Chevrolet Traverse vs Volkswagen Atlas

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse was a testament to Chevrolet's knack for exterior styling, with its sleek design extending to the interior. The digital instrumentation and Google-based infotainment systems were highlights, offering a modern and appealing layout. However, the quality of materials left something to be desired, with hard, glossy plastics and Evotex artificial leather that failed to convincingly mimic the real thing. This was particularly disappointing given the Traverse's price point. The Z71 trim, tested with Radiant Red paint and additional packages, had an MSRP of $55,900, including destination charges.

In contrast, the 2026 Volkswagen Atlas exuded an expensive look, especially in the SEL Premium R-Line trim, which flirted with luxury crossover territory. Starting from the base SE trim, the Atlas featured full-LED lighting and power-adjustable heated side mirrors, with higher trims adding more luxurious touches like 21-inch alloy wheels and power-folding side mirrors. The interior boasted quilted diamond-pattern leather seats and metallic accents, creating a warm and inviting environment. Despite its upscale appearance, the Atlas was priced competitively, with the SEL Premium R-Line starting at $56,105, making it a more affordable option compared to some luxury competitors.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse was powered by a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 328 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 326 pound-feet of torque at 3,500 rpm. While the engine delivered ample power, its exhaust note was less than pleasing. The Z71 trim, designed for off-road adventures, featured a raised suspension for 7.7 inches of ground clearance, all-terrain tires, and a Twin Clutch AWD system. The Traverse excelled in off-road conditions, with its Terrain mode providing smooth power application. Despite its size, the Traverse managed a combined fuel economy of 21.5 mpg, slightly above the EPA estimate.

The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas retained its turbocharged 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine, offering 269 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. While not particularly quick off the line, the Atlas's wide torque band made it feel capable once in motion. The eight-speed automatic transmission and 4Motion AWD system provided smooth highway merging and competent handling in various conditions. The Atlas achieved 22 mpg during testing, slightly better than its EPA estimate. However, the ride quality suffered due to the large 21-inch wheels, transmitting vibrations on rough surfaces. Despite this, the Atlas handled well, with predictable body roll and responsive brakes.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse offered generous interior space, with eight-passenger seating and a substantial width that made it one of the most accommodating vehicles in its class. The Z71 trim featured heated front seats and a heated steering wheel, enhancing comfort during cold weather. However, the third-row seats lacked a view due to the rear window design and did not offer USB charging ports. Cargo space was impressive, with 22.9 cubic feet behind the third row and a maximum of 97.6 cubic feet with the second row folded. Folding the third row required adjusting the second-row seats, which could be inconvenient.

The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas excelled in accommodating passengers and cargo, with comfortable seating across all three rows. The SEL Premium R-Line's front seats offered heating, ventilation, and massage functions, while the second-row captain's chairs provided easy access to the third row. The Atlas boasted 20.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 96.6 cubic feet with all seats folded. This made it a strong contender for families needing ample space for passengers and belongings. The Atlas's interior design prioritized comfort and usability, with excellent outward visibility and easy maneuverability.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse impressed with its standard 17.7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring Google Built-in, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The user interface was intuitive, with Google Assistant providing accurate voice recognition. The lack of a tuning knob was a minor drawback, but the steering wheel controls offered a convenient alternative. The Traverse also featured an 11-inch digital instrumentation panel with customizable views and optional camera-based digital rearview mirror and surround-view camera system.

The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas came equipped with a 12-inch touchscreen running VW's MIB3 operating system, a 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit Pro, and wireless connectivity options. However, the MIB3 system was frustrating to use, with a complex interface and touch-sensitive controls that were invisible at night. The voice control system was unreliable, making Apple CarPlay and Android Auto the preferred options. The Harman Kardon audio system delivered excellent sound quality, and the Digital Cockpit Pro offered multiple view options, but the overall tech experience was marred by usability issues.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse came with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keep assist. The Driver Confidence Package added a surround-view camera system and traffic sign recognition, while the Enhanced Driving Package offered Super Cruise, a hands-free driving aid. The Traverse received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a "Top Safety Pick" award from the IIHS.

The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas also earned a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS. The Atlas featured Volkswagen's IQ.Drive suite, including forward-collision warning, blind-spot monitors, and adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability. The SEL Premium R-Line added Park Assist, although the Atlas's size made it easy to maneuver without it.