2025 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2024 Honda CR-V Hybrid

The 2024 Honda CR-V Hybrid, with a starting price of $33,700, presented a sporty exterior with black 18-inch wheels and trim. However, its interior was basic unless upgraded to the leather-lined Sport-L Hybrid at $36,700 or the top-tier Sport Touring Hybrid at $39,850. Our test model, priced at $41,175, featured Canyon River Blue paint. The CR-V's design was conservative, with a technical front resembling an angry robot, but it appeared visually heavy over the front wheels. The rear quarter view was more appealing, with Volvo-like taillights and a tidy design. Inside, the Sport Touring offered leather seats with orange stitching and quality details, such as a soft-touch dashboard and metal mesh air vents, creating a sophisticated cabin feel.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas, available in five trims, ranged from $38,200 to $53,205, excluding a $1,425 destination charge. Our test vehicle, an Atlas SEL Premium R-Line in Mountain Lake Blue, was priced at $54,630. It featured polished aluminum detailing, light bars, and 21-inch wheels, giving it a chiseled, upscale look. The interior boasted diamond-stitched leather, metallic accents, and artificial wood, creating a warm environment. Digital instrumentation and a large infotainment touchscreen promised a high-tech experience. However, touch-sensitive controls for temperature and volume were less satisfying, especially in colder conditions.

The 2024 Honda CR-V Hybrid offered a unique two-motor hybrid system with a 2.0-liter engine and two electric motors, delivering 204 horsepower. It promised 37 mpg combined, but our test returned 32.4 mpg on a mountainous route. The CR-V was quiet, with a compliant ride and predictable handling, though the steering felt heavy. It was easy to drive but not particularly thrilling or off-road capable.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas replaced its previous engines with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder, producing 269 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. Despite initial skepticism, the engine proved refined and satisfying for daily driving. It returned 15.5 mpg in urban settings and 19.2 mpg overall, below its EPA ratings. The ride quality was less impressive, with a brittle suspension and excessive body motions. However, handling was predictable, and the brakes performed well under stress.

The Honda CR-V excelled in form and function, offering quality materials, intuitive controls, and comfortable seating. The 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat provided excellent support, and the rear seats were spacious, with a nearly 90-degree door opening for easy access. Cargo space was generous, with up to 76.5 cubic feet available.

The Volkswagen Atlas shone in comfort and space, with a notably comfortable third-row seat. The front seats were heated, ventilated, and massaging, though the leather felt stiff. Visibility was excellent, and the second-row bench accommodated three adults comfortably. The third-row access was outstanding, and cargo space was ample, with up to 96.6 cubic feet available.

The Honda CR-V Sport Hybrid featured a 7-inch digital panel and touchscreen, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto reserved for higher trims. The Sport Touring included navigation and a 12-speaker Bose audio system. The voice recognition system was basic, and the walk-away automatic locking feature added convenience.

The Volkswagen Atlas used the MIB3 system with a 12-inch touchscreen. It lacked traditional controls, relying on touch-sensitive buttons. The voice recognition system was unreliable, but wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto provided a better experience. The Harman Kardon audio system was impressive, though the MIB3 system had user-experience glitches.

The 2024 Honda CR-V Hybrid came with Honda Sensing, offering features like forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and lane-centering assist. It performed well in tests, with minor issues on curvy roads. The CR-V earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas included IQ.Drive features like Front Assist and Travel Assist. It offered adaptive cruise control and a rear cross-traffic alert. The Atlas received a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA and was a 2024 IIHS Top Safety Pick.