VW Atlas vs Kia Telluride

VW Atlas vs Telluride: Performance on the Road

Although both vehicles come standard with an 8-speed automatic transmission, the VW Atlas has some unique performance abilities and options that might help take your driving experience to the next level.

Whereas the Kia Telluride only comes with one standard engine, the VW Atlas has two engines available for you to choose from. Between these powerful engines, you’ll be able to customize a ride that offers the ideal kind of driving performance you’re looking for.

With its available 3.6L V6 engine, the VW Atlas is able to generate up to 266 lb-ft of torque. However, the Kia Telluride maxes out at just 262 lb-ft of torque.

Additionally, the VW Atlas is able to achieve slightly better fuel economy ratings for city drivers with an EPA-estimated 21 city/24 highway MPG.^* The Kia Telluride falls slightly behind again with only 20 city MPG.

VW Atlas vs Telluride: A Look Inside

While both 3-row SUVs offer plenty of interior space, the VW Atlas might be better suited for all passengers. If you want a spacious interior, you’ll appreciate these headroom measurements for the VW Atlas:

• Front Row: 41.3 inches
• Middle Row: 40.4 inches
• Rear Row: 38.3 inches

In the Telluride, you might feel a little more cramped with only 40.9 inches of headroom in the front row, 40.2 inches in the middle row, and 38.1 inches in the rear row.

You’ll find a similar difference in the amount of cargo space offered by each vehicle. While the VW Atlas is neck and neck with the Telluride when all the seats are upright—20.6 cubic feet in the Volkswagen while the Telluride has 21 cubic feet—it pulls rather far ahead once you start folding down the seats.

With the rear row folded flat, the VW Atlas offers 55.5 cubic feet of cargo room compared to 46 cubic feet with the Telluride. And when you fold down both rear rows, the VW Atlas reaches a maximum 96.8 cubic feet of cargo space, while the Telluride only has 87 cubic feet of space.

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VW Atlas vs Kia Telluride: Technology and Safety

From safety to infotainment, technology is incredibly important in an SUV. You’ll want all the features you need to keep your kids entertained and protect your most precious cargo at the same time.

That’s why the VW Atlas comes standard with features such as the Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Traffic Alert. Along with Pedestrian Monitoring and Forward Collision Warning, this SUV has everything you’ll need for your peace of mind. And since it comes standard with Engine Brake Assist, the VW Atlas is ready to work in emergency situations.

While the Kia Telluride offers many similar features, it doesn’t offer anything like Engine Brake Assist.