2025 Hyundai Santa Fe vs 2026 Volkswagen Atlas

The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe, available in five trims, presented a robust and boxy design with a long wheelbase and a flat hood. Its H-shaped LED headlamps were pixelated, aligning with Hyundai's design aesthetic, and the SUV offered vibrant color options like Terracotta Orange and Atlantis Blue. However, the rear design suffered from mismatched proportions, with taillights positioned lower than ideal. Each trim featured distinct wheels, ranging from 18 to 21 inches, and the XRT trim added chrome and black accents. Inside, the Santa Fe accommodated seven passengers, except for the Calligraphy trim, which offered captain's chairs. The interior materials varied from cloth to Nappa leather, but some squeaks and rattles were noted during testing. The HVAC controls were a mix of physical dials and less intuitive flat icons.

The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas, particularly in the SEL Premium R-Line trim, exuded a near-luxury feel. Starting with the base SE trim, the Atlas featured full-LED lighting, power-adjustable heated side mirrors, and a sculpted silhouette. The SE with Technology added an illuminated logo and 20-inch alloys, while the Peak Edition introduced rugged elements and blackout trim. The SEL Premium R-Line boasted power-folding side mirrors with puddle lights and 21-inch wheels. The Pure Gray paint resisted dirt, and the Titan Black upholstery was practical for muddy conditions. The Atlas appeared more expensive than its price suggested, with the SEL Premium R-Line starting at $56,105. Inside, quilted leather seats, metallic accents, and a 12-inch touchscreen created a premium environment, though the infotainment system prioritized form over function.

The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe was equipped with a 2.5-liter turbocharged engine producing 277 horsepower and 311 lb.-ft of torque. It offered both FWD and AWD options, except for the XRT trim, which was AWD only. The eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission was generally smooth, though turbo lag and occasional delayed downshifts were noted. The Santa Fe Hybrid, a separate model, combined a 1.6-liter engine with an electric motor for 231 horsepower. The Santa Fe handled corners well, with firm brakes and responsive steering, but the gear selector's design required some acclimation. The XRT trim featured 30-inch all-terrain tires and 8.3 inches of ground clearance, enhancing its off-road capabilities, though it wasn't suited for extreme off-roading.

The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas retained its turbocharged 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine, delivering 269 horsepower and 273 lb.-ft of torque. The engine, part of Volkswagen's EA888 family, was tuned for flexibility, with peak torque available from 1,600 to 4,500 rpm. The Atlas's acceleration from a stop was adequate but not brisk, with a 0-60 mph time of 8.3 seconds for the AWD model. The eight-speed automatic transmission generally selected gears well, and the Drive Mode Select system offered various driving modes. The Atlas achieved 22 mpg during testing, slightly above the EPA's 21 mpg estimate. The 4Motion AWD system performed well in rain and light snow, though it wasn't designed for serious off-roading. The Atlas's ride quality was compromised by its large wheels, transmitting vibrations on rough surfaces, but the steering and brakes were competent.

The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe offered a hands-free liftgate, dual-zone climate control, and a versatile center console. The XRT trim included heated front seats, a sunroof, and a 115-volt outlet, while the Calligraphy trim added heated second-row seats and a premium audio system. The Santa Fe featured a two-level glove box with UV-C sanitization on upper trims. It provided ample space, with the most third-row legroom in its class and adjustable second-row seats. Cargo capacity ranged from 14.6 cubic feet with all seats up to 79.6 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. The wider liftgate opening facilitated loading large items. Most trims could tow 3,500 pounds, with the XRT capable of 4,500 pounds.

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, and all Atlas models featured heated and ventilated front seats. The driver's seat offered 10-way power adjustment, while the passenger's seat varied by trim. Visibility was excellent, and the second-row captain's chairs allowed easy access to the third row. The third-row seats provided decent leg support, and cargo capacity was a strong point, with 20.6 cubic feet behind the third row and 96.6 cubic feet with all seats folded. The Atlas offered competitive space across all rows, making it a comfortable people-mover.

The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe featured a 12.3-inch touchscreen for infotainment, with a digital gauge cluster on higher trims. The system was user-friendly, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto standard. Upper trims offered Amazon Music, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and Hyundai Pay. Charging options included USB-C ports and wireless charging. A digital key and fingerprint scanner were available for added security. The Bluelink app provided remote connectivity and over-the-air updates. Optional features included a digital rearview mirror and a head-up display.

The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas came with a 12-inch touchscreen running VW's MIB3 system, a 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit Pro, and wireless smartphone integration. The SEL Premium R-Line added a Harman Kardon audio system, a head-up display, and a 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 and Android Auto preferable. The Harman Kardon system delivered excellent sound, and the Digital Cockpit Pro offered configurable views, though the native navigation system was less user-friendly.

The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims added features like rear parking collision avoidance and Highway Drive Assist. The NHTSA awarded it a four-star overall safety rating, while the IIHS rated it as Good in most categories.

The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and was a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS. The IQ.Drive suite included forward-collision warning, blind-spot monitors, and adaptive cruise control. The systems performed well during testing, and the SEL Premium R-Line added Park Assist.