2024 Volkswagen Atlas vs. 2023 Kia Telluride: Which SUV Reigns Supreme?

Introduction: The Battle of Three-Row SUVs

The 2023 Chicago Auto Show unveiled exciting new SUVs for families, including the updated 2024 Volkswagen Atlas and the all-new 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander. However, one SUV remains the benchmark—the 2023 Kia Telluride. With a stellar reputation for luxury and practicality, the Telluride continues to dominate its segment. But has Volkswagen closed the gap with the 2024 Atlas? Let's dive into a comprehensive comparison to find out.

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Interior Quality: Luxury vs. Practicality

Kia Telluride: A Premium Cabin Experience

The Telluride has set the standard for upscale interiors in the three-row SUV segment. Its SX-Prestige X-Pro trim exudes luxury, featuring premium materials, soft-touch surfaces, and meticulously stitched upholstery. The 2023 model enhances its appeal with an expansive 12.3-inch digital display and an intuitive layout that prioritizes both style and functionality.

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Volkswagen Atlas: A Step in the Right Direction

While previous Atlas models lacked the opulence of the Telluride, Volkswagen has made notable strides in the 2024 update. The new Atlas boasts a soft-touch simulated leather dashboard, a refined center console, and elegant simulated wood accents. Though these upgrades narrow the gap, certain areas still reveal cost-cutting measures, preventing it from fully rivaling the Telluride’s premium feel.

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Multimedia & Controls: Ease of Use Matters

Kia Telluride: Intuitive Physical Controls

One of the Telluride’s standout features is its straightforward and user-friendly control system. The SUV retains physical buttons and knobs, making infotainment adjustments effortless. Its 12.3-inch touchscreen integrates seamlessly with the digital instrument cluster, enhancing the overall tech experience without unnecessary complications.

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Volkswagen Atlas: A Controversial Change

Volkswagen has adopted the touch-sensitive controls found in the ID.4, replacing traditional buttons with haptic-feedback alternatives. While visually sleek, these controls have proven finicky in past implementations, leading to accidental activations and usability concerns. Whether these refinements will improve user experience remains to be seen.

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Second-Row Comfort: A Crucial Factor for Families

Volkswagen Atlas: Spacious and Versatile

The Atlas continues to shine in second-row comfort, offering ample legroom and flexible seating configurations. A major advantage is its tilt-forward second-row seats, allowing easy third-row access without removing installed car seats—a game-changer for parents.

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Kia Telluride: Luxury Meets Functionality

The Telluride’s second-row experience remains impressive, with plush seating and a high-end feel extending beyond the front seats. However, while comfortable, its accessibility features fall short of the Atlas’ superior practicality.

Third-Row Comfort: Space Matters

Volkswagen Atlas: The Clear Winner

The Atlas’ third-row seating is one of the most spacious in its class, designed for two passengers rather than squeezing in three. The result is greater comfort, adequate headroom, and a more usable space for adults and older children.

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Kia Telluride: A Squeeze in the Third Row

While the Telluride technically offers seating for three in the third row, its narrow design makes it impractical. The raised middle seat reduces headroom, making long rides less comfortable.

Cargo Space: Which SUV Delivers More Utility?

Volkswagen Atlas: More Room for Gear

The Atlas is one of the most spacious three-row SUVs on the market, boasting a generous cargo area behind the third row. Families needing ample storage for road trips and daily errands will appreciate its practicality.

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Kia Telluride: Smart Convenience Features

While the Telluride falls slightly behind in raw cargo volume, it compensates with convenience features like electronic second-row seat releases, allowing effortless reconfiguration for maximum space.

Performance & Efficiency: Powertrain Updates

Volkswagen Atlas: Turbocharged for 2024

Volkswagen has retired the V-6 engine, replacing it with a turbocharged four-cylinder. While this change promises improved efficiency and torque delivery, real-world performance evaluations are still pending.

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Kia Telluride: A Proven Performer

The Telluride continues with its reliable V-6 engine, delivering smooth acceleration and consistent power. Its tried-and-true setup offers familiarity, though fuel economy figures remain modest.

Price & Value: What to Expect

Pricing for the 2024 Atlas has yet to be officially confirmed, but with added features and powertrain changes, a price hike is likely. The Telluride, meanwhile, remains competitively priced for its segment, offering strong value given its premium interior and feature set.

Final Verdict: Which SUV Is Right for You?

The 2024 Volkswagen Atlas has made significant strides in interior refinement, family-friendly usability, and cargo space. However, the 2023 Kia Telluride still leads in luxury, intuitive controls, and overall refinement.

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• Choose the Atlas if you prioritize spaciousness, third-row comfort, and a practical family-friendly layout.
• Choose the Telluride if you prefer premium materials, intuitive controls, and a refined driving experience.

Ultimately, both SUVs are excellent choices—your decision depends on whether you value luxury or utility more.

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