2024 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2025 Toyota Sienna

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.

In addition to promising 6.6–6.8 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, the 2025 Sienna distinguishes itself in several ways. It offers an available all-wheel-drive (AWD) system for extra traction. And while its maximum cargo capacity measurement falls short of rivals, you never need to remove the second-row seats to use it.

Verdict: Saving money on gas, making life simpler, and the option of AWD are all good things in a minivan. They make the Toyota Sienna worth considering if you’re also looking at cars such as the Chrysler Pacifica, Honda Odyssey, and Kia Carnival.