Volkswagen Atlas vs Honda Pilot: A Comprehensive Comparison

Compare Volkswagen Atlas vs Honda Pilot – In the highly competitive SUV market of 2023, finding the perfect vehicle that fits your lifestyle and needs can be challenging.

Two strong contenders in this segment are the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas and the 2023 Honda Pilot. Both SUVs boast impressive features and performance, making them popular choices among families and adventure enthusiasts alike.

In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the key differences between the Volkswagen Atlas and Honda Pilot, helping you make an informed decision when choosing your next SUV.

What is the Difference Between Volkswagen Atlas and Honda Pilot?

The Volkswagen Atlas and the Honda Pilot are two popular midsize SUVs, each offering a range of features and capabilities to meet the needs of families and adventure-seekers.

While both vehicles share some similarities, they also have distinct differences that set them apart. Let’s explore the key differences between the Volkswagen Atlas vs Honda Pilot.

Pricing Comparison

When considering a new SUV for your family or lifestyle needs, pricing is often one of the most significant factors influencing your decision.

In this section, we will compare the starting prices of the 2023 VW Atlas vs Honda Pilot, helping you understand the cost difference between these two popular models.

– 2023 Volkswagen Atlas Price

The 2023 Volkswagen Atlas offers a range of trim levels, each catering to different budgets and preferences.

The starting price for the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas is $35,150 for the SE 2.0L TSI® model equipped with an 8-speed automatic transmission.

However, it’s essential to keep in mind that this price is the manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) and excludes additional expenses such as transportation fees, taxes, title, other optional features, and dealer charges.

The final price may vary depending on your location and the specific features you choose.

The SE 2.0L TSI® model of the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas comes with a host of standard features, including a user-friendly infotainment system, advanced driver-assistance technologies, and a spacious interior that comfortably accommodates up to seven passengers.

– 2023 Honda Pilot Price

On the other hand, the 2023 Honda Pilot also offers a diverse range of trim levels with varying features and capabilities.

The starting price for the 2023 Honda Pilot begins at $36,300. This price reflects the base model’s MSRP, and like the Volkswagen Atlas, it excludes additional costs like destination charges, taxes, title, and dealer fees.

The entry-level 2023 Honda Pilot provides an impressive array of standard features, including a well-designed and practical interior, user-friendly technology, and the Honda Sensing® safety suite, which includes advanced driver-assistance features.

Factors to Consider: Volkswagen Atlas vs Honda Pilot

When comparing the starting prices of the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas and the 2023 Honda Pilot, it is essential to consider several factors.

Firstly, the price difference between the two models is relatively close, making both SUVs accessible options for buyers looking for a reliable and well-equipped vehicle.

Secondly, each SUV comes with its unique set of features and options. While the base models offer an excellent starting point, you may find that specific features or trim levels better suit your preferences and requirements.

Therefore, it is advisable to explore the available trims, packages, and optional extras to determine the best fit for your needs.

Lastly, keep in mind that dealership offers, incentives and financing deals can further impact the overall cost of the SUVs.

Be sure to check with your local Volkswagen and Honda dealerships for any special promotions or discounts that may be available during the time of purchase.

Read also: VW Atlas vs Toyota Highlander

Fuel Economy

Fuel efficiency is a crucial factor for SUV buyers, especially those seeking a balance between performance and saving on fuel costs.

In this section, we will compare the fuel economy of the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas and the 2023 Honda Pilot, helping you understand how these two SUVs perform in real-world driving scenarios.

The 2023 Volkswagen Atlas offers two engine options, each with different fuel economy ratings. The more fuel-efficient option is the four-cylinder model with front-wheel drive, which achieves an EPA-rated 21 mpg city and 25 mpg highway.

This makes it a respectable choice for those who prioritize fuel efficiency without sacrificing practicality and space.

For buyers who prefer more power, the V-6 engine is available but comes with a slight trade-off in fuel efficiency.

The V-6 model with front-wheel drive is rated at 18 mpg city and 24 mpg highway, while the all-wheel drive variant is slightly less efficient, achieving 16 mpg city and 22 mpg highway.

During real-world testing conducted at a consistent 75-mph highway speed, the V-6 Atlas achieved a commendable 24 mpg, while the four-cylinder model impressed with 27 mpg.

These real-world figures show that the Atlas fuel economy is competitive and not far behind the more fuel-efficient contenders in its class.

While the 2023 Honda Pilot is equipped with a V-6 engine, offering a balance between power and fuel efficiency. The EPA estimates that the Honda Pilot achieves up to 19 mpg city and 27 mpg highway.

During real-world testing on a 75-mph highway route, a 2023 Pilot Trailsport variant with added off-road features returned an impressive 22 mpg.

Comparing the real-world fuel economy of the Honda Pilot to its competitors, it falls just short of some V-6-powered three-row SUVs like the Kia Telluride and the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas, which both achieved 24 mpg in similar tests.

However, it is important to note that real-world fuel economy can vary based on driving habits, road conditions, and other factors.

In conclusion, when it comes to fuel economy, the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas and the 2023 Honda Pilot offer competitive ratings for their respective engine options.

The Volkswagen Atlas excels in providing a more fuel-efficient four-cylinder model, making it an excellent choice for those seeking better gas mileage without compromising on space and versatility.

On the other hand, the Honda Pilot, equipped with a capable V-6 engine, offers a solid balance between power and fuel efficiency.

Although it falls slightly behind some competitors in real-world fuel economy tests, it still delivers respectable fuel efficiency for its class.

Dimensions

When choosing an SUV, understanding the dimensions is essential to ensure it meets your space requirements for passengers and cargo.

In this section, we will compare the dimensions of the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2023 Honda Pilot to help you make an informed decision based on your needs.

2023 Volkswagen Atlas Dimensions:

Front Seat Dimensions:

Rear Seat Dimensions:

2023 Honda Pilot Dimensions:

Front Seat Dimensions:

Rear Seat Dimensions:

In comparison, the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas is slightly larger than the 2023 Honda Pilot, with a longer overall length and a more extended wheelbase.

It offers slightly more interior space with an EPA interior volume of 174.6 cubic feet compared to the Honda Pilot’s 18.6 cubic feet of cargo capacity with all seats in place.

However, the Honda Pilot compensates for its slightly smaller dimensions with thoughtful interior design, offering generous legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers.

Additionally, the Pilot comes with standard split-folding rear seatbacks and reclining rear seats, providing versatile cargo and passenger space configurations.

Ultimately, your choice between the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas and the 2023 Honda Pilot should be based on your specific needs and preferences for interior space and cargo versatility.

It is recommended to visit a dealership and conduct a thorough inspection and test drive of both models to ensure they meet your requirements for comfort and practicality.

Read also: Volkswagen Atlas vs BMW X3

Color Options

When it comes to personalizing your SUV, exterior and interior color choices play a significant role.

In this section, we will compare the color options available for the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas and the 2023 Honda Pilot, giving you insight into the variety of choices each SUV offers.

The 2023 Volkswagen Atlas offers a selection of six exterior colors, ranging from classic neutrals like Platinum Gray Metallic and Pure White to bolder shades like Aurora Red Metallic and Tourmaline Blue Metallic.

These color options allow buyers to choose the look that best reflects their style and preferences.

Inside the Atlas, three leatherette interior colors are available. Titan Black, Shetland Beige, and Mauro Brown provide different color schemes to complement the exterior color choice and create a comfortable and stylish cabin environment.

While the 2023 Honda Pilot offers seven exterior color options, including Lunar Silver Metallic, Obsidian Blue Pearl, and Modern Steel Metallic.

These colors cater to a wide range of tastes, from modern and sleek to bold and vibrant.

Inside the Pilot, four leather and leatherette interior colors are available, with options like Brown Perforated, Black Perforated, and Gray Perforated leather.

These interior color choices enhance the premium feel of the cabin and offer comfortable seating for all occupants.

The 2023 Volkswagen Atlas and the 2023 Honda Pilot provide a diverse range of color options for both their exteriors and interiors.

Whether you prefer sophisticated neutrals or eye-catching hues, both SUVs offer something to match your style.

Choosing the right color combination can elevate your driving experience, making you feel more connected and comfortable in your chosen SUV.

We recommend visiting a dealership to see the color options in person and envision how they will complement your lifestyle and preferences.

Keep in mind that the availability of colors may vary based on the trim level and optional packages, so be sure to check with your local Volkswagen and Honda dealerships for specific color options offered with your preferred configuration.

Ultimately, whether you opt for the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas or the 2023 Honda Pilot, you’ll have the opportunity to personalize your SUV with the colors that best suit your individual taste and create a vehicle that feels uniquely yours.

Safety Features

When it comes to family-oriented SUVs, safety is a top priority for most buyers. In this section, we will compare the safety features offered by the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas and the 2023 Honda Pilot, helping you understand the advanced driver-assistance technologies available in each SUV.

The 2023 Volkswagen Atlas is equipped with a range of standard and optional driver-assistance technologies to enhance safety and provide peace of mind during every journey. Key safety features include:

• Standard Forward-Collision Warning and Automated Emergency Braking: The Atlas comes with these crucial safety features that can help prevent or mitigate collisions with other vehicles or pedestrians by providing warnings and applying brakes if necessary.

• Standard Blind-Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert: These features help drivers detect vehicles in their blind spots and alert them to potential hazards when backing out of parking spaces or driveways.

• Available Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go Technology: This advanced cruise control system not only maintains a set speed but also adjusts the vehicle’s speed to match the flow of traffic. The stop-and-go technology can bring the SUV to a complete stop in heavy traffic and resume when conditions permit.

While the 2023 Honda Pilot takes safety seriously and equips all its models with Honda Sensing, a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features. Key safety features include:

• Standard Automated Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection: This system can detect pedestrians in the vehicle’s path and automatically apply brakes to reduce or prevent collisions.

• Standard Lane-Departure Warning with Lane-Keeping Assist: The Pilot’s lane-departure warning system alerts the driver if the SUV drifts out of its lane without signaling. Lane-keeping assist can provide gentle steering inputs to keep the vehicle centered in its lane.

• Standard Adaptive Cruise Control: Honda Sensing includes this advanced cruise control system that can maintain a set following distance from the vehicle ahead, automatically adjusting speed to keep a safe gap.

Both the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas and the 2023 Honda Pilot offer a comprehensive array of safety features to enhance driver awareness and prevent accidents.

These features contribute to the overall safety and confidence of both drivers and passengers on the road.

For more information on the crash test results and safety ratings of the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas and Honda Pilot, it is advisable to visit the websites of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

Warranty

A comprehensive warranty is essential to protect your investment and provide peace of mind during your ownership experience.

In this section, we will compare the warranty offerings of the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas and the 2023 Honda Pilot, allowing you to understand the coverage provided by each manufacturer.

Volkswagen provides an above-average limited warranty for the 2023 Atlas, ensuring that your vehicle is covered for a reasonable duration.

However, it’s worth noting that the powertrain warranty falls short compared to some competitors. The warranty coverage for the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas includes:

• Limited Warranty: Covers the vehicle for four years or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first. This warranty protects against defects in materials and workmanship, providing coverage for various components during the specified period.

• Powertrain Warranty: Provides coverage for the powertrain components, such as the engine and transmission, for four years or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first.

• Complimentary Maintenance: Volkswagen sweetens the deal by offering complimentary scheduled maintenance for two years or 20,000 miles. This coverage includes regular maintenance services at specified intervals, ensuring your Atlas receives proper care during the initial period of ownership.

However, Honda’s warranty for the 2023 Pilot is average for its class, but some competitors offer longer warranty periods. The warranty coverage for the 2023 Honda Pilot includes:

• Limited Warranty: Covers the vehicle for three years or 36,000 miles, whichever occurs first. This warranty protects against defects in materials and workmanship, providing coverage for various components during the specified period.

• Powertrain Warranty: Provides coverage for the powertrain components, such as the engine and transmission, for five years or 60,000 miles, whichever comes first.

• Complimentary Scheduled Maintenance: All 2023 Pilot models come with a complimentary maintenance plan that covers regular oil changes and basic services for two years or 24,000 miles. This service plan ensures that your Pilot receives proper maintenance during the early stages of ownership.

In conclusion, the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas offers an above-average limited warranty but falls short in terms of powertrain coverage compared to some competitors.

However, Volkswagen does provide a complimentary maintenance plan similar to what Toyota offers, providing added value during the initial period of ownership.

On the other hand, the 2023 Honda Pilot provides warranty coverage that is typical for its class, with a competitive powertrain warranty period.

The complimentary maintenance plan for the Pilot covers regular oil changes and basic services, contributing to the vehicle’s overall maintenance during the first two years or 24,000 miles of ownership.

When considering the warranty options for the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas and the 2023 Honda Pilot, it’s essential to assess your individual needs and priorities. If extended powertrain coverage is crucial for you, the Honda Pilot may be the more suitable option.

However, if complimentary maintenance services and a strong limited warranty are appealing, the Volkswagen Atlas may be the better choice.

Be sure to review the details of each warranty and consult with your local Volkswagen and Honda dealerships to understand the specific terms and conditions.

Read also: Volkswagen Atlas vs Toyota 4Runner

Specifications

When choosing an SUV, understanding the technical specifications is essential to assess its performance and capabilities.

In this section, we will compare the key specifications of the ]VW Atlas vs Honda Pilot, allowing you to make an informed decision based on their engine performance and other relevant details.

– 2023 Volkswagen Atlas Specs:

The 2023 Volkswagen Atlas is equipped with a 3.6-liter V6 gasoline engine, delivering 276 horsepower at 6,200 rpm and 266 lb-ft of torque at 3,500 rpm.

The SUV comes with an 8-speed shiftable automatic transmission and features all-wheel drive for improved traction and stability.

The Atlas provides a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 lbs., making it capable of hauling trailers or other recreational vehicles.

Additionally, it offers a respectable maximum payload capacity of 1,146 lbs., allowing you to carry a considerable amount of cargo and passengers.

2023 Honda Pilot Specs:

The 2023 Honda Pilot is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 gasoline engine, generating 285 horsepower at 6,100 rpm and 262 lb-ft of torque at 5,000 rpm.

The Pilot comes with a 10-speed shiftable automatic transmission and features all-wheel drive for enhanced traction and handling.

Honda has equipped the Pilot with cylinder deactivation technology, which can improve fuel efficiency by deactivating some cylinders under light load conditions.

Like the Volkswagen Atlas, the Pilot offers a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 lbs., making it suitable for towing trailers and boats.

In comparison, the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas and the 2023 Honda Pilot are both powered by capable V6 engines that deliver comparable horsepower and torque figures.

Both SUVs offer all-wheel drive and have a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 lbs., providing ample capability for towing and carrying loads.

When choosing between the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas and the 2023 Honda Pilot, it is essential to consider other factors, such as interior space, safety features, technology, and overall driving experience.

Additionally, conducting test drives and evaluating the specific features and options available in each model can help you make an informed decision based on your individual preferences and needs.

Pros and Cons

As with any vehicle, the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas and the 2023 Honda Pilot have their strengths and weaknesses.

In this section, we will compare the pros and cons of each SUV, helping you understand the key highlights and potential drawbacks of both models.

2023 Volkswagen Atlas Pros:

• Spacious Interior: The Volkswagen Atlas offers ample passenger room in all three rows, making it a comfortable choice for families and larger groups. The generous interior space ensures everyone can travel in comfort during long journeys.

• Handling and Comfort Balance: The Atlas strikes a great compromise between precise handling and everyday comfort, providing a smooth and composed ride for both city driving and highway cruising.

• Easy-to-Use Cabin Design: Volkswagen has designed the Atlas’cabin with user-friendliness in mind. The straightforward layout and intuitive controls make it easy to operate various features and settings.

Cons:

• Lackluster Acceleration: Some drivers may find the acceleration of the Volkswagen Atlas to be underwhelming, especially when equipped with the optional V6 engine. It may not feel as sprightly as some competitors in its class.

• Lower Fuel Economy: Compared to many competitors, Atlas has lower fuel economy ratings. If fuel efficiency is a top concern, you may want to consider other options in the segment.

2023 Honda Pilot Pros:

• Roomy First- and Second-Row Seating: The Honda Pilot offers spacious and comfortable seating for passengers in the first and second rows, ensuring a pleasant ride for all occupants.

• Lots of Cargo Space and Interior Storage: Honda has designed the Pilot with ample cargo space and numerous interior storage spots, making it highly practical for carrying luggage, groceries, and other items.

• Easy-to-Use Controls: The controls and infotainment system in the Honda Pilot are straightforward and user-friendly, allowing for easy access to various functions and settings.

Cons:

• Standard Touchscreen Interface Size: Some users may find the standard touchscreen interface in the Pilot to be too small, potentially impacting visibility and ease of use.

• Cramped Third-Row Seating: While the Pilot is spacious in the first and second rows, the third-row seating may feel cramped for adults on longer journeys.

• Lackluster Acceleration and Braking: The acceleration and braking performance of the Honda Pilot may not be as impressive as some of its competitors, particularly when compared to more powerful options in the segment.

Conclusion

The 2023 Volkswagen Atlas offers a spacious and comfortable interior, striking a good balance between handling and comfort.

Its straightforward cabin design makes it easy to navigate. However, the Atlas may lack the acceleration and fuel efficiency some buyers seek.

On the other hand, the 2023 Honda Pilot impresses with roomy first- and second-row seating and ample cargo space.

The user-friendly controls contribute to a positive driving experience. However, the smaller standard touchscreen and relatively cramped third-row seating may be drawbacks for some.

When making a decision between the VW Atlas and vs Honda Pilot, consider your priorities, such as interior space, performance, and technology features. A test drive of both SUVs can provide a better sense of their driving dynamics and overall appeal.

Ultimately, choosing the right SUV will depend on your individual preferences and needs for a comfortable and capable family vehicle.

RELATED:

• VW Atlas vs Toyota Highlander
• Honda Pilot vs Toyota Highlander