2026 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid

The 2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid presented a fresh design for its sixth-generation model, adopting a more conventional and cohesive look compared to its predecessor. This redesign resulted in a blockier shape, reminiscent of a compact Ford Explorer, which some might argue diluted its distinctiveness. Despite this, the Forester maintained a rugged appearance with black plastic elements hinting at its off-road capabilities. Inside, the Forester Hybrid featured a modernized cabin with a large vertical infotainment touchscreen and a digital instrument panel exclusive to the hybrid model. While hard plastics were prevalent, the areas frequently touched were covered with soft materials, ensuring comfort. The front seats offered ample support, and the hybrid's ventilation system enhanced comfort during warmer days.

The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas, particularly in the Execline trim, exuded an upscale appearance, bordering on luxury crossover territory. Starting from the base Comfortline trim, the Atlas showcased full-LED lighting, power-adjustable heated side mirrors, and a sculpted silhouette. The Peak Edition added rugged elements like all-terrain tires and blackout trim pieces. The Execline trim featured 21-inch two-tone alloy wheels and R-Line design elements. Inside, the Atlas boasted quilted diamond-pattern leather seats and metallic accents, creating a warm and inviting environment. However, the MIB3 infotainment system, despite its sharp graphics, was criticized for its complexity and touch-sensitive controls that were difficult to use at night.

The 2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid was powered by a 2.5-litre flat four-cylinder engine paired with a parallel hybrid system, producing a combined 194 horsepower. This setup included two motor/generators and a 1.1-kWh lithium-ion battery pack, offering more power than the standard Forester's 180 hp. The hybrid system featured an all-wheel drive (AWD) system with a traditional driveshaft, providing better traction and consistent off-road performance. While acceleration was adequate, the hybrid transmission sometimes made the vehicle feel slower due to its continuous revving. The Forester Hybrid excelled in off-road conditions, thanks to its X-Mode drive programming and hill descent control, making it a versatile choice for both urban and adventurous drivers.

The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas was equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-litre inline four-cylinder engine, delivering 269 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD in Canada, the Atlas offered a wide power band, making it feel capable once underway. However, initial acceleration was not particularly quick, with a 0-100 km/h time of around eight seconds. The Atlas featured a Drive Mode Select system with various options, including Sport mode, which enhanced throttle response but increased fuel consumption. The 4Motion AWD system performed well in rain and light snow, but the ride quality suffered due to the Execline model's 21-inch wheels, transmitting vibrations and harshness on imperfect roads.

The 2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid offered excellent forward visibility from the driver's seat, thanks to thinner front roof pillars. The cockpit felt open and airy, with ample space for front passengers. Rear passengers enjoyed generous legroom and headroom, enhanced by the standard panoramic sunroof. Storage options included a wireless charging pad, cup holders, and door pockets, while rear passengers had access to USB ports and air vents. The Forester Hybrid provided 779 litres of cargo space, with a hands-free power liftgate and power remote seatback releases for added convenience.

The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas excelled in accommodating passengers and cargo. The Execline's front seats were heated, ventilated, and equipped with massage functions, providing comfort during long drives. The second row featured captain's chairs that folded flat and tipped forward for easy access to the third row. The third-row seats offered decent leg support, and the cargo capacity was impressive, with 583 litres behind the third row and 2,735 litres in total. The Atlas provided competitive space across all three rows, making it an excellent choice for families and those needing ample cargo room.

The 2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid came with an 11.6-inch vertical infotainment touchscreen featuring Subaru's Starlink system, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The system was praised for its large on-screen buttons and intuitive menus. The X-Mode off-road drive menu and external camera views were particularly useful for off-roading. The Forester Hybrid also included an 11-speaker Harman Kardon audio system.

The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas featured a 12-inch touchscreen with VW's MIB3 system, a 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit Pro, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and wireless charging. However, the MIB3 system was criticized for its complexity and touch-sensitive controls that were difficult to use at night. The Harman Kardon audio system provided excellent sound quality, and the Digital Cockpit Pro offered multiple view options, but the native navigation system was less reliable than Apple or Google's offerings.

The 2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid earned a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with four stars for rollover protection. The IIHS awarded the non-hybrid model a Top Safety Pick, with "Good" ratings in most categories. The Forester Hybrid came with Subaru's EyeSight suite, including collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keep assist. Additional features like blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were available on higher trims.

The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with five stars in side-crash testing. The 2025 model was named a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS. The Atlas featured Volkswagen's IQ.Drive suite, including forward-collision warning, blind-spot monitors, and adaptive cruise control. The Execline trim added Park Assist, although the Atlas was easy to maneuver without it.