Which is Better? The 2019 Volkswagen Atlas or 2019 GMC Acadia?

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With its head-turning exterior, powerful engine, and plenty of room across three rows of seats, it's no surprise that the Volkswagen Atlas ranks #8 in midsize SUVs for 2019. But what's even better than the Atlas's pedigree is what you'll get by owning the car. As in the past, Volkswagen pioneers the way in vehicle safety across its fleet this year. The Atlas is a great choice if you need versatility, as it can be configured to seat either seven or eight passengers. The GMC Acadia ranks #15 in midsize SUVs. It is smaller and less powerful, and it has a seating capacity of 6-7. There are not too many changes in the Acadia this year, with the exception of more standard technology to keep you connected. Despite the fact that its V6 engine offers plenty of zip, the Acadia has comparatively less cargo space and room in the third row than its competitors.

Safety

When it comes to safety, you can count on Volkswagen Atlas to lead the way. The Atlas, which has a five-star crash test rating, is a smart choice if you want an SUV with the latest and greatest in passive and active safety features. On the inside, features like a backup camera, rear cross-traffic alert, forward collision avoidance, and blind-spot monitoring are all standard on the lower level trims of the Atlas. A rigid safety cage deflects the energy from an accident. If you do crash, an intelligent crash response system reacts for you by deactivating the fuel pump, unlocking the doors, and turning on the hazards if the airbags are deployed. On the GMC Acadia, standard safety features include daytime running lights and advanced airbags. Driver-assist safety amenities, including forward automatic braking, forward collision alert, and a following distance indicator, are only either available or standard at the highest trim level.

Value and Quality

When it comes to overall value and top quality, it's hard to beat the 2019 Volkswagen Atlas. Throughout the interior, you'll find a variety of luxurious amenities that show careful thought to detail. There are more standard features in 2019 than in the past, which is great news for anyone looking to maximize value. Premium touches like a current infotainment system and a panoramic sunroof that spans nearly all three rows are highlights of the Atlas. A hands-free power liftgate, which is foot-activated, makes it easier to open the trunk with full hands. The 2019 GMC Acadia features a smaller 3.5-inch driver display screen, a 120V power outlet to charge devices, and a number of available amenities like the eight-inch infotainment screen.

Comfort

Need more room for cargo one day and passengers the next? With the 2019 Volkswagen Atlas, you don't have to sacrifice cargo capacity or passenger volume. With both second and third-row seats that fold flat, you can easily have both. When both the second and third rows of seats are folded flat, you have an impressive 96.8 cubic feet available in the cargo area. A total of 17 cup holders make it easy to bring along all your favorite beverages. The GMC Acadia gives you comfort features like a heated steering wheel, but only at the highest trim levels. There are eight cup holders throughout the cabin in the Acadia. The front seats are heated on all but the base model, while heated rear outboard seats are offered on the Denali only.

In many ways, the 2019 Volkswagen Atlas stands out from the crowd. This year's Atlas features more interior space than ever before, as well as more standard and available amenities. With leading safety technology and plenty of creature comforts, there's nothing to dislike about this solid midsize SUV. When you want to try out the Atlas to see how it compares to the Acadia, just contact our dealership to schedule a test drive.

All figures are EPA estimates. Actual mileage may vary.