2025 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2024 Lexus GX

The 2024 Lexus GX 550 showcased a bold transformation from its predecessor, the GX 470. The redesign embraced geometric styling, with a less pronounced spindle grille and standard triple-beam LED headlights. The front end stood more vertically, giving the SUV a more aggressive appearance. The hood featured raised humps above the front wheels, aiding off-road visibility. The GX's profile appeared as if carved from metal, with minimal character lines and a low window beltline for enhanced visibility. The SUV was available in six trims, with the Luxury models focusing on opulence and the Overtrail trims emphasizing off-road capabilities. Inside, the GX combined luxury with utilitarian materials, featuring a 14-inch touchscreen and physical controls for off-road functions.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas offered five trim levels, with the Peak Edition designed for off-roading and the SEL Premium R-Line boasting a sporty look. The Atlas SEL Premium R-Line, in Mountain Lake Blue, featured polished aluminum detailing and 21-inch wheels, giving it a muscular and upscale appearance. Inside, the Atlas provided a premium feel with diamond-stitched leather and metallic accents. The digital instrumentation and large infotainment touchscreen promised a high-tech experience, though the touch-sensitive controls for temperature and volume were less satisfying. Despite these quirks, the Atlas maintained a refined and upscale presence.

The 2024 Lexus GX transitioned from a V8 to a twin-turbocharged 3.4-liter V6, producing 349 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. This powertrain offered impressive low-end torque, enhancing off-road capability. Built on the GA-F truck platform, the GX provided stability on-road and off-road. It featured a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard full-time 4WD with a locking Torsen limited-slip center differential. The Overtrail trims added a locking rear differential and the E-KDSS suspension system, improving wheel articulation. The GX demonstrated controlled handling and effective braking, despite its weight, and maintained composure on various terrains.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas replaced its previous engines with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder, delivering 269 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, the Atlas offered FWD or 4Motion AWD. Despite initial skepticism, the engine proved refined and capable for daily driving. The Atlas returned 15.5 mpg in urban settings and 19.2 mpg overall during testing. However, ride quality suffered, with a brittle suspension and excessive body motions at highway speeds. Handling was predictable, but the Atlas struggled with impact isolation and ride comfort.

The 2024 Lexus GX featured a minimalist interior with essential physical controls. It offered 41.2 inches of front legroom and 36.7 inches in the second row, while the third row was tight for adults. Cargo space was generous, with 10.3 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 76.9 cubic feet total. Overtrail models offered even more space, with 90.5 cubic feet of total cargo capacity.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas excelled in interior space, providing a comfortable third-row seat and a cavernous cargo area. The SEL Premium R-Line's front seats were heated, ventilated, and massaging, with excellent visibility. The second row accommodated three adults comfortably, and access to the third row was easy. The Atlas offered 20.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 96.6 cubic feet total, making it ideal for hauling people and cargo.

The 2024 Lexus GX featured a 14-inch touchscreen with Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Lexus Interface included a voice assistant and subscription services like Drive Connect and Remote Connect. A 10-speaker audio system was standard, with a 21-speaker Mark Levinson stereo available on higher trims. While the interface was user-friendly, subscription costs after the initial trial were a consideration.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas used the MIB3 system with a 12-inch touchscreen. It lacked traditional controls, relying on touch-sensitive buttons. The native voice assistant was unreliable, but wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto provided a better experience. The Harman Kardon audio system was impressive, but the MIB3 system had user-experience glitches, making smartphone integration essential for satisfaction.

The 2024 Lexus GX improved its safety features with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, including pre-collision detection, adaptive cruise control, and lane-tracing assist. While not yet crash-tested, the modern architecture and ADAS enhancements boosted confidence in its safety.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas included IQ.Drive features like Front Assist, Lane Assist, and Travel Assist. It offered adaptive cruise control and a rear cross-traffic alert. The Atlas earned a five-star NHTSA rating and was a 2024 IIHS Top Safety Pick, though updated ratings were pending.