2025 BMW X5 vs 2026 Volkswagen Atlas

The 2025 BMW X5 had a refined and graceful evolution, maintaining its distinctive proportions while incorporating intriguing details. The cab-rearward profile and rounded fender arches were complemented by arrow-shaped lighting elements in the headlights and taillights, which featured a three-dimensional shape. The front fascia was somewhat busy, but the twin-kidney grille remained reasonably sized. The optional M Sport Package added sportier bumpers and Shadowline trim, with further upgrades available in the M Sport Professional version. The X5 Silver Anniversary Edition celebrated its 25th anniversary with unique Lime Rock Grey paint and an off-road package, showcasing the array of trim options. Inside, the X5's interior evolved gradually, retaining a connection to previous generations with a quality feel, albeit plainer than some competitors. The Silver Anniversary Edition featured carbon fiber trim and illuminated "X5" graphics, enhancing the interior's appeal.

The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas exuded an expensive look, especially in the SEL Premium R-Line trim, which bordered on luxury crossover territory. Starting with the base SE trim, the Atlas showcased full-LED lighting, power-adjustable heated side mirrors, and a sculpted silhouette. The SE with Technology added an illuminated logo, light bar, and 20-inch alloys. The Peak Edition featured unique bumpers, rugged side sills, and blackout trim pieces. The SEL Premium R-Line upgraded to power-folding side mirrors and 21-inch alloy wheels. The Pure Gray paint resisted dirt, and the Titan Black upholstery with silver underlay added a touch of light. The Atlas appeared more expensive than its price suggested, with the SEL Premium R-Line starting at $56,105. Inside, quilted diamond-pattern leather seats, metallic accents, and a 12-inch touchscreen created a warm environment, although the infotainment system was more form than function.

The 2025 BMW X5 offered a range of powertrain options, starting with the RWD X5 sDrive40i and AWD X5 xDrive40i, both powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six producing 375 horsepower and 398 pound-feet of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in 5.3 seconds. The AWD-only X5 M60i xDrive featured a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 with 523 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque, reaching 0-60 mph in 4.2 seconds. Both models shared an eight-speed automatic transmission and a 48-volt mild hybrid system. The X5 plug-in hybrid, xDrive50e, combined the inline-six with a larger electric motor, delivering 483 hp and 516 lb-ft, with a 0-60 mph time of 4.6 seconds and up to 39 miles of all-electric range. The Silver Anniversary Edition included the xOffroad Package, enhancing off-road capabilities, although it compromised on-road dynamics.

The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas retained the turbocharged 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine, producing 269 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. FWD was standard on lower trims, while AWD was available on all trims and standard on the Peak Edition and above. The engine, known for its refinement and efficiency, offered a wide powerband, with peak torque from 1,600 to 4,500 rpm. The Atlas achieved 0-60 mph in 8.3 seconds, feeling more capable once underway. The Drive Mode Select system offered various driving modes, with Sport mode enhancing throttle response. The Atlas recorded 22 mpg during testing, slightly above the EPA's 21 mpg estimate. The 4Motion AWD system performed well in rain and light snow, with a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds. However, ride quality suffered due to the 21-inch wheels, transmitting vibrations and harshness on imperfect roads.

The 2025 BMW X5 was a two-row, five-seater, offering generous passenger space but not class-leading. It had slightly less first-row legroom than some competitors but offered more headroom. The sport seats provided extra bolstering for cornering and comfort on long drives. The X5's cargo space was competitive, with 33.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 72.3 cubic feet with the second row folded. The split tailgate was a unique feature, serving as a backstop and bench. The X5's towing capacity was 7,200 pounds, reasonable for its size.

The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas excelled in accommodating passengers and cargo. The SEL Premium R-Line's front seats were heated, ventilated, and equipped with massage, with supportive seating for long drives. The second row featured captain's chairs, allowing easy access to the third row, which offered decent leg support. Cargo capacity was a strong point, with 20.6 cubic feet behind the third row, 55.5 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 96.6 cubic feet total. The Atlas provided competitive space across all three rows, making it ideal for hauling people and belongings comfortably.

The 2025 BMW X5 featured a curved dashboard display with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.9-inch infotainment touchscreen, running BMW Operating System 8. The system offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with multiple control options, including a rotary controller, touchscreen, voice recognition, and gesture control. The instrument cluster layout was distinctive and easy to read, with augmented reality navigation and digital key connectivity as welcome additions.

The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas came standard with a 12-inch touchscreen running the MIB3 operating system, a 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit Pro, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and wireless charging. The SEL Premium R-Line added a Harman Kardon audio system, head-up display, and surround-view camera. However, the MIB3 system was frustrating to use, with touch-sensitive controls that were invisible at night. The voice control system was unreliable, making Apple CarPlay or Android Auto the preferred choice. The Harman Kardon audio system and Digital Cockpit Pro were highlights, but the tech prioritized form over function.

The 2025 BMW X5 came with standard Active Driving Assistant features, including lane-keep assist, lane-departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, and forward collision warning. The Driving Assistance Professional Package offered Highway Assistant, a hands-free system. The Parking Assistant setup included Reversing Assistant, with an optional Parking Assistance Professional Package adding advanced features. The X5 earned a Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS and a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.

The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas earned a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS for 2025. The IQ.Drive suite of driver assistance features was standard, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitors, lane-keep assist, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and Travel Assist. The SEL Premium R-Line added Park Assist. The systems performed reliably during testing, providing confidence in various driving conditions.