2025 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2024 Toyota RAV4

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 aimed to present a rugged appearance, with its aggressive front design and angular body cladding. Despite its tough exterior, the performance didn’t quite match the visual promise. The TRD Off-Road model, priced at $41,925 with options, featured Army Green paint and additional tech packages. While the RAV4 offered a range of prices from $28,675 to $38,295 for gas models, hybrids were slightly more expensive but offered better fuel efficiency. The interior focused on utility, with practical features like easy-clean surfaces and robust storage options, especially in higher trims.

In contrast, the 2025 Volkswagen Atlas offered a more upscale and muscular look, particularly in the SEL Premium R-Line trim. Priced at $54,630, it featured a Mountain Lake Blue exterior and Shetland Beige leather interior. The Atlas boasted polished aluminum detailing and large 21-inch wheels, giving it a refined appearance. Inside, the Atlas provided a warm environment with diamond-stitched leather and metallic accents. Despite some touch-sensitive controls, the Atlas maintained a high-tech feel with digital instrumentation and a large infotainment touchscreen.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 was equipped with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. The TRD Off-Road model came with standard AWD, off-road suspension, and all-terrain tires. It offered various driving modes but maintained the same ground clearance as other RAV4 models. Despite its off-road enhancements, it wasn’t as capable as a 4Runner. The RAV4’s engine was powerful for its class but noisy and unrefined. It achieved an EPA rating of 28 mpg combined, with our test averaging 26.6 mpg.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas featured a new turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 269 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. Despite initial skepticism, the engine proved refined and capable for daily driving. The Atlas returned 15.5 mpg in urban settings and 19.2 mpg overall, slightly below its EPA ratings. The ride quality was less impressive, with a brittle suspension and excessive body motions at highway speeds. However, the handling was predictable, and the brakes performed well under stress.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 prioritized practicality with its utilitarian interior. The TRD Off-Road trim included SofTex upholstery and optional heated features. The driver’s seat was comfortable, and visibility was excellent. The RAV4 accommodated four adults comfortably, with a spacious cargo area offering 37.6 cubic feet, expanding to 69.8 cubic feet with seats folded.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas excelled in comfort and space, especially in the third row. The SEL Premium R-Line’s seats were supportive, and visibility was excellent. The second row offered ample room, and the third row was easily accessible. The Atlas provided 20.6 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 96.6 cubic feet with seats folded, making it ideal for carrying people and cargo.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 featured the Toyota Audio Multimedia system with an 8-inch or 10.5-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. It offered several connected services, including a digital voice assistant. However, the system lacked a multi-panel Home screen and had some usability issues. The standard speakers were decent, but the JBL premium audio system was optional.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas used the MIB3 system with a 12-inch touchscreen. It lacked traditional controls, relying on touch-sensitive buttons. The native voice assistant was unreliable, but wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto provided better functionality. The Harman Kardon audio system was impressive, but the MIB3 system had user-experience glitches.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 included Toyota Safety Sense 2.5, offering various driver-assistance features. However, the base LE trim lacked blind-spot monitoring. The system performed adequately but lost its Top Safety Pick award from the IIHS due to updated testing criteria.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas featured IQ.Drive, including adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. It also offered a five-year subscription to Car-Net Safe & Secure services. The Atlas earned a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA and was a 2024 IIHS Top Safety Pick.