Toyota and Volkswagen are two of the most popular automakers, and their 2023 vehicles have a lot to offer to Escondido, CA potential buyers. The 2023 Toyota Highlander offers a range of features, such as standard all-wheel drive, impressive fuel economy, and advanced safety technologies. Additionally, it has a roomy interior and cargo space that can accommodate up to eight passengers.
The Volkswagen Atlas is another great option if you're looking for an SUV. This vehicle provides luxurious amenities such as a panoramic sunroof, three rows of seating, a premium audio system, and easy access to technology via its intuitive infotainment system. Its powerful engine can tow up to 5,000 pounds and has a comfortable ride that makes it great for long San Marcos, CA trips.
Performance
The Highlander has a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 295 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque. The Atlas is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The Highlander also has better fuel economy, with EPA estimates of 22 miles per gallon city/highway combined.
The Atlas is more agile and offers a smoother ride, but the Highlander offers an enjoyable ride and confident handling on Ramona, CA roads. All in all, both vehicles offer great performance on the road. The suspension systems are also quite different, with the Highlander having an independent suspension system and the 2023 Atlas having a torsion beam rear suspension. This gives the Highlander better handling in tight turns, while the Atlas feels more comfortable and stable on long highway trips.
Safety Systems
Both vehicles have various advanced safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and blind spot monitoring. The Highlander also offers standard automatic emergency braking and rear cross-traffic alert, while the Atlas only provides these features as optional extras. The standard features common to both models include forward collision warning, automatic high beams, and parking assist.
Exterior Design and Dimensions
The exterior design of both vehicles is also quite different, with the Highlander featuring a more traditional SUV look and the Atlas appearing more like a large hatchback. The Highlander is slightly larger, with a length of 194 inches and a width of 76 inches, compared to the 185-inch-long Atlas, which has a width of 78 inches.
The 2023 Toyota Highlander's front end is dominated by a bold grille and headlights, while the Atlas has a more modern look with slim LED headlights and a prominent front bumper. The rear design of the Highlander is more conservative, with traditional taillights, while the Atlas has a sleeker look that includes LED taillights and a spoiler.
Interior and Technology
The Highlander's interior is spacious and comfortable, with plenty of room for passengers in its three rows. The Atlas also has a large interior but offers even more generous space in the second and third rows due to its longer length. Both vehicles feature tech features, such as Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, dual-zone climate control, heated seats, and a panoramic sunroof. The Highlander infotainment system is easier for most Poway, CA drivers than the Atlas system.
Interior space is abundant in both models, with the Highlander offering more headroom and legroom in the second-row seating. The Atlas also has a larger cargo area than the Highlander, giving it an edge when hauling large items.
Test Drive Today
Both vehicles offer great performance, advanced safety systems, and comfortable rides, so it is important to consider all factors when deciding. Ultimately, choosing between these two will depend on personal preference and budget.
At Mossy Volkswagen Escondido, we can help you make an informed decision and get behind the wheel of whichever model best suits your needs since both are well suited for the San Marcos, CA environment. Contact us today or visit our Escondido, CA dealership to learn more about these great vehicles!
