2026 VW Atlas vs. 2026 Honda Passport

If you’re looking for a capable, family-friendly SUV, you’ve probably narrowed it down to the 2026 Volkswagen Atlas and the 2026 Honda Passport. Both are excellent options that cater to different needs. Whether you prioritize performance, comfort, or the latest technology, our team at Volkswagen of Marion has put together this car comparison review to help you determine which vehicle is best suited for you.

Comparing the 2026 VW Atlas Against the 2026 Honda Passport

The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas is a versatile and spacious three-row SUV with advanced technologies and refined German design. The seven-seater 2026 model has very few changes, considering the substantial changes made to the 2024 model. What’s new is a HomeLink mirror on the SE with Technology and higher trims, which allows you to adjust some smart home features.

The 2026 Honda Passport is a smaller five-seater that includes several updates, including an increase in horsepower and a 10-speed automatic transmission, replacing the outgoing model’s nine-speed automatic transmission. It also has a longer wheelbase, higher ground clearance, and a wider track than its predecessor.

Pricing and Value

The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas will come in five variants. The base SE is expected to start at $40,000, with the range-topping SEL Premium R-Line at around $55,000. In comparison, the 2026 Honda comes in just four trim levels. It starts at $46,200 for the base RTL and goes up to $53,900 for the highest trim, the TrailSport Elite. The Atlas has the advantage of affordability, whereas the Passport comes at a premium for its off-road features.

Performance and Engine Specs

Each Volkswagen Atlas has a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 269 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. It pairs with an eight-speed automatic transmission and comes with front- or all-wheel drive, depending on the model. The Atlas accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 7.3 seconds and has a top speed of 117 mph. The SE can tow up to 2,000 pounds with an aftermarket hitch, while every other variant comes with a standard trailer hitch and can manage 5,000 pounds.

The Honda Passport is equipped with a V-6 engine that produces 285 horsepower. It pairs with a 10-speed automatic transmission and Honda’s Intelligent Variable Torque Management all-wheel-drive system. The Passport sprints from 0 to 60 mph in around 7.2 seconds and has a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds.

Fuel Economy and Efficiency

The EPA hasn’t yet released the fuel economy figures for the 2026 Atlas or the 2026 Passport. Last year’s Atlas was rated at 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway with front-wheel drive. Choosing all-wheel drive dropped these numbers to 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. The Peak Edition variants were rated at 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway.

In comparison, the Honda Passport was rated at 21 mpg combined with all-wheel drive. The TrailSport trims, equipped with all-terrain tires, received 18 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway.

Interior and Cargo Space

The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas offers seating for up to seven people across three rows, providing plenty of room for family trips around Illinois. Unlike many competitors, the third row is spacious enough for adults to sit comfortably in the back. The cargo space is generous, with 21 cubic feet behind the third row, 56 cubic feet behind the second row, and 97 cubic feet with the seats folded.

The 2026 Honda Passport has been redesigned with a simpler layout and more premium materials. It has two rows that seat up to five people, heated and power-adjustable front seats, and a power tailgate. Cargo-wise, the Passport offers 44 cubic feet behind the back row and up to 84 cubic feet behind the front row.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

The 2026 Atlas comes with a suite of standard safety technologies, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alerts. Adaptive cruise control with a lane centering feature is also available.

The 2026 Passport is equipped with Honda Sensing, which includes automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alerts, and adaptive cruise control. The 2026 Atlas and Passport haven’t been rated yet, but the 2025 Volkswagen Atlas was rated five stars overall in crash testing by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety rated the 2025 Atlas the coveted Top Safety Pick.

Technology and Connectivity

Each Volkswagen Atlas has a 12-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. It also comes with a six-speaker sound system, a wireless phone charging pad, and six USB-C ports. All 2026 variants have an active subscription to Volkswagen’s Car-Net connected vehicle software, which includes a voice assistant powered by ChatGPT.

The Honda Passport is equipped with a 12.3-inch infotainment system and a 10.2-inch instrument panel. The touch screen is compatible with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A 5G-LTE Wi-Fi hot spot and a wireless smartphone charger come standard.

Which SUV Is Right for You?

The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas and the 2026 Honda Passport are both excellent midsize SUVs that offer a range of features. The Atlas seats more people and has slightly more cargo space, making it ideal for growing families. The 2026 Passport is great if you want V-6 power and a two-row setup. Deciding which SUV is right for you comes down to your personal preferences and family size. Visit us at Volkswagen of Marion today to arrange a test-drive of the 2026 Volkswagen Atlas.