2025 Volkswagen Atlas vs the 2025 Toyota Highlander
The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas outshines the 2025 Toyota Highlander with bold power, space, and advanced features, making it the ideal SUV for families and adventurers alike. With a starting price lower than the Highlander, the Atlas delivers more value while offering a class-leading 96.8 cubic feet of cargo space and a strong 5,000-lb towing capacity.
Inside, the Atlas stands out with a spacious third row, intuitive infotainment, and premium technology like a standard Digital Cockpit Pro and available Harman Kardon® audio. While the Toyota Highlander emphasizes efficiency, the Atlas excels in comfort, capability, and everyday versatility—making it the better choice for drivers who need more from their midsize SUV.
Starting MSRP $37,995
Volkswagen Atlas Highlights
- Performance: Standard turbocharged engine with 269 lb-ft of torque and up to 5,000 lbs of towing capacity.
- Interior: Up to 96.8 cu. ft. of max cargo room, available leather seating, and heated & ventilated front seats.
- Technology: Standard VW Digital Cockpit Pro, 12" center display, wireless charging, and available Harman Kardon® audio.
- Safety: VW Car-Net® Safe & Secure, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Assist, Blind Spot Monitor, Rear Traffic Alert, and Front Assist.
Volkswagen Atlas Competitive Comparisons
With more cargo space, a lower starting price, and premium features available across the lineup, the 2025 Volkswagen Atlas proves to be the smarter, more capable choice over the Toyota Highlander for families who value comfort, performance, and long-term value.
Premium Performance
The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas stands out with its powerful performance and towing capabilities. Equipped with a turbocharged 2.0L engine producing 269 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque, the Atlas offers impressive strength for daily driving and weekend getaways. It also boasts a maximum towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds, easily surpassing many competitors in its class.
In contrast, the 2025 Toyota Highlander prioritizes efficiency over outright power, offering lower towing capability. With its balance of performance and versatility, the Atlas is the better fit for drivers seeking a more capable SUV without sacrificing comfort.
Interior & Exterior Design
The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas offers superior space and versatility compared to the 2025 Toyota Highlander. Inside, the Atlas comfortably seats up to seven passengers with ample headroom and legroom for every row. With up to 96.8 cubic feet of cargo space, it’s perfect for luggage, gear, or groceries.
Premium interior materials, available leather seating surfaces, ambient lighting, and multi-zone climate control enhance the Atlas’s refined atmosphere. On the exterior, its bold LED lighting, 18- to 21-inch alloy wheels, and sleek proportions give the Atlas a confident, upscale presence that feels more substantial than the Highlander.
Advanced Technology
The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas leads its class in technology with a standard VW Digital Cockpit Pro and a large 12-inch center touchscreen that delivers critical driving information in a sleek, modern layout. Wireless charging, keyless entry, and multiple USB-C ports come standard, keeping everyone connected on the go.
On the safety front, the Atlas includes advanced driver-assistance features such as Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Assist, Front Assist, and Emergency Assist. Available Harman Kardon® premium audio and enhanced connectivity features further elevate the driving experience—technology advantages not fully matched by the Highlander.
Volkswagen Atlas Trim Options
SE
Starting MSRP $37,995
- V-Tex leatherette seating surfaces
- Heated and ventilated front seats
- Climatronic® three-zone automatic climate control
- Multi-color Digital Cockpit Pro
- 12" center display
SE with Technology
Starting MSRP $42,100
- Front grille with integrated light bar
- Exterior illuminated front and rear
- Remote start
- Trailer hitch (5,000 lbs)
- Manual sunshades
Peak Edition SE with Technology
Starting MSRP $44,900
- Peak Edition bumpers with lower side cladding and black mirror caps
- Power tilting & sliding panoramic sunroof
- Unique Atlas Peak Edition interior styling with V-Tex leatherette seating
- Multi-color adjustable ambient lighting
- Illuminated Peak Edition dash décor
SEL
Starting MSRP $48,860
- Leather seating surfaces
- 8-way power adjustable front seats with lumbar & driver memory
- Power passenger seat
- Head-Up Display (HUD)
- Multi-color adjustable ambient lighting
- Discover Pro 12" touchscreen navigation
SEL Premium R-Line
Starting MSRP $52,800
- R-Line exterior styling
- Perforated Vienna leather seating surfaces (premium appearance)
- Harman Kardon® premium audio system
- Overhead View Camera (Area View)
- Heated 1st and 2nd row outboard seating positions