Volkswagen Atlas vs Jeep Wrangler
The Volkswagen Atlas and Jeep Wrangler are evenly matched on fuel economy — both peak at 25 mpg combined — so the decision comes down to engine choice, drivetrain, and class.
Across 3 measured categories, the Jeep Wrangler leads in 2. Figures are EPA test data, not manufacturer claims.
2018–2027
Volkswagen Atlas
Small Sport Utility Vehicle 4WD · 57 configurations
2015–2027
Jeep Wrangler
Small Sport Utility Vehicle 4WD · 104 configurations
Head-to-head specifications
| Metric | Volkswagen Atlas | Jeep Wrangler |
|---|---|---|
| Best combined MPG | 25 mpg | 25 mpg |
| Best city MPG | 22 mpg | 23 mpg ✓ |
| Best highway MPG | 29 mpg | 29 mpg |
| Lowest annual fuel costEPA estimate at 15,000 miles per year | $2,450 ✓ | $2,550 |
| Lowest CO2 output | 364 g/mi | 230 g/mi ✓ |
| Engines offered | SIDI | 3.6, SIDI, 6.4, SIDI; PHEV |
| Transmissions | Automatic (S8) | Manual 6-spd, Automatic 8-spd, Automatic 5-spd |
| Drivetrains | All-Wheel Drive, Front-Wheel Drive | 4-Wheel Drive |
| Fuel types | Regular | Regular, Premium, Regular Gas and Electricity |
| EPA class | Small Sport Utility Vehicle 4WD | Small Sport Utility Vehicle 4WD |
| Years covered | 2018–2027 | 2015–2027 |
| Configurations on record | 57 | 104 |
Source: EPA fuel economy records via fueleconomy.gov. Best-case values across all recorded configurations for each model.
Atlas vs Wrangler: common questions
Which is better on gas, the Volkswagen Atlas or the Jeep Wrangler?
The Volkswagen Atlas and Jeep Wrangler are evenly matched on fuel economy — both peak at 25 mpg combined — so the decision comes down to engine choice, drivetrain, and class.
Which costs less to run per year?
By EPA estimates at 15,000 miles a year, the Volkswagen Atlas runs about $2,450 a year in fuel at its most efficient configuration, versus about $2,550 for the Jeep Wrangler — a difference of roughly $100 per year.
What engines do the Atlas and Wrangler offer?
Volkswagen Atlas: SIDI. Jeep Wrangler: 3.6, SIDI, 6.4, SIDI; PHEV.
Are they in the same vehicle class?
Yes — the EPA classifies both the Volkswagen Atlas and the Jeep Wrangler as Small Sport Utility Vehicle 4WD, so they compete directly.
More Atlas comparisons
Comparison id: volkswagen-atlas-vs-jeep-wrangler