2024 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport vs 2025 Mazda CX-90

The 2024 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport showcased a modern aesthetic with its updated lighting elements, including illuminated VW logos on the grille and tailgate. These features, along with a light bar connecting the daytime running lights and new LED headlights, gave the vehicle a contemporary look. The rear of the Cross Sport, with its lower roofline, offered a silhouette reminiscent of German luxury crossover coupes, distinguishing it from other midsize crossovers. The interior revisions mirrored those of the standard Atlas, featuring a raised centre console and a new electronic shifter, enhancing storage options. Despite attempts to improve interior materials, the cabin still relied heavily on plastic trims.

In contrast, the 2025 Mazda CX-90 exuded a luxury SUV vibe with its lustrous paint, polished chrome trim, and intricate 21-inch wheels. The sculptural sheet metal and cabin placement over the rear axle contributed to its athletic appearance. Inside, the CX-90's interior was elegantly designed with polished metallic trim and Nappa leather, although some ergonomic issues were noted, such as a confusing electronic shifter and counterintuitive climate controls. Despite these drawbacks, the CX-90 maintained a sophisticated feel, standing out among midsize three-row crossover SUVs.

The 2024 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport was powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 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, replaced the previous 3.6-litre VR6 engine. While the new engine offered more torque and quicker acceleration, it lacked a pleasing engine note and had a troubling noise-to-power ratio. The Cross Sport's ride quality was not particularly impressive, and its maximum towing capacity remained at 2,268 kilograms.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 offered three powertrain options, including a standard-output 3.3 Turbo, a high-output 3.3 Turbo, and a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV). The high-output engine delivered 319 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque, with power flowing through an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The CX-90's AWD system was designed to enhance driving dynamics, and drivers could choose from various driving modes. Despite its impressive ride and handling, the CX-90's drivetrain refinement was lacking, with unpredictable power delivery and transmission behaviour. The maximum towing capacity matched the Cross Sport at 2,268 kilograms.

The 2024 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport offered more standard equipment for 2024, including heated side mirrors, two-zone automatic climate control, and a power liftgate. The interior provided decent 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 was functional, with ample storage options in the centre console and door pockets.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90's interior featured Nappa leather upholstery, heated and ventilated seats, and a panoramic sunroof. However, the three-zone climate control system struggled to cool the cabin efficiently. The second-row captain's chairs offered comfort, but the long rear doors could pose challenges in tight spaces. The third row was best suited for children, and cargo space was slightly smaller than the Cross Sport, with 451 litres behind the third row and 2,129 litres with all seats folded.

The 2024 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport came equipped with a 12-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. While the screens were user-friendly, the haptic touchpads for controls were less intuitive. The Execline trim featured a head-up display and a premium Harman Kardon audio system.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90's technology was presented in a traditional manner, with a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and infotainment screen. The infotainment system was touch-sensitive only for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, requiring the use of a knob and buttons for the native Mazda Connect platform. The Bose audio system provided a rewarding listening experience, and the head-up display offered helpful data.

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 Mazda CX-90 received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and five-star ratings from the NHTSA. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Higher trims added advanced features like emergency lane-keeping assist and a surround-view camera system. The CX-90's driver aids were effective, though the audible warning systems could be overwhelming.