2025 Lexus GX vs 2026 Volkswagen Atlas

The 2025 Lexus GX underwent a significant redesign, presenting a striking exterior that drew inspiration from classic Land Rover models. Its boxy shape, LED headlights, and a well-proportioned grille contributed to its robust appearance. The GX 550 Overtrail+ test vehicle featured 33-inch tires on matte grey 18-inch wheels, a raised ride height, and rock rails, all accentuated by a distinctive brown colour called Earth. Inside, the GX exuded luxury with its clean and elegant design. The dashboard, centre console, and door trim were chic, while the seats, upholstered in stitched black and tan faux leather, offered heating, ventilation, and massaging functions. The spacious interior provided ample headroom and excellent visibility, making it a comfortable choice for drivers and passengers alike.

The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas, particularly in the Execline trim, exuded an upscale aura, bordering on luxury crossover territory. Its exterior featured full-LED lighting, power-adjustable heated side mirrors, and a sculpted silhouette that aged gracefully since its 2018 debut. The Peak Edition added rugged elements like all-terrain tires and blackout trim pieces. The Atlas's Pure Grey paint resisted dirt, and the Titan Black upholstery with a silver underlay added a touch of sophistication. Inside, the Atlas impressed with quilted diamond-pattern leather seats, metallic accents, and artificial wood trim. The 12-inch touchscreen promised a high-tech experience, though its functionality left room for improvement. Despite its good looks, the Atlas faced some functional shortcomings, particularly in ride quality, which detracted from its overall refinement.

The 2025 Lexus GX was powered by a twin-turbo 3.4-litre V6 engine, delivering 349 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. This power was distributed to all four wheels through a full-time 4WD system with a limited-slip centre differential and a 10-speed automatic transmission. The GX accelerated from 0 to 100 km/h in approximately 6.5 seconds, a second faster than its V8 predecessor. Despite its 2,570-kilogram curb weight, the GX felt agile and responsive, especially during highway merges. However, its fuel economy was less impressive, averaging 19.0 L/100 km during testing. The GX excelled in off-road conditions, with features like a locking rear differential, Multi-Terrain Select drive modes, and downhill assist control enhancing its trail capabilities. The Overtrail+ package added off-road-centric features, but at a higher price point.

The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas featured a turbocharged 2.0-litre inline four-cylinder engine, producing 269 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD in Canada, the Atlas prioritized flexibility over excitement. Its wide power band, with peak torque available from 1,600 to 4,500 rpm, contributed to a capable performance once underway. However, initial acceleration felt less eager, with a 0-100 km/h time of around eight seconds. The Atlas offered a Drive Mode Select system with various options, including Sport mode for enhanced throttle response. Fuel economy was reasonable, with a recorded 10.7 L/100 km during testing. The 4Motion AWD system performed well in light snow and rain, but the Atlas's ride quality suffered due to its large wheels, transmitting vibrations and harshness on imperfect roads.

The 2025 Lexus GX offered a spacious interior, accommodating tall passengers with ease. Front headroom measured 1,001 millimetres, while the rear provided 1,095 mm. Legroom was generous, with 1,047 mm in the front and 933 mm in the second row. The GX's cargo space was impressive, with up to 2,563 litres available in the Overtrail packages. Its towing capacity of 4,111 kilograms made it suitable for adventurers. Despite its size, the GX was easy to manoeuvre and park, thanks to its dimensions of 1,999 mm in width and 5,005 mm in length.

The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas excelled in accommodating passengers and cargo. The Execline trim featured heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats, with 10-way power adjustment for the driver. Visibility was excellent, aided by large side mirrors and a clear rear view. The second row offered captain's chairs that folded flat, allowing easy access to the third row. Cargo capacity was a strong point, with 583 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,735 litres with all seats folded. The Atlas provided competitive space across all three rows, making it a practical choice for families.

The 2025 Lexus GX featured a user-friendly infotainment system with a 12.3-inch gauge cluster and a 14-inch touchscreen. The system offered smooth operation, intuitive menus, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A Mark Levinson Premium Audio system was available with higher trims, providing good audio quality. Six USB-C ports ensured connectivity and charging options, while the Executive and Overtrail+ packages included cooling armrest storage.

The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas came with a 12-inch touchscreen running the MIB3 operating system, a 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit Pro, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, the MIB3 system was frustrating to use, with complex menus and touch-sensitive controls that were invisible at night. The Harman Kardon audio system delivered excellent sound quality, and the Digital Cockpit Pro offered configurable views. Despite its attractive graphics, the Atlas's tech prioritized form over function, leading to usability challenges.

The 2025 Lexus GX was equipped with the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, offering adaptive cruise control, lane-centring assistance, road sign assist, and more. The Overtrail+ package included pedestrian detection. A 360-degree camera system enhanced visibility, especially off-road. While not yet rated by safety organizations, the GX featured 10 airbags for occupant protection.

The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and was a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS for 2025. The IQ.Drive suite included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitors, and more. These systems performed reliably during testing, enhancing the Atlas's safety credentials.