilated front seats, a wireless smartphone charger, and a 12-inch infotainment touchscreen ensure every journey is enjoyable. While the Toyota Highlander includes premium materials and user-friendly controls, its interior feels more compact, especially in the third row, which is better suited for children. The Highlander does offer advanced tech, such as a large touchscreen and Toyota’s suite of driver-assistance features, but the Atlas edges ahead with its more intuitive interface and higher-end options like a panoramic sunroof and premium sound system.
Under the hood, the 2025 Volkswagen Atlas is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 269 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, the Atlas delivers a smooth and responsive ride, whether you’re navigating city streets or towing up to 5,000 pounds for a weekend getaway. Optional 4Motion® all-wheel drive enhances traction in various driving conditions. The Toyota Highlander offers similar engine options, including a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine with 265 horsepower and a hybrid variant that emphasizes fuel efficiency. While the Highlander’s hybrid models are a great option for eco-conscious drivers, the Atlas provides a more robust driving experience with its superior towing capacity and dynamic handling.
Safety is a top priority for both the 2025 Volkswagen Atlas and Toyota Highlander. The Atlas is equipped with advanced safety features such as forward collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist. These features, combined with its sturdy build, earned the 2025 Atlas a five-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The Toyota Highlander also boasts an impressive array of safety features, including Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ and available adaptive headlights. It has similarly received a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA. However, the Atlas stands out with its optional surround-view camera and advanced parking assist features, making it easier to navigate tight spaces with confidence.
When evaluating overall value, the 2025 Volkswagen Atlas stands out with its combination of spaciousness, advanced features, and well-rounded performance. Designed to accommodate families and adventurers alike, the Atlas offers generous cargo space, a comfortable cabin, and a smooth, capable ride. Its comprehensive warranty and reputation for reliability further enhance its appeal. While the Toyota Highlander emphasizes fuel efficiency with its hybrid options, it falls short in interior space and towing capacity compared to the Atlas. For drivers in Columbus, OH, seeking a versatile SUV that excels in multiple areas, the Volkswagen Atlas remains a top contender. Visit Byers Volkswagen to test drive the Atlas and experience its exceptional quality firsthand!
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2025 Volkswagen Atlas | 2025 Toyota Highlander |
---|---|---|
Standard Engine | 2.0-Liter Turbo | 2.4-Liter Turbocharged |
Standard Horsepower | 269 | 265 |
Standard Torque (lb-ft) | 273 | 310 |
Standard Transmission | 8-Speed Automatic w/ Tiptronic® | 8-Speed ECT |
Standard Wheels | 18-inch Alloy | 18-inch Alloy |
Max Cargo Volume (Cubic Feet) | 96.6 | 84.3 |
Standard Climate Control | Climatronic® Tri-Zone | Dual-Zone |
Heated Front Seats | Standard | Available |
Adaptive Cruise Control | Standard | Standard |
Wireless Charging | Standard | Unavailable |