2024 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2024 Land Rover Defender

Launched for the 2018 model year, the Volkswagen Atlas is engineered specifically for the North American market. It's a mid-size three-row SUV, big for a VW, but targeting a popular market segment that already includes the Chevrolet Traverse, Ford Explorer, Hyundai Palisade, Kia Telluride, Honda Pilot, Nissan Pathfinder, Subaru Ascent, and Toyota Highlander. To keep up in such a competitive segment, the Atlas gets a major refresh for the 2024 model year.

The 2024 Volkswagen Atlas is essentially the same vehicle as before, but it gets key updates like different styling and more standard features. It also loses its six-cylinder engine option, but the remaining turbocharged four-cylinder engine gets more horsepower and torque.

In Canada, the 2024 Atlas lineup includes Comfortline, Highline, and Execline, plus a new-for-2024 Peak Edition trim that slots in just above base. For this review, we tested the U.S. equivalent of an Atlas Execline, representing the top of the range.

The Land Rover Defender has a rich history, tracing back to its roots as a go-anywhere vehicle designed for the most demanding conditions. The original Defender was revered for its rustic charm and capability, but when it was redesigned and reintroduced to North America for the 2020 model year, it was a far more sophisticated vehicle.

The 2024 Defender is perfectly poised to capitalize on the surging popularity of overlanding, offering both the capability and the aesthetic appeal that enthusiasts crave. Whether you’re embarking on a long-distance expedition or simply outfitting your vehicle to look the part, the Defender delivers with style and substance.

Verdict: For the 2024 model year, the Defender introduces a host of new features, enhancing its already impressive lineup. Notably, the availability of one of its powerful V8 engine options has been expanded, providing drivers with even more choices when it comes to performance and capability. These updates ensure that the Defender remains at the forefront of the SUV market, offering unparalleled versatility and driving enjoyment.