First impressions matter, and though the VW Atlas and Toyota Highlander are both nice to look at, there are some distinct differences in their designs.

For starters, both vehicles have LED headlights and taillights that come standard with LED daytime running lights, offering extra coverage and illumination on the roads. The VW Atlas jolts ahead with its standard Poor Weather Lights, which are designed to help you see in inclement weather.

Adding to elevated sight on the roads, the VW Atlas also comes standard with rain-sensing windshield wipers, which use sensors to detect precipitation on the windshield. On top of activating the wipers, this system can also adjust the wiper speed depending on the intensity of the precipitation. Toyota’s comparable system is available with an upgrade.

All in all, the VW Atlas wins the round for exterior features and design. Its chic yet sporty exterior perfectly melds fashion and function, providing a well-rounded drive and style for miles.

As you step inside your SUV, you’ll want to be comfortable for the drive ahead. We’ve compared the interior dimensions of the VW Atlas vs. Toyota Highlander and found a few differences on board:

On top of room to stretch out, the VW Atlas also prioritizes your comfort with standard heated front seats with leatherette upholstery! Heated seats are available on the Toyota as well; however, the standard leatherette seats on the Volkswagen may prove to be more luxurious than the fabric-trimmed seats in the Highlander.

The VW Atlas offers more wiggle room for you and your passengers, and it also boasts a larger cargo space. With up to 96.8 cubic feet, you can fit quite a bit more than in the Highlander, which maxes out at 84.3 cubic feet.

Additional cargo space also gives you more flexibility in terms of what you can bring along with you and allows you to store items easier.

Behind the wheel of the VW Atlas is the Volkswagen Digital Cockpit, an 8-inch display with two views and customizable widgets. This system can be upgraded to the Digital Cockpit Pro, which provides three views and 21 viewing options.

The Toyota Highlander also has a Multi-Information Display, which is seven inches wide. So, if you need enhanced visibility as you drive, you’ll prefer the instrument cluster in the VW Atlas.

Both SUVs are also available with several safety systems, such as Forward Collision Warning. While the Highlander’s safety suite is comprehensive, the VW Atlas has two additional standard safety features:

• Blind Spot Monitor
• Rear Traffic Alert

These features help keep an eye on your vehicle’s blind spot and backside! The Toyota’s comparable Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert is available with an upgrade.