2024 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2025 Honda Pilot

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.

Honda keeps it simple with the 2025 Pilot, offering a single powertrain and standard all-wheel drive (AWD) in Canada. Nearly all Pilots have eight-passenger seating, and with higher trims, the second-row centre section is removable to create a seven-passenger configuration. The Black Edition returns to the top of the lineup for 2025, equipped with blacked-out exterior trim and red interior accents.

Verdict: With the 2025 Pilot, Honda hasn’t messed with success. It is a roomy and practical daily driver that makes life easy, has plenty of power to effortlessly get up to speed, and is safe for transporting the people you love the most. However, it is time for Honda to offer a hybrid version.