This post was originally published on this site
Three-row midsize SUVs are more than just people haulers due to their larger proportions for carrying more cargo, and for their ability to handle a variety of roads. Let’s take a closer look at how the 2020 Honda Pilot and 2020 Volkswagen Atlas compare.
2020 Honda Pilot
2020 Honda Pilot starting price: $34,245
Above average: Standard safety equipment, roomy, good resale, standard V-6 engine.
Below average: Design needs a refresh, handles like a minivan, the LX trim doesn’t include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Consensus: The 2020 Honda HMC, +0.98% Pilot can seat eight passengers, and still offer plenty of cargo space, plus it has some off-road features that make it relatively capable should you venture off the pavement.
2020 Volkswagen Atlas
The VW Atlas
Volkswagen
2020 Volkswagen Atlas starting price: $31,865
Above average: Spacious third row is capable of handling full-size adults and there’s an abundance of cupholders and storage cubbies.
Below average: Lacks power in base 4-cylinder; limited towing capacity.
Consensus: The Atlas is Volkswagen’s VWAGY, +1.97% first entry into the 7-passenger arena, and while it has the European panache and driving chops the automaker is known for, unfortunately, it doesn’t have the base power under the hood to match.
Pilot vs. Atlas: Space and more space
Honda Pilot
The 2020 Honda Pilot has plenty to offer like generous cargo possibilities, a powerful V-6 engine that makes 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, and it can hold its own off-road as well. For a family hauler, it can seat up to eight.
Also see: Toyota brings back the Venza as a hybrid only, and it has a lot going for it
With a choice of selectable terrain modes like Snow, Mud and Sand, the Pilot is capable of handling a multitude of on- and off-road undertakings. Honda has improved the Pilot’s torque-vectoring all-wheel drive system which means improved handling for the midsize 3-row vehicle. The Honda Pilot comes equipped with a host of safety equipment called Honda Sensing. It includes active safety features and driver-assistance features that are among the best in the class. If you want Apple AAPL, +1.36% CarPlay or Android Auto, however, you will need to step up to the EX trim.
Volkswagen Atlas
The 2020 Volkswagen Atlas is an American-styled midsize SUV with German-inspired driving and design personality. The Atlas has a smooth and luxury-like ride quality but can handle the twists and sharp turns of snaking roads. There are two engines offered in the Atlas: a 4-cylinder engine that comes in front-drive only and a 3.6-liter V-6. The better choice would be the V-6, especially if towing is planned or hauling full-size passengers.
Also on MarketWatch: Why the COVID-19 ‘baby bust’ could impact stock prices for the next 30 years
While the cabin is European simple it is handsome. You get more than 17 cupholders, a folding and sliding second row, and generous cargo space when the seats are up (20.6 cubic feet) or folded flat (96.8 cubic feet). A notable feature is the third-row seat which can accommodate full-size adults and is easy to access since the second row slides forward.
Similarities
Large family haulers full of practical features; available AWD.
2020 Honda Pilot advantages
Abundant storage and cargo space; 8-passenger seating; solid resale value; notable standard safety tech.
2020 Volkswagen Atlas advantages
Third row fits full-size adults, generous cargo space, lots of cupholders and clever storage cubbies; European handling and design
Final recommendation
The 2020 Honda Pilot offers more in terms of standard modern safety technology, driver-assist features, more usable storage, and is both proven and reliable. If you are looking for European driving and design, and need an adult-sized third row, the Volkswagen Atlas is worth considering.
Read next: 9 smart dog accessories for your car
This story originally ran on KBB.com.
