What To Know
- The Highlander’s engine options offer a balance of power and fuel efficiency, making it a practical choice for everyday driving.
- Both the Highlander and the Atlas excel in interior space, offering ample room for passengers and cargo.
- The Atlas also boasts a user-friendly infotainment system, featuring an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a six-speaker sound system.
Choosing the right SUV can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders often top the list: the Toyota Highlander and the Volkswagen Atlas. Both offer spacious interiors, capable performance, and a range of features. But which one emerges as the victor in this head-to-head battle? Let’s delve into the details and see how these SUVs stack up against each other.
Performance and Handling: A Tale of Two Engines
The Toyota Highlander comes standard with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine generating 265 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. For those seeking more power, a 3.5-liter V6 engine with 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque is available. The Highlander’s engine options offer a balance of power and fuel efficiency, making it a practical choice for everyday driving.
The Volkswagen Atlas, on the other hand, is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 235 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. While this engine offers adequate power, it may feel less responsive compared to the Highlander’s V6 option. The Atlas also offers a 3.6-liter V6 engine generating 276 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque for those seeking more power.
In terms of handling, both SUVs provide a comfortable and stable ride. The Highlander’s suspension offers a slightly more refined experience, while the Atlas’s suspension leans towards a more composed and controlled feel.
Interior Space and Comfort: Room for the Whole Crew
Both the Highlander and the Atlas excel in interior space, offering ample room for passengers and cargo. The Highlander boasts a spacious cabin with comfortable seating for up to eight passengers. Its second-row seats slide and recline, enhancing passenger comfort. The Atlas, similarly, provides ample legroom and headroom for all occupants, with seating for up to seven.
When it comes to cargo space, both SUVs impress. The Highlander offers a generous 16.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 84.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The Atlas, on the other hand, provides 17.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 96.8 cubic feet with the seats folded.
Technology and Features: Staying Connected and Entertained
Both SUVs feature modern technology and a range of features to enhance the driving experience. The Highlander comes standard with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a six-speaker sound system. Higher trims offer a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen, a premium JBL sound system, and a panoramic sunroof.
The Atlas also boasts a user-friendly infotainment system, featuring an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a six-speaker sound system. Higher trims offer a larger 10.25-inch touchscreen, a premium Fender sound system, and a panoramic sunroof.
Safety Features: Peace of Mind on the Road
Both the Highlander and the Atlas prioritize safety, offering a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features. The Highlander comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5, which includes features like automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and blind spot monitoring. Higher trims add features like a head-up display and a driver attention monitor.
The Atlas, similarly, offers a suite of safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims add features like a blind spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, and a parking assist system.
Fuel Efficiency: A Balancing Act
The Highlander’s fuel efficiency varies depending on the engine choice. The four-cylinder engine achieves an EPA-estimated 24 mpg city, 30 mpg highway, and 27 mpg combined. The V6 engine delivers 21 mpg city, 29 mpg highway, and 24 mpg combined.
The Atlas also offers varying fuel efficiency depending on the engine. The four-cylinder engine achieves an EPA-estimated 21 mpg city, 29 mpg highway, and 24 mpg combined. The V6 engine delivers 19 mpg city, 26 mpg highway, and 22 mpg combined.
The Verdict: Choosing Your Ideal SUV
The Toyota Highlander and the Volkswagen Atlas both offer compelling packages for SUV shoppers. The Highlander excels in its fuel efficiency, refined ride, and comprehensive safety features. The Atlas, on the other hand, stands out with its spacious interior, powerful V6 engine option, and advanced technology features.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and priorities. If fuel efficiency and a smooth ride are paramount, the Highlander is a strong contender. If spaciousness, power, and advanced technology are your driving forces, the Atlas might be the better option.
Beyond the Comparison: A Deeper Dive
While the Highlander and Atlas are both excellent SUVs, it’s important to consider other options in the segment. For those seeking a more luxurious experience, the Acura MDX and the Infiniti QX60 offer premium interiors and advanced features. If you prioritize off-road capability, the Jeep Grand Cherokee and the Subaru Ascent are worthy competitors.
The Final Word: Your Perfect Match
The Toyota Highlander and the Volkswagen Atlas are both exceptional SUVs that cater to different needs and preferences. By carefully considering your priorities, you can determine which one best aligns with your driving style and lifestyle. Ultimately, the best SUV is the one that fits your unique requirements and brings you the most joy behind the wheel.
Information You Need to Know
Q: Which SUV is more reliable?
A: Toyota is known for its reputation for reliability, and the Highlander consistently ranks high in reliability studies. However, the Atlas has also improved its reliability in recent years.
Q: Which SUV is better for off-roading?
A: Neither the Highlander nor the Atlas is specifically designed for off-roading. If off-road capability is a priority, consider SUVs like the Jeep Grand Cherokee or the Subaru Ascent.
Q: Which SUV offers more cargo space?
A: The Volkswagen Atlas offers slightly more cargo space than the Toyota Highlander, both with the third-row seats folded and unfolded.
Q: Which SUV has a better warranty?
A: The Volkswagen Atlas offers a longer warranty than the Toyota Highlander. The Atlas comes with a 6-year/72,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty, while the Highlander has a 3-year/36,000-mile warranty.
Q: Which SUV is more affordable?
A: The Toyota Highlander is generally more affordable than the Volkswagen Atlas, with starting prices lower than the Atlas. However, the price difference can vary depending on the trim level and options selected.
