2025 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2025 Ford Explorer

The 2025 Ford Explorer continued its evolution with a refreshed design that enhanced its rugged appeal. The front end was restyled to give it a wider and more robust appearance, complemented by new LED taillights and a trim strip connecting them. Inside, the Explorer saw significant improvements in materials and design, making it more competitive in its segment. Ford reduced the available trims in Canada to four, with prices ranging from $52,830 to $71,430, including destination charges. During a test drive event, the ST-Line trim stood out with its sporty enhancements and a price tag of $64,280.

In contrast, the 2025 Volkswagen Atlas offered a muscular and upscale look with polished aluminum detailing and sizable 21-inch wheels. The Mountain Lake Blue colour resisted dirt, maintaining its clean appearance. Inside, the Atlas featured diamond-stitched leather and metallic accents, creating a warm environment. However, the touch-sensitive controls for temperature and volume were less satisfying, especially in colder conditions. The Atlas was available in four trims, with prices ranging from $50,995 to $60,995, excluding destination charges.

The 2025 Ford Explorer offered two EcoBoost engines: a 2.3-litre four-cylinder with 300 horsepower and a 3.0-litre V6 producing 400 horsepower. All models in Canada came with a 10-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. The Explorer's fuel economy varied, with the four-cylinder achieving 11.9 L/100 km city and 8.7 highway, while the V6 in the ST trim averaged 13.3 city and 9.6 highway. The Explorer's performance was commendable, with quick acceleration and responsive handling, especially in Sport mode. The ST-Line trim added larger wheels for a sportier look, while the ST version showcased its performance capabilities on a short autocross course.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas featured a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with 269 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and VW’s 4Motion AWD. Despite initial concerns, the engine proved refined and capable 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 a brittle suspension over rough surfaces and excessive body motions at highway speeds. The handling was predictable, but the tires were a weak point on winding roads.

The 2025 Ford Explorer offered seating for six, with an optional second-row bench increasing capacity to seven. The interior featured comfortable front seats with optional upgrades like ambient lighting and heated second-row seats. Cargo space was competitive, with 461 litres behind the third row and up to 2,429 litres with seats folded. The Explorer's design prioritized driving dynamics over third-row comfort, making it less ideal for adults in the back.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas excelled in comfort and space, with a notably comfortable third-row seat. The Execline model featured heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats, though the leather felt slightly stiff. Visibility was excellent, aided by a surround-view camera. The second-row bench comfortably seated three adults, and access to the third row was easy. Cargo space was generous, with 583 litres behind the third row and up to 2,735 litres with seats folded, making it ideal for families needing ample storage.

The 2025 Ford Explorer introduced the Ford Digital Experience with a 12.3-inch digital panel and a 13.2-inch touchscreen. It included Google Built-in, Amazon Alexa, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system was user-friendly, with Google Maps integration and a B&O sound system upgrade available. However, the standard 10-speaker setup was less impressive.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas used VW’s MIB3 system with a 12-inch touchscreen. It lacked traditional controls, relying on touch-sensitive buttons, which were less intuitive. The native voice assistant was unreliable, but wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto provided a better experience. The Harman Kardon audio system was excellent, but the MIB3 system had glitches, affecting usability.

The 2025 Ford Explorer came with Ford CoPilot 360 Assist+, including adaptive cruise control and lane-centring assist. Higher trims added BlueCruise, a hands-free highway driving system. The Explorer earned high safety ratings, though some trims had marginal headlight ratings.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas featured IQ.Drive with adaptive cruise control, lane assist, and emergency assist. It included an eight-year subscription to Car-Net Safe & Secure services. The Atlas received a five-star safety rating from NHTSA and was a 2024 IIHS Top Safety Pick.