Volkswagen Atlas vs Kia Telluride: Which to Buy

Volkswagen Atlas starts at $39,310; the Kia Telluride starts at $36,190. Before taxes and fees, the Kia Telluride is $3,140 less. Kia Telluride makes more power, 291 hp against 269 hp. The Kia Telluride seats 8, the Volkswagen Atlas seats 7.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Volkswagen Atlas or the Kia Telluride cheaper?
The Kia Telluride costs less to start. Volkswagen Atlas: $39,310 plus $1,475 destination. Kia Telluride: $36,190 plus $1,455 destination. Taxes, title and registration are on top of both.
Which gets better fuel economy, the Volkswagen Atlas or the Kia Telluride?
The Volkswagen Atlas is rated 20/27 city/hwy, and the Kia Telluride is rated 20/26 city/hwy. Real-world results depend on how and where you drive.
How many people does each seat?
The Volkswagen Atlas seats 7. The Kia Telluride seats 8.
What are the trade-offs between the two?
Volkswagen Atlas: Cavernous interior space and genuine 7-passenger capacity, though infotainment system lacks physical knobs for volume and climate. Kia Telluride: Premium-feeling interior that rivals luxury brands, though no hybrid powertrain option currently available.
Volkswagen Atlas is best for
Volkswagen Atlas is the better fit for mid-size suv buyers who want to carry a family. Its standout: cavernous interior space and genuine 7-passenger capacity.
Kia Telluride is best for
Kia Telluride is the better fit for mid-size suv buyers who want to carry a family. Its standout: premium-feeling interior that rivals luxury brands.
Spec-by-Spec Comparison
| Attribute | Volkswagen Atlas | Kia Telluride |
|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP | $39,310 | $36,190 |
| MSRP + destination | $40,785 | $37,645 |
| Fuel economy / range | 20/27 city/hwy | 20/26 city/hwy |
| Horsepower | 269 hp | 291 hp |
| Seating | 7 | 8 |
| Body type | Mid-Size SUV | Mid-Size SUV |
| Powertrains | 2.0L TSI Turbo, 4Motion AWD | 3.8L V6 |