Three-row crossover SUVs are quietly gaining prominence in the minds of American consumers. When the Volkswagen Atlas first arrived at the Compass VW showroom, it broke ground in several important areas, including offering one of the most comfortable third rows in the industry. A comparison of the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas vs. 2020 Kia Sorento will help customers make the best possible decision in picking the vehicle that will best fit their needs. Volkswagen has put the Atlas through a mild refresh process for the 2021 model year by updating front and rear design elements as well as expanding the available of several high-tech features including active safety systems, digital system monitors and a mobile internet hotspot. Additionally, the 2021 Atlas will also offer performance and cargo-hauling advantages.
Compass Volkswagen customers can start the pre-ordering process of the 2021 VW Atlas today by calling, 877-544-8813.
2021 VW Atlas |
VS |
2020 Kia Sorento |
Turbo., 2.0-L, 4-Cyl. | Base Engine | 2.4-L, 4-Cyl. |
235/258 | Horsepower/Torque | 185/178 |
7 people | Max. Passenger Capacity | 7 people |
96.8 cu.-ft. | Max. Cargo Volume | 73 cu.-ft. |
The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas is available with two power plant options. Base models will have a turbocharged 2.0-liter, inline four-cylinder engine under the hood that will make 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Compass VW customers who require more performance can choose a naturally aspirated 3.6-liter, V-6 engine – producing 276 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque. Both Volkswagen engines use an eight-speed automatic transmission. Kia also offers a four-cylinder and a V-6 engine for the 2020 Sorento. The entry-level four-cylinder engine will make 185 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque, and the V-6 will make 290 horsepower. However, both vehicles have the same maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds – when the vehicles are properly equipped.
Both the 2021 Atlas and 2020 Sorento offer three rows of seats that can hold up to seven people each. The driver and front passenger in either vehicle will have very similar legroom dimensions.
On the other hand, Volkswagen makes more legroom available to passengers in the second and third rows of seats versus what is found in the corresponding space in the 2020 Sorento. Cargo volume is really where the 2021 Atlas pulls away from its Kia rival. When the Atlas is properly configured, it will be able to offer up to 96.8 cubic-feet, compared to just 73 cubic-feet.
Volkswagen and Kia have embraced some impressive technology to expand connectivity for its customers. Owners of the 2021 Atlas will have a few additional features to use that aren’t found in the 2020 Sorento including a high-speed 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot and digital center gauge cluster. The Volkswagen Digital Cockpit (available on SEL trims and higher) will allow drivers to customize the display to show them the most important information to them.