2025 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2024 Mazda CX-50

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 presented itself as a more rugged alternative to the CX-5, with significant dimensional differences that included being lower, wider, and longer. Its design was fresh and modern, with broad-shouldered proportions highlighted by square wheel arches and faux air vents. The Meridian Edition, in particular, enhanced its adventurous image with all-terrain tires, a black hood graphic, and pronounced rocker-panel trim. The interior was well-crafted, featuring a BMW-like infotainment screen placement and impressive material quality, though it fell short of Mazda's upscale aspirations with some basic features like manually adjustable passenger seats.

In contrast, the 2025 Volkswagen Atlas offered a chiseled, muscular appearance with polished aluminum detailing and sizable 21-inch wheels. The Mountain Lake Blue exterior resisted dirt, maintaining its upscale look. Inside, the Atlas Execline trim featured diamond-stitched leather and metallic accents, creating a warm and inviting environment. The digital instrumentation and large infotainment touchscreen promised a high-tech experience, though the touch-sensitive controls for temperature and stereo volume were less satisfying to use, especially in colder conditions.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 was equipped with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, with turbocharging available on higher trims. The base engine produced 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, while the turbo variant offered up to 256 hp and 320 lb-ft on premium fuel. All models came with a six-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, featuring Normal, Sport, and Off-road driving modes. The turbo models also included a Towing mode, increasing towing capacity to 1,587 kilograms. Despite sharing powertrains with the CX-5, the CX-50 delivered a different driving experience, focusing more on daily driving comfort than sporty dynamics. The Meridian Edition's all-terrain tires added noise and limited grip, making it less ideal for on-road handling.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas, on the other hand, featured a new turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, replacing the previous V6. With 269 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque, it offered a refined driving experience, especially when utilizing the engine's torque curve between 1,600 and 4,500 rpm. The eight-speed automatic transmission and 4Motion AWD system were standard. While the engine's modest acceleration and fuel efficiency were noted, the ride quality was less impressive, with a brittle suspension over rough surfaces and excessive body motions at highway speeds. However, the Atlas handled predictably on mountain roads, with responsive brakes and steering in Sport mode.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 offered similar passenger space to the CX-5, with slightly less headroom but more legroom. It provided 889 litres of cargo space with the rear seats up and 1,595 litres with them folded. While it trailed competitors in cargo space, the power liftgate improved access. The interior layout was sensible, with adequate storage space and a substantial shifter and rotary infotainment controller on the centre console.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas excelled in form and function, with 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 overhead. Access to the third-row was outstanding, and storage space was commendable across all rows. The Atlas offered 583 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 2,735 litres with the second and third rows folded.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 featured a 10.25-inch infotainment screen controlled by a rotary controller and buttons. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with higher trims offering wireless phone charging and a Bose audio system. While the interface required adjustment, it provided physical feedback and was less overwhelming for tech-averse buyers.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas used VW's MIB3 operating system on a 12-inch touchscreen. While it lacked traditional controls, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard. The native system's voice recognition was unreliable, making smartphone integration essential for a better experience. The Harman Kardon audio system was a highlight, but the MIB3's user experience had glitches, such as incorrect song titles on SiriusXM.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 earned a 2023 Top Safety Pick from the IIHS, with top scores in crash tests and front-crash prevention. However, it received lower scores for nighttime pedestrian detection and standard headlights. Standard safety features included automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control, with optional features like a 360-degree camera system.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas featured IQ.Drive, including Front Assist, Side Assist, Lane Assist, Emergency Assist, and Travel Assist. Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability and rear cross-traffic alert were standard. The Atlas earned a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and was a 2024 IIHS Top Safety Pick. The IQ.Drive systems were accurate and trustworthy, with occasional false warnings.