2024 Jeep Wrangler vs 2025 Volkswagen Atlas

The 2024 Jeep Wrangler retained its iconic, rugged design with a body-on-frame look, appealing to off-road enthusiasts. Notable updates included a redesigned grille for improved airflow and an integrated windshield antenna to prevent snagging on trails. The Wrangler offered various roof options, from soft tops to power-retractable sunroofs, and allowed for customization with removable doors and foldable windshields. New wheel designs and larger tires on models like the Rubicon X and Rubicon 392 added to its adventurous appeal.

In contrast, the 2025 Volkswagen Atlas presented a more refined and upscale appearance. The SEL Premium R-Line trim featured polished aluminum detailing, light bars, and 21-inch wheels, giving it a muscular yet sophisticated look. The Mountain Lake Blue color resisted dirt, maintaining a clean appearance. Inside, the Atlas boasted diamond-stitched leather, metallic accents, and artificial wood, creating a warm and inviting environment. The digital instrumentation and large infotainment touchscreen promised a high-tech experience, although some controls were touch-sensitive and less user-friendly.

The 2024 Jeep Wrangler offered a range of powertrains, including a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 270 horsepower, a plug-in hybrid version with 375 horsepower, a 3.6-liter V6 with 285 horsepower, and a 6.4-liter V8 with 470 horsepower. Various transfer cases provided different off-road capabilities, with the Rubicon trim featuring the Rock-Trac transfer case. The 4xe PHEV model combined a turbo engine with electric motors, offering 21 miles of all-electric range and impressive torque. The Wrangler excelled off-road with solid axles, locking differentials, and BF Goodrich KO2 tires, though its on-road ride quality was less refined.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas featured a new turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 269 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque, replacing the previous V6. Despite initial concerns, the engine proved refined and capable for daily driving, especially in Sport mode. However, fuel economy was modest, with 15.5 mpg in urban settings and 19.2 mpg overall. The Atlas's ride quality was less impressive, with a brittle suspension and excessive body motions at highway speeds. Handling was predictable, but the Bridgestone Alenza tires limited dynamic performance.

The 2024 Jeep Wrangler improved its towing capacity to 5,000 pounds for specific models, thanks to a new rear axle design. Inside, it offered heated seats and a heated steering wheel, with new 12-way power-adjustable front seats. The 4xe model included a 30-amp Power Box for powering accessories. However, ventilated seats were not available.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas excelled in interior space and comfort, with a spacious third-row seat and ample cargo capacity. The SEL Premium R-Line model featured heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats, though the leather felt slightly stiff. Visibility was excellent, aided by a surround-view camera system. The second-row bench seat provided generous legroom and climate control, while the third-row seat offered easy access and adequate support. Cargo space was substantial, with up to 96.6 cubic feet available.

The 2024 Jeep Wrangler came equipped with a 12.3-inch infotainment screen running Uconnect5, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system was faster and more user-friendly, with features like Off-Road Pages and Trails Offroad for trail navigation. A wireless hotspot, dual Bluetooth phone pairing, and multiple user profiles were also available.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas used the MIB3 operating system on a 12-inch touchscreen. While it offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the lack of traditional controls and a reliable voice assistant made the system less intuitive. The Harman Kardon audio system was a highlight, but the MIB3's user experience had glitches, such as inaccurate radio displays and confusing navigation screens.

The 2024 Jeep Wrangler introduced first- and second-row side-curtain airbags. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, with optional blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control. The Wrangler had not been rated for 2024, but previous models received mixed ratings from NHTSA and IIHS.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas featured IQ.Drive, offering comprehensive driver-assistance features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and emergency assist. It earned a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and was a 2024 IIHS "Top Safety Pick."