2025 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2024 Lexus TX

The 2024 Lexus TX was based on the Toyota Grand Highlander, yet it distinguished itself as a luxury SUV. Its upscale appearance was enhanced by 22-inch silver-finished wheels, particularly in the TX 350 Executive packages, which significantly improved its presence. The styling was more conservative compared to other Lexus models, appealing to those who previously found Lexus designs too bold. The TX was available in TX 350, TX 500h F Sport Performance, and TX 550h+ plug-in hybrid models, with prices ranging from $72,036 to $87,486, although the TX 550h+ was not yet available. The TX 350, likely the most popular version, featured a turbocharged four-cylinder engine and standard AWD, with options for Ultra Luxury or Executive packages in Canada.

In contrast, the 2025 Volkswagen Atlas was offered in four trim levels: Comfortline, Peak Edition, Highline, and Execline. The Atlas Peak Edition had an off-road appearance, while the Execline was sportier with the most standard equipment. The Atlas Cross Sport, a five-passenger version, shared similarities with the three-row Atlas. Base prices ranged from $50,995 to $60,995. The Atlas Execline, tested in Mountain Lake Blue with a Shetland Beige leather interior, showcased polished aluminum detailing, light bars, and 21-inch wheels, giving it a muscular and upscale look. Inside, diamond-stitched leather and metallic accents created a warm environment, although touch-sensitive controls for temperature and volume were less satisfying to use.

The 2024 Lexus TX 350 was equipped with a turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. Lexus claimed it could accelerate to 100 km/h in about eight seconds, though it felt quicker due to its torque. The official fuel economy rating was 10.3 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, but during testing, it averaged 13.8 L/100 km. The ride and handling were well-balanced, with a firm suspension providing a comfortable ride and accurate steering. The interior remained quiet on highways, although the brake pedal felt too soft.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas featured a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, replacing the previous V6. It delivered 269 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and VW’s 4Motion AWD system. Despite initial concerns, the engine proved refined, with a satisfying torque curve between 1,600 rpm and 4,500 rpm. The Atlas returned 15.2 L/100 km in city driving and 12.3 L/100 km overall during testing. However, the ride quality was less impressive, with a brittle suspension over road imperfections and excessive body motions at highway speeds. Handling was predictable, with the brakes resisting rumble and fade.

The 2024 Lexus TX addressed previous shortcomings in Lexus’s three-row SUVs. The TX 350 test unit featured premium leather and suede upholstery, with heated and ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel as standard. The second-row bench seat was comfortable, though lacking a massage function. The third-row seat was habitable for adults, with adequate leg support and large windows. Cargo space measured 572 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,625 litres with the third row folded, and 2,746 litres with the second row down. Storage slots and bins were numerous but lacked lining, potentially causing noise.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas excelled in form and function, offering a comfortable third-row seat and a cavernous cargo area. The Execline model’s front seats were heated, ventilated, and massaging, with excellent outward visibility. The second-row bench seat accommodated three adults comfortably, with ample legroom and a panoramic sunroof. Access to the third-row seat was outstanding, with adequate leg support. Storage space was commendable across all rows, with 583 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 1,571 litres with the third row folded, and 2,735 litres with the second row down.

The 2024 Lexus TX featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a digital rearview mirror, with additional options in the Executive packages. The Lexus Interface infotainment system, with a 14-inch touchscreen, offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a Drive Connect subscription added a digital assistant. The TX also included free 10-year subscriptions to Service Connect and Safety Connect, and a three-year Remote Connect subscription. The optional 21-speaker Mark Levinson audio system provided impressive sound quality.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas used VW Group’s MIB3 operating system with a 12-inch touchscreen. The lack of traditional controls made the system less user-friendly, and the native digital voice assistant was unreliable. However, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto provided a better experience, with the Execline’s Harman Kardon audio system delivering excellent sound. The MIB3 system had glitches, such as incorrect song titles on SiriusXM, and a confusing navigation interface.

The 2024 Lexus TX was equipped with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and more. Proactive Drive Assist added braking and steering assistance, though it was not always transparent. Additional options included parking sensors, front cross-traffic alert, and traffic jam assist. The system was generally smooth and effective, though it slowed too dramatically when other vehicles cut in.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas featured IQ.Drive, with Front Assist, Side Assist, Lane Assist, Emergency Assist, and Travel Assist. Adaptive cruise control and rear cross-traffic alert were standard. The Atlas also included an eight-year subscription to Car-Net Safe & Secure services. The IQ.Drive systems were accurate and trustworthy, with occasional false warnings. The Atlas earned a five-star safety rating from the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and was a 2024 IIHS “Top Safety Pick.”