2025 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2025 Subaru Forester

The 2025 Subaru Forester underwent a noticeable visual transformation, focusing on a more streamlined and generic appearance. While it retained its function-first design ethos, the styling updates were evident, with smoother lines and a more integrated look. The Forester Sport model, which was tested, featured bronze trim accents and 19-inch wheels, adding a mature touch to its aesthetic. The interior saw improvements with the introduction of StarTex material in the Sport trim, offering a pleasant feel and easy maintenance. The cabin design was more intentional, with structural dash elements enhancing its appeal.

In contrast, the 2025 Volkswagen Atlas presented a chiseled and muscular exterior, highlighted by polished aluminum detailing and sizable 21-inch wheels. The Mountain Lake Blue colour of the Execline trim added to its upscale appearance, which aged well over time. Inside, the Atlas offered a premium feel with diamond-stitched leather and metallic accents, creating a warm and inviting environment. However, the touch-sensing controls for temperature and stereo volume were less satisfying to use, especially without gloves, and detracted from the overall experience.

The 2025 Subaru Forester featured a 2.5-litre Boxer four-cylinder engine, producing 180 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain, paired with a Lineartonic CVT and Symmetrical AWD, provided a stable and confident driving experience. The Forester's X-Mode system, standard in Canada, enhanced stability and traction on challenging terrains. While acceleration was not particularly brisk, the Forester excelled in off-road conditions, maintaining stability on various surfaces. Fuel economy was rated at 9.1 L/100 km in the city, 7.2 on the highway, and 8.2 combined.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas, on the other hand, was equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, delivering 269 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. Despite initial concerns about its capability in a large SUV, the engine proved refined and satisfying for daily driving tasks. The Atlas's eight-speed automatic transmission and 4Motion AWD system contributed to its performance. However, the ride quality was less impressive, with a brittle suspension and excessive body motions at highway speeds. Fuel economy was rated at 12.8 L/100 km city and 11.3 L/100 km combined.

The 2025 Subaru Forester introduced a hands-free power liftgate, enhancing convenience. Cargo space increased slightly, with 779 litres available with rear seats in place and 1,957 litres with them folded down. The Forester's interior featured a dark headliner, heated front seats, and power-adjustable seating options in higher trims. While cargo space was competitive, the roomy second row slightly compromised total volume compared to some competitors.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas excelled in form and function, offering a spacious and comfortable interior. The Execline model featured heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats, providing excellent support. The second-row bench seat accommodated three adults comfortably, with ample legroom and a panoramic sunroof overhead. Access to the third-row seat was outstanding, and the cargo area offered 583 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,735 litres with all seats folded. Storage space was commendable throughout the cabin, making the Atlas a practical choice for families.

The 2025 Subaru Forester introduced an 11.6-inch Multimedia Plus infotainment system, standard on all but the base trim. It included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with dual USB-A and USB-C ports and a wireless charging pad. Higher trims featured a voice-activated navigation system and an 11-speaker Harman Kardon sound system. Subaru's Starlink connected services suite offered additional capabilities for 2025.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas utilized VW Group's MIB3 operating system, accessible through a 12-inch touchscreen display. While it lacked traditional controls, the system offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, the native digital voice assistant was unreliable, and the user experience was marred by glitches. The Harman Kardon audio system provided excellent sound quality, but the overall infotainment experience was less intuitive compared to smartphone integration platforms.

The 2025 Subaru Forester featured Starlink Connected Services, including Emergency Stop Assist, which activated if the driver became unresponsive. Adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert were standard, with enhancements to Subaru's EyeSight suite for 2025. While crash-test ratings were not yet available, the 2024 model received high marks from safety organizations.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas offered a comprehensive suite of driver assistance features under the IQ.Drive umbrella, including Front Assist, Side Assist, Lane Assist, Emergency Assist, and Travel Assist. The Atlas also came with an eight-year subscription to Car-Net Safe & Secure services. The safety features were accurate and refined, contributing to a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.