2023 Kia Telluride vs 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport presented a bold and sporty appearance by eliminating the third row from the standard Atlas model, lowering the roofline by 2.3 inches, and shortening the SUV’s length by 5.2 inches. Despite these changes, the wheelbase remained the same, ensuring a spacious interior for five passengers. However, the design adjustments resulted in reduced cargo space, offering 40.3 cubic feet behind the second-row seat and a maximum of 77.8 cubic feet. The SEL Premium R-Line trim, with its 21-inch machined-finish wheels, emphasized the vehicle's broad-shouldered stance, although other wheel options were less appealing. The interior featured a mix of attractive color combinations, but the presence of hard, glossy plastics detracted from the overall quality impression.

In contrast, the 2023 Kia Telluride received fresh styling updates, including new front and rear designs, updated headlights and taillights, and new wheel designs. The X-Line and X-Pro models added a raised suspension and unique styling elements, enhancing their off-road appeal. Inside, the Telluride offered new interior colors and a digital instrumentation panel alongside a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The interior updates were subtle but effective, with features like ventilated second-row seats in the SX Prestige trim. The Telluride's spacious interior accommodated seven or eight passengers, depending on the configuration, and provided ample storage space, making it a practical choice for families.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport offered two engine options: a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder with 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, and a 3.6-liter V6 producing 276 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque. The V6 engine, standard in the SEL Premium R-Line trim, provided a more satisfying driving experience, although it was less fuel-efficient than the turbo-four. The V6 also offered a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, compared to the turbo-four's 2,000 pounds. The Atlas Cross Sport's ride quality varied, with a harsh suspension at lower speeds and a soft, compliant feel at higher speeds. The vehicle's handling was generally good, but the suspension tuning could have been more balanced.

The 2023 Kia Telluride retained its 3.8-liter V6 engine, delivering 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The Telluride offered multiple driving modes, including Eco, Comfort, Smart, Sport, and Snow, with an AWD system featuring a low-speed Lock setting. The Telluride's ride quality was smooth and comfortable, with a soft suspension that maintained a connection to the road surface. The X-Line and X-Pro models featured raised suspensions and improved off-road capabilities, with the X-Pro offering a towing capacity of 5,500 pounds. The Telluride's fuel efficiency was commendable, with the X-Line averaging 24.1 mpg and the X-Pro 20.4 mpg, despite off-road driving.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport shared its wheelbase and track width with the larger seven-passenger model, providing a roomy interior for five adults. The test vehicle featured 10-way power-adjustable front seats, heated and ventilated front and rear seats, and a dual-zone automatic climate control system. A panoramic sunroof added to the spacious feel, while numerous storage compartments offered practicality, albeit with some rattling due to the lack of lining. The cargo area was generous, with deep wells for additional storage, although the shorter length and lower roofline reduced overall cargo capacity.

The 2023 Kia Telluride accommodated seven or eight passengers, depending on the second-row seating configuration. The test vehicles featured premium Nappa leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, and heated and ventilated front and second-row seats. The Telluride's interior was spacious, with comfortable seating and a power lumbar stabilization system for long trips. The second-row seats offered easy access to the third row, which was more comfortable than many competitors. Storage space was plentiful, with a smart power tailgate and generous cargo capacity, offering 21 cubic feet behind the third row and up to 87 cubic feet with both rear rows folded.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport came standard with Volkswagen Digital Cockpit, featuring an 8-inch display and a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Higher trims offered a 10.25-inch digital cockpit and an 8-inch touchscreen with additional features like wireless smartphone charging and SiriusXM with 360L. The infotainment system included Car-Net connected services, but the user experience could be frustrating without a WiFi hotspot plan. The SEL Premium R-Line trim featured a 12-speaker Fender premium sound system, delivering excellent audio quality.

The 2023 Kia Telluride featured a new 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system as standard, with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM, and Kia Connect services. The system performed well in voice recognition tests, although climate control adjustments required manual input. The Telluride offered six USB charging ports, Driver Talk, and Quiet Mode, enhancing convenience for passengers. Upgrades included a 10-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, wireless smartphone charging, and digital-key technology. The Telluride also offered a Full Display Mirror and an optional head-up display, providing additional information and convenience.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport included standard safety features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Higher trims added adaptive cruise control, parking sensors, and lane-keeping assist. The IQ Drive system offered semi-autonomous driving assistance, but the steering inputs could be noticeable. The Atlas Cross Sport received favorable crash-test ratings, though not the highest accolades from safety organizations.

The 2023 Kia Telluride offered an extensive list of standard safety features, including forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, and automatic emergency braking. The Telluride also included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane-keeping assist. The adaptive cruise control system featured stop-and-go capability and navigation-based speed adjustments. Highway Drive Assist 1.5 and 2.0 provided semi-autonomous driving assistance, with the latter offering Lane Change Assist. The Telluride also included a Rear Occupant Alert system and a driver attention warning system. Crash-test ratings were unavailable at the time of review.