2025 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2025 Acura MDX

The 2025 Acura MDX received subtle styling updates, including a new grille, revised front bumper, and darkened lights, enhancing its sporty appearance. Most trims featured new wheel designs, adding to the SUV's visual appeal. Inside, the MDX saw significant changes with a new touchscreen infotainment system replacing the old touchpad, offering more storage. The seats from the previous Type S model were introduced to the Platinum Elite A-Spec trim, while the Type S received a new seat design. Enhanced sound insulation improved cabin quietness, though the gloss black plastic trim was prone to collecting dust and smudges. The controls were logically placed, making them easy to use.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas, available in four trims, showcased a robust design with polished aluminum detailing and large 21-inch wheels. The Execline trim, tested in Mountain Lake Blue, offered a premium look that resisted dirt. Inside, the Atlas featured diamond-stitched leather and metallic accents, creating a warm environment. The digital instrumentation and large infotainment touchscreen promised a high-tech experience. However, the touch-sensitive controls for temperature and volume were less satisfying, especially in colder conditions. Despite this, the Atlas maintained a predictable handling experience on mountain roads.

The 2025 Acura MDX emphasized performance with its A-Spec design and Type S engineering. The Type S featured a turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine producing 355 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque. Most buyers opted for the standard 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivering 290 hp and 267 lb-ft of torque through a 10-speed automatic transmission. The MDX offered various driving modes, with Sport mode enhancing powertrain response. However, this affected fuel economy, with the test vehicle averaging 15.3 L/100 km. The MDX handled mountain roads confidently, though it allowed some body roll. It provided a smooth, comfortable ride in typical driving situations but wasn't designed for off-roading.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas replaced its previous engines with a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 269 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. Despite initial concerns, the engine proved refined and suitable for daily driving. The Atlas returned 15.2 L/100 km in city conditions and 12.3 L/100 km overall during testing. However, the ride quality was less impressive, with the suspension feeling brittle over road imperfections. The Atlas handled predictably on mountain roads, with the Sport mode enhancing engine and transmission responsiveness. Despite excessive body motions, the Atlas remained stable and reliable.

The 2025 Acura MDX offered 16-way power-adjustable front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions in the Platinum Elite A-Spec trim. The second row could be configured as a bench or individual seats, with ample legroom and comfort. The third row was less accommodating for adults. In-cabin storage was adequate, with a new centre console tray and wireless charging pad. Cargo space measured up to 512 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,690 litres with seats folded.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas excelled in interior space, offering a comfortable third-row seat and a cavernous cargo area. The Execline model featured heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats, though the leather felt stiff. The second-row bench accommodated three adults comfortably, with ample legroom and headroom. Access to the third row was easy, with adequate leg support. Storage space was commendable across all rows, with 583 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 2,735 litres with seats folded.

The 2025 Acura MDX introduced a new 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Alexa and Google Built-in, eliminating the previous touchpad interface. The system was intuitive, with seamless smartphone integration and a Bang & Olufsen audio system. The digital instrumentation display and head-up display provided essential information, though blind-spot alerts were absent. The Platinum Elite A-Spec trim featured a surround-view camera system for easy parking.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas used VW's MIB3 system with a 12-inch touchscreen. However, the lack of traditional controls made it challenging to use. The voice assistant was unreliable, though Apple CarPlay and Android Auto offered better functionality. The Harman Kardon audio system was impressive, but the MIB3 system had glitches, affecting user experience. The navigation system was confusing, adding to driver distraction.

The 2025 Acura MDX featured the AcuraWatch suite with forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. The Type S Ultra added advanced radar and camera systems for enhanced safety features. The MDX received a five-star overall rating from NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas included IQ.Drive with adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and emergency assist. The Atlas earned a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and was a Top Safety Pick from IIHS in 2024. The safety features were accurate and reliable, enhancing driver confidence.