2024 Toyota Grand Highlander vs. 2024 Volkswagen Atlas: A Head-to-Head SUV Showdown

Introduction

The 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander and the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas are two of the most highly anticipated three-row SUVs this year. Designed to cater to families and those needing ample passenger and cargo space, these SUVs bring distinctive offerings to the competitive segment. At the 2023 Chicago Auto Show, both models were showcased, providing an opportunity to compare their key features, strengths, and areas where they may fall short.

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Interior Quality: A Close Tie

Both the Grand Highlander and Atlas offer premium-feeling interiors, but personal preference will ultimately dictate the winner in this category. The Grand Highlander features bronze-colored accents and suede-like seat inserts, adding a touch of sophistication. In contrast, the Atlas impresses with satin-finish wood-look trim and customizable 30-color ambient lighting.

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Storage solutions are well thought out in both SUVs. The Grand Highlander’s center console is slightly more spacious, while the Atlas offers an open storage compartment beneath the center console, ideal for securing small items. Toyota integrates a horizontal storage shelf on the passenger side, enhancing convenience.

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Multimedia and Technology: Grand Highlander Takes the Lead

The Grand Highlander wins in this department with its 12.3-inch touchscreen, a highly intuitive interface, and robust voice-command capabilities borrowed from the Toyota Tundra. Toyota retains physical buttons and knobs, ensuring ease of use.

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Meanwhile, the Atlas features a 12-inch touchscreen with an interface similar to the ID.4 EV’s. Unfortunately, Volkswagen’s reliance on touch-sensitive controls has proven to be frustrating in previous models. For users who prioritize usability, Toyota’s system provides a more seamless experience.

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Second-Row Comfort: Atlas Holds the Advantage

For taller passengers, the Atlas edges out the Grand Highlander in second-row comfort. With generous legroom and an adjustable seat design, Volkswagen’s SUV accommodates occupants with ease. The panoramic moonroof in the Grand Highlander slightly reduces headroom, particularly for taller passengers.

Toyota’s climate vents are positioned in the headliner, while Volkswagen integrates them into the center console, making airflow distribution a matter of preference.

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Third-Row Comfort: Atlas Still Leads

Despite the Grand Highlander’s spacious design, the Atlas offers slightly more headroom and legroom in the third row. While both SUVs provide easy access to the third row, the Grand Highlander’s step plate and grab handles add to passenger convenience.

The Atlas benefits from its flexible second-row adjustability, allowing occupants to create additional legroom for third-row passengers.

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Cargo Space: A Tight Race

Both SUVs boast nearly identical cargo space measurements. The Grand Highlander and Atlas each provide 20.6 cubic feet of storage behind the third row. When the second and third rows are folded, Toyota holds a slight edge with 97.5 cubic feet versus the Atlas’ 96.8 cubic feet.

Both SUVs offer a flat load floor, making it easier to transport large items.

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Fuel Efficiency and Powertrain Options

While real-world fuel economy figures have yet to be finalized, the Grand Highlander’s hybrid powertrain options give it a clear advantage over the Atlas in efficiency. The top-tier Hybrid Max version produces 362 horsepower while still maintaining better fuel economy compared to Volkswagen’s standard gasoline engines.

The Atlas lacks hybrid powertrain options, potentially making it less appealing for eco-conscious buyers.

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Infotainment System Usability: A Concern for the Atlas

The Atlas’ touchscreen interface and touch-sensitive controls have been a concern in previous Volkswagen models. If the system mirrors the ID.4 EV’s layout, usability may be a drawback for drivers who prefer traditional buttons and knobs.

Toyota’s infotainment system remains intuitive, offering superior voice control features and straightforward menu navigation.

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Pricing and Final Verdict

Pricing details for both models have yet to be revealed, which could influence buyers’ decisions. However, based on available specifications, the Grand Highlander emerges as a strong contender for those prioritizing fuel economy, intuitive technology, and cargo space. Meanwhile, the Atlas excels in passenger comfort and interior ambiance.

Ultimately, choosing between these two SUVs will depend on individual preferences and priorities, but both models offer compelling features for families seeking a spacious and capable three-row vehicle.

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