Looking Only At The Numbers
A 3.8-liter 6-cylinder engine powers the Telluride, while the Atlas uses a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder power plant. This variation allows the Telluride to provide a few more horsepower than the Atlas. However, the Atlas uses that power more effectively, taking the win in the torque category. Both include an 8-speed automatic transmission, can be configured in FWD or AWD, and provide virtually the same fuel efficiency with about a one-mile-per-gallon advantage when going to the Atlas.
Comparing the size of these two capable SUVs, you will discover that the variations range by only an inch or two in categories like length, width, and height. As you review the space provided in the three rows of seating, you will find the measurements all very similar. While one might offer an inch more in the second row, the other added that inch of space to the third row. The only significant distinction in the accommodations for passengers is that the Atlas provides seating for seven while the Telluride can seat eight. When evaluating pure cargo capacity, the two are nearly identical when filled with passengers. However, when looking for max cargo hauling capability, the Atlas wins the challenge with nearly ten additional cubic feet of capacity over the Telluride.
The Most Critical Number
As buyers evaluate the most vital number, the price of the Atlas and the Telluride, they will find them also neck and neck. What stands out is that the Telluride offers ten trim levels while the Atlas has only seven. The takeaway is that you will get more standard features for the money in the Atlas. The mid-level Atlas trim is roughly $3k less than the middle-level Telluride. While considering what you get for your hard-earned dollars, it is also critical to understand that the NHTSA Overall Safety Rating for both vehicles is five stars, so you are not compromising the safety of loved ones with the choice to save money on your mid-sized SUV purchase. In fact, the Atlas includes ID.DRIVE that includes many new driver assist features to increase safety as part of its standard equipment package.
What Catches Your Eye?
The unique appearance of the Atlas, with smooth lines and a distinct aero/euro look, is sure to catch your eye. Knowing that the same design features and appeal continue inside the Atlas, it deserves some personal attention and a test drive to ensure you fully appreciate all this SUV has to offer. In addition, please know that no dealership has more to offer in terms of customer service, exceptional vehicle selection, and knowledgeable and friend sales experts than Volkswagen of Inver Grove. We are just a short drive from Hudson, Woodbury, and Stillwater.
