Volkswagen Atlas vs. Tiguan: Which Is Right for You?

Volkswagen is one of the most renowned automotive brands from Germany that now offers two impressive SUVs in its lineup: the Atlas and the Tiguan. 

Volkswagen Atlas

Regarded as Volkswagen’s best family SUV, the fully-redesigned 2024 Atlas impresses with a roomier interior, bolder styling, and upgraded tech. New for 2024 is an athletic 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine churning out 265hp and 273 lb-ft of torque, promising great acceleration. This powertrain pairs with a responsive 8-speed automatic transmission and is also available in a 4MOTION® all-wheel drive (AWD).

The interior of the Atlas balances sleek touches with ambient lighting and 30-color customizable gauges. Tri-zone climate controls, power-folding third row seats (seating up to seven people), and expansive cargo room give the Atlas incredible day-to-day flexibility. Notably, Volkswagen made active safety features like automated emergency braking and adaptive cruise control standard across the lineup. Trim options include the Atlas SE (starting at $37,725), SE with Technology (starting at $41,665), SEL (starting at $48,445), and the SEL Premium R-Line (starting at $52,455). 

Volkswagen Tiguan

The 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan delivers refined driving dynamics and clever utility in an affordable package. Power comes from a 2.0L turbocharged engine making 184hp and 221 lb-ft of torque, managed by a responsive 8-speed automatic transmission. Handsome and flexible inside, the Tiguan stands out for optionally seating seven passengers across three rows — a rarity in its segment. 

Beyond fitting the whole family, Volkswagen focuses on fitting the Tiguan with smart tech for safety and convenience. Expect standard treats like a digital dashboard with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, plus available amenities like a panoramic sunroof. Balancing style, space, performance, and value, the Tiguan hits the sweet spot for savvy SUV shoppers.

Trim levels for the Tiguan include the Tiguan S (starting at MSRP $28,505), SE (starting at $31,205), SE R-Line Black (starting at $34,205), and the SEL R-Line $38,505).

While sharing some Volkswagen DNA, the Atlas and Tiguan take notably different approaches to exterior design, resulting in distinct aesthetics.

As the larger SUV, the Atlas makes its presence known with a wide, horizontal grill flanked by sleek LED headlights. Squared-off wheel arches and a chiseled profile emphasize its muscular size, while dual exhaust tips and 20-inch alloy wheels on higher trims add modern flair.

In contrast, the Tiguan has a more playful, adventurous look courtesy of a rounded front-end and short wheelbase. Signature daytime running lights flank VW’s badge on the front grill for a refined touch. With similar cab-forward profiles sloping into roof spoilers, both sporty utilities telegraph their crossover capabilities. 

What are Volkswagen Atlas standard features? 

The Volkswagen Atlas comes equipped with a host of standard features, ensuring a comfortable and connected ride for drivers and passengers alike. Some key standard features of the Atlas include:

• 12-inch infotainment display
• Volkswagen Car-Net®️ App-Connect
• Three-zone automatic climate control
• Blind Spot Monitor
• Rear Traffic Alert
• Front Assist
• Cloth seating surfaces
• Six-way manually adjustable front seats
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration
• Bluetooth®️ connectivity
• USB-C ports
• Rearview camera system

What are Volkswagen Tiguan standard features? 

Similarly, the Volkswagen Tiguan also offers a range of standard features to cater to the needs of drivers and passengers. Some standard features of the Tiguan include:

• 6.5- or 8-inch center touchscreen that runs Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ via App-Connect®
• Volkswagen Digital Cockpit
• App-Connect
• Three-row seating
• Bluetooth®️ connectivity
• USB-C ports
• Auto-dimming rearview mirror
• Blind Spot Monitor
• Front Assist
• Rear Traffic Alert
• Climatronic® Touch dual-zone automatic climate control
• Fender® premium audio system with subwoofer
• Wireless charging

When it comes to keeping passengers happy mile after mile, the Volkswagen Atlas and Tiguan deliver premium accommodations.

However, maximum towing limits and cargo volumes differ between the two SUVs. Check out key cargo and towing specs below:

Volkswagen Atlas

Configured with a three-row layout, the Atlas welcomes up to seven for family adventures. The second row caters to those seeking personalized space, while a standard bench optimizes passenger capacity. 

Volkswagen Tiguan

Clever versatility defines the Tiguan’s compact yet spacious cabin. Front-wheel drive (FWD) models seat up to seven, with an available third row folded flat when not needed. However, the 4Motion AWD configuration opts for expanded second row legroom. Either way, the 40/20/40 split folding second row slides to adjust to passengers and packing space as needed. With the ability to prioritize people or gear carrying capacity on the fly, the Tiguan adapts nimbly to everyday adventures or longer trips.

Volkswagen Atlas 

Performance meets efficiency under the hood of the 2024 Atlas thanks to an athletic 2.0-liter turbocharged engine putting out a robust 269 horsepower and 273 lb.-ft. of torque. This turbo 4-cylinder teams up with a precision-tuned 8-speed automatic transmission, keeping power smooth and responsive. Drivers further dial in their preferred performance with selectable drive modes via the Atlas’ central touchscreen. 

Cruise in comfort and savings with Eco mode engaged, or switch to snow mode for confident handling across slick surfaces. Available 4MOTION all-wheel drive offers a versatile grip for navigating off-road adventures or slippery terrain with the turn of the ignition, while those seeking max mileage can select the standard front-wheel drive models. 

Volkswagen Tiguan

The 2024 Tiguan’s turbo 2.0L 4-cylinder engine delivers a peppy 184 horsepower and 221 lb.-ft. of torque for quick acceleration. An efficient 8-speed automatic transmission keeps the ride smooth, while an available stop/start system conserves fuel in traffic, contributing to an EPA-estimated 24mpg city and 31mpg highway. Drivers further adapt the Tiguan’s performance to conditions using selectable drive modes for snow, off-road, and custom trailblazing. 

Compare both fuel economy and performance:

Drive with confidence in the VW Atlas and Tiguan, as both models are equipped with advanced safety features to enhance the driving experience. The Atlas comes with the IQ.DRIVE suite with driver assistance technology across all trims, including features such as adaptive cruise control, front assist with auditory warnings, automatic braking for potential collisions, area view, and park assist in higher trims. 

Similarly, the Tiguan comes standard with the IQ.DRIVE suite, providing front assist, adaptive cruise control, lane assist, and an active blind spot monitor, ensuring a safe and secure ride for all occupants.

Compare these safety and driver assistance features: 

When it comes to reliability, the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas and Tiguan offer different ratings:

How reliable is the Volkswagen Atlas?

The Volkswagen Atlas has an iSeeCars reliability rating of 5.7 out of 10. 

How reliable is the Volkswagen Tiguan?

The iSeeCars’ reliability rating for the Volkswagen Tiguan is 7.0 out of 10. Hence, the Tiguan holds an advantage with a higher reliability rating compared to the Atlas. 

The main differences between the Volkswagen Atlas and Tiguan are:

• Size: The Atlas is a mid-size SUV, while the Tiguan is a compact crossover.
• Seating capacity: The Atlas is a seven seater SUV, while the Tiguan has five seats, with the option to seat up to seven.
• Towing capacity: The Atlas has a much higher towing capacity compared to the Tiguan.
• Power: The Atlas provides a more powerful driving experience, with the option for a V6 engine, while the Tiguan comes standard with a four-cylinder engine.
• Cargo space: The Atlas offers more cargo space compared to the Tiguan, especially with the third row folded down.

Choosing between the Volkswagen Atlas and Tiguan depends on what you're looking for in a vehicle. If you want a fuel-efficient, budget-friendly, and compact SUV, then the Tiguan is the right car for you. It's an excellent option for individuals or small families, but it doesn't have as much power or towing capacity as the Atlas.

If you need a car with more interior space and a powerful engine, the Atlas is worth a look. It's a great fit for larger families or those who need to haul a lot of cargo. Plus, it comes with some pretty cool features like area view and park assist, which can make your drive even more comfortable.

If space, power, and top-notch tech features are high on your priority list, the Volkswagen Atlas might be just the ticket, especially if you're catering to a family or have versatile transportation needs.