Is it time for a midsize SUV upgrade? If so, why not consider the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas? Built by a well-known German automaker, it has some luxury features at a mainstream value point. It also boasts excellent build quality, a great list of tech and safety features, and an efficient turbocharged engine. However, there are plenty of viable contenders, such as the 2024 Kia Telluride.
To determine the most suitable midsize SUV, we’ll carry out a Volkswagen vs Kia evaluation. We’ll check out each vehicle’s interior specifications. Then, we’ll see how their performance capabilities compare. Finally, we’ll conclude with a comprehensive safety suite analysis. This will help you pick a winner. Alternatively, contact us at Volkswagen of Ocala for advice. We’ll tell you all about the 2024 Atlas and explain its trims. Then, we’ll help you choose the most suitable one.
The 2024 Volkswagen Atlas has 154 cubic feet of interior space, while the 2024 Kia Telluride is slightly bigger at 157 cubic feet. However, Volkswagen says that the 2024 Atlas offers the best-in-class third-row legroom. Furthermore, the 2024 Atlas comes with a roomier seven-seat layout, while the 2024 Telluride crams in eight seats. This makes the 2024 Atlas more spacious and comfortable for longer journeys. It also comes with features such as tri-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, and a powered driver seat. The 2024 Telluride offers some of these features as well.
Both midsize SUVs also offer a seating configuration with captain chairs. This reduces the total capacity of the 2024 Atlas to six and the 2024 Tellurides to seven. This configuration replaces the second-row bench seat with separate seats. These seats can be adjusted independently to create a walk-through passage for easier third-row access.
The 2024 Atlas and the Telluride offer digital gauge clusters. For the 2024 Atlas, this comes as part of the Volkswagen Digital Cockpit Pro system. They also come with standard Android Auto™ and Apple CarPlay® for smartphone connectivity. When equipped with Digital Cockpit Pro, the gauge cluster screen can show map and navigation information, too. Then, the 2024 Atlas comes with a wireless phone charger, plus six USB charging ports that offer up to 45 watts of power. Furthermore, buyers can upgrade the vehicle with a Harman/Kardon® premium sound system. A similar sound system is available for the 2024 Telluride.
The 2024 Volkswagen Atlas can carry 21 cubic feet in its trunk when the third row of seats is deployed. The 2024 Kia Telluride has the same amount of space. These midsize SUVs offer more space when you fold the second and third rows. With the third row folded, the 2024 Atlas has 56 cubic feet, while the 2024 Telluride has 46 cubic feet. When the second row is folded as well, the 2024 Atlas can carry 97 cubic feet of cargo. The Telluride can manage just 87 cubic feet under the same configuration.
Volkswagen outfits the 2024 Atlas with a powerful and efficient 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. The 269-hp engine can provide up to 273 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive comes as a standard feature, but buyers can opt for Volkswagen’s 4MOTION all-wheel drive system. Here, buyers get several drive modes that adjust drivetrain parameters accordingly. Modes include Normal, Eco, Comfort, Sport, Snow, and Offroad. There’s also a Custom setting that allows the driver to define a custom profile. Volkswagen also offers a Peak Edition with all-terrain tires and lower-side cladding.
The 2024 Kia Telluride uses a 3.8-liter, naturally aspirated, 291-hp V6. The engine makes 262 lb-ft of torque. It comes with an 8-speed automatic gearbox and drives the front wheels. All-wheel drive is available.
Every 2024 Atlas gets Volkswagen’s IQ.DRIVE safety suite. This includes standard automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control. Buyers also get rear cross-traffic alerts, lane departure warnings, and lane-keeping assistance.
Furthermore, Travel Assist and Emergency Assist functions are standard. Then, buyers get Volkswagen’s Driver Assistance suite. This brings park distance control with maneuver braking, a dynamic road sign display, and automatic headlamps. The 2024 Kia Telluride has similar features, but some are optional.
If you want a well-built, spacious, and stylish midsize SUV, the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas is our pick. It’s got an efficient powertrain, a long list of safety features, and a comfortable cabin.
Why not take one for a spin today? Visit Volkswagen of Ocala, and you can drive a 2024 Atlas around the roads of Ocala, FL. Then, our team will help you select a trim, equip it with useful options, and find financing avenues for your new car.