2025 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2025 Kia Sorento

Larger than a typical compact but smaller than many three-row midsize SUVs, the 2025 Sorento is “right-sized” in many respects. In addition, it comes with gasoline, turbocharged gasoline, turbocharged hybrid, and turbocharged plug-in hybrid powertrains. This review covers the turbo-gas version of the SUV, which sees no significant changes following a substantial refresh for 2024. A new grey paint colour is available, and some models get standard black exterior badges in 2025.

Verdict: When something isn’t broken, you don’t fix it. That helps explain why the 2025 Kia Sorento is almost exactly the same as last year. However, a problem looms for this family-friendly SUV. In 2025, the Sorento may lose its Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) Top Safety Pick rating.

The 2025 Atlas is Volkswagen’s midsize, three-row crossover SUV. It debuted for the 2018 model year, designed specifically for North America and manufactured in VW’s Chattanooga, Tennessee, assembly plant. Over the years, it has received numerous updates to keep it fresh and technologically competitive, most recently for 2024 when styling, powertrain, and tech upgrades were introduced. The 2025 Atlas therefore arrives with only minor updates.

Verdict: This family-sized SUV has more interior space than most rivals, making the 2025 VW Atlas a great choice if passenger and cargo room are high on your list of requirements. However, unimpressive fuel economy, dissatisfying ride quality, and a sometimes-infuriating infotainment interface could have you mapping out alternatives to an Atlas.