2025 Lexus RX Hybrid vs 2024 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport

The 2024 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport showcased a modernized aesthetic with its updated lighting elements, both at the front and rear. The illuminated Volkswagen logos on the grille and tailgate, inspired by the all-electric ID.4, added a contemporary touch. The front featured a light bar connecting the daytime running lights, complemented by new standard LED headlights, which contributed to a refreshed look. The rear, with its reshaped taillights blending into a rear light bar, maintained the Cross Sport's distinctive silhouette, reminiscent of German luxury crossover coupes. Despite being 13 centimetres shorter and sitting lower than the standard Atlas, the Cross Sport retained its unique appeal. The interior revisions mirrored those of the standard Atlas, with a raised centre console and a new electronic shifter, enhancing functionality. The cabin featured standard leatherette upholstery, with higher trims offering leather and quilted leather options, though the simulated wood and carbon-fibre-facsimile trim remained plastic.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid, particularly the RX 500h F Sport Black Line, presented a high-end yet understated design. Despite its $90,000 price tag, the vehicle's appearance was marked by subtle elements like the Incognito paint job and orange brake calipers. The RX lineup offered three models: the RX 350h, RX 500h, and RX 450h+, each with distinct powertrains and efficiency ratings. The RX 350h was the most efficient, while the RX 500h delivered the most power. The RX 450h+ provided a plug-in hybrid option with an electric-only range. All models featured standard all-wheel drive in Canada, with various package options enhancing luxury and performance. The interior boasted quality materials and ambient lighting, though the ergonomics of the controls varied. The RX avoided the common single curved display, maintaining a unique interior design.

The 2024 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport was powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivering 269 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard 4Motion all-wheel drive in Canada, marked the end of the VR6 era for VW. The new turbo-four offered slightly less horsepower but more torque than the previous VR6, with peak torque arriving earlier. Although VW expected improved acceleration, specific figures were not provided. The engine's noise-to-power ratio was a concern, and the Cross Sport's driving experience was described as unremarkable, with subpar ride quality potentially affected by the 21-inch wheels. The towing capacity remained at 2,268 kilograms, standard for a midsize crossover.

In contrast, the 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid offered a range of powertrains. The RX 350h, with 246 hp and 233 pound-feet of torque, prioritized efficiency. The RX 450h+ plug-in hybrid delivered 304 hp and a 0-100 km/h time of 6.5 seconds, while the RX 500h, with a turbocharged 2.4-litre engine, produced 366 hp and 406 pound-feet of torque, achieving 0-100 km/h in 6.2 seconds. The RX 500h featured a sport-tuned adaptive damping suspension, Direct4 AWD system, and performance brakes, enhancing its dynamic capabilities. However, its fuel efficiency was lower than expected, and the drivetrain occasionally hesitated. The RX 500h excelled in straight-line acceleration but lacked communication between the driver and the road, making it more about appearance than dynamic satisfaction.

The 2024 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport offered enhanced standard equipment, including heated side mirrors, two-zone automatic climate control, and a power liftgate. The interior provided decent front-row legroom, but the roofline compromised rear-seat headroom. Cargo space was competitive, with 1,141 litres available with the rear seats up and 2,197 litres with them folded. The cabin featured practical storage solutions, including a new centre console with ample space and functional door pockets.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid focused on occupant comfort and practical cargo space. The RX 500h's front seats, though snug, were heated and ventilated, while the rear seats offered ample room and comfort. The panoramic sunroof enhanced the rear-seat experience. Interior storage was plentiful, though the rear centre armrest lacked lining. The RX Hybrid provided 838 litres of cargo space, expandable to 1,308 litres with the rear seats folded. However, the cargo cover could obstruct loading larger items.

The 2024 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport featured a 12-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The user experience was intuitive, though the haptic touchpads were less practical than traditional buttons. Six USB-C ports were standard, and the Execline trim included a head-up display and a Harman Kardon premium audio system.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid was equipped with advanced technology, including digital key functionality, a camera-based digital rearview mirror, and a hands-free power liftgate. The Lexus Interface infotainment system featured a 14-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a conversational digital voice assistant. However, the steering wheel controls were distracting. The RX 500h's optional 21-speaker Mark Levinson audio system delivered excellent sound quality, though the infotainment system occasionally experienced glitches.

The 2024 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport earned a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with standard driver assistance features such as forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. The Execline trim added park assist and a surround-view camera system.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid included Safety Connect, offering automatic collision notification and emergency assistance. Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 provided advanced driver assistance features, including forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. The RX Hybrid received a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA, though the IIHS rated it poorly in the moderate overlap frontal-impact test.