2025 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2024 Toyota Sequoia

The 2024 Toyota Sequoia shared its platform with the Tundra pickup, featuring similar design elements like hexagonal grilles and muscular stances. The exterior colour significantly influenced its appearance, with the Capstone model in Celestial Silver appearing somewhat dated. Inside, the Sequoia mirrored the Tundra's blocky dashboard design, with physical controls for climate and audio. The Capstone trim boasted semi-aniline leather upholstery, while other trims offered SofTex leatherette or standard leather. All models included power-adjustable front seats and a moonroof, enhancing comfort and customization.

In contrast, the 2025 Volkswagen Atlas was available in four trims, with the Execline model offering a sporty look and extensive standard equipment. The Atlas Execline, in Mountain Lake Blue, featured polished aluminum detailing and 21-inch wheels, giving it an upscale appearance. Inside, diamond-stitched leather and metallic accents created a warm environment. The digital instrumentation and large infotainment touchscreen promised a high-tech experience, though touch-sensitive controls for temperature and volume were less satisfying, especially in colder conditions.

The 2024 Toyota Sequoia was exclusively a hybrid, using the iForce MAX powertrain with a twin-turbo V6 and electric motor, producing 427 horsepower and 583 lb-ft of torque. This was a significant increase over its predecessor, with improved fuel economy rated at 11.7 L/100 km combined with 4WD. The Sequoia featured a part-time 4WD system with a 10-speed automatic transmission, offering smooth handling. The TRD Off-Road model added adventure-ready features like unique tires and an electronic locking rear differential. Its towing capacity reached 4,137 kilograms, with optional towing upgrades available.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas replaced its previous engines with a new turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder, producing 269 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. Despite initial concerns, the engine proved refined, with a generous torque curve between 1,600 and 4,500 rpm. The Atlas returned 15.2 L/100 km in city conditions and 12.3 L/100 km overall during testing. However, ride quality was less impressive, with a brittle suspension and excessive body motions at highway speeds. The handling was predictable, with Sport mode enhancing engine response and steering heft.

The 2024 Toyota Sequoia offered automatic power-deploying running boards and a maximum cargo space of 2,460 litres with seats folded. The second-row seats were easy to move for third-row access, but the hybrid powertrain's battery pack affected the load floor and headroom. Legroom varied across rows, with the Sequoia trailing some rivals. Second-row captain’s chairs were available on higher trims, providing wide but flat seating.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas excelled in comfort and space, with a notably comfortable third-row seat and a cavernous cargo area. The Execline model featured heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats, with excellent visibility and a surround-view camera system. The second-row bench accommodated three adults comfortably, with ample legroom and a panoramic sunroof. Third-row access was outstanding, with adequate leg support. Cargo space reached 2,735 litres with seats folded, slightly less than some competitors but with superior third-row seating.

The 2024 Toyota Sequoia Capstone trim included standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, accessed via a 14-inch touchscreen. The Toyota Audio Multimedia system prioritized functionality over flashiness. A 12.3-inch driver information display and a Panoramic View monitor were standard on higher trims, with a 10-inch head-up display on the Capstone. The JBL Premium Audio system was available on Limited and standard on Platinum and Capstone.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas used VW’s MIB3 system on a 12-inch touchscreen, lacking traditional controls. The system struggled with user experience, lacking a reliable voice assistant. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto provided better functionality, with the Execline’s Harman Kardon audio system delivering excellent sound. However, the MIB3 system had glitches, such as incorrect song displays and confusing navigation screens.

The 2024 Toyota Sequoia featured the Toyota Safety Sense 2.5 suite as standard, including pre-collision and lane-departure alerts. Adaptive cruise control and road-sign recognition were also included. Optional trailer backup assistance was available on higher trims. While not yet rated by safety organizations, the similar Toyota Tundra received a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas included IQ.Drive features like Front Assist and Lane Assist, with adaptive cruise control and rear cross-traffic alert. Travel Assist offered semi-automated driving assistance. An eight-year subscription to Car-Net Safe & Secure services was included. The Atlas received a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA and was a 2024 IIHS Top Safety Pick.