2025 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2024 Land Rover Defender

The 2024 Land Rover Defender showcased a blend of classic and modern design elements. Its boxy profile and angular headlights connected it visually to other Land Rover models, yet its interior leaned more towards durability and adventure-readiness, akin to a Jeep Wrangler or Ford Bronco. The Defender offered three body styles: the two-door 90, the four-door 110, and the extended-wheelbase 130, each available in various trims. Our test drive of the Defender 110 S, featuring the County visual package, highlighted its vintage appeal with white wheels and retro graphics. Standard features included 19-inch alloy wheels, heated front seats, and a panoramic glass roof, with options for premium leather and additional climate control features.

In contrast, the 2025 Volkswagen Atlas presented a more refined and upscale appearance. Offered in five trims, the Atlas Peak Edition suggested off-road capability, while the SEL Premium R-Line exuded sportiness with polished aluminum detailing and 21-inch wheels. The Mountain Lake Blue exterior and Shetland Beige leather interior of our test model added to its sophisticated look. Inside, the Atlas boasted diamond-stitched leather and metallic accents, creating a warm environment. Despite its modern design, the touch-sensitive controls for temperature and volume were less satisfying, especially without gloves, highlighting a preference for traditional knobs.

The 2024 Land Rover Defender offered a range of powertrains, starting with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 296 horsepower. Our P400 test model featured a mild-hybrid 3.0-liter inline-six with 395 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque. The Defender also had two supercharged V8 options, with the P525 delivering 518 hp. All engines paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and full-time 4WD. The Defender excelled in off-road capabilities, with features like adaptive air suspension and Terrain Response 2. Our test model's inline-six provided ample power for highway speeds, though it exhibited slight lurching at low speeds.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas, meanwhile, transitioned to a single turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 269 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. Despite initial skepticism, the engine proved refined and adequate for daily driving. The Atlas offered an eight-speed automatic transmission with FWD or AWD. During testing, the Atlas returned 15.5 mpg in urban settings and 19.2 mpg overall, slightly below EPA ratings. The ride quality was less impressive, with a brittle suspension over rough surfaces and excessive body motions at highway speeds. However, handling remained predictable, and the brakes performed well under stress.

The 2024 Land Rover Defender balanced luxury and practicality, featuring soft-touch materials, grip handles, and rubberized floors. Seating capacity varied, with the Defender 110 offering an optional third row for children, while the Defender 130 accommodated up to eight passengers. Cargo space ranged from 10.7 to 78.8 cubic feet, depending on the configuration. The Defender's interior was versatile, though the multifunctional climate control dials required extra steps for adjustments.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas excelled in comfort and space, particularly in its third-row seating. The SEL Premium R-Line model featured heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats, with excellent visibility and a surround-view camera system. The second row offered ample room for adults, and the third row provided adequate leg support. Cargo capacity was generous, with 20.6 cubic feet behind the third row and up to 96.6 cubic feet with seats folded. Storage solutions were practical and well-designed throughout the cabin.

The 2024 Land Rover Defender came with a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and an 11.4-inch touchscreen. While smaller than some competitors, the screen was user-friendly, featuring navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The Meridian stereo system and straightforward layout enhanced the Defender's utilitarian charm.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas used VW's MIB3 system on a 12-inch touchscreen. Lacking traditional controls, it relied on touch-sensitive buttons, which were less intuitive. The absence of a reliable voice assistant made navigation and radio tuning cumbersome. However, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto provided a better experience, and the Harman Kardon audio system was impressive.

The 2024 Land Rover Defender included standard driver assistance features like forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and a 360-degree camera system. However, lane-departure and lane-keeping assist were overly sensitive. Crash-test ratings were unavailable from IIHS and NHTSA.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas featured IQ.Drive, with adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and emergency assist. It also offered a five-year subscription to Car-Net Safe & Secure services. The Atlas earned a five-star NHTSA rating and was a 2024 IIHS Top Safety Pick.