2026 Honda Passport vs 2026 Volkswagen Atlas

The 2026 Honda Passport presented a bold and rugged appearance, characterized by its extra-large proportions and blocky dimensions. Its design was a modern interpretation of a rugged SUV, with a nearly flat hood and a blunt nose that provided an excellent approach angle. The bracket-shaped amber running lights and a thin hood scoop added to its distinctive look. The Passport's wider and visually stronger stance made it comparable to popular competitors like the Toyota 4Runner and Jeep Grand Cherokee, while still maintaining a unique Honda identity. The profile view, with its blacked-out D-pillar and large tinted rear-quarter window, drew inspiration from a backpack, though it also bore resemblance to the pre-2024 Chevrolet Traverse and Land Rover Discovery. The Passport included practical features like nearly invisible rock sliders and a scratch-resistant roof panel, enhancing its utility for outdoor enthusiasts. The rear design featured a blocky tailgate with a two-tone colour block design and standard roof rails, contributing to its rugged appeal.

In contrast, the 2026 Volkswagen Atlas exuded an upscale aura, especially in the Execline trim, which bordered on luxury crossover territory. Starting with the base Comfortline trim, the Atlas showcased full-LED lighting, power-adjustable heated side mirrors, and a sculpted silhouette that had aged gracefully since its 2018 debut. The Peak Edition added rugged elements like an illuminated logo, all-terrain tires, and blackout trim pieces. The Execline trim further elevated the exterior with 21-inch two-tone alloy wheels and R-Line design elements. The Pure Grey paint on our test vehicle resisted dirt remarkably well, and the Titan Black upholstery provided a practical yet stylish interior. The Atlas's design was more expensive-looking than its price suggested, making it a strong contender in the mid-size SUV segment. Inside, the Atlas featured quilted diamond-pattern leather seats, metallic accents, and artificial wood trim, creating a warm and inviting environment. However, the MIB3 infotainment system, while visually appealing, proved frustrating to use due to its complex interface and touch-sensitive controls.

The 2026 Honda Passport aimed to excel both on and off-road, with improved approach and departure angles, skid plates, and 18-inch wheels for enhanced ride comfort and off-road traction. The i-VTM4 all-wheel drive system was standard, offering seven distinct drive modes, including the new Sport, Trail, and Tow modes. The Passport retained a naturally aspirated 3.5-litre V6 engine, producing 285 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. While the engine's power increase was modest, it delivered strong performance across various terrains, with the V6 providing ample power and the steering offering a satisfying weight. The Passport's off-road capabilities were impressive, though the all-terrain tires generated noticeable noise on highways. Despite sticking with a less-efficient V6 engine, the Passport focused on reducing emissions rather than increasing power. Fuel economy was estimated at 12.6 litres per 100 kilometres in the city, 9.9 on the highway, and 11.4 combined, with a maximum driving range of around 600 kilometres.

The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas retained its 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 all-wheel drive. The engine, known for its refinement and efficiency, offered a wide and usable power band, making the Atlas feel capable despite its output numbers. However, initial acceleration felt adequate but not eager, with a 0-100 km/h time of roughly eight seconds. Once in motion, the Atlas settled into a competent rhythm, with smooth highway merging and minimal downshifting. The Drive Mode Select system offered various options, including Sport mode for added throttle response. Fuel economy was recorded at 10.7 litres per 100 kilometres during testing, slightly better than the estimated 11 L/100 km combined for the Execline trim. The 4Motion AWD system performed well in rain and light snow, though it wasn't intended for serious off-roading. The Atlas's ride quality was a drawback, with the 21-inch wheels transmitting vibrations and harshness, though the chassis was otherwise competent.

The 2026 Honda Passport featured a 12.3-inch touchscreen with standard Google Built-in, offering a user-friendly interface with physical buttons and knobs for controls. The Passport excelled in cargo space, with 1,246 litres behind the rear seat and 2,356 litres with the seats folded, making it the most capacious in its segment. The five-seater configuration contributed to its class-leading cargo capacity. The Passport also offered best-in-class rear-seat legroom and ample storage cubbies, catering to family road trips. A panoramic moonroof was standard in Canada, and the Touring trims added ventilated front seats for extra comfort. Honda planned to offer post-production option packages, including a rear cargo shelf that could be used as a table.

The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas was chosen for its ability to comfortably accommodate adults and luggage for extended trips. The Execline trim featured heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats, with supportive seating for long drives. The driver's seat offered 10-way power adjustment, while the passenger's seat varied by trim level. Outward visibility was excellent, aided by large side mirrors and a clear rear view. The second row, with captain's chairs, provided easy access to the third row, even with a child seat installed. The third-row seats offered decent leg support, and the cargo capacity was competitive, with 583 litres behind the third row and 2,735 litres in total. The Atlas excelled in providing comfortable space for passengers and cargo, making it a strong choice for those prioritizing comfort and practicality.

The 2026 Honda Passport featured a 12.3-inch touchscreen with Google Built-in, offering Google Maps, Google Assistant, and other apps. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were also included, along with a wireless phone charger. The touchscreen was easy to use, with bright colours and intuitive navigation. Additional tech features included a subscription-based Wi-Fi hotspot, four USB-C charging ports, and a 10.2-inch digital driver information display. The Touring trim added a 12-speaker Bose stereo system and the TrailWatch camera system for a bird's-eye view.

The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas came with a 12-inch touchscreen running the MIB3 operating system, a 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit Pro instrument cluster, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and wireless charging. The Highline trim added a Harman Kardon 12-speaker audio system and a surround-view camera system, while the Execline included a head-up display. However, the MIB3 system was frustrating to use, with complex menus and touch-sensitive controls that were invisible at night. The voice control system was unreliable, making Apple CarPlay or Android Auto the preferred choice. The Harman Kardon audio system delivered excellent sound quality, and the Digital Cockpit Pro offered configurable views, though the native navigation system was less user-friendly.

The 2026 Honda Passport was equipped with Honda Safety Sense, including automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. Additional features included traffic-jam assist, traffic-sign recognition, and low-speed braking control. The Passport had eight standard airbags, though previous crash test results were less than stellar, with four out of five stars in front-impact and rollover tests. Updated crash test ratings for the 2026 model were awaited.

The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas earned a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with five stars in side-crash testing and four stars in frontal and rollover tests. The IIHS named the 2025 Atlas a Top Safety Pick+, though 2026 ratings were pending. Volkswagen's IQ.Drive suite of driver assistance features was standard, including forward-collision warning, blind-spot monitors, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. The Execline added Park Assist, though the Atlas was easy to maneuver without it.