We pitted a $55,000 Ford Explorer against a $49,000 VW Atlas — here’s the verdict (F)

“Embracing Americana is the smartest thing Volkswagen has done in a long time,” Ben concluded. “While it hasn’t completely shed its German heritage, the company finally delivered an off-roader with the power, space, and practicality which caters specifically to the largest and most lucrative SUV market in the world.”

If you’ve been keeping score, the Explorer takes the lead when it comes to power, infotainment, and heritage. This is the SUV that more or less defined the segment surge of the 1990s, and as the market has returned to these vehicles with enthusiasm, new buyers have discovered just how great the Explorer is.

The Atlas wins on design, newness, price, and sheer chutzpah. This is the VW SUV that intended to convince people who might otherwise buy an Explorer to … buy a VW instead! We did name it as a 2017 Business Insider Car of the Year finalist.

We are, of course, under no illusions that Ford will let this stand. The Explorer will get more than a mid-cycle update and be ready to defend itself against all comers. But for now, VW’s interpretation of the Great American SUV is worth a look.