2025 Honda Passport EX-L vs 2026 Volkswagen Atlas SE
On paper, the 2026 Volkswagen Atlas SE wins on $1,190 less, 11.6″ longer. The 2025 Honda Passport EX-L has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: 280 vs 269 hp, 21 vs 22 MPG.
The Atlas SE leads on $1,190 less, 11.6″ longer. The spec table compares 6 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 6 specifications.
Full Specification Comparison
Specifications and pricing reflect available data as of early 2026 and may not match current manufacturer figures. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision.
| Spec | 2025 Honda Passport EX-L | 2026 Volkswagen Atlas SE |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $42,400 | $41,210 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 3.5L V6 | 2.0L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 280 hp | 269 hp |
| Torque | 262 lb-ft | 273 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 9-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 19 | 20 |
| Highway MPG | 24 | 26 |
| Combined MPG | 21 | 22 |
| Fuel Tank | 19.5 gal | 18.6 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $2,100/yr | No published data |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 4,236 lbs | 4,484 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 110.9" | 117.3" |
| Length | 189.1" | 200.7" |
| Width | 78.6" | 78.3" |
| Height | 72.2" | 70.4" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | TSP+ | TSP+ |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 4yr/50k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 4yr/50k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 12yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 3yr/36k | 4yr/50k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Honda Passport EX-L and 2026 Volkswagen Atlas SE?
The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas SE starts at $41,210, $1,190 less than the 2025 Honda Passport EX-L at $42,400. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $21/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Honda Passport EX-L?
The 2025 Honda Passport EX-L is the stronger pick when you prefer a smaller vehicle that is easier to park and maneuver.
Who should choose the 2026 Volkswagen Atlas SE?
The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas SE is the stronger pick when you want to keep $1,190 in your pocket and the 2026 Volkswagen Atlas SE covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $91/year less on fuel; you want the larger footprint for passengers or cargo.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Honda Passport EX-L or 2026 Volkswagen Atlas SE?
The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas SE rates 22 combined MPG, 1 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Honda Passport EX-L or 2026 Volkswagen Atlas SE?
The 2025 Honda Passport EX-L produces 280 hp, 11 more than the 2026 Volkswagen Atlas SE at 269 hp. The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas SE also leads in torque at 273 lb-ft vs 262 lb-ft. The 2025 Honda Passport EX-L runs a 3.5L V6; the 2026 Volkswagen Atlas SE uses a 2.0L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2025 Honda Passport EX-L bigger than the 2026 Volkswagen Atlas SE?
The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas SE is 11.6″ longer at 200.7″ vs 189.1″. The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas SE has a 6.4″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
The Honda Passport comes with 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain. The Volkswagen Atlas offers 4yr/50k bumper-to-bumper and 4yr/50k powertrain. Longer warranty coverage can offset higher maintenance costs over time.
Explore more: Honda trims, Honda Passport trims, Volkswagen trims, Volkswagen Atlas trims
The Passport–Atlas Decision
Cross-shopping midsize SUVs means weighing interior space, ride quality, and ownership costs. Here is how the Passport and Atlas compare. The $-1,190 gap is about $21/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
What Powers Each Vehicle
The 2025 Honda Passport EX-L runs a 3.5L V6; the 2026 Volkswagen Atlas SE uses a 2.0L I4 Turbo. The 11 hp difference (280 vs 269) is marginal in daily driving. Both use AWD.
The Ownership Math
The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas SE saves roughly $91/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $455.
Living With the Passport vs the Atlas
The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas SE is 11.6″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages. The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas SE has a 6.4″ longer wheelbase, typically meaning a smoother ride and more rear-seat legroom.
The Decision
Choose the 2025 Honda Passport EX-L when you prefer a smaller vehicle that is easier to park and maneuver. Choose the 2026 Volkswagen Atlas SE when you want to keep $1,190 in your pocket and the 2026 Volkswagen Atlas SE covers your needs.
Specifications shown combine licensed third-party automotive data with official manufacturer, EPA, and NHTSA source material. Actual pricing, features, and availability may vary by region and dealer. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision. TrimAtlas is not affiliated with Honda or Volkswagen or any dealership.