2025 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2025 Mazda CX-50

The 2025 Mazda CX-50 was a standout in the compact SUV segment, borrowing styling cues from the CX-5 but enhancing them with more pronounced fender flares and a wider grille. This gave the CX-50 a sportier and more athletic stance while maintaining an elegant presence. Inside, the CX-50 featured a traditional layout with high-quality materials, including soft-touch surfaces and sturdy plastics. The interior was further accentuated by distinct stitching and exclusive red leather upholstery in the hybrid model, adding a touch of flair. However, the decorative stripe running down the middle of the seats was a point of contention, as some found its placement awkward.

In contrast, the 2025 Volkswagen Atlas offered a more rugged and upscale appearance, particularly in the Execline trim with its polished aluminum detailing, light bars, and 21-inch wheels. The Mountain Lake Blue exterior colour was noted for its ability to hide dirt well. Inside, the Atlas continued its premium feel with diamond-stitched leather, metallic accents, and artificial wood, creating a warm and inviting environment. The digital instrumentation and large infotainment touchscreen promised a high-tech experience, although the touch-sensitive controls for temperature and volume were less satisfying to use.

The 2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid debuted with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine paired with three electric motors, delivering 219 horsepower and 163 lb-ft of torque. While not designed for serious off-road use, the AWD system provided adequate traction. The hybrid powertrain, borrowed from the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, offered a smart balance between the base 187 hp engine and the 256 hp Turbo models. Acceleration was expected to reach 100 km/h in 7.5 to 8 seconds, similar to the RAV4 Hybrid. The sportier suspension tuning of the CX-50 resulted in engaging handling, with minimal body roll and a firm yet smooth ride.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas, on the other hand, featured a new turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, replacing the previous V6. With 269 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque, the engine was refined and capable, though it seemed overmatched in the large SUV. The eight-speed automatic transmission and 4Motion AWD system were standard. The Atlas's engine offered a generous torque curve between 1,600 and 4,500 rpm, making it suitable for daily driving tasks. However, the ride quality was less impressive, with a brittle suspension over smaller road imperfections and excessive body motions at highway speeds. Despite these drawbacks, the Atlas's handling was predictable, with responsive brakes and steering.

The 2025 Mazda CX-50 offered a comfortable driving experience but fell short in terms of practicality and space. While the front seats provided ample room, the rear seats were less accommodating for taller passengers compared to rivals like the Honda CR-V Hybrid and Kia Sportage Hybrid. Personal storage was adequate, but cargo space was limited to 826 litres behind the rear seats, significantly less than competitors. However, the space was usable, with a standard power liftgate and additional storage features.

In contrast, the 2025 Volkswagen Atlas excelled in form and function, offering one of the most comfortable third-row seats in its class. The Execline model featured heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats, with excellent outward visibility and a surround-view camera system. The second-row bench seat comfortably accommodated three adults, with ample legroom and a panoramic sunroof. Access to the third-row seat was outstanding, with generous clearance and adequate leg support. The Atlas provided 583 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expandable to 2,735 litres with the second-row folded, making it highly practical for carrying people and their belongings.

The 2025 Mazda CX-50 featured a 10.25-inch infotainment system controlled by a centre console dial, with touchscreen functionality limited to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This setup was reminiscent of early infotainment systems and preferred by some for its ease of use. All models came standard with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a wireless charging pad available on hybrid models. The base audio system included eight speakers, while the GT trim offered a 12-speaker Bose premium system.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas, however, used VW Group's MIB3 operating system with a 12-inch touchscreen display. While it lacked traditional knobs and buttons, the system offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The native digital voice assistant was unreliable, making smartphone integration essential for a better user experience. The Atlas Execline's Harman Kardon audio system was praised for its quality, but the MIB3 system's glitches and lack of intuitive controls detracted from the overall experience.

The 2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid earned high safety ratings, with five stars from the NHTSA in all evaluations except rollover protection, where it received four stars. The IIHS awarded it a Top Safety Pick+ rating. Standard safety features included frontal collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. The systems functioned smoothly, with no false alarms.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas featured the IQ.Drive suite of driver assistance features, including Front Assist, Side Assist, Lane Assist, Emergency Assist, and Travel Assist. Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability and rear cross-traffic alert were standard. The Atlas earned a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and was a 2024 IIHS Top Safety Pick. The IQ.Drive systems were generally accurate and trustworthy, despite occasional false warnings.