2027 Kia Telluride SX vs 2026 Volkswagen Atlas SEL
$830 less and 38 more lb-ft torque vs AWD. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $830 price gap, 274 vs 269 hp.
The Telluride SX leads on $830 less, 38 more lb-ft torque. The Atlas SEL leads on AWD. The spec table compares 6 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 6 specifications.
Full Specification Comparison
Specifications and pricing reflect available data as of early 2026 and may not match current manufacturer figures. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision.
| Spec | 2027 Kia Telluride SX | 2026 Volkswagen Atlas SEL |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $48,790 | $49,620 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 Turbo | 2.0L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 274 hp | 269 hp |
| Torque | 311 lb-ft | 273 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | No published data | 19 |
| Highway MPG | No published data | 25 |
| Combined MPG | No published data | 21 |
| Fuel Tank | 19.0 gal | 18.6 gal |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 4,381 lbs | 4,636 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 116.9" | 117.3" |
| Length | 199.2" | 200.7" |
| Width | 78.3" | 78.3" |
| Height | 69.9" | 70.4" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | No published data | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | TSP+ | TSP+ |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 5yr/60k | 4yr/50k |
| Powertrain | 10yr/100k | 4yr/50k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/100k | 12yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/60k | 4yr/50k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2027 Kia Telluride SX and 2026 Volkswagen Atlas SEL?
The 2027 Kia Telluride SX starts at $48,790, $830 less than the 2026 Volkswagen Atlas SEL at $49,620. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $15/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2027 Kia Telluride SX?
The 2027 Kia Telluride SX is the stronger pick when you want to keep $830 in your pocket and the 2027 Kia Telluride SX covers your needs.
Who should choose the 2026 Volkswagen Atlas SEL?
The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas SEL is the stronger pick when you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted.
Which is more powerful, the 2027 Kia Telluride SX or 2026 Volkswagen Atlas SEL?
The 2027 Kia Telluride SX produces 274 hp, 5 more than the 2026 Volkswagen Atlas SEL at 269 hp. The 2027 Kia Telluride SX also leads in torque at 311 lb-ft vs 273 lb-ft. The 2027 Kia Telluride SX runs a 2.5L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Volkswagen Atlas SEL uses a 2.0L I4 Turbo. Drivetrains differ too: FWD on the 2027 Kia Telluride SX, AWD on the 2026 Volkswagen Atlas SEL.
Is the 2027 Kia Telluride SX bigger than the 2026 Volkswagen Atlas SEL?
The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas SEL is 1.5″ longer at 200.7″ vs 199.2″. The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas SEL has a 0.4″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2027 Kia Telluride SX and 2026 Volkswagen Atlas SEL have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas SEL comes with AWD, while the 2027 Kia Telluride SX uses FWD. If you drive in snow, heavy rain, or on unpaved roads, the all-wheel or four-wheel drive option provides better traction. If you mostly drive on dry pavement, the two-wheel drive option saves fuel.
How do the warranties compare?
The Kia Telluride comes with 5yr/60k bumper-to-bumper and 10yr/100k powertrain. The Volkswagen Atlas offers 4yr/50k bumper-to-bumper and 4yr/50k powertrain. Longer warranty coverage can offset higher maintenance costs over time.
Explore more: Kia trims, Kia Telluride trims, Volkswagen trims, Volkswagen Atlas trims
- 2027 Kia Telluride SX Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2026 Volkswagen Atlas SEL Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
Telluride vs Atlas: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2027 Kia Telluride SX and 2026 Volkswagen Atlas SEL sit in the midsize SUV class, where cargo room, ride comfort, and family-friendly features define the competitive landscape. The $830 gap is about $15/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
Under the Hood
The 2027 Kia Telluride SX runs a 2.5L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Volkswagen Atlas SEL uses a 2.0L I4 Turbo. The 5 hp difference (274 vs 269) is marginal in daily driving. The 2027 Kia Telluride SX adds 38 more lb-ft of torque (311 vs 273), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas SEL comes with AWD; the 2027 Kia Telluride SX uses FWD. If you deal with snow, rain, or gravel roads, that traction advantage matters.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2027 Kia Telluride SX when you want to keep $830 in your pocket and the 2027 Kia Telluride SX covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Volkswagen Atlas SEL when you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted. At $15/month apart, the price difference alone will not decide this.
Specifications shown combine licensed third-party automotive data with official manufacturer, EPA, and NHTSA source material. Actual pricing, features, and availability may vary by region and dealer. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision. TrimAtlas is not affiliated with Kia or Volkswagen or any dealership.