Toyota Highlander Vs Vw Atlas: Which 7-seater Suv Reigns Supreme? Discover The Ultimate Family Ride!

When it comes to choosing a three-row SUV, two prominent contenders in the market are the Toyota Highlander and the VW Atlas. Both vehicles offer spacious interiors, impressive features, and capable performance. However, discerning buyers may wonder which one stands out as the superior choice. This comprehensive comparison delves into the key aspects of the Toyota Highlander and VW Atlas, helping you make an informed decision.

Performance and Power: A Tale of Two Engines

The Toyota Highlander offers a choice of two powertrains: a 3.5-liter V6 engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, delivering 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque. Alternatively, the Highlander Hybrid combines a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with two electric motors, producing a combined output of 243 horsepower.

The VW Atlas, on the other hand, is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission. This engine generates 235 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. While the Atlas offers adequate power for everyday driving, the Highlander’s V6 engine provides a more spirited performance, especially when tackling hills or towing heavy loads.

Fuel Efficiency: Finding the Balance

When it comes to fuel efficiency, the Toyota Highlander Hybrid takes the lead. With an EPA-estimated 36 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway, the Highlander Hybrid excels in urban environments and long road trips alike. The standard Highlander with the V6 engine achieves 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway, which is respectable for a three-row SUV.

The VW Atlas, with its turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivers 20 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway. While these figures are slightly lower than the Highlander’s, the Atlas still offers decent fuel economy for its size and performance capabilities.

Interior Space and Comfort: Room for Everyone

Both the Toyota Highlander and VW Atlas boast spacious interiors with ample seating for up to eight passengers. The Highlander provides 13.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, which expands to 48.4 cubic feet with the third row folded and 84.3 cubic feet with both the second and third rows folded.

The VW Atlas offers slightly more cargo space, with 17.6 cubic feet behind the third row, 55.5 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 96.8 cubic feet with both the second and third rows folded. Additionally, the Atlas features a panoramic sunroof that enhances the airy and spacious feel of the cabin.

Safety Features: Protecting Your Precious Cargo

The Toyota Highlander and VW Atlas come equipped with an array of advanced safety features to safeguard occupants. Both vehicles offer standard features such as airbags, anti-lock brakes, and electronic stability control. Additionally, they include a suite of driver assistance technologies, including lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control.

The Highlander goes a step further with its Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 system, which includes features like pedestrian detection, lane tracing assist, and road sign assist. The Atlas, on the other hand, offers its IQ.DRIVE system, which includes features such as traffic jam assist, park assist, and a surround-view camera system.

Technology and Connectivity: Staying Connected on the Go

The Toyota Highlander and VW Atlas offer a range of infotainment features to keep passengers entertained and connected. The Highlander features an 8-inch touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. It also comes with a premium audio system and navigation.

The VW Atlas boasts a larger 10.1-inch touchscreen display with similar connectivity features, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Additionally, it offers a Wi-Fi hotspot and a Fender premium audio system for an immersive sound experience.

Price and Value: Finding the Right Fit

The Toyota Highlander has a starting price of $34,810 for the base L trim and goes up to $50,365 for the top-of-the-line Platinum trim. The VW Atlas, on the other hand, starts at $31,550 for the base S trim and reaches $49,995 for the SEL Premium R-Line trim.

When comparing the price and value proposition, the Toyota Highlander offers a slightly higher starting price but comes with a more comprehensive suite of standard features. The VW Atlas, while offering a lower starting price, may require additional packages to match the Highlander’s features, potentially increasing the overall cost.

The Verdict: Choosing the Right SUV for Your Needs

Ultimately, the choice between the Toyota Highlander and VW Atlas depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize fuel efficiency, spacious cargo capacity, and a comprehensive suite of safety features, the Toyota Highlander is an excellent choice. However, if you value a lower starting price, a panoramic sunroof, and a larger touchscreen display, the VW Atlas may be a better fit.

Questions We Hear a Lot

Q: Which vehicle has better fuel efficiency, the Toyota Highlander or the VW Atlas?

A: The Toyota Highlander Hybrid offers superior fuel efficiency, with an EPA-estimated 36 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway, compared to the VW Atlas‘s 20 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway.

Q: Which vehicle has more cargo space, the Toyota Highlander or the VW Atlas?

A: The VW Atlas offers slightly more cargo space than the Toyota Highlander, with 17.6 cubic feet behind the third row, compared to the Highlander’s 13.8 cubic feet. However, the Highlander has a larger maximum cargo capacity of 84.3 cubic feet with both the second and third rows folded, compared to the Atlas’s 96.8 cubic feet.

Q: Which vehicle offers more advanced safety features, the Toyota Highlander or the VW Atlas?

A: Both the Toyota Highlander and VW Atlas offer a range of advanced safety features, including lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. However, the Highlander has a slight edge with its Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 system, which includes additional features like pedestrian detection, lane tracing assist, and road sign assist.