Volkswagen Atlas Review Specs & Picture

The Volkswagen Atlas has been around for a few years now, and it's easy to see why it's become such a popular option in the midsize SUV market. But have you ever noticed how much it resembles some other SUVs on the road? Specifically, there's one that comes to mind that we just can't ignore: the Ford Explorer.

It's undeniable that the Atlas and the Explorer could be mistaken for each other at a quick glance. But when you take the time to look closer, you'll start to see the differences that make each of these SUVs unique.

VW Atlas vs Ford Explorer: A Side-by-Side Comparison

Category	VW Atlas	Ford Explorer
Engine	2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4	3.5L V6
Horsepower	235 @ 4,500 rpm	290 @ 6,500 rpm
Torque	258 lb-ft @ 1,600 rpm	255 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm
Transmission	8-Speed Automatic	6-Speed Automatic
Max Towing Capacity	5,000 lbs	5,000 lbs
Fuel Economy (City/Highway/Combined)	21/24/22 MPG	18/25/20 MPG
Seating Capacity	7	7
Cargo Capacity Behind 3rd Row	20.6 cu. ft.	21.0 cu. ft.
Cargo Capacity Behind 2nd Row	55.5 cu. ft.	43.9 cu. ft.
Cargo Capacity Behind 1st Row	96.8 cu. ft.	81.7 cu. ft.

Pros of the VW Atlas

Spacious cabin and cargo area
User-friendly tech features and infotainment system
Smooth ride and comfortable handling

Cons of the VW Atlas

Poor fuel economy for the class
Sluggish acceleration with base engine
No smartphone integration without upgrading to higher trim level

Pros of the Ford Explorer

Powerful engine options
Comfortable ride and handling
User-friendly infotainment system

Cons of the Ford Explorer

Smaller cargo capacity compared to the Atlas
Inconsistent interior material quality
Less spacious third-row seating

Ultimately, the decision between the VW Atlas and the Ford Explorer will come down to personal preferences and what you're looking for in an SUV. But whichever one you choose, you'll be driving a capable and reliable vehicle that will serve you well for years to come.

Thanks for reading our comparison of these two popular SUVs. We hope it has been helpful in your search for the perfect vehicle. If you have any questions or comments, don't hesitate to reach out to us!

Disclaimer: This information is based on our assessment of the VW Atlas and the Ford Explorer as of the date of publication. We are not affiliated with Volkswagen or Ford, and our reviews are independent and unbiased.