2024 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2025 INFINITI QX80

The 2024 Volkswagen Atlas underwent a styling refresh that enhanced its original design, dating back to the 2013 Volkswagen CrossBlue concept. New lighting elements were introduced, including light-up VW logos similar to those on the ID.4 electric crossover. The front logo illuminated in white, while the rear shone red. A front light bar connected to the daytime running lights, part of the new LED headlights reminiscent of a Ford Expedition, gave the Atlas a fresh "face" with American swagger. At the rear, the taillights blended into a full-width light bar housing the illuminated logo. All trim levels received new wheel designs, with the SEL Premium R-Line featuring 21-inch wheels and sportier styling. The Atlas Peak Edition joined the lineup, offering an outdoorsy vibe with black 18-inch wheels, all-terrain tires, and unique colors. Inside, the cabin saw a revised look with a freestanding infotainment touchscreen and a minimalist interior that contrasted with the truck-like exterior. Volkswagen aimed for an upscale feel with improved fake wood trim and available leather upholstery.

The 2025 INFINITI QX80 received its first redesign since 2017, growing slightly in length and width while maintaining its height. It retained its body-on-frame architecture with a new frame that improved torsional and lateral stiffness. The QX80's styling became more expressive, particularly at the front, with a larger grille and a creased hood. A stacked-headlight setup with large lower elements and narrow LED daytime running lights gave it a distinctive look. Other updates included full-width LED taillights, blacked-out roof pillar trim, and flush door handles. The QX80 offered Pure, Luxe, Sensory, and Autobiography trims, with varying wheel sizes and designs. The interior featured a high-tech makeover with a large horizontal display and 64-color ambient lighting. Despite the premium feel, shiny black plastic trim detracted from the overall luxury. Upholstery options ranged from leatherette to semi-aniline leather, depending on the trim level.

The 2024 Volkswagen Atlas saw a reduction in powertrain options, leaving only a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine. This engine produced 269 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque, offering more torque than the previous VR6 engine. The engine was paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, with standard front-wheel drive and optional all-wheel drive. The Atlas was quicker than the previous six-cylinder model, with FWD models reaching 60 mph in eight seconds and AWD models in 8.3 seconds. Despite the improvements, the Atlas remained a family hauler focused on comfort rather than performance. The ride quality was consistent with previous models, and the 4Motion AWD system was designed primarily for pavement. The maximum towing capacity was 5,000 pounds for most models, except the base SE, which was rated for 2,000 pounds.

The 2025 INFINITI QX80 featured a new twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine, replacing the previous 5.6-liter V8. The V6 produced 450 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The QX80 felt more energetic than its predecessor, although the active sound enhancement added an artificial noise during acceleration. The suspension varied by trim, with air suspension and adaptive damping available on higher trims. The QX80 offered an off-road setting, increasing ground clearance to 10 inches. Despite its size, the QX80's handling was average for a large SUV. The towing capacity was impressive at 8,500 pounds, surpassing most competitors.

The 2024 Volkswagen Atlas offered more standard features, including a heated steering wheel and ventilated front seats on the base SE trim. The SE with Technology added a power liftgate, while leather upholstery and heated second-row seats were standard on the SEL. The Atlas accommodated seven passengers with a three-seat second-row bench, which could be replaced by captain's chairs on higher trims. The interior space was competitive, with ample headroom and legroom across all rows. Cargo space varied from 20.6 cubic feet with all seats in place to 96.6 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded.

The 2025 INFINITI QX80 saw an increase in cargo space, offering 22 cubic feet with all rows in place and 101 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. The QX80 featured power-folding second- and third-row seats, making reconfiguration easy. Passenger space was generous, with increased legroom in the first and third rows. The third row was particularly comfortable, with well-placed amenities. The QX80's towing capacity was a standout feature, capable of towing up to 8,500 pounds.

The 2024 Volkswagen Atlas came with a 12-inch touchscreen and a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster as standard. Wireless phone charging and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were also included. The Atlas featured up to eight USB-C ports and a head-up display on higher trims. The Harman Kardon audio system provided a premium sound experience. The infotainment system was user-friendly, though haptic touchpads for controls were less intuitive.

The 2025 INFINITI QX80 boasted dual 14.3-inch screens for the instrument cluster and infotainment, with a smaller 9-inch touchscreen for additional controls. Google built-in apps enhanced the infotainment experience, with Google Maps as the native navigation system. The QX80 supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Klipsch sound system varied by trim, with up to 24 speakers available. The QX80 offered advanced camera systems, including a 360-degree view and an Invisible Hood view.

The 2024 Volkswagen Atlas received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. It included standard driver-assist features like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. The Atlas also had emergency features like automatic post-collision braking and a crash response system.

The 2025 INFINITI QX80's crash-test ratings were unavailable, but it offered standard safety features such as forward collision warning and blind-spot monitoring. The QX80 featured ProPilot Assist for highway driving assistance, with hands-free capabilities on higher trims.