As your transportation requirements diversify, a midsize SUV is the logical next step. Many players are in the segment, such as the 2024 Ford Explorer and the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas. These vehicles have seven seats, punchy engines, and impressive safety specifications.
How can you choose the right midsize SUV? Let us do an Explorer vs. Atlas head-to-head. We'll examine each vehicle's interior, safety, and performance attributes. Then, visit us at Hunter Ford to see the 2024 Ford Explorer in person. We'll tell you about this great midsize SUV and help you identify the most suitable trim for your needs.
The 2024 Ford Explorer and the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas have approximately 150 cubic feet of passenger volume. This allows both midsize SUVs to have three rows of seating and accommodate up to seven occupants. Upscale trims come with leather upholstery and premium finishes. There’s also a twin-panel moonroof for the 2024 Explorer to uplift its cabin ambiance further.
Next, there’s a captain chair option for both midsize SUVs. This reduces the total capacity to six. It replaces the second-row bench seat with two individual seats that can be adjusted separately. Selecting this configuration eases third-row access, as there’s a handy passage between the seats. The captain chair configuration is particularly useful if you’ve got aged parents or taller teenagers, as they can stretch out and get comfortable.
Both midsize SUVs offer similar amounts of trunk space. The 2024 Atlas offers slightly more with all three rows up. But the 2024 Explorer counters with a third row that’s easier to fold. Some trims add power folding capabilities. You can also fold the second row for even more space.
The 2024 Explorer and the 2024 Atlas have Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ on all trims. They also have digital instrument clusters on higher trims. Furthermore, the 2024 Explorer adds a superb-sounding 12-speaker B&O sound system for most trims. The 2024 Atlas only has a six-speaker system.
Buyers can specify wireless phone chargers and optional rear entertainment systems. The latter is excellent for keeping restless kids quiet on longer trips. The 2024 Explorer also offers optional multi-color ambient lighting.
Ford equips the 2024 Explorer with two engines, depending on trim. Lower trims receive a turbocharged 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine. This engine makes 300 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. Meanwhile, higher trims gain a turbocharged 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6. The brawnier engine can produce 400 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque.
A 10-speed automatic gearbox and rear-wheel drive are standard across the range. All-wheel drive is optional. Some trims include steering wheel-mounted gear shift paddles. This lets the driver manually select gears. Furthermore, every 2024 Explorer includes a Terrain Management System. When paired with all-wheel drive, seven modes are available. These modes are Normal, Trail, Deep Snow/Sand, Slippery, Sport, Eco, and Tow/Haul. Buyers seeking some off-road capability can also choose the Timberline trim. This adds all-terrain tires, special suspension, and underbody skid plates.
The 2024 Volkswagen Atlas only comes with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. The engine churns out 269 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. It drives the front wheels via an eight-speed automatic gearbox. Volkswagen’s 4MOTION all-wheel drive system is optional.
The 2024 Explorer can tow up to 5,600 pounds, while the 2024 Atlas can only pull 5,000 pounds. These figures are trim and spec-dependent.
The 2024 Ford Explorer has adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and blind-spot monitoring across the range. You'll also get a rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, and lane-keeping assist on all trims. On the other hand, the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas isn't so well-equipped. Only some features are standard; others are optional. Additionally, both midsize SUVs have a full complement of airbags, child safety locks, and child seat tethers. They also have stability control, anti-lock brakes, and daytime running lamps.
The 2024 Ford Explorer does well in our Explorer vs. Atlas match-up. This Ford SUV has a spacious, versatile cabin with impressive tech features. Then, it thrills with a range of punchy powertrains and an off-road-oriented Timberline trim. Finally, it’s got more standard safety features than the 2024 Atlas.
That’s why we believe it's time you experienced the 2024 Explorer in the metal. Come to Hunter Ford in Marion, IN, for a test drive. Then, we'll help you find the best way to finance your new midsize SUV.
