2025 Hyundai Palisade vs 2026 Volkswagen Atlas

The 2025 Hyundai Palisade stood out with its bold and unmistakable design, which was a refreshing departure from the rugged styling cues often seen in SUVs. Its angular and technical look, introduced in the 2023 refresh, replaced the previous chubby-cheeked face, giving it a more upscale appearance. Inside, even the base SE trim offered a modern and upscale feel, with premium materials like leather and artificial suede in higher trims. However, some metallic-surface control markings were difficult to read during the day. The Palisade was packed with thoughtful details, such as USB charging ports in the front seatbacks, smartphone storage pockets, and drink holders accessible to children. It was available in seven trim levels, with prices ranging from $37,200 to $54,500, excluding destination charges.

The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas, particularly in the SEL Premium R-Line trim, exuded an expensive look, bordering on luxury crossover territory. Starting with the base SE trim, it featured full-LED lighting, power-adjustable heated side mirrors, and a sculpted silhouette. The Peak Edition added unique bumpers, rugged side sills, and blackout trim pieces. The SEL Premium R-Line boasted power-folding side mirrors with puddle lights and 21-inch two-tone alloy wheels. Inside, quilted diamond-pattern leather seats and metallic accents created a warm and inviting environment. However, the MIB3 infotainment system was frustrating to use, with touch-sensitive controls that were invisible at night. Despite its good looks, the Atlas had some functional shortcomings, particularly in ride quality, which was harsh on imperfect pavement.

The 2025 Hyundai Palisade was powered by a 3.8-liter V6 engine producing 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It offered a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds and averaged 22 mpg in combined driving, though our test recorded slightly lower figures. The Palisade's ride was firm at lower speeds but softened at higher speeds, and it handled speed humps impressively. The powertrain was smooth and refined, with satisfying power delivery and silky shifts. Despite not being the most fuel-efficient, the Palisade's V6 was a delight to drive, offering a satisfying experience on various road conditions.

The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine with 269 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. It was paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, with AWD available on all trims. The engine's wide powerband made the Atlas feel capable, though initial acceleration was not particularly quick. The Atlas achieved a zero-to-60 mph time of 8.3 seconds and recorded 22 mpg during testing. The 4Motion AWD system performed well in rain and light snow, but the ride quality was harsh, especially with the SEL Premium R-Line's 21-inch wheels. The Atlas handled competently, with appropriately weighted steering and linear brakes, but its ride quality left it feeling less refined than some rivals.

The 2025 Hyundai Palisade offered three rows of seats, with our test vehicle featuring a seven-passenger arrangement with second-row captain's chairs. The front seats were comfortable, with heating, ventilation, and a massaging driver's seat. The second-row captain's chairs were also heated and ventilated, providing good thigh support and legroom. The third-row seat was heated, a rarity in this segment, and offered USB-C charging ports and air vents. Cargo space was generous, with 18 cubic feet behind the third row, 48.8 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 86.4 cubic feet behind the front seats. The Smart Liftgate was a convenient feature, though it could open unintentionally.

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, providing comfort over long drives. The second-row captain's chairs folded flat and tipped forward for 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 in total. The Atlas provided competitive space across all three rows, making it an excellent choice for hauling people and belongings in comfort.

The 2025 Hyundai Palisade featured a 12.3-inch digital driver display and a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system. While the tech was functional, it lacked wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system included Bluetooth support, wireless charging, SiriusXM satellite radio, and Bluelink+ connected services. The voice recognition system performed well, and the Harman Kardon audio system delivered commendable sound. The Palisade also offered a head-up display, a digital rearview mirror, and a surround-view camera system, enhancing its tech offerings.

The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas came with a 12-inch touchscreen running the MIB3 operating system, a 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit Pro instrument cluster, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and wireless charging. The SEL Premium R-Line added a Harman Kardon audio system, a head-up display, and a surround-view camera system. 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 for connectivity. Despite its attractive graphics, the Atlas's tech prioritized form over function.

The 2025 Hyundai Palisade was equipped with Hyundai SmartSense, offering a range of standard driver-assistance features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. The HDA system paired adaptive cruise control with lane-centering assist for highway driving. The Palisade earned a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS through 2024 but missed the accolade in 2025 due to a Poor rating in a new frontal-impact test. The NHTSA awarded it five-star frontal impact and four-star rollover resistance ratings.

The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with five stars in side-crash testing and four stars in frontal and rollover tests. The IIHS named the 2025 Atlas a Top Safety Pick+, though 2026 ratings were unavailable. The Atlas featured Volkswagen's IQ.Drive suite of driver assistance features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitors, and adaptive cruise control. The systems performed well during testing, providing reliable assistance without drama.