Compare Volkswagen Atlas vs BMW X5 – In the SUV market, two popular vehicles are the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas and the 2023 BMW X5. Both models have their unique features, pros, and cons.
This article will delve into the detailed comparison of these two SUVs and determine which is the better choice for buyers.
What is The Main Difference Between Volkswagen Atlas and BMW X5?
The main difference between the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas and the 2023 BMW X5 is their price point and luxury features.
The Volkswagen Atlas is a more budget-friendly option with standard safety features, while the BMW X5 is a luxury SUV with premium features and a higher price point.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
The starting price of the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas is $32,565, while the 2023 BMW X5 starts at $60,395, making the VW Atlas a more budget-friendly option.
The Volkswagen Atlas offers better value for money with its low price point and standard features, such as automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring.
However, the BMW X5 comes with more premium features, including leather upholstery and a panoramic sunroof.
If you’re looking for a more affordable SUV, the Volkswagen Atlas is a good choice, but if you want a luxury SUV with premium features, the BMW X5 is worth the investment.
Read also: Volkswagen Tiguan vs BMW X3
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The Volkswagen Atlas comes with a standard 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that generates 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque.
It also has an available 3.6-liter V6 engine that produces 276 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque.
On the other hand, the BMW X5 comes with a standard 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder engine that produces 300 horsepower and 331 pound-feet of torque.
The X5 also has an available 4.4-liter turbocharged V8 engine that produces 523 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque.
The BMW X5 has more powerful engine options than the Volkswagen Atlas, making it a better choice for those who prioritize performance.
However, the Atlas has a smooth and comfortable ride, making it a good choice for those who prioritize comfort.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
The 2023 Volkswagen Atlas has an EPA-estimated fuel economy rating of 21 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway for the four-cylinder engine. The V6 engine has a fuel economy rating of 18 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway.
The BMW X5 has an EPA estimated fuel economy rating of 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway for the six-cylinder engine. The V8 engine has a fuel economy rating of 16 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway.
The BMW X5 has a better fuel economy rating than the Volkswagen Atlas, making it a better choice for those who prioritize fuel efficiency.
Read also: Volkswagen Tiguan vs BMW X1
Exterior Dimensions
The 2023 Volkswagen Atlas is larger than the 2023 BMW X5, with a length of 198.3 inches, a width of 78.4 inches, and a height of 70 inches. The 2023 BMW X5 has a length of 194.3 inches, a width of 78.9 inches, and a height of 68.7 inches.
The Volkswagen Atlas is a good choice for those who need more space and a larger vehicle. However, the BMW X5 is more maneuverable and easier to handle, making it a better choice for those who need a smaller vehicle.
Interior and Comfort
The 2023 Volkswagen Atlas can seat up to seven passengers and has ample cargo space. The interior is spacious and comfortable, with good headroom and legroom in all three rows.
The seats are supportive and provide a comfortable ride, even on long trips. The 2023 BMW X5 can seat up to five passengers and has less cargo space than the Volkswagen Atlas.
The BMW X5 has a luxurious interior with premium materials and advanced technology features. The seats are comfortable and supportive, providing a smooth and comfortable ride.
However, the BMW X5 may not be as spacious as the Volkswagen Atlas, making it a better choice for those who don’t require a third row.
Infotainment
The 2023 Volkswagen Atlas comes standard with a 6.5-inch touchscreen display, while an 8-inch display is available on higher trim levels.
The infotainment system is user-friendly, with easy-to-use controls and a responsive touchscreen. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility are standard.
The 2023 BMW X5 comes standard with a 12.3-inch touchscreen display, which is larger than the Volkswagen Atlas.
The infotainment system is intuitive and easy to use, with a responsive touchscreen and high-quality graphics. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility are also standard.
The BMW X5 has a more advanced and larger infotainment system than the Volkswagen Atlas, making it a better choice for those who prioritize advanced technology features.
Read also: Volkswagen Golf vs Ford Focus
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
The 2023 Volkswagen Atlas comes standard with advanced safety features, including automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert.
Higher trim levels come with additional features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and front and rear parking sensors.
The 2023 BMW X5 also comes standard with advanced safety features, including automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert.
Higher trim levels come with additional features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and front and rear parking sensors.
Both the Volkswagen Atlas and BMW X5 come with advanced safety and driver-assistance features, making them both safe choices for buyers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What SUV is similar to the Atlas?
The 2023 Kia Telluride and the 2023 Hyundai Palisade are similar SUVs to the Volkswagen Atlas. They are both affordable, and spacious, and come with advanced safety features.
Is the Volkswagen Atlas worth it?
Yes, the Volkswagen Atlas is worth it. It is an affordable SUV that comes with advanced safety features, ample cargo space, and a comfortable ride. It is a good choice for families who need a spacious and reliable vehicle.
Is Volkswagen Atlas a reliable car?
Yes, the Volkswagen Atlas is a reliable car. According to J.D. Power, it has a reliability rating of 83 out of 100, which is above average for the industry.
What vehicles are comparable to the Atlas?
Apart from the Kia Telluride and the Hyundai Palisade, other vehicles comparable to the Volkswagen Atlas include the Ford Explorer, Honda Pilot, and Toyota Highlander.
Read also: Volkswagen Tiguan vs Ford Edge
Conclusion
In conclusion, the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas vs BMW X5 is both excellent SUVs with their unique features and pros and cons.
The Volkswagen Atlas is a more budget-friendly option with standard safety features, ample cargo space, and a comfortable ride, while the BMW X5 is a luxury SUV with premium features and advanced technology.
Buyers should consider their budget, performance, fuel economy, size, and features before making their choice.
