Toyota vs. Volkswagen: Model by Model

When Chicago drivers are searching for a new car or crossover, it’s important that vehicle be reliable. But when it comes to reliable automakers, which should you choose: Toyota or Volkswagen? We’re obviously a bit biased here at The Autobarn Volkswagen of Countryside, but we think that when you see the differences between each brand’s models, you’ll see why so many LaGrange and Naperville drivers choose VW.

Volkswagen Golf vs. Toyota Corolla

The Volkswagen Golf is one of our most popular models at The Autobarn Volkswagen of Countryside, helping to redefine the small car while the Corolla aims to sit firmly as a compact sedan. Perhaps the biggest advantage of the Golf is its status as a hatchback:

• Standard Cargo Volume: 17.4 cubic feet vs. 13 cubic feet
• Max Cargo Volume: 53.7 cubic feet vs. 13 cubic feet

The Camry isn’t built for cargo, and if you’re going to help a friend move, grab that yard sale end table, or take fido to the vet, the expandable cargo area of a hatchback simply trumps a similarly sized sedan. Of course, the Golf also comes in a wide variety of other options, including performance-oriented versions like the Golf GTI and the Golf R. Looking for something bigger for the family? Try the Golf Alltrack or the Golf SportWagen.

Volkswagen Passat vs. Toyota Camry

The mid-size sedan might be one of the fiercest segments of the auto world, but we think it’s no contest at The Autobarn Volkswagen of Countryside. The Volkswagen Passat simply has advantages the Toyota Camry can’t touch, including:

• Passenger Volume: 102 cubic feet vs. 100.4 cubic feet
• Trunk Volume: 15.9 cubic feet vs. 14.1 cubic feet

The numbers might seem small, but the difference 1-2 cubic feet can make can be the difference between a peaceful family trip and one where the kids are touching each other (because the Camry didn’t have room in the trunk for that last bag). The Passat interior is designed for spaciousness, ready to be a family sedan, and outfitted with modern tech, while the Camry feels like an upsized Corolla.

Volkswagen Tiguan vs. Toyota RAV4

While the Toyota RAV4 has a bit of a rugged reputation, it’s mostly unearned. It more closely resembles other five-passenger crossovers like the Tiguan while bearing features or design choices that make it look like it’s ready to hit the trail. The Tiguan performance advantages include:

• Power: 184 hp vs. 176 hp
• Torque: 221 lb-ft vs. 172 lb-ft

Of course, you will also find many Volkswagen-exclusive features on the Tiguan, like VW Car-Net App-Connect. The Tiguan also features 123.9 cubic feet of passenger volume to the RAV4’s 101.9 cubic feet — far more room to stretch out on a LaGrange drive or a road trip. No wonder it has such impressive reviews and trounces competitors.

Volkswagen Atlas vs. Toyota 4Runner

We could compare the Atlas to the Highlander or the Sienna, too, but we think its closest competitor is the 4Runner, which is bad news for the Toyota. The Atlas bests the 4Runner on standard and available cargo capacity as well as passenger space:

• Cargo Volume Behind Second Seat: 55.5 cubic feet vs. 42.2 cubic feet
• Max Cargo Volume: 96.8 cubic feet vs. 89.7 cubic feet
• Passenger Capacity: 7 passengers vs. 5 passengers

Of course, the Atlas is also one of the newest models on the road, meaning it’s been designed with the needs of the modern driver in mind. Features like VW Car-Net App-Connect and an intelligently designed interior give it an edge over competitors, including the 4Runner, Pilot, and more.