2025 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2024 Chevrolet Suburban

The 2024 Chevrolet Suburban had a long-standing presence in the automotive world, being a familiar sight on the roads due to its 90-year legacy. Despite its massive size, it blended into traffic seamlessly, serving as a staple for those needing ample cargo and passenger space. The Suburban stretched nearly 19 feet and stood over six feet tall, making it a challenge in urban settings but ideal for those requiring its vast capabilities. It was available in six trims, each offering increasing levels of luxury, though some features remained optional even at the highest levels. Inside, the Suburban provided a spacious and comfortable cabin, with leather upholstery standard on most trims. However, even the top-spec models felt somewhat ordinary in terms of interior luxury.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas offered a different aesthetic, with five trim levels catering to various preferences, from off-road looks to sporty appearances. The SEL Premium R-Line trim, tested in a striking Mountain Lake Blue, showcased a polished and upscale design with 21-inch wheels and aluminum detailing. Inside, the Atlas impressed with its warm and inviting environment, featuring diamond-stitched leather and metallic accents. The digital instrumentation and large infotainment touchscreen promised a high-tech experience, though the touch-sensitive controls for temperature and volume were less satisfying. Despite these quirks, the Atlas maintained a refined and muscular appearance that aged well.

The 2024 Chevrolet Suburban came with three engine options: a 5.3-liter V8, a 6.2-liter V8, and a 3.0-liter turbodiesel. The 5.3-liter V8, standard on most trims, delivered 355 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque, with a towing capacity of up to 8,300 pounds. The 6.2-liter V8 offered 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque, providing smoother acceleration. The diesel engine, with 277 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque, excelled in fuel economy and was a cost-effective choice on the High Country trim. The Suburban's 10-speed automatic transmission was well-tuned, and its steering and brakes handled its size impressively, though drivers needed to account for its 6,000-pound weight.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas featured a new turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, replacing previous options. With 269 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque, it seemed modest for an eight-passenger SUV but proved adequate for daily driving. The engine's torque curve between 1,600 and 4,500 rpm offered satisfying performance, especially in Sport mode. However, the Atlas struggled with ride quality, feeling brittle over road imperfections and exhibiting excessive body motions at highway speeds. Despite these issues, the Atlas handled predictably on mountain roads, with its brakes and transmission performing well under stress.

The 2024 Chevrolet Suburban excelled in cargo space, offering 41.5 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 93.8 cubic feet with the third row folded, and a maximum of 144.7 cubic feet. This made it a top choice for those needing substantial carrying capacity. The Suburban also featured a 28-gallon fuel tank, allowing for long highway drives between fill-ups, especially with the diesel engine.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas shone in passenger comfort, particularly with its third-row seating. The SEL Premium R-Line model provided heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats, though the leather felt slightly stiff. The second-row bench accommodated three adults comfortably, and the third row offered adequate leg support. The Atlas provided 20.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 96.6 cubic feet with all seats folded. While not as spacious as the Suburban, it offered practical storage solutions throughout the cabin.

The 2024 Chevrolet Suburban featured a 10.2-inch touchscreen on most trims, with Google Built-in providing access to essential apps. Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay were included, and a rear-seat entertainment system was available as an option. However, the 10-speaker Bose audio system lacked the richness of higher-end systems.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas used the MIB3 operating system with a 12-inch touchscreen. While it lacked Google Built-in, it offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Atlas struggled with user experience due to touch-sensitive controls and an unreliable voice assistant. However, the Harman Kardon audio system delivered excellent sound quality, and smartphone integration improved the overall experience.

The 2024 Chevrolet Suburban received a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with various advanced driver assistance systems standard across trims. Features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. Super Cruise was available on higher trims, offering semi-autonomous driving capabilities.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas came with IQ.Drive, a suite of driver-assistance features including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and emergency assist. It earned a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and was a 2024 IIHS “Top Safety Pick.” The Atlas's safety systems were accurate and reliable, enhancing driver confidence.