Clash of the titans: gmc yukon vs vw atlas: which suv reigns supreme?

The GMC Yukon and the VW Atlas are two highly capable full-size SUVs that offer a compelling blend of space, power, and features. Whether you’re looking for a rugged workhorse or a comfortable family hauler, these vehicles are worth considering. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the key differences between the GMC Yukon and the VW Atlas, helping you make an informed decision about which one is right for you.

Size and Dimensions

The GMC Yukon is a larger vehicle than the VW Atlas, with a length of 204.3 inches, a width of 81 inches, and a height of 74.9 inches. The Atlas, on the other hand, measures 198.3 inches in length, 78.3 inches in width, and 69.3 inches in height. This difference in size translates to more interior space in the Yukon, with a total passenger volume of 144.5 cubic feet compared to the Atlas’s 117.1 cubic feet.

Engine and Performance

Both the Yukon and the Atlas offer a range of engine options, but the Yukon has a clear advantage in terms of power. The base engine in the Yukon is a 5.3-liter V8 that produces 355 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque. The Atlas, on the other hand, comes standard with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 235 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Higher trim levels of the Atlas offer a more powerful 3.6-liter V6 engine that produces 276 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque.

When it comes to towing capacity, the Yukon also takes the lead. The Yukon can tow up to 8,400 pounds, while the Atlas has a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds.

Fuel Economy

Despite its larger size and more powerful engine, the GMC Yukon surprisingly offers better fuel economy than the VW Atlas. The Yukon with the 5.3-liter V8 engine gets an EPA-estimated 15 mpg in the city and 20 mpg on the highway, while the Atlas with the 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine gets an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway.

Interior and Features

Both the Yukon and the Atlas offer spacious and well-equipped interiors. The Yukon has a more traditional SUV interior with a large center console and a high seating position. The Atlas, on the other hand, has a more modern and car-like interior with a sleek dashboard and a lower seating position.

In terms of features, both vehicles offer a wide range of amenities, including heated and ventilated seats, a sunroof, a premium audio system, and a navigation system. However, the Yukon offers a few more standard features than the Atlas, such as a power liftgate and a wireless charging pad.

Safety

Both the GMC Yukon and the VW Atlas have received high safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The Yukon received a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS. The Atlas also received a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS.

Price and Value

The GMC Yukon has a starting price of $54,700, while the VW Atlas has a starting price of $34,355. This significant price difference reflects the Yukon’s larger size, more powerful engine, and additional standard features. However, the Atlas offers a more fuel-efficient and car-like driving experience, which may be more appealing to some buyers.

Which One Is Right for You?

The GMC Yukon and the VW Atlas are both excellent full-size SUVs with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. The Yukon is the better choice if you need a vehicle with maximum space, power, and towing capacity. The Atlas is the better choice if you prioritize fuel economy, a car-like driving experience, and a lower price point.

Wrap-Up

Ultimately, the best way to decide which vehicle is right for you is to test drive both the GMC Yukon and the VW Atlas. By experiencing firsthand how each vehicle drives, handles, and meets your specific needs, you can make an informed decision about which one is the perfect fit for you and your family.

Frequently Discussed Topics

1. Which vehicle has a higher towing capacity?
The GMC Yukon has a higher towing capacity of 8,400 pounds, compared to the VW Atlas‘s 5,000 pounds.

2. Which vehicle has a more spacious interior?
The GMC Yukon has a more spacious interior with a total passenger volume of 144.5 cubic feet, compared to the VW Atlas‘s 117.1 cubic feet.

3. Which vehicle has a better fuel economy?
The VW Atlas has a better fuel economy with an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway, compared to the GMC Yukon‘s 15 mpg in the city and 20 mpg on the highway.

4. Which vehicle has a lower starting price?
The VW Atlas has a lower starting price of $34,355, compared to the GMC Yukon‘s $54,700.

5. Which vehicle has received higher safety ratings?
Both the GMC Yukon and the VW Atlas have received high safety ratings from the NHTSA and the IIHS. The Yukon received a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS, while the Atlas also received a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS.