Close Volkswagen Atlas Vs. Kia Telluride: Price, Performance & Dimensions
There's no actual "loser" when two deserving Volkswagen and Kia SUV models go head to head, but in a VW Atlas vs. Kia Telluride comparison, only one vehicle can come out on top. Despite these models' similarities, the Volkswagen Atlas stands out with its spacious cargo dimensions, additional torque, and better standard and available equipment. See for yourself how the competition stacks with this detailed guide compiled by the experts at Berge Volkswagen – we think you'll fall in love with the VW Atlas just as we have.
Kia Telluride vs. VW Atlas Pricing and Trim Levels
Some of the first differences you'll notice with our VW Atlas vs. Kia Telluride comparison are how these models cater to your style preferences and budget. Trims for both models come at similar starting prices, increasing with more premium features or upgrades as you move up the trim lineup. In terms of aesthetics, though, the VW Atlas trims introduced themselves with a bold new redesign for the previous model year that carries over into 2025, compared to the Kia Telluride's familiar or even dated design.
When you visit our dealership, our experts can review the starting price of the VW Atlas in line with various trims and packages. Once you decide to buy a new Volkswagen Atlas, you'll be able to pick from the following well-appointed models:
- 2025 Volkswagen Atlas SE
- 2025 Volkswagen Atlas SE with Technology
- 2025 Volkswagen Atlas Peak Edition
- 2025 Volkswagen Atlas SEL
- 2025 Volkswagen Atlas SEL Premium R-Line
Be sure to check out our new VW specials before you decide on which of the available 2025 Atlas trims you want to take home. We constantly update our deals to reflect our customers' needs and desires, so you may be able to opt for a higher tier than you originally planned on!
Premium Volkswagen Amenities vs. Basic Kia Telluride Features
One of the most glaring discrepancies between the VW Atlas and Kia Telluride comes from a comparison of their tech, convenience, and comfort features. Both models start you out with three-zone automatic climate control, leatherette seating, and large touchscreen displays – 12 inches in the Atlas and 12.3 inches in the Telluride – but that's about where the similarities for standard amenities end.
The entry-level Volkswagen Atlas SE model starts you out with premium amenities that you won't find until much later in the Telluride lineup. For instance, heated and ventilated front seats, a wireless charging pad, a 10.25-inch Volkswagen Digital Cockpit Pro instrument cluster, and rain-sensing wipers all come standard with the VW SUV.
In comparison, the Telluride starts with a 4.2-inch instrument display. You won't get a wireless charging pad or even front-seat heating in the base model – you'll have to upgrade to at least the second tier for those. Ventilation comes with the third model in the lineup, and you'll have to climb all the way to rung eight of the 10-trim telluride ladder to get rain-sensing wipers.
We could go on and on about the upscale amenities in the Atlas vs. the more basic ones in the Telluride – such as how the Atlas offers available massaging seats, something you won't find in any Telluride model – but suffice it to say that the Kia SUV doesn't hold a candle to the VW model in terms of premium appointments for every dollar spent.
Compare VW Atlas to Kia Telluride Performance
If you're all about an SUV with MVP-level performance, a Telluride vs. Atlas comparison clarifies which model is the right choice. The 2025 VW Atlas comes standard with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 269 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. The 2025 Kia Telluride and its V-6 can only generate 262 pound-feet of torque.
Both models offer excellent towing capabilities. The Atlas can tow up to 5,000 pounds properly equipped, while the majority of Telluride trims offer the same towing limit.1 It is possible to boost your towing capacity by 500 pounds with the Telluride model, but you'll have to spring for one of the two X-Pro models to get that 5,500-pound maximum,1 whereas the VW SUV is consistent no matter what tier or drivetrain you choose.
| Engine | 2.0L turbo I-4 |
|---|---|
| Horsepower | 269 |
| Torque | 273 lb-ft |
| Drivetrain | FWD or 4MOTION AWD |
| Transmission | 8-speed auto |
| Max. EPA-Est. MPG (Cty / Hwy / Comb) | 20 / 26 / 222 |
| Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs4 |
| Payload Capacity | 1,102 lbs |
| Engine | 3.8L V-6 |
|---|---|
| Horsepower | 291 |
| Torque | 262 lb-ft |
| Drivetrain | FWD or AWD |
| Transmission | 8-speed auto |
| Max. EPA-Est. MPG (Cty / Hwy / Comb) | 20 / 26 / 223 |
| Towing Capacity |
|
| Payload Capacity | Not disclosed by OEM |
Dive Deeper Into the VW Atlas vs. Telluride Dimensions
Whether you're looking at the VW Atlas or Kia Telluride dimensions, you'll find a spacious three-row seating arrangement at the core of each vehicle's design. You can seat seven occupants comfortably inside the VW Atlas and up to eight in the Telluride, but the VW Atlas has more front and third-row legroom. Factor in its standard front-seat heating and ventilation, and it's clear that the VW Atlas provides superior comfort right off the bat.
While the Telluride has a slightly higher passenger volume, adding more legroom to its second row, the VW Atlas gives you more cargo space to bring along your gear. In fact, it gives you nearly an additional 10 cubic feet, at 96.6 cubic feet of maximum cargo space, compared to 87 cubic feet in the Telluride. Additionally, the Atlas and Telluride have similar height and width dimensions, but the Atlas is longer, giving you a more commanding presence on the road. Style and comfort surround you on every road trip in this Volkswagen SUV.
| Passenger Capacity | 7 |
|---|---|
| Length: | 200.7 in |
| Body Width: | 78.3 in |
| Height: | 70.4 in |
| Max. Cargo Capacity | 96.6 cu ft |
| Max. Interior Passenger Volume | 153.7 cu ft |
| Third-Row Legroom | 33.7 in |
| Passenger Capacity | 7 or 8 |
|---|---|
| Length | 196.9 in |
| Body Width | 78.3 in |
| Height | 68.9 - 70.5 in |
| Max. Cargo Capacity | 87 cu ft |
| Interior Passenger Volume | 178.1 cu ft |
| Third-Row Legroom | 31.4 in |
Go Big or Go Home When You Choose the VW Atlas vs. Kia Telluride
Thank you for taking the time to read our Kia Telluride vs. Atlas SUV comparison. If you want more information about the VW Atlas, check out the trim levels we currently have in stock or explore the sportier VW Atlas Cross Sport SUV. This hard-charging road warrior never backs down from adverse weather or road conditions.
If you've been looking to push past the limits of your SUV or sedan model, you can move forward confidently, knowing that our VW SUVs have consistently satisfied local drivers. Call or visit Berge Volkswagen to take home a vehicle you love today. In the meantime, feel free to check out the answers to some of the most common questions we're asked about the three-row sport-utes covered in this comparison, which are listed below.
VW Atlas vs. Kia Telluride FAQ
The Volkswagen Atlas is a popular SUV model because it goes above and beyond drivers' expectations. That's why we get so many questions about this SUV. Below are some of the inquiries we hear the most regarding a VW Atlas vs. Kia Telluride comparison.
Is the VW Atlas bigger than the Kia Telluride?
Yes, the Volkswagen Atlas is slightly bigger than the Kia Telluride. While these SUVs have similar width and height dimensions, the Atlas is a bit longer for a more dominating appearance. The VW Atlas also boasts nearly 10 more cubic feet of maximum cargo space than the Telluride, as well as more front and third-row legroom. Choose the German-engineered SUV to comfortably accommodate your crew and gear.
How much can a VW Atlas tow?
Towing is an important part of what defines an SUV. If you plan on pulling a fishing boat, small watercraft, 4x4 vehicles, or other towable equipment, this SUV is more than up to the challenge when adventure calls. Enjoy a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds4 – regardless of what drivetrain you choose – and confidently get your gear to your next destination, near or far.
How many miles does the Kia Telluride last?
There's no official information for this measurement, but generally speaking, a Kia Telluride or any other vehicle can last up to 200,000 miles or more when properly cared for and serviced. Similar to the Kia SUV, the VW Atlas should also last around this mile mark if given routine maintenance on a recommended set schedule. Contact us for more details.
Additional Volkswagen Resources
1Towing requires additional equipment. See Owner's Manual for towing capacity, additional instructions and warnings. Always use caution while towing.
220 city/26 highway mpg (2025 VW Atlas 2.0-liter turbo I-4, eight-speed automatic transmission). EPA estimates. Your mileage will vary and depends on several factors, including your driving habits and vehicle condition.
3Based on EPA estimates. Actual mileage will vary with options, driving conditions, driving habits and your vehicle's condition. See www.fueleconomy.gov.
4Maximum tow rating when equipped with 2.0-liter turbo I-4 engine and factory-installed towing hitch. Vehicle load, other accessories, and options may reduce maximum towing capacity. See vehicle Owner's Manual for details.