2025 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2024 Land Rover Defender

The 2024 Land Rover Defender showcased a blend of classic and modern design elements. Its boxy profile and angular headlights connected it visually to other Land Rover models, yet its interior was distinctively rugged and adventure-ready, reminiscent of a Jeep Wrangler or Ford Bronco. The Defender's cabin featured durable materials, with soft-touch accents enhancing its appeal. Offered in three body styles—90, 110, and 130—the Defender catered to various preferences, with trims like S, X-Dynamic SE, X, V8, and Outbound providing diverse options.

In contrast, the 2025 Volkswagen Atlas presented a more refined and upscale appearance. The Execline trim, with its polished aluminum detailing and 21-inch wheels, exuded a muscular and sophisticated look. The Mountain Lake Blue exterior resisted dirt, maintaining its pristine appearance. Inside, the Atlas offered a warm and inviting environment with diamond-stitched leather and metallic accents. Despite its high-tech digital instrumentation and infotainment system, the touch-sensitive controls for temperature and volume were less satisfying, especially in colder conditions.

The 2024 Land Rover Defender offered a range of powertrains, starting with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 296 horsepower. Our P400 test model featured a mild-hybrid 3.0-litre inline-six, delivering 395 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque. The Defender also had two supercharged V8 options, with the P525 variant generating 518 hp. All engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and full-time 4WD. The Defender excelled in off-road capabilities, with features like adaptive air suspension and Terrain Response 2. It could tow up to 3,500 kg with the six- and eight-cylinder engines.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas, meanwhile, transitioned to a single turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 269 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. Despite initial concerns about its capability in a large SUV, the engine proved refined and adequate for daily driving. The Atlas maintained a 5,000-pound tow rating and featured an eight-speed automatic transmission with 4Motion AWD. However, its ride quality was less impressive, with a brittle suspension and excessive body motions at highway speeds. The Atlas handled predictably on mountain roads, but its performance was hindered by the lack of impact isolation.

The Defender balanced luxury and practicality, with soft-touch materials, grip handles, and rubberized floors. Seating capacity varied, with the Defender 110 offering an optional third row, while the 130 model accommodated up to eight passengers. Cargo space was generous, with the Defender 130 providing up to 2,155 litres with seats folded. The Defender 110 and 90 also offered ample storage, making it versatile for both urban and rugged use.

The Atlas excelled in passenger comfort, particularly in its spacious third-row seating. The Execline model featured heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats, with excellent visibility and a surround-view camera system. The second-row bench comfortably seated three adults, and access to the third row was outstanding. Cargo capacity was impressive, with 583 litres behind the third row and up to 2,735 litres with seats folded. The Atlas provided practical storage solutions throughout the cabin, enhancing its utility for families.

The Defender's technology included a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and an 11.4-inch touchscreen with navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The straightforward setup complemented its utilitarian design, with home buttons for easy navigation. The 10-speaker Meridian stereo system added to the audio experience.

The Atlas featured VW's MIB3 infotainment system on a 12-inch touchscreen. While it lacked traditional controls, it offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system's voice recognition was inconsistent, and the lack of knobs made it less user-friendly. However, the Harman Kardon audio system delivered excellent sound quality, and smartphone integration improved the overall experience.

The Defender came equipped with a comprehensive suite of driver assistance features, including forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and a 360-degree camera system. However, its lane-keeping assist was overly sensitive. Crash test ratings were unavailable at the time.

The Atlas boasted the IQ.Drive suite, with features like Front Assist, Lane Assist, and adaptive cruise control. It also included an eight-year subscription to Car-Net Safe & Secure services. The Atlas received a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA and was a 2024 IIHS Top Safety Pick, though updated ratings were pending.