2025 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2024 Mazda CX-30

The 2024 Mazda CX-30 was designed with a distinctive aesthetic, characterized by its excessive charcoal-colored plastic cladding on the lower body, which some found overwhelming. Despite this, the crossover maintained an overall appealing look with its short overhangs, long and low hood, and sculpted flanks. The interior of the CX-30 was praised for its upscale feel, resembling an entry-level luxury SUV. It featured clear gauges, a well-integrated infotainment screen, and artistic dual-zone climate controls. The CX-30 offered eight versions, with the 2.5 S models equipped with a 191-horsepower engine and the 2.5 Turbo models boasting up to 250 hp. Prices ranged from $24,995 to $36,800, plus a $1,420 destination charge.

In contrast, the 2025 Volkswagen Atlas was available in five trim levels, with the Peak Edition designed for off-roading and the SEL Premium R-Line offering a sporty look with the most standard equipment. The Atlas Cross Sport variant provided a more rakish design. Base prices ranged from $38,200 to $53,205, excluding a $1,425 destination charge. The Atlas SEL Premium R-Line impressed with its polished aluminum detailing, light bars, and 21-inch wheels, giving it a muscular and upscale appearance. Inside, the Atlas featured diamond-stitched leather, metallic accents, and artificial wood, creating a warm and inviting environment. However, the touch-sensitive controls for temperature and stereo volume were less satisfying to use.

The 2024 Mazda CX-30, with its turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, delivered 250 hp and 320 pound-feet of torque, providing smooth power delivery rather than immediate acceleration. The six-speed automatic transmission shifted flawlessly, and the standard AWD system distributed power effectively. However, the turbocharged engine's fuel economy was not its strong suit, with an observed 21.3 mpg on a mountainous route, below the EPA's 25 mpg combined rating. Despite this, the CX-30 was fun to drive, offering nimble handling and excellent visibility. It tackled back roads with enthusiasm and competence, aided by its standard AWD and Off-Road traction assist setting.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas featured a new turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 269 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. While initially met with skepticism, the engine proved refined and satisfying for daily driving tasks. The eight-speed automatic transmission and 4Motion AWD system provided a smooth driving experience. However, the Atlas's fuel economy was lackluster, with an observed 19.2 mpg over a 70+ mile route, below the EPA's 21 mpg combined rating. The ride quality was a concern, with the suspension feeling brittle over road imperfections and excessive body motions at highway speeds. Despite these issues, the Atlas handled predictably on mountain roads, with the brakes resisting fade under duress.

The 2024 Mazda CX-30's interior featured deft design, quality materials, and logical controls. The three-gauge, partial digital instrumentation was a favorite, and the traditional PRNDL shifter was easy to operate. The cabin's gloss black trim, metallic accents, and exposed stitching added contrast, while the Terracotta leather seats with simulated Black suede inserts provided a splash of color. However, the interior room was cramped, especially in the back seat. The cargo volume measured 20.2 cubic feet behind the back seat, expandable to 45.2 cubic feet with the seats folded down.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas excelled in form and function, offering a comfortable third-row seat and a cavernous cargo area. The SEL Premium R-Line model's front seats were heated, ventilated, and massaging, though the leather felt slightly stiff. The second-row bench seat comfortably accommodated three adults, with ample leg-, foot-, and headroom. Access to the third-row seat was outstanding, with generous clearance and adequate leg support. The Atlas provided 20.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expandable to 96.6 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded down.

The 2024 Mazda CX-30's turbocharged versions featured a new 10.25-inch infotainment display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, the screen's distance from the driver and front passenger was a drawback. Mazda's approach to reducing driver distraction with static displays and controls was commendable, but the lack of a natural voice recognition system was a limitation. The CX-30 included a complimentary three-year subscription to Mazda Connected Services and new USB-C ports for connectivity.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas used the VW Group's MIB3 operating system with a 12-inch touchscreen display. However, the lack of traditional stereo and climate controls with knobs and buttons was a drawback. The Atlas's native digital voice assistant was an extra-cost option and performed inconsistently. Standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto provided a more reliable experience, and the Harman Kardon audio system was impressive. However, the MIB3 system's user-experience glitches and lack of intuitive controls were notable drawbacks.

The 2024 Mazda CX-30 emphasized safety with new standard features, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a rear-seat alert system. These features complemented existing systems like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. The CX-30 earned a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and was a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas featured standard IQ.Drive driver-assistance features, including Front Assist, Active Side Assist, Lane Assist, Emergency Assist, and Travel Assist. The Atlas also included a complimentary five-year subscription to Car-Net Safe & Secure services. The Atlas earned a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and was a 2024 IIHS Top Safety Pick.