2025 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2025 Chevrolet Traverse

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse showcased a commendable exterior design, aligning with Chevrolet's recent trend of attractive SUV styling. Its interior design followed suit with digital instrumentation and a Google-based infotainment system, offering an appealing layout. However, the quality of materials used inside the Traverse left much to be desired. The hard, glossy plastic and Evotex artificial leather detracted from the overall impression, especially given the Traverse's price point. The Z71 trim, tested with additional features like Radiant Red paint and a panoramic sunroof, had an MSRP of $55,900, including destination charges.

In contrast, the 2025 Volkswagen Atlas presented a more upscale appearance with polished aluminum detailing and sizable 21-inch wheels. The Mountain Lake Blue exterior resisted dirt, maintaining its impressive look. Inside, the Atlas continued its premium feel with diamond-stitched leather and metallic accents, creating a warm environment. However, the touch-sensitive controls for temperature and stereo volume were less satisfying to use, especially without gloves. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Atlas maintained a chiseled, muscular look that aged well.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse was powered by a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 328 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 326 pound-feet of torque at 3,500 rpm. While the engine's exhaust note was less than pleasing, it delivered ample power, especially in all-wheel-drive mode, providing rapid and controlled acceleration. The Z71 trim, designed for off-road adventures, offered 7.7 inches of ground clearance, unique 18-inch wheels, and a Twin Clutch AWD system. Despite its off-road capabilities, the Traverse Z71 excelled in daily driving, offering a smoother ride on rough pavement. The vehicle's EPA rating was 21 mpg in combined driving, with the test vehicle achieving 21.5 mpg.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas, equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivered 269 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. Although initially perceived as underpowered for its size, the engine proved refined and satisfying for daily driving tasks. The Atlas returned 15.5 mpg in urban conditions and 19.2 mpg overall during testing, slightly below its EPA ratings of 18 mpg city and 21 mpg combined. The ride quality, however, was less impressive, 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 2025 Chevrolet Traverse offered substantial interior volume, with front seats providing ample space and comfort. The Z71 trim featured heated front seats and a heated steering wheel, enhancing comfort during cold weather. With an available second-row bench seat, the Traverse accommodated up to eight passengers. However, the third-row seats lacked a view due to the rear window design and did not offer USB charging ports. Cargo space was commendable, with 22.9 cubic feet behind the third row and a maximum of 97.6 cubic feet with all seats folded. Folding the third row required adjusting the second-row seats, which was less convenient.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas excelled in form and function, offering one of the most comfortable third-row seats in its class. The SEL Premium R-Line model featured heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats, with excellent outward visibility. The second-row bench seat provided ample space for three adults, with a climate-control panel and air vents. Access to the third row was outstanding, with sufficient leg support for longer trips. Storage space was commendable across all rows, with 20.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row and a maximum of 96.6 cubic feet with all seats folded. The Atlas offered slightly less cargo space than some competitors but excelled in passenger comfort.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse boasted a 17.7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Google Built-in, offering Google Maps navigation, Google Assistant, and Google Play Store access. Standard features included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, wireless smartphone charging, and SiriusXM 360L satellite radio. The system's user interface was intuitive, with effective voice recognition. An 11-inch digital instrumentation panel offered customizable views, and optional features like a digital rearview mirror and surround-view camera system enhanced convenience.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas featured a 12-inch touchscreen display with the VW Group's MIB3 operating system. While it offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the lack of traditional knobs and buttons made the system less user-friendly. The native digital voice assistant was unreliable, and the system's user experience was marred by glitches. However, the Harman Kardon audio system delivered excellent sound quality. Pairing a smartphone for Apple CarPlay or Android Auto improved the overall experience, providing a more intuitive interface and reliable voice assistant.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse came equipped with a comprehensive suite of driver aids, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keep assist. The Driver Confidence Package added a surround-view camera system and traffic sign recognition, while the Enhanced Driving Package offered Super Cruise hands-free driving assist. The Traverse received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a "Top Safety Pick" award from the IIHS.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas featured IQ.Drive, which included Front Assist, Active Side Assist, and Travel Assist. Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability and rear cross-traffic alert were standard. The Atlas also offered a five-year subscription to Car-Net Safe & Secure services. The Atlas earned a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, but updated IIHS ratings for 2025 were unavailable.