2025 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2024 Mazda CX-30

The 2024 Mazda CX-30 was a crossover that aimed to stand out with its distinctive design, though some found the excessive charcoal-coloured plastic on the lower body to be a bit much. Despite this, the vehicle's overall appeal was undeniable, featuring short overhangs, a long and low hood, and a rakish roofline. The interior of the CX-30 was a highlight, offering a level of style and refinement that rivalled entry-level luxury SUVs. The gauges were clear, the infotainment screen was seamlessly integrated into the dashboard, and the dual-zone climate controls were elegantly designed.

In contrast, the 2025 Volkswagen Atlas presented a more robust and upscale appearance, with polished aluminum detailing, front and rear light bars, and sizable 21-inch wheels. The Mountain Lake Blue exterior colour was particularly striking, maintaining a clean look even in dusty conditions. Inside, the Atlas continued its premium theme with diamond-stitched leather, metallic accents, and artificial wood, creating a warm and inviting environment. However, the touch-sensitive controls for temperature and stereo volume were less satisfying to use, especially without gloves.

The 2024 Mazda CX-30, equipped with a turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, delivered 250 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque. Despite these impressive figures, the power delivery was smooth rather than immediate, with torque arriving at 2,000 rpm. The six-speed automatic transmission provided flawless shifting, and the standard AWD system ensured power was distributed to all four wheels. However, the turbocharged engine's fuel economy was less than stellar, with observed consumption at 13.3 L/100 km on a mountainous route, limiting the range to about 360 kilometres on a full tank.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas, on the other hand, featured a new turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 269 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. While initially seeming underpowered for an eight-passenger SUV, the engine proved refined and capable for daily driving tasks. The Atlas returned 15.2 L/100 km in city conditions and 12.3 L/100 km overall during testing. However, the ride quality was less than ideal, with the suspension feeling brittle over road imperfections and excessive body motions at highway speeds.

Inside the 2024 Mazda CX-30, the design was deft, with quality materials and logical controls. The interior space was cramped, particularly in the back seat, but the driver and front passenger enjoyed comfort and ease of access. The cargo space was flexible, offering 572 litres behind the back seat and 1,280 litres with the seats folded down.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas excelled in form and function, offering one of the most comfortable third-row seats in its class. The Execline model's front seats were heated, ventilated, and massaging, though the leather felt slightly stiff. The second-row bench seat provided ample space for three adults, and access to the third-row was outstanding. The cargo area was cavernous, with 583 litres behind the third-row and up to 2,735 litres with all seats folded down.

The 2024 Mazda CX-30's GT and Suna trims featured a new 10.25-inch infotainment display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, the screen's distance from the driver and passenger was a drawback, and the lack of a natural voice recognition system limited its usability. The CX-30 also offered a two-year subscription to Mazda Connected Services and included USB-C ports and a Bose premium audio system.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas used VW Group's MIB3 operating system on a 12-inch touchscreen display. While it lacked traditional controls, the system offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which were more reliable than the native system. The Atlas's Harman Kardon audio system was impressive, but the MIB3's user experience was marred by glitches and a lack of intuitive controls.

The 2024 Mazda CX-30 came equipped with a suite of safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, forward-collision warning, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims offered additional features like adaptive headlights and a surround-view camera system. The CX-30 earned top safety ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas featured the IQ.Drive suite, including Front Assist, Side Assist, Lane Assist, and Travel Assist. It also offered adaptive cruise control and a rear cross-traffic alert system. The Atlas received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and was a 2024 IIHS Top Safety Pick.