2025 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas was offered in five trim levels, with the SEL Premium R-Line standing out for its sporty appearance and comprehensive standard equipment. The Atlas Cross Sport variant provided a more rakish design while maintaining the core features of the three-row Atlas. The base prices ranged from $38,200 to $53,205, excluding a $1,425 destination charge. The Atlas SEL Premium R-Line, tested in Mountain Lake Blue with a Shetland Beige leather interior, had a total MSRP of $54,630. Its exterior boasted polished aluminum detailing, front and rear light bars, and 21-inch wheels, giving it a muscular and upscale look. Inside, the Atlas featured diamond-stitched leather, metallic accents, and artificial wood, creating a warm and inviting environment. However, the touch-sensitive controls for temperature and stereo volume were less satisfying to use, especially without gloves.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE was available in ten versions, with prices ranging from $63,600 to $134,500, including a $1,350 destination charge. The GLE 450, equipped with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine and mild-hybrid technology, was the focus of this review. The Manufaktur Edition Package added exclusive paint, 21-inch wheels, and premium leather, among other features. Despite its egg-on-wheels styling, the GLE Coupe's design was more appealing. Inside, the GLE 450 offered a luxurious cabin with matte-finish wood, metallic accents, ambient lighting, and sophisticated digital displays. The climate controls were wisely separated from the touchscreen, and the touch-sensing controls on the steering wheel worked reasonably well. However, the stereo volume touch slider was difficult to fine-tune, though a volume thumbwheel on the center console provided a better alternative.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas featured a new turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 269 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. This engine replaced the previous options, offering better torque and fuel economy. The Atlas had an eight-speed automatic transmission with front-wheel drive or 4Motion all-wheel drive. Despite initial skepticism, the engine proved refined and satisfying for daily driving tasks, especially in Sport mode. However, the ride quality was less impressive, with a brittle suspension and excessive body motions at highway speeds. The Atlas returned 15.5 mpg in city traffic and 19.2 mpg over a 70+ mile test route, compared to the EPA ratings of 18 mpg city and 21 mpg combined.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE 450's turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine, paired with a mild-hybrid system, generated 375 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. It had a nine-speed automatic transmission and offered multiple driving modes. The GLE 450 was capable of towing up to 7,700 pounds and featured off-road capabilities. However, the standard suspension allowed too much body motion, affecting the driving experience in both city and mountain road conditions. The steering felt numb in Comfort mode, and the brakes were grabby in typical driving situations. The GLE achieved 21 mpg in combined driving, matching the EPA rating.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas excelled in form and function, offering a spacious and comfortable interior. The third-row seat was particularly comfortable, and the cargo area was cavernous. The front seats were heated, ventilated, and massaging, though the leather felt slightly stiff. Visibility was excellent, and the surround-view camera system made parking easier. The second-row bench seat provided ample space for three adults, with a climate-control panel and air vents. Access to the third-row seat was outstanding, and storage space was commendable throughout the cabin. The Atlas offered 20.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 96.6 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE's front seats were firm but comfortable, with features like "energizing seat kinetics" and ventilated front seats. The back seat was roomy, though the seating position felt low relative to the window sills. A third-row seat was an expensive option, adding two extra chairs with USB-C charging ports. The GLE provided thoughtful storage throughout the cabin, with a cargo area offering 33.3 cubic feet of space behind the back seat and 74.9 cubic feet with the back seat folded. The cargo area included a netted compartment, robust hooks, and a large spare tire under the load floor.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas used the VW Group's MIB3 operating system on a 12-inch touchscreen display. While it offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the lack of traditional knobs and buttons made the system less user-friendly. The native digital voice assistant was unreliable, and the MIB3 system had user-experience glitches. The Harman Kardon audio system was a highlight, but the overall infotainment experience was better with smartphone integration.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured the MBUX infotainment system with a 12.3-inch digital driver display and touchscreen. The system offered lush graphics, a biometric authentication system, and a nearly flawless digital voice assistant. The Exclusive Package added a Burmester surround-sound audio system and augmented-reality navigation. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with SiriusXM satellite radio and Mercedes Digital Extras.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas came with standard IQ.Drive driver-assistance features, including Front Assist, Active Side Assist, Lane Assist, Emergency Assist, and Travel Assist. It also had adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability and a rear cross-traffic alert system. The Atlas earned a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and was a 2024 IIHS "Top Safety Pick."

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE's standard safety tech included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitors, and more. The Driver Assistance Package added adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and other features. The GLE's driver aids worked well overall, though some features were inconsistent. The GLE was named a "Top Safety Pick+" by the IIHS for 2025.