2025 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2024 Cadillac LYRIQ

The 2024 Cadillac LYRIQ was a striking vehicle with a design that commanded attention. Its exterior styling was reminiscent of a long sedan, despite being an SUV, with a long hood and low ground clearance. The vertical light bars and LED headlights added a modern touch, while the grille and lighting effects enhanced its unique style. Inside, the LYRIQ boasted luxurious details, such as leather-wrapped seats and polished controls, creating an upscale atmosphere. However, the floating centre console was a design misstep, offering little functionality.

In contrast, the 2025 Volkswagen Atlas presented a more rugged and muscular appearance, particularly in the Peak Edition trim. The Execline trim, with its Mountain Lake Blue exterior and Shetland Beige leather interior, exuded a sporty and upscale vibe. The Atlas's design was both chiseled and refined, with polished aluminum detailing and sizable 21-inch wheels. Inside, the Atlas offered a warm and inviting environment with diamond-stitched leather and metallic accents, although the touch-sensitive controls for temperature and volume were less satisfying to use.

The 2024 Cadillac LYRIQ was built for comfort rather than sportiness, excelling on highways with its calm and poised ride. It featured two powertrain options: a single rear motor with 340 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque, or an optional dual-motor setup with 500 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque. Despite its impressive power, the LYRIQ's handling was hindered by its weight, leading to understeer and uninspiring steering feel. The regenerative braking system was a welcome feature, but the overall chassis needed improvement.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas, on the other hand, was powered by a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine producing 269 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. While initially seeming underpowered for its size, the engine proved refined and capable for daily driving tasks. The Atlas's ride quality was less impressive, with a brittle suspension over rough surfaces and excessive body motions at highway speeds. However, its handling was predictable, and the brakes performed well under stress.

The 2024 Cadillac LYRIQ offered generous headroom and legroom, with a spacious back seat typical of EVs. However, its cargo space was limited, with 793 litres behind the seats and 1,722 litres when folded. The interior had some functionality issues, such as a difficult-to-access glovebox and a small centre cubby. The floating console also lacked practicality, leaving valuables exposed.

In contrast, the 2025 Volkswagen Atlas excelled in form and function, with a comfortable third-row seat and a cavernous cargo area. The Execline model featured heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats, while the second-row bench seat accommodated three adults comfortably. The third-row seat was easily accessible and provided adequate leg support. The Atlas offered 583 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 2,735 litres with the second-row folded.

The 2024 Cadillac LYRIQ featured a 33-inch OLED screen with three sections, offering a high-quality infotainment experience. It included native Google Maps and Google Assistant, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard. The Super Cruise system was a standout feature, providing excellent hands-free driving assistance. The 19-speaker AKG stereo added to the premium experience.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas used VW Group's MIB3 operating system, accessible through a 12-inch touchscreen display. While it lacked traditional controls, it offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, the native voice assistant was unreliable, and the user experience was marred by glitches. The Harman Kardon audio system was a highlight, but the overall infotainment experience was less satisfying than the LYRIQ's.

The 2024 Cadillac LYRIQ came standard with forward automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and more. However, it received a poor rating for its headlights from the IIHS and had not been crash-tested by the NHTSA.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas featured the IQ.Drive suite of driver assistance features, including adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist. It also offered an eight-year subscription to Car-Net Safe & Secure services. The Atlas earned a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and was a 2024 IIHS "Top Safety Pick."