2025 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2025 Subaru Outback

The 2025 Subaru Outback stood out in a dwindling field of wagons in the U.S., embracing crossover trends with its rugged design elements like chunky wheel-arch flares and skid plate-like fascias. Its Crimson Red Pearl paint paired beautifully with a black leather interior, though earthy tones were deemed more fitting. Subaru focused on off-road capabilities, appealing to a niche market that proved successful, with the Outback, Crosstrek, and Forester becoming top sellers. The 2025 model saw no major changes, but the Limited trim gained features like a power moonroof and DriverFocus tech. The Touring XT trim offered Nappa leather and ventilated seats, maintaining a balance of ruggedness and interior sophistication.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas offered five trims, with the Peak Edition for off-roading and the SEL Premium R-Line for a sporty look. The Atlas Cross Sport variant provided a rakish design. Prices ranged from $38,200 to $53,205, with the SEL Premium R-Line tested in Mountain Lake Blue. Its polished aluminum detailing and 21-inch wheels gave it a muscular, upscale appearance. Inside, diamond-stitched leather and metallic accents created a warm environment. However, touch-sensitive controls for temperature and volume were less satisfying, especially in colder conditions. The Atlas maintained a premium look but faced challenges with its control interface.

The 2025 Subaru Outback featured a Boxer engine in two forms: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 182 horsepower and a turbocharged 2.4-liter engine producing 260 hp. Both engines ran on regular unleaded gas, with a CVT and standard AWD. The turbocharged engine offered better acceleration, making the XT model a recommended choice for those who could afford the upgrade. The Outback excelled off-road with 8.7 inches of ground clearance and X-Mode for traction. The Wilderness model increased clearance to 9.5 inches. On-road, the Outback was smooth and comfortable, though the stop/start technology and CVT had minor drawbacks.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas replaced its previous engines with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder, offering 269 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. An eight-speed automatic transmission was standard, with FWD or AWD. Initially, the engine seemed underpowered for the Atlas's size, but it proved refined and satisfying for daily driving. The Atlas returned 15.5 mpg in city conditions and 19.2 mpg overall, below EPA ratings. Ride quality was a concern, with the suspension feeling brittle over bumps and excessive body motions at highway speeds. Handling was predictable, but the tires were a weak point.

The Subaru Outback's wagon shape provided practicality with easy entry and a lower roof for loading. It offered 32.6 cubic feet of cargo space with seats up and 75.6 cubic feet with seats folded. Passenger space was generous, with 109 cubic feet of total volume. The Outback's towing capacity increased to 3,500 pounds with the turbo engine. Different trims offered varied driving experiences, making test drives essential.

The Volkswagen Atlas excelled in comfort and space, with a standout third-row seat. The SEL Premium R-Line's front seats were heated, ventilated, and massaging, though the leather felt stiff. Visibility was excellent, aided by a surround-view camera. The second row offered ample space, and the third row was easily accessible. Cargo space was 20.6 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 96.6 cubic feet with seats folded. Storage was well-designed throughout, accommodating large items and passengers comfortably.

The 2025 Subaru Outback's technology was a mixed bag. The 11.6-inch touchscreen was bright but slow to respond, especially at startup. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were included, with a Harman Kardon audio system. The dashboard had a mix of physical controls and touchscreen functions, with a surprising inclusion of a CD player. USB-A and USB-C ports were available for device connectivity.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas used the MIB3 system on a 12-inch touchscreen. Traditional controls were replaced with touch-sensitive buttons, which were less intuitive. The lack of a reliable voice assistant made navigation and radio tuning challenging. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were recommended for a better experience, with a Harman Kardon audio system providing quality sound. The MIB3 system had glitches, affecting user experience and causing distractions.

The 2025 Subaru Outback featured EyeSight driver-assist technology with adaptive cruise control, lane centering, and automatic emergency braking. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were included on higher trims. The Outback earned a Top Safety Pick from IIHS and a five-star rating from NHTSA.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas included IQ.Drive features like Front Assist, Lane Assist, and Travel Assist. Adaptive cruise control and rear cross-traffic alert were standard. The Atlas offered a five-year subscription to Car-Net Safe & Secure services. It earned a five-star rating from NHTSA and was a 2024 IIHS Top Safety Pick.