2025 Acura MDX vs 2026 Volkswagen Atlas

The 2025 Acura MDX underwent subtle styling updates, including a new grille, revised front bumper, and darkened headlights and taillights, which enhanced its sporty and performance-oriented appearance. Most versions received new wheel designs and finishes, adding to the SUV's visual appeal. Inside, the changes were more significant, with the introduction of a new touchscreen infotainment system that replaced the previous touchpad interface, providing more storage space. The seats from the MDX Type S model were incorporated into the MDX Platinum Elite A-Spec, while the Type S received a new seat design. Additional sound insulation and acoustic laminated window glass contributed to a quieter cabin. Despite the quality materials, the gloss black plastic trim on the dashboard was prone to collecting dust and smudges. The MDX offered logically placed controls, including a volume knob and quick-access buttons for the head-up display and safety features. The new Platinum Elite A-Spec trim level combined luxury with a sportier look, with a Canadian MSRP of $78,005, including fees.

The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas, particularly in the Execline trim, exuded a sense of luxury with its full-LED lighting, power-adjustable heated side mirrors, and sculpted silhouette. The Peak Edition added rugged elements like all-terrain tires and blackout trim pieces. The Execline featured 21-inch two-tone alloy wheels and R-Line design elements. The Pure Grey paint on our test vehicle resisted dirt, and the Titan Black upholstery with silver underlay provided a clean and inviting interior. The Atlas appeared more expensive than its price suggested, with the Execline starting at $64,492, making it competitive against pricier rivals like the BMW X5. Inside, the quilted diamond-pattern leather seats, metallic accents, and artificial wood trim created a warm environment. However, the MIB3 infotainment system was frustrating to use, with touch-sensitive controls that were invisible at night. Despite its attractive design, the Atlas prioritized form over function in its tech features.

The 2025 Acura MDX was known for its performance-oriented design, featuring a turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine in the Type S model, 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's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system provided confidence on twisty roads, though it wasn't designed for off-roading. The MDX offered various driving modes, including Comfort, Normal, Sport, Snow, and Individual, with the Sport mode enhancing powertrain response. Fuel economy was rated at 11.2 L/100 km combined, but our test vehicle averaged 15.3 L/100 km. The MDX provided a smooth and comfortable highway ride, though it wasn't the fastest in its class.

The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas featured a turbocharged 2.0-litre inline four-cylinder engine, producing 269 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The engine's wide power band made the Atlas feel capable, though initial acceleration was not particularly quick. Volkswagen claimed a 0-100 km/h time of roughly eight seconds for the AWD Atlas. The Drive Mode Select system offered Eco, Comfort, Sport, Custom, and Snow options, with Sport mode enhancing throttle response. Our test drive recorded 10.7 L/100 km, slightly better than the estimated 11 L/100 km combined for the Execline trim. The 4Motion AWD system performed well in rain and light snow, though it wasn't intended for serious off-roading. The Atlas's ride quality was a drawback, with the 21-inch wheels transmitting vibrations on imperfect pavement. Despite this, the Atlas handled confidently, with predictable body roll and linear brakes.

The 2025 Acura MDX Platinum Elite A-Spec trim featured 16-way power-adjustable front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage programs, wrapped in perforated leather. The second row could be configured as a bench seat or individual bucket seats, with a fold-down middle section for cupholders and storage. The third-row seat was less comfortable for adults, with limited leg support. In-cabin storage included a new centre console tray and a wireless smartphone charging pad. Cargo volume measured up to 512 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,690 litres with the second row folded.

The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas excelled in accommodating passengers and cargo. The Execline's front seats were heated, ventilated, and equipped with massage, with 10-way power adjustment for the driver. The second row offered captain's chairs that folded flat and tipped forward for easy third-row access. The third-row bench seat provided decent leg support, and cargo capacity was a competitive advantage, with 583 litres behind the third row and 2,735 litres total. The Atlas offered competitive space across all three rows, making it ideal for hauling people and belongings in comfort.

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 supported a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot and a Bang & Olufsen audio system with 19 or 31 speakers. The infotainment system paired with a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation display and a 10.5-inch head-up display. The MDX Platinum Elite A-Spec and Type S Ultra featured a surround-view camera system.

The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas came with a 12-inch touchscreen running the MIB3 operating system, a 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit Pro instrument cluster, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a Harman Kardon audio system on higher trims. However, the MIB3 system was frustrating to use, with touch-sensitive controls that were invisible at night. The voice control system was unreliable, making Apple CarPlay or Android Auto the preferred options. The Harman Kardon audio system sounded excellent, but the tech prioritized form over function.

The 2025 Acura MDX featured the AcuraWatch suite of driver assistance features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The MDX Type S Ultra added front cross-traffic alert and evasive steering warning. The MDX received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS.

The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas earned a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS. The IQ.Drive suite of driver assistance features was standard, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitors, and adaptive cruise control. The Execline added Park Assist, though it wasn't necessary for maneuvering the Atlas.