2024 Toyota 4Runner vs 2025 Volkswagen Atlas

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner was a nostalgic nod to the past, with its design largely unchanged since 2010. Its boxy shape and flared fenders gave it a rugged, stable appearance, ideal for off-road adventures. The TRD Pro model enhanced this with skid plates and all-terrain tires, while the interior felt dated with analog instruments and an eight-inch touchscreen. Despite its old-school charm, the interior materials leaned towards practicality over luxury, with hard plastics and vinyl-like upholstery.

In contrast, the 2025 Volkswagen Atlas offered a more modern and upscale aesthetic. The SEL Premium R-Line trim featured polished aluminum detailing and 21-inch wheels, giving it a muscular yet refined look. Inside, the Atlas boasted diamond-stitched leather and a high-tech digital interface. However, the touch-sensitive controls for temperature and volume were less user-friendly, especially in colder conditions. Despite this, the Atlas maintained a sophisticated and contemporary feel.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner was powered by a 4.0-liter V6 engine, producing 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque. Its five-speed automatic transmission lagged behind competitors like the Bronco and Wrangler, which offered more gears for better acceleration and fuel efficiency. The 4Runner excelled off-road with its 4WD and two-speed transfer case, but on highways, it felt sluggish and noisy. The soft suspension, while beneficial for off-roading, resulted in significant body roll and nosedive during braking.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas featured a new turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 269 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, it offered FWD or AWD options. Despite initial skepticism about its power, the engine proved refined and capable for daily driving. However, the ride quality suffered from a brittle suspension, especially with larger wheels. The Atlas handled predictably on mountain roads, but excessive body motions at highway speeds detracted from the overall experience.

The 4Runner's interior was straightforward, with large controls and excellent visibility. Front passengers enjoyed ample space, though taller drivers found the steering wheel lacking in adjustability. The second row offered generous legroom, but headroom was limited. Cargo capacity reached 89.7 cubic feet with seats stowed, though accessing the rear seats required manual effort. Unique features included a sliding rear window and party speakers in the hatch.

The Atlas excelled in passenger comfort, particularly in its spacious third-row seating. 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 provided ample space and climate controls, while the third row was easily accessible and supportive. Cargo space was generous, with a maximum of 96.6 cubic feet available, though hidden storage was limited.

The 4Runner's infotainment system included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but the eight-inch touchscreen was small and outdated. The TRD Pro's JBL audio system delivered strong sound, though road noise often interfered. Off-road controls were located in the headliner, requiring familiarity with pictograms for effective use.

The Atlas used VW's MIB3 system on a 12-inch touchscreen, lacking traditional knobs and buttons. The system's voice recognition was inconsistent, making it challenging to use for radio tuning and navigation. However, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto provided a more reliable experience. The Harman Kardon audio system was impressive, but the MIB3's user interface had glitches that detracted from usability.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner received mixed safety ratings, with four stars from NHTSA and some "Marginal" and "Poor" results from IIHS. It included adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and a blind-spot monitor. However, the alerts were often oversensitive, requiring adjustments for comfort.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas came with IQ.Drive, offering features like Front Assist, Lane Assist, and adaptive cruise control. It earned a five-star safety rating from NHTSA and was a 2024 IIHS "Top Safety Pick." The driver-assistance systems were reliable, with minimal false alerts, enhancing overall safety confidence.