Volvo XC90 Vs. Volkswagen Atlas: A Comparison Of Midsized SUVs

Pondering the Volvo XC90 vs. Volkswagen Atlas question? We're here to help.
The Volvo XC90 is a refined, well-rounded SUV with ample room for the entire family. Known for its stylish looks, wealth of features, and spacious cabin, it has become a favourite among SUV drivers. However, it faces strong competition from the new Volkswagen Atlas.
Both the Volvo XC90 and the 2024 VW Atlas share several similarities, such as their three-row cabins and turbocharged engines. Nevertheless, the Volvo XC90 stands out in many key categories. Explore our head-to-head comparison to see how Volvo XC90's reliability, performance, and features stack up against those of the Volkswagen Atlas.

 The 2024 XC90 remains one of the sharpest-looking mid-size luxury SUVs on the market. Its cabin maintains a modern and simple design, enhanced by rich materials. With cushy seats and ample space, the XC90 offers a comfortable ride. However, the third row is a bit tight, so adult passengers might prefer other seats.
The XC90 offers three powertrains, with power ranging from 247 horsepower in the entry-level B5 to 455 horsepower in the plug-in hybrid Recharge, which can also drive up to 36 miles on battery power alone.
In contrast, three-row SUVs like the Volkswagen Atlas meet the needs of families by offering space, comfort, and towing power without the minivan look. With its spacious third row, the seven-passenger Atlas comfortably accommodates adults. When the second and third rows are folded down, the large cabin becomes useful for hauling cargo. The Atlas is powered by a 269-hp turbocharged inline-four engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard, with all-wheel drive available as an option.

Volvo XC90 vs Volkswagen Atlas: Trim Levels & Pricing
Volvo XC90 Trims
Volvo XC90 Core: The entry-level equipment level comes standard with features like Pilot Assist, interior mid-level illumination, heated front seats, and a four-zone climate system.
Volvo XC90 Plus: The Plus equipment level comes with a 360-degree camera, Walnut interior trim, and genuine leather upholstery.
Volvo XC90 Ultimate: The Ultimate equipment level comes with front-seat ventilation, heated rear seats, Nappa leather upholstery, a Graphical Head-Up display, and a Harman Kardon® premium sound system.
Volkswagen Atlas Trims
Atlas SE: The SE trim includes heated front seats, faux leather upholstery, and three-zone climate control.
Atlas SE with Technology: This package includes exterior illumination, remote start, and park distance control.
Atlas SEL: The SEL trim includes 20-inch wheels, genuine leather upholstery, and Adaptive Cruise Control.
Atlas SEL Premium R-Line: The SEL Premium R-Line trim comes with an overhead camera view, Vienna leather, and heated second-row seats.

Volkswagen Atlas vs Volvo XC90: Engine and performance
The B5 and B6 powertrains in the Volvo XC90 benefit from a 48-volt electric motor. The B5 models come with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 247 horsepower. Upgrading to the B6 powertrain, available on Plus and standard on Ultimate trim levels, boosts output to 295 horsepower. The 455-hp plug-in hybrid XC90 Recharge is the most powerful option in the lineup. Regardless of the trim level or powertrain, every XC90 features all-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission. As per the tests, the Recharge model accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.5 seconds.
While the XC90 does lean noticeably around curves, its steering is precise. The vehicle also included the optional air suspension, which delivers a comfortable, insulated ride and handles various road conditions well.
On the other hand, every Volkswagen Atlas now comes with a 269-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 273 pound-feet of torque. This engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and is available with either front- or all-wheel drive. Powertrain tests have shown improved throttle response, and VW's returned transmission made the engine feel more energetic.
The Atlas reached 60 mph in 7.3 seconds during tests, handles steering inputs well and only feels slightly cumbersome when taking corners at speed. It remains composed on highways and reasonably agile in city driving, with a generally smooth ride over all but the harshest potholes.

Volvo XC90 vs VW Atlas: Interior
The XC90's interior is a masterpiece, featuring an attractive design and high-quality materials. It's a rare find in its class. However, as mentioned earlier, adults won't be comfortable in the third row, especially on longer journeys.
The XC90 has decent cargo capacity, but its interior compartments are not as spacious as some competitors.
A sleek, tablet-like 9.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system is standard in all XC90s. Every model includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, with a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot available as an option. The system could benefit from additional hard buttons and more intuitive on-screen controls to improve functionality.
In contrast, the Volkswagen Atlas excels in family-friendly interior space, straightforward controls, and an abundance of cupholders, making it a practical choice even among other practical rivals. Its third row can comfortably accommodate full-size adults, which is a significant advantage. The Atlas' interior design is simple but effective—ideal for families but less appealing for those who prefer modern style and aesthetics. The Atlas can handle just about anything a suburban family needs, with plenty of thoughtfully placed storage nooks for small items.
Moreover, the Atlas can carry four carry-on suitcases behind the third row and 38 behind the first row, matching the capacity of the large Honda Pilot.
Regardless of the trim, the Atlas is well-equipped with connectivity and entertainment features. A 12.0-inch infotainment touchscreen comes standard, along with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a six-speaker sound system, wireless phone charging, and six USB-C ports with 45 watts of charging power. Unfortunately, it lacks the volume and tuning knobs that make operating the radio system easier.

VW Atlas vs Volvo XC90: Safety and Driver Assistance Features
Volvo's commitment to safety is commendable, and its three-row crossover, the XC90, has a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance technologies. Key safety features include:
Standard forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking
Standard blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert
Standard lane-departure warning

The Volkswagen Atlas is also equipped with a comprehensive range of standard and optional driver-assistance technologies. Some of the key safety features include:
Standard forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking
Standard blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert
Available adaptive cruise control with a lane-centering feature

Volkswagen Atlas vs Volvo XC90: Drive and Fuel Economy
The Volvo XC90 delivers competitive fuel economy for its class, with the exception of its plug-in hybrid version. The 247-hp B5 powertrain is EPA-rated at 22 mpg city and 28 mpg highway, while the 295-hp B6 powertrain achieves 20 mpg city and 26 mpg highway.
The plug-in hybrid XC90 Recharge impresses with an EPA-rated 66 MPGe and can travel up to 36 miles on battery power alone.
On the other hand, the Volkswagen Atlas offers decent fuel economy for a three-row SUV.
Front-wheel drive models are EPA-rated at 20 mpg city and 27 mpg highway, while all-wheel drive variants drop slightly to 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway. The Peak Edition trims are rated at 18 mpg city and 24 mpg highway.
In tests, an all-wheel-drive Atlas returned 25 mpg on a 75-mph highway fuel economy route. 

Volkswagen Atlas vs Volvo XC90: Warranty
The XC90 offers an average warranty compared to its competitors, but Volvo stands out with its excellent complimentary scheduled maintenance. The details are as follows:
Limited warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles
Powertrain warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles
Electrical components are covered for eight years or 100,000
Complimentary maintenance is covered for three years or 36,000 miles

Volkswagen, on the other hand, provides a better-than-average limited warranty, although its powertrain coverage is less competitive. However, VW compensates with complimentary scheduled maintenance:
Limited warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles
Powertrain warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles
Complimentary maintenance is covered for two years or 20,000 miles

Volkswagen Atlas vs Volvo XC90: Pricing
The price of the 2024 Volvo XC90 starts at $57,895 and goes up to $80,895 depending on the trim and options.
The price of the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas starts at $39,420 and goes up to $54,315