2025 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2024 Mazda CX-5

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 retained its familiar design from the second-generation model introduced in 2017, maintaining a modern and appealing look. The U.S. version of the new-for-2024 Suna trim featured exclusive Zircon Sand paint and Terracotta leather seats with black artificial suede inserts, adding a touch of exclusivity. Mazda made several updates, including improved fuel economy for the base engine, the addition of wireless charging, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto in select trims. The CX-5 lineup offered a base engine with 187 horsepower and a Turbo model with up to 256 horsepower, both paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. In Canada, the CX-5 was available in various trims, with prices ranging from $35,476 to $48,276, including fees. The Suna trim, priced at $47,026, came with the Turbo engine as standard, offering an upscale experience at a mainstream price.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas was available in four trim levels in Canada: Comfortline, Peak Edition, Highline, and Execline. The Atlas Peak Edition had an off-road appearance, while the Execline was sporty with the most standard equipment. A five-passenger version, the Atlas Cross Sport, offered a more rakish design. Base prices ranged from $50,995 to $60,995, excluding fees. The Atlas Execline, tested in Mountain Lake Blue with a Shetland Beige leather interior, showcased polished aluminum detailing, front and rear light bars, and 21-inch wheels, giving it a chiseled and upscale appearance. Inside, the Atlas featured 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 not user-friendly, especially in colder conditions.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 Turbo delivered 256 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque on premium gas, or 227 horsepower and 310 lb-ft on regular gas. The powertrain was more rewarding with a gradual acceleration approach, allowing the turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine to shine. However, it wasn't fuel-efficient, with a combined rating of 9.8 L/100 km, and observed at 10.3 L/100 km. The base engine offered better efficiency at 9.3 L/100 km combined. The CX-5's tall and narrow feel provided excellent visibility, making it easy to maneuver. Mazda's suspension improvements and G-Vectoring Control Plus technology enhanced handling and ride quality. The CX-5 was quiet on highways, firm in the city, and fun on twisty roads. It could tow up to 900 kilograms.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas featured a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with 269 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and VW's 4Motion AWD. Despite initial concerns, the engine proved refined and satisfying for daily driving. Sport mode added a pleasing engine note but affected fuel economy. The Atlas returned 15.2 L/100 km in city conditions and 12.3 L/100 km overall. The ride quality was disappointing, with a brittle suspension and excessive body motions at highway speeds. However, the Atlas handled predictably on mountain roads, with responsive brakes and steering.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 offered standard heated front seats and a heated steering wheel. The redesigned seats were comfortable, with six-way power adjustment for the driver. Leather was standard on most trims, with premium Nappa leather in the Signature trim. The CX-5 was snug for four adults, with supportive rear seats and rear air conditioning vents. The cabin design and quality elevated the CX-5 above its rivals, with good storage space. The cargo area provided 871 litres behind the rear seats and 1,680 litres with the seats folded.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas excelled in form and function, with a comfortable third-row seat and cavernous cargo area. The Execline model featured heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats, 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 was easy, with adequate leg support. Storage space was commendable in all rows, with practical compartments. The Atlas offered 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 Mazda CX-5 eschewed touchscreens for traditional controls, offering a setting for touchscreen operation of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The 10.25-inch display was navigated using a large knob and surrounding buttons. Mazda Connected Services provided remote engine starting and more. The Suna trim featured a 10-speaker Bose premium sound system, enhancing the premium interior.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas used VW's MIB3 operating system on a 12-inch touchscreen. Traditional controls were replaced with touch-sensing buttons, which were not user-friendly. The lack of a reliable digital voice assistant was a drawback, but wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto offered a solution. The Atlas Execline's Harman Kardon audio system was impressive, but the MIB3 system had glitches, affecting the user experience.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 came equipped with advanced driving assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and more. Higher trims offered additional safety features like adaptive headlights and a driver monitoring system. The CX-5 received five-star ratings from the NHTSA, except for a four-star rollover resistance rating.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas featured IQ.Drive, including Front Assist, Side Assist, Lane Assist, and more. It also offered adaptive cruise control and rear cross-traffic alert. Volkswagen Canada provided 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.