2025 Lexus RX Hybrid vs 2025 Volkswagen Atlas

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid, priced at $75,000 for the RX 500h Black Line Special Edition, featured a unique Incognito paint job and orange brake calipers. Despite these touches, its design remained largely unremarkable, with a massive front grille and a rising sheetmetal profile. The RX lineup included three models: the RX 350h with 246 hp and 36 mpg, the RX 500h with 366 hp and 27 mpg, and the RX 450h+ plug-in hybrid offering 37 miles of electric range and 35 mpg. All models came with standard AWD, and prices ranged from $52,875 to $72,710. Inside, the RX boasted a modern interior with quality materials, though some controls were confusing.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas offered five trim levels, with the SEL Premium R-Line being the most equipped. Prices ranged from $38,200 to $53,205, excluding a $1,425 destination charge. The Atlas SEL Premium R-Line, in Mountain Lake Blue, featured a Shetland Beige leather interior and standard 4Motion AWD. Its design was muscular and upscale, with polished aluminum detailing and 21-inch wheels. Inside, the Atlas impressed with diamond-stitched leather and metallic accents, though touch-sensitive controls for temperature and volume were less satisfying.

The Lexus RX 350h was the least powerful with 246 hp, while the RX 450h+ offered 304 hp and a 6.2-second 0-60 mph time. The RX 500h, with a turbocharged 2.4-liter engine, delivered 366 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque, achieving quick acceleration but lower fuel efficiency at 20.9 mpg. It featured a sport-tuned suspension and Direct4 AWD, but lacked dynamic communication, making it more about appearance than performance.

The Volkswagen Atlas, with a new 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, produced 269 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque. Despite initial skepticism, it 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. Its ride quality was brittle, with excessive body motions at highway speeds. However, handling was predictable, and the brakes performed well under stress.

The Lexus RX Hybrid focused on comfort and cargo space, with heated and ventilated front seats that felt snug. The rear seats were spacious and comfortable, with a panoramic sunroof. Cargo space was 29.6 cubic feet, expanding to 46.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, though not generous for a midsize SUV.

The Volkswagen Atlas excelled in comfort and space, offering a roomy third-row seat and a cavernous cargo area. The front seats were supportive, and visibility was excellent. The second row accommodated three adults comfortably, and access to the third row was easy. Cargo space was 20.6 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 96.6 cubic feet with seats folded.

The Lexus RX Hybrid featured a 12.3-inch digital panel and a 14-inch touchscreen with Lexus Interface. While some features were optional, the system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Mark Levinson audio system was impressive, but steering wheel controls were distracting.

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

The Lexus RX Hybrid included Safety Connect with a 10-year subscription, offering collision notification and emergency assistance. Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 provided advanced driver assistance, though some features were quirky. It earned a five-star NHTSA rating but a Poor IIHS rating.

The Volkswagen Atlas featured IQ.Drive with adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. It included a five-year Car-Net Safe & Secure subscription. The Atlas earned a five-star NHTSA rating and was a 2024 IIHS Top Safety Pick.