2022 Volkswagen Atlas vs. Toyota Highlander | Merrillville, IN
If you’re looking for a three-row SUV with plenty of space for the entire family, then you’re probably considering the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas and the 2022 Toyota Highlander. Both of these capable vehicles boast impressive power and a range of available features. But which one is right for you?
The experts at Team Volkswagen have put together this comparison of the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas vs. Toyota Highlander to help you decide. We are comparing the VW Atlas SE, with a starting MSRP of $34,335, and the Toyota Highlander L, which has an MSRP of $35,405.
You can find multiple VW Atlas models in the inventory at our VW dealership in Merrillville, IN. Team Volkswagen also offers attractive lease and finance offers to help put you behind the wheel of a new Atlas. If you’d like to learn more, schedule a test drive with the Atlas or contact our helpful associates. Chat with us online or call us at (888) 824-9154.
2022 Volkswagen Atlas vs. Toyota Highlander Exterior Design
You can expect to turn heads with the sleek styling on either the 2022 VW Atlas or the Toyota Highlander. Both SUVs sport a streamlined, truck-inspired look set off by 18-inch alloy wheels and LED headlights, tail lights, and daytime running lights. Both vehicles are also fitted with heated side mirrors that incorporate blind spot warning and turn signal indicators. The Atlas exclusively offers rain-sensing windshield wipers and automatic headlights with a low-speed corner-illuminating feature.
2022 Volkswagen Atlas vs. Toyota Highlander Interior Design & Technology
You’ll find intuitive features and modern technology in both the 2022 VW Atlas and Toyota Highlander. The Atlas features a Composition Color sound system with a 6.5-inch touchscreen, while the audio system on the Highlander offers an 8-inch screen. Both vehicles feature Apple CarPlay®, Android Auto™, Bluetooth®, and Wi-Fi® hotspot functionality, as well as keyless access with push-button start and remote access via Volkswagen Car-Net® system on the Atlas or Connected Services on the Highlander.
The Atlas also offers certain luxurious interior amenities, such as heated front seats and leatherette seating, as shown in this comparison chart:
| 2022 VW Atlas SE | Model | 2022 Toyota Highlander L |
|---|---|---|
| V-Tex leatherette | Seating | Cloth |
| Ten-way power-adjustable with power lumbar | Driver’s Seat | Eight-way power-adjustable |
| Heated front seats | Heated Seats | N/A |
| Dual-zone | Climate Control | Three-zone |
| Auto-dimming | Interior Rear View Mirror | Manual |
2022 Volkswagen Atlas vs. Toyota Highlander Engine Specs & Fuel Economy
The 2022 VW Atlas and 2022 Toyota Highlander are both equipped with advanced gas engines designed to combine spirited acceleration with admirable fuel efficiency. The Atlas SE and Highlander L both come standard with front-wheel drive (FWD) but are available with all-wheel drive (AWD), with the Atlas offering the 4MOTION® AWD system.
The Atlas is also available with a more powerful V6 engine on higher trims. Engine specs can be found in this chart.
| 2022 VW Atlas SE | Model | 2022 Toyota Highlander L |
|---|---|---|
| 2.0L turbo I4 | Engine | 3.5L V6 |
| 235 HP | Horsepower | 295 HP |
| 258 lb.-ft. | Torque | 263 lb.-ft. |
| 21 city / 25 hwy MPG | Fuel Economy | 21 city / 29 hwy MPG |
2022 Volkswagen Atlas vs. Toyota Highlander Size & Cargo Space
Step into the 2022 VW Atlas or Toyota Highlander and you’re sure to be struck by the roomy feel of the spacious interior. The eight-seat Highlander L edges out the seven-seat Atlas SE in first- and second-row legroom, while the Atlas boasts greater cargo capacity, both behind the third row and with seats folded down. The Atlas also has more passenger volume, more headroom across all three rows, and more third-row legroom. Interior specs can be found in this chart.
| 2022 VW Atlas SE | Model | 2022 Toyota Highlander L |
|---|---|---|
| 96.8 / 55.5 / 20.6 cu.-ft. | Cargo Volume Behind First / Second / Third Row | 84.3 / 48.4 / 16 cu.-ft. |
| 154 cu.-ft. | Passenger Volume | 141.3 cu.-ft. |
| 41.3 / 40.4 / 38.3 in. | First / Second / Third Row Headroom | 41.2 / 39.4 / 36.1 in. |
| 41.7 / 37.6 / 33.7 in. | First / Second / Third Row Legroom | 42 / 41 / 27.7 in. |
2022 Volkswagen Atlas vs. Toyota Highlander Safety Options & Features
Both the 2022 VW Atlas SE and Toyota Highlander L are designed with cutting-edge safety and driver assistance technology to help make your drive more confident and informed. You’ll find the following features on both vehicles:
- Forward collision warning and autonomous emergency braking
- Pedestrian monitoring
- Electronic stability control
- Intelligent crash response system
- Blind spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert
2021 VW Atlas vs. Toyota Highlander | Crown Point, IN
Powerful and spacious, the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas and 2021 Toyota Highlander are both great options if you’re shopping for a new family SUV. To help you learn more about these versatile vehicles, Team VW has taken a closer look in the following 2021 Atlas vs. 2021 Highlander head-to-head comparison.
In this SUV guide, we’re focusing on the 2021 VW Atlas SE with Technology, starting at $36,945 MSRP, and the 2021 Toyota Highlander LE, starting at $37,285 MSRP. You can find the 2021 Atlas for sale near Crown Point, IN, by browsing our Atlas inventory. We also encourage you to take a look at our Atlas lease and finance offers. To get in touch with our dealership in Merrillville, IN, call (888) 824-9154 or send us a message online.
2021 VW Atlas vs. Highlander Exterior Design
The 2021 Atlas and Highlander boast stylish, bold designs, so deciding which you prefer is best done by checking them out for yourself. However, there are several exterior differences you should be aware of. While both SUVs are equipped with modern LED lighting, the following features are only found on the 2021 Atlas:
- 20-in. alloy wheels
- Automatic headlights with Coming/Leaving Home feature
- Black roof rails
- Hands-free Easy Open and Easy Close liftgate with remote opening and closing assist
- Rain-sensing windshield wipers
2021 VW Atlas vs. Highlander Interior Design & Technology
Once inside the Atlas or Highlander, you’ll be surrounded by various creature comforts and connected technologies. Drivers and passengers can enjoy an 8-inch touchscreen, three-zone automatic climate control, and SiriusXM® Satellite Radio inside either SUV. The VW Atlas takes its cabin to the next level with the following exclusive features:
- V-Tex leatherette seating surfaces
- Heated front seats
- LED interior lighting
- Remote start system
- Wireless smartphone charger
2021 VW Atlas vs. Highlander Engine Specs & Fuel Economy
While these SUVs look similar from afar, you’ll notice significant differences under the hood. The 2021 Highlander is powered by a naturally aspirated V6, while the Atlas is paired with a leaner, turbocharged four-cylinder powertrain. Additionally, both SUVs are standard with front-wheel drive (FWD) and available with all-wheel drive (AWD). Performance specs for both engines are as follows:
| 2021 VW Atlas | Model | 2021 Toyota Highlander |
|---|---|---|
| 2.0L Turbo 4-cylinder | Engine | 3.5L V6 |
| 235 HP | Horsepower | 295 HP |
| 258 lb.-ft. | Torque | 263 lb.-ft. |
| 21 city / 24 hwy MPG | Fuel Economy | 21 city / 29 hwy MPG |
| 2,000 lbs. | Max. Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs. |
2021 VW Atlas vs. Highlander Size & Cargo Space
The 2021 VW Atlas seats seven passengers comfortably, while the Toyota Highlander provides seating for up to eight. Drivers of the 2021 Atlas will enjoy greater cargo volume, with 20.6 cubic feet behind the third row, 55.5 cubic feet behind the second row, and 96.8 cubic feet with both rear seats folded down. The Highlander offers 16, 48.4, and 84.3 cubic feet, respectively.
2021 VW Atlas vs. Highlander Safety Options & Features
Both of these SUVs are equipped to add peace of mind to the driving experience. You’ll find a rear view camera, adaptive cruise control, pedestrian monitoring, and more in the Atlas and Highlander. The Atlas includes a number of responsive safety systems not found in comparable Highlander trims. Those include:
- Blind spot monitor with rear traffic alert
- Park distance control with maneuver braking
We're sorry, availability of some equipment, options or features may be limited due to global supply issues affecting the auto industry. Please be sure to verify that the vehicle you purchase includes all expected features and equipment.
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