Compare The Volkswagen Atlas
to The Honda Pilot
Vehicle2026 Volkswagen Atlas vs the Honda Pilot
Spec | 2025 Volkswagen Atlas | 2025 Honda Pilot |
Engine Power | 269 hp @ 5,500 rpm | 285 hp @ 6,100 rpm |
Engine Torque | 273 lb-ft @ 1,600 rpm | 262 lb-ft @ 5,000 rpm |
Engine Displacement | 2.0 l | 3.5 l |
Engine Configuration | inline 4 | V6 |
Drivetrain | 4 yr./ 50,000 mi. | 5 yr./ 60,000 mi. |
Fuel Economy | 18 / 25 / 21 MPG | 19 / 25 / 21 MPG |
Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 10-speed shiftable automatic |
Tire Size | 265/45R21 | 255/60R18 |
Seating Capacity | 7 | 8 |
Cargo Space | 20.6 cu. ft. | 18.6 cu. ft. |
Ground Clearance | 6.3 in. | 7.3 in. |
Height | 70.4 in. | 70.9 in. |
Fuel Capacity | 18.6 gal. | 18.5 gal. |
Compare the Volkswagen Atlas to the Honda Pilot
The Volkswagen Atlas is one of the most appealing choices among three-row SUVs. It has a spacious interior and powerful performance capabilities with numerous comfort amenities and intuitive technology features that give it an advantage over the Honda Pilot.
Spacious Interiors for Growing Families
An expansive three-row cabin makes the VW Atlas feel spacious and practical for everyday driving, even with a full passenger load. Families across Portsmouth, NH, appreciate the second row's extra stretch room that can accommodate child seats without making adult passengers feel cramped. Honda Pilot models also have three rows, yet the VW Atlas provides more shoulder width and footwell depth, which makes longer drives more comfortable. Cargo space also tilts in favor of the VW Atlas, with a wide hatch opening that simplifies loading gear for weekend outings to nearby coastal spots.
Performance and Capability on New England Roads
2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder producing 269 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque, well-suited for everyday driving and highway commutes near Dover, NH. A 3.6-liter V6 with 276 horsepower adds strength for towing or carrying heavier passenger and cargo loads. The Honda Pilot gets power from a single 3.5-liter V6 engine with solid numbers, but the VW Atlas earns higher marks for its transmission refinement and towing ability. Rated to pull up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped, the VW Atlas gives families the flexibility to haul boats, campers, or trailers with assurance.
Ride Comfort and Handling
Suspension tuning in the VW Atlas promotes stability and smooth rides. Drivers heading toward Epping, NH, notice how it absorbs uneven pavement and minimizes cabin shake, keeping passengers comfortable on longer trips. Honda Pilot SUVs have a lighter steering feel, yet the VW Atlas communicates more feedback through the wheel, instilling greater control at highway speeds. The 4MOTION® all-wheel drive (AWD) in VW Atlas SUVs adjusts real-time power distribution, adding confidence during New England's unpredictable winter months.
Advanced Technology and Connectivity
The VW Atlas interior has a digital cockpit that places high-resolution displays directly in front of the driver, with customizable readouts for navigation, driver assistance, and vehicle information. Families traveling from York, ME, often highlight the convenience of wireless smartphone integration and multiple USB-C charging ports across all three rows. The Honda Pilot also has a digital cluster on higher trims, but the VW Atlas integrates the technology more seamlessly across its lineup. The large infotainment touchscreen quickly responds to touch inputs and has fluid menus that reduce drivers' distractions during commutes.
Safety Features and Driver Assistance
Both SUVs deliver strong safety reputations. The VW Atlas equips a comprehensive suite of driver aids, including forward collision warning, autonomous emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert as standard equipment. These systems play an essential role in everyday driving for drivers around Amesbury, MA, where small-town roads meet busy intersections. Honda Pilot matches much of this suite under Honda Sensing, yet Volkswagen engineers fine-tune their alerts to provide early warnings without sounding intrusive, which enhances driver comfort and attention.
Style and Presence
Sharp horizontal lines and a broad stance define the VW Atlas design, helping it stand out on the road. Families from Newburyport, MA, note that the bold grille, squared shoulders, LED lighting signature, and wheel options up to 21 inches create a more assertive edge in the segment without appearing over-styled. The Pilot's styling is softer with rounded edges that may appeal to some shoppers, but it lacks the eye-catching boldness of the VW Atlas.
Practical Features for Everyday Life
Volkswagen added thoughtful touches to the Atlas that simplify daily use. A power liftgate, available hands-free access, and configurable rear seating make it easy to adapt the SUV to changing needs. Commuters from Newburyport, MA, who juggle carpools, sports equipment, and grocery hauls, find these conveniences especially helpful. Honda Pilot includes many of these elements, though the VW Atlas executes them with a greater sense of practicality. Even small details like wide door openings and low step-in height improve accessibility for children and grandparents.
Test Drive a New VW Atlas
Learn more about the Volkswagen Atlas for sale at Portsmouth Volkswagen, and if you're looking for more options, consider the Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport variant. Contact our sales team with questions and visit the showroom at our Portsmouth Volkswagen dealership to browse new inventory, compare trims and features, and go for a test drive through Greenland, NH, in the models that pique your interest.
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Portsmouth Volkswagen
95 Ocean Rd
Greenland, NH 03840-2407
- Sales: 603-436-6900
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