2025 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2024 Nissan Rogue

The 2024 Nissan Rogue underwent its first major styling update since its 2021 launch, maintaining its lineup of S, SV, SL, and Platinum trims. It featured a new, larger grille that complemented its distinctive stack headlights and daytime running lights. The rear fascia saw minor changes with redesigned taillight elements. The Rogue SV received a new 18-inch wheel design, while the Platinum boasted 19-inch wheels and more black exterior trim. Inside, the dashboard was updated to accommodate a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, enhancing the premium feel. The Rogue SV models received new interior materials, and the Platinum trim offered leather seats with quilted stitching, adding to its upscale appeal.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas was available in five trims: SE, SE with Technology, Peak Edition, SEL, and SEL Premium R-Line. The Atlas Peak Edition had an off-road look, while the SEL Premium R-Line was sporty with standard equipment. The Atlas Cross Sport offered a five-passenger version with a rakish design. Prices ranged from $38,200 to $53,205, excluding destination charges. The Atlas SEL Premium R-Line featured a polished aluminum exterior, 21-inch wheels, and a chiseled appearance. Inside, it had diamond-stitched leather, metallic accents, and a large infotainment touchscreen, creating a high-tech environment. However, touch-sensitive controls for temperature and volume were less satisfying to use.

The 2024 Nissan Rogue featured a 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine, part of Nissan’s VC-Turbo lineup, capable of varying its compression ratio for power or fuel economy. It delivered 201 horsepower and 225 pound-feet of torque, outperforming many competitors. However, the continuously variable transmission (CVT) was slow to transfer power, and the suspension felt firmer than expected, affecting ride quality. The Rogue was available with front-wheel drive and optional all-wheel drive.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas replaced its previous engines with a new turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 269 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. Despite initial skepticism, the engine proved refined and satisfying for daily driving. The Atlas offered an eight-speed automatic transmission with front-wheel or 4Motion all-wheel drive. However, ride quality was compromised by the suspension, leading to a brittle feel over road imperfections. Handling was predictable, but body motions were excessive at highway speeds.

The 2024 Nissan Rogue offered competitive passenger space, with slight differences in legroom compared to rivals. It provided 36.5 cubic feet of cargo space with rear seats up and 74.1 cubic feet with them folded. The Divide-N-Hide system allowed for flexible cargo configurations. The center console featured a pass-through space, though accessing the storage tray was awkward.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas excelled in form and function, offering a comfortable third-row seat and a cavernous cargo area. The SEL Premium R-Line model had heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats. The second-row bench accommodated three adults comfortably, and the third-row seat provided adequate leg support. The Atlas offered 20.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 96.6 cubic feet with seats folded. Storage space was commendable across all rows.

The 2024 Nissan Rogue featured an 8-inch touchscreen on lower trims, while SL and Platinum models had a 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It was the first Nissan to offer Google built-in software, integrating Google Maps and Assistant. The Rogue included multiple USB ports and a wireless charging pad on higher trims. Nissan Connect Services extended its free trial period to three years.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas used the MIB3 operating system with a 12-inch touchscreen. It lacked traditional controls, relying on touch-sensitive buttons. The native digital voice assistant was unreliable, but wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto provided better functionality. The Harman Kardon audio system was impressive, though the MIB3 system had user-experience glitches.

The 2024 Nissan Rogue received good safety scores from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. Standard features included automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, and lane departure warning. ProPilot Assist was available on higher trims, offering semi-automated driving assistance.

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