2025 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2024 Mazda CX-5

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 retained its classic design from its 2017 debut, maintaining a modern and appealing look. The new Carbon Turbo trim featured Zircon Sand paint and exclusive Terracotta leather seats, enhancing its stylish appearance. Mazda improved fuel economy for the base engine, added wireless charging, and integrated wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto in several trims. The CX-5 offered a choice between a 187-hp 2.5-liter engine and a 256-hp turbocharged variant, both with a six-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD. Prices ranged from $29,300 to $40,600, plus destination charges.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas came in five trims, with the SEL Premium R-Line offering the most features. The Atlas Peak Edition had an off-road look, while the SEL Premium R-Line was sportier. The test model in Mountain Lake Blue featured a Shetland Beige leather interior and standard 4Motion AWD. Its design included polished aluminum detailing and 21-inch wheels, giving it a muscular and upscale appearance. The interior boasted diamond-stitched leather and metallic accents, creating a warm environment. However, touch-sensitive controls for temperature and volume were less satisfying to use.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 Carbon Turbo delivered 256 hp with premium gas and 227 hp with regular gas. It offered 320 lb-ft of torque at 2,500 rpm with premium fuel. The powertrain was more rewarding with a steady acceleration approach. The EPA rated its fuel economy at 24 mpg combined, but real-world tests showed 22.9 mpg. The CX-5 felt tall and narrow, with excellent visibility and confident handling. Mazda's suspension improvements provided a smoother ride, and the SUV was quiet on highways and lively in city driving. It could tow up to 2,000 pounds.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas featured a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine with 269 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque. Despite initial skepticism, the engine proved refined and satisfying for daily driving. The Atlas returned 15.5 mpg in city conditions and 19.2 mpg overall, below its EPA ratings. The ride quality was less impressive, with a brittle suspension and excessive body motions at highway speeds. However, the Atlas handled predictably on mountain roads, with responsive brakes and steering in Sport mode.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 offered comfortable heated front seats with power adjustments for the driver. Leather was standard on most trims, with Nappa leather on the top model. The interior was snug but comfortable for four adults, with supportive rear seats and good storage space. The cargo area provided 30 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 59.3 cubic feet with them folded.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas excelled in interior space, with a comfortable third-row seat and a cavernous cargo area. The front seats were heated, ventilated, and massaging, though the leather felt stiff. Visibility was excellent, and the second-row bench accommodated three adults comfortably. The third-row access was outstanding, and storage space was ample throughout. The cargo area offered 20.6 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 96.6 cubic feet with all seats folded.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 featured traditional controls for most functions, with a 10.25-inch display for infotainment. It allowed touchscreen operation for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which were wireless on several trims. The system used a knob and buttons for navigation, similar to older luxury brands. Mazda Connected Services offered remote features and a 10-speaker Bose sound system in higher trims.

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, making smartphone integration essential. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto provided a better experience, and the Harman Kardon audio system was impressive. However, the MIB3 system had user-experience glitches and a confusing interface.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 came with standard ADAS, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims added features like adaptive headlights and a driver monitoring system. The CX-5 received five-star ratings from NHTSA, except for a four-star rollover rating.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas included IQ.Drive features like Front Assist, Lane Assist, and adaptive cruise control. It offered a five-year subscription to Car-Net Safe & Secure services. The Atlas earned a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and was a 2024 IIHS Top Safety Pick.