2025 BMW X3 vs 2026 Volkswagen Atlas

The 2025 BMW X3 presented a seductive appearance for a two-box SUV, with its redesigned features capturing attention. Despite the oversized grille, the vehicle's aerodynamically honed flanks and overall proportions contributed to its athletic look. The long and tall hood, captivating dashboard-to-axle ratio, and tapering greenhouse and roofline emphasized its sporty stance. The test model, adorned in Arctic Race Blue paint with chilly silver undertones, paired seamlessly with the machined surface wheel finish and gloss black M Sport details. Inside, the cabin offered quality materials, though some plastic elements revealed the X3's price point. The Veganza artificial leather upholstery, perforated and quilted, mimicked the feel of genuine leather, enhancing the interior's appeal.

In contrast, the 2026 Volkswagen Atlas, particularly in the Execline trim, exuded an air of luxury crossover territory. The Atlas showcased full-LED lighting, power-adjustable heated side mirrors, and a sculpted silhouette that aged well since its 2018 debut. The Peak Edition added rugged elements like all-terrain tires and blackout trim pieces. Our test vehicle, in Pure Grey paint, maintained a clean appearance even after extensive winter driving. The Titan Black upholstery, with its silver underlay, complemented the exterior, offering a practical yet stylish interior. The Atlas's cabin featured quilted diamond-pattern leather seats, metallic accents, and artificial wood trim, creating a warm and inviting environment. However, the MIB3 infotainment system proved frustrating, with its touch-sensitive controls becoming invisible at night.

The 2025 BMW X3 30 xDrive featured a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine producing 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. Despite its 1,894-kilogram weight, the X3 achieved a zero-to-100 km/h time of 6.3 seconds, thanks to its eight-speed automatic transmission and standard xDrive AWD system. The 48-volt mild-hybrid system enhanced off-the-line responsiveness, while the M50 xDrive variant offered a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder engine with 393 horsepower, reaching 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds. The X3's sport-tuned suspension and 21-inch wheels provided a dynamic driving experience, though the ride quality was firm on imperfect roads. Fuel economy was impressive, with a recorded 11.7 litres per 100 kilometres, slightly above the official rating.

The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas retained its turbocharged 2.0-litre inline four-cylinder engine, delivering 269 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. The eight-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD system provided a smooth driving experience. The Atlas's wide torque band, peaking at 1,600 rpm, contributed to its capable performance, though initial acceleration felt adequate rather than eager. Volkswagen claimed a 0-100 km/h time of approximately eight seconds. The Drive Mode Select system offered various driving modes, with Sport mode enhancing throttle response. Fuel consumption was recorded at 10.7 litres per 100 kilometres, slightly better than the official estimate. The 4Motion AWD system performed well in rain and light snow, though the ride quality suffered due to the 21-inch wheels, transmitting vibrations on rough surfaces.

The 2025 BMW X3 offered a spacious interior with a power-adjustable driver's seat providing an excellent view of the hood and front fenders. The dashboard featured a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and a 14.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The front seats, with Veganza artificial leather, were comfortable and equipped with heating and optional ventilation. However, the rear seats were less comfortable, with hard front seat-back panels affecting legroom. The cargo area measured 892 litres, with a lightweight cargo cover and additional storage under the load floor.

The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas excelled in accommodating passengers and cargo. The Execline's front seats were heated, ventilated, and equipped with massage functions. The second-row captain's chairs allowed easy access to the third row, which provided decent leg support. The Atlas offered 583 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 1,572 litres with the third row folded. Total cargo capacity reached 2,735 litres, making it competitive in its segment. The Atlas's interior space and usability made it an excellent choice for families and long trips.

The 2025 BMW X3 featured the BMW Curved Display with iDrive 9 software, offering a Quick Select user experience. However, creating profiles and accessing BMW Digital Services proved challenging. The system occasionally froze, and the default Guest profile lacked access to certain features. Despite these issues, wireless Apple CarPlay connectivity worked flawlessly. The navigation system, with augmented video, provided accurate directions. Overall, the infotainment experience was frustrating, possibly due to test vehicle issues or user error.

The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas came with a 12-inch touchscreen running the MIB3 operating system, a 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit Pro, 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 becoming invisible at night. The voice control system was unreliable, making Apple CarPlay or Android Auto the preferred options. The Harman Kardon audio system delivered excellent sound quality, and the Digital Cockpit Pro offered configurable views. Despite attractive graphics, the Atlas's tech prioritized form over function.

The 2025 BMW X3 offered a range of driver assistance features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. The Premium Package added adaptive cruise control and Steering Assistant technology. The Parking Assistant Professional Package provided semi-automated parking tech. However, using Steering Assistant without adaptive cruise control affected the driving experience. The X3 earned a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with four-star ratings in frontal-impact crash tests.

The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS for 2025. The IQ.Drive suite of driver assistance features was standard across all trims, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitors, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. The Execline added Park Assist, though it was not deemed necessary. The Atlas's safety features performed reliably during testing, providing a confident driving experience.