Volkswagen Atlas vs Toyota Grand Highlander: Which to Buy
Volkswagen Atlas starts at $39,310; the Toyota Grand Highlander starts at $42,260. Before taxes and fees, the Volkswagen Atlas is $2,925 less. Volkswagen Atlas makes more power, 269 hp against 265 hp. The Toyota Grand Highlander seats 8, the Volkswagen Atlas seats 7.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Volkswagen Atlas or the Toyota Grand Highlander cheaper?
The Volkswagen Atlas costs less to start. Volkswagen Atlas: $39,310 plus $1,475 destination. Toyota Grand Highlander: $42,260 plus $1,450 destination. Taxes, title and registration are on top of both.
Which gets better fuel economy, the Volkswagen Atlas or the Toyota Grand Highlander?
The Volkswagen Atlas is rated 20/27 city/hwy, and the Toyota Grand Highlander is rated 21/28 city/hwy. Real-world results depend on how and where you drive.
How many people does each seat?
The Volkswagen Atlas seats 7. The Toyota Grand Highlander seats 8.
What are the trade-offs between the two?
Volkswagen Atlas: Cavernous interior space and genuine 7-passenger capacity, though infotainment system lacks physical knobs for volume and climate. Toyota Grand Highlander: Genuine adult-sized third-row seating, though exterior styling is a bit conservative for some.
Volkswagen Atlas is best for
Volkswagen Atlas is the better fit for mid-size suv buyers who want to carry a family. Its standout: cavernous interior space and genuine 7-passenger capacity.
Toyota Grand Highlander is best for
Toyota Grand Highlander is the better fit for full-size suv buyers who need room for six or seven. Its standout: genuine adult-sized third-row seating.
Spec-by-Spec Comparison
| Attribute | Volkswagen Atlas | Toyota Grand Highlander |
|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP | $39,310 | $42,260 |
| MSRP + destination | $40,785 | $43,710 |
| Fuel economy / range | 20/27 city/hwy | 21/28 city/hwy |
| Horsepower | 269 hp | 265 hp |
| Seating | 7 | 8 |
| Body type | Mid-Size SUV | Full-Size SUV |
| Powertrains | 2.0L TSI Turbo, 4Motion AWD | 2.4L Turbo 4-Cylinder, Hybrid, Hybrid MAX |