Toyota highlander vs vw atlas cross sport: a tale of two titans

The battle for midsize SUV dominance intensifies as two automotive giants, Toyota and Volkswagen, present their formidable contenders: the Toyota Highlander and the VW Atlas Cross Sport. Both vehicles boast impressive features and capabilities, but which one emerges as the superior choice? This comprehensive comparison delves into their key attributes, strengths, and weaknesses to help you make an informed decision.

Power and Performance

The Toyota Highlander offers a choice between two powertrains: a 295-horsepower V6 engine or a 243-horsepower hybrid system. The V6 provides ample power for everyday driving and towing, while the hybrid offers improved fuel efficiency without sacrificing performance.

The VW Atlas Cross Sport is powered by a 235-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine. It delivers adequate power but may feel underpowered when fully loaded or towing. Both vehicles offer all-wheel drive for enhanced traction in various conditions.

Fuel Efficiency

The Toyota Highlander hybrid shines in fuel economy, achieving an impressive 36 mpg combined. The V6 model offers a respectable 21 mpg combined.

The VW Atlas Cross Sport trails behind with an EPA-estimated 21 mpg combined. However, its fuel efficiency may vary depending on driving habits and conditions.

Interior and Space

The Toyota Highlander provides a spacious and comfortable interior with seating for up to eight passengers. It boasts ample legroom, headroom, and cargo space. The VW Atlas Cross Sport offers similar interior dimensions, with seating for up to seven passengers. However, its cargo capacity is slightly less than the Highlander.

Both vehicles offer a generous array of features, including heated seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a premium audio system.

Safety Features

The Toyota Highlander and VW Atlas Cross Sport prioritize safety. They both come standard with a suite of advanced safety features, including:

• Blind-spot monitoring
• Lane departure warning
• Adaptive cruise control
• Automatic emergency braking

The Highlander also offers a blind-spot monitoring system with rear cross-traffic alert.

Technology and Infotainment

The Toyota Highlander features an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. It also offers a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a head-up display.

The VW Atlas Cross Sport boasts a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. It also offers a digital instrument cluster and a head-up display.

Off-Road Capabilities

While both vehicles are primarily designed for on-road use, the Toyota Highlander offers a more rugged off-road experience. It comes with an optional all-wheel drive system with selectable drive modes for different terrains.

The VW Atlas Cross Sport‘s off-road capabilities are limited compared to the Highlander. However, it does offer an optional all-wheel drive system with hill descent control.

Pricing and Value

The Toyota Highlander starts at $36,420 for the base trim and goes up to $50,015 for the top-of-the-line Platinum trim.

The VW Atlas Cross Sport starts at $32,545 for the base SE trim and ranges up to $49,995 for the SEL Premium R-Line trim.

Takeaways: The Verdict

The Toyota Highlander and VW Atlas Cross Sport are both excellent midsize SUVs with their own strengths and weaknesses. The Highlander offers superior fuel efficiency, off-road capabilities, and a more spacious interior. The Atlas Cross Sport, on the other hand, boasts a lower starting price, a more advanced infotainment system, and a more stylish exterior.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual priorities and preferences. If you prioritize fuel efficiency, off-road performance, and interior space, the Toyota Highlander is the clear winner. If you value style, technology, and a lower starting price, the VW Atlas Cross Sport is a compelling option.

Information You Need to Know

Q: Which vehicle has a more powerful engine?
A: The Toyota Highlander with the V6 engine has a more powerful engine than the VW Atlas Cross Sport.

Q: Which vehicle has a more fuel-efficient hybrid option?
A: The Toyota Highlander offers a fuel-efficient hybrid option, while the VW Atlas Cross Sport does not.

Q: Which vehicle offers more seating capacity?
A: The Toyota Highlander offers seating for up to eight passengers, while the VW Atlas Cross Sport offers seating for up to seven passengers.

Q: Which vehicle has a more advanced infotainment system?
A: The VW Atlas Cross Sport has a more advanced infotainment system with a larger touchscreen and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.

Q: Which vehicle is more affordable?
A: The VW Atlas Cross Sport has a lower starting price than the Toyota Highlander.