2027 Kia Telluride vs. Volkswagen Atlas: Which Wins?

Car and Driver pitted the new 2027 Volkswagen Atlas against the 2027 Kia Telluride, the reigning champ in the three-row SUV class. After a close fight, the Telluride took the win—but the Atlas proved it belongs in the conversation.

Both test vehicles were loaded, all-wheel-drive top trims. The Telluride X-Pro SX Prestige AWD starts at $58,335 and stickered at $59,580 with matte paint and floor mats. The Atlas SEL Premium R-Line 4Motion starts at $58,135 and hit $59,126 with optional captain's chairs and mats. Feature-wise, they're nearly even: heated and ventilated seats, big screens, premium audio, sunroofs, and lots of USB-C ports.

Powertrains are well matched. The Telluride uses a 274-hp turbo 2.5-liter four-cylinder; the Atlas has a 282-hp turbo 2.0-liter. Both use eight-speed automatics. The Kia hits 60 mph in 7.5 seconds, the VW in 7.6. But the Atlas is the fuel-economy pick: 23 mpg combined versus the Telluride's 19 mpg, per the EPA.

On the road, the Telluride rides more smoothly and stays quieter, especially at 70 mph (67 decibels vs. 69). The Atlas feels quicker from a stop and more nimble, but its 21-inch tires can make the ride feel brittle over rough pavement. The Telluride's all-terrain rubber hurts grip and stopping distance: it managed 0.76 g on the skidpad and needed 182 feet to stop from 70 mph, while the Atlas posted 0.84 g and 165 feet.

Interior room is a near tie. Both can fit six-footers in all three rows. Car and Driver notes the Telluride has a more intuitive infotainment system, while the Atlas offers fancier cabin materials—Nappa leather, wood trim, and a unique swirl lighting pattern that changes color with temperature settings.

"Cool-looking, roomy, and comfy, the Telluride is a capable all-arounder." — Car and Driver

After internal debate, Car and Driver's editors gave the nod to the Telluride X-Pro SX Prestige, citing its smoother ride, quieter highway manners, and easier-to-use controls. But they also called the Atlas "a serious mid-size SUV player" that is absolutely worth a test-drive for any family shopping this segment.

If you're choosing between these two, it comes down to priorities: the Telluride for comfort and simplicity, the Atlas for fuel economy and a more premium interior vibe. Either way, you're getting a very good SUV.

• Car and Driver
• comparison test
• family SUV
• Kia Telluride
• three-row SUV
• Volkswagen Atlas