Honda Odyssey vs Volkswagen Atlas

Honda hasn’t redesigned the Odyssey since 2018, but this minivan does get a few updates that will appeal to the Odyssey faithful. They include subtle styling changes, a new 7-inch digital driver display, an updated 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, modernized USB-C charging ports, and a smartphone charging pad. A new Amazon Fire TV rear-seat entertainment system also arrives for 2025. While appreciated, these improvements don’t rescue the Odyssey from its increasingly uncompetitive position.

Verdict: The 2025 Odyssey doesn’t offer a hybrid powertrain or an all-wheel-drive (AWD) option. The updated tech merely meets minimum standards and expectations. And in a new crash-test evaluation, Honda’s minivan earns a rare low rating. Certainly, the Odyssey remains comfortable, exceptionally practical, and enjoyable to drive. But it needs a redesign, and soon.

The 2025 Atlas is Volkswagen’s midsize, three-row crossover SUV. It debuted for the 2018 model year, designed specifically for Americans and manufactured in VW’s Chattanooga, Tennessee, assembly plant. Over the years, it has received numerous updates to keep it fresh and technologically competitive, most recently for 2024, when styling, powertrain, and tech upgrades were introduced. The 2025 Atlas adds standard automatic high-beam headlights and wireless charging in addition to two new color choices.

Verdict: This family-sized SUV has more interior space than most rivals, making the 2025 VW Atlas a great choice if passenger and cargo room are high on your list of requirements. However, unimpressive fuel economy, dissatisfying ride quality, and a sometimes-infuriating infotainment interface could have you mapping out alternatives to an Atlas.