2025 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2024 BMW X5

The 2024 BMW X5, last redesigned in 2019, maintained a timeless style, though the M Sport treatment was less favored, giving it a station wagon-like appearance. The test vehicle featured optional 21-inch “741M” wheels with staggered-width summer tires, enhancing its look despite the potential cost of tire replacement. The X5 offered various powertrains, including a turbocharged inline six-cylinder, a turbo-six PHEV, and a turbocharged V8, with options for Sport and M Sport trims. The xDrive50e M Sport model tested came with Brooklyn Grey paint and a full suite of equipment packages, priced at $88,075. Updates for 2024 included a BMW Curved Display and modernized interior controls, while retaining high-quality materials.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas was available in five trims, with the Peak Edition for off-roading and the SEL Premium R-Line for a sporty look. The Atlas Cross Sport offered a five-passenger version with a rakish design. Prices ranged from $38,200 to $53,205, excluding a $1,425 destination charge. The test model, an Atlas SEL Premium R-Line, featured Mountain Lake Blue paint and Shetland Beige leather interior, priced at $54,630. Its design included polished aluminum detailing, light bars, and 21-inch wheels, giving it a muscular, upscale appearance. Inside, diamond-stitched leather and metallic accents created a warm environment, though touch-sensitive controls for temperature and volume were less satisfying.

The 2024 BMW X5 introduced new mild-hybrid engines and enhanced the xDrive50e PHEV’s electric range and power. The PHEV offered 38 miles of electric-only driving and 22 mpg in hybrid mode, with a total output of 483 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque, accelerating to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds. The adaptive damping air suspension masked its weight, and the 21-inch wheels didn’t compromise ride quality. The X5 excelled in handling, with quick steering and excellent visibility. During testing, it achieved 38.8 mpg over 95.5 miles, proving the xDrive50e as the preferred choice unless opting for the X5 M.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas replaced its previous engines with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder, producing 269 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. Despite initial skepticism, the engine proved refined and satisfying for daily driving. Tested on a mountainous route, it returned 15.5 mpg in urban areas and 19.2 mpg overall, below its EPA ratings. The ride quality was less impressive, with a brittle suspension over road imperfections and excessive body motions at highway speeds. Handling was predictable, though the tires were a weak link. The brakes performed well, but the overall driving experience was less refined.

The 2024 BMW X5 offered a spacious interior for five, with a cargo area expanding from 33.1 to 71.2 cubic feet. The split liftgate design provided seating but required stretching to access deep cargo. Standard Sensafin artificial leather and sport seats were comfortable, with optional Climate Comfort Package adding heated and ventilated seats. Rear passengers enjoyed ample space and a panoramic sunroof. The X5 no longer offered a third-row seat, unlike the larger X7.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas excelled in comfort and space, with a notably comfortable third-row seat. The SEL Premium R-Line’s front seats were heated, ventilated, and massaging, though the leather felt stiff. Visibility was excellent, aided by a surround-view camera. The second row accommodated three adults comfortably, with ample legroom and climate controls. Access to the third row was easy, offering adequate leg support. Cargo space was generous, with 20.6 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 96.6 cubic feet with seats folded.

The 2024 BMW X5 featured a BMW Curved Display with a 12.3-inch digital panel and a 14.9-inch touchscreen running iDrive 8.5. It included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Harman Kardon sound system. However, the Intelligent Personal Assistant struggled with voice recognition, often providing incorrect directions. The head-up display and augmented video navigation were highlights, but the reduction in physical controls was less favorable.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas used the MIB3 system on a 12-inch touchscreen, lacking traditional controls. The voice assistant was unreliable, making radio tuning difficult. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto offered better alternatives, with a Harman Kardon audio system enhancing the experience. The MIB3 system had user-experience glitches, such as incorrect song displays and confusing navigation screens, making smartphone integration essential for a better experience.

The 2024 BMW X5 introduced Highway Assistant for hands-free driving, effective in certain conditions but occasionally braking unexpectedly. Adaptive cruise control and lane-centering worked well, though the system sometimes misinterpreted obstacles. The X5 received high safety ratings from IIHS but missed an award due to headlight ratings. NHTSA gave it a four-star overall rating.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas included IQ.Drive features like Front Assist, Lane Assist, and Travel Assist. The system performed well, with occasional false warnings but no need to disable features. The Atlas earned a five-star NHTSA rating and was a 2024 IIHS Top Safety Pick, though 2025 ratings were pending.