Why Choose the 2026 Volkswagen Atlas vs. the Hyundai Palisades?

If you’re shopping for a new, spacious, family-friendly SUV with modern tech and reliable performance, you’ll find two of the strongest contenders are the 2026 Volkswagen Atlas and 2026 Hyundai Palisades. Both have three rows with plenty of cargo space, high-end interior features, and impressive capability - so which is the best one for you?

Let’s take a look at what differs between the two reliable, sporty, and spacious SUVs, and you can find the 2026 Atlas at J. Bertolet Volkswagen near Pottsville and Hamburg, PA.

2026 Volkswagen Atlas vs. 2026 Hyundai Palisades: Which is the Best SUV for You?

The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas is a midsize SUV with seating for seven, while the 2026 Hyundai Palisades has seating for seven or eight, depending on the trim level. They both have flexible cargo space when the third-row and second-row seats are lowered.

Both SUVs are loaded with features for entertainment, information, and safety. They also have different styling inside and out. Deciding between the two can be challenging, as they are similarly priced throughout the trim levels.

The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas is a good choice if you want an SUV that has:

• Best-in-class interior space
• Rugged and refined styling with classic SUV lines
• User-friendly infotainment technology
• Strong value for growing families
• Front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive
• A turbocharged four-cylinder engine

The 2026 Hyundai Palisades is a good choice if you want an SUV that has:

• A luxurious redesign with an aggressive and bold new look
• A smooth ride quality
• Strong V6 performance
• The choice of seating for seven or eight passengers
• Front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive

What’s Under the Hood?

Each SUV comes with satisfying power and capability. Every 2026 Atlas model comes with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The configuration delivers 269 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. The entry-level Atlas SE comes standard with front-wheel drive. Drivers who want all-wheel drive can choose the Peak trim, and it can be added as an optional feature on the SE and SE with Technology trims.

The Atlas is a capable SUV that can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. Models outfitted with front-wheel drive get an EPA-estimated fuel-economy rating of 20 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. The all-wheel-drive models get an EPA-estimated fuel rating of 19 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway.

On the other hand, all 2026 Hyundai Palisades models have a 3.5-liter V6 engine and an eight-speed transmission. The configuration delivers 287 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. All Hyundai Palisades trims come standard with front-wheel drive. All-wheel drive is available on all trims and comes standard with the XRT Pro trim.

The 2026 Hyundai Palisades can tow up to 5,000 pounds, and the Limited, Calligraphy, and XRT Pro models have an integrated hitch receiver. When the Palisades has front-wheel drive, it gets an EPA-estimated fuel rating of 21 MPG combined. The all-wheel-drive models get a combined EPA-estimated fuel rating of 20 MPG.

What Technology is in the Cabin?

The three-row 2026 Atlas SE comes standard with a 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster and a 12.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Connectivity features include Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, Amazon Alexa, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, HD Radio, four USB ports, and six speakers. The Atlas also has a Wi-Fi hotspot, wireless device charging, voice recognition, keyless entry, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, and tri-zone automatic climate control.

The redesigned 2026 Hyundai Palisades comes with a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen and a similarly-sized digital information display. Connectivity features include wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, navigation, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, and six USB ports. Convenience tech includes tri-zone climate control, proximity keyless entry, and over-the-air updates.

What Safety Features Come Standard in Each SUV?

Both models come with vital safety features that include:

• Forward Automatic Emergency Braking
• Pedestrian and Cyclist Detection
• Automatic High-Beam Headlights
• Blind-Spot Monitoring
• Stop-and-Go Adaptive Cruise Control
• Lane-Centering Assist

The 2026 Atlas has additional driver-assistance features:

• Forward Collision Warning
• Travel Assist
• Lane Departure Warning and Lane Keep Assist
• Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
• Adaptive Headlights
• Rain-Sensing Windshield Wipers

The additional safety tech in the 2026 Palisades includes:

• Safe-Exit Assist with Rear-Door Indicators
• Traffic-Sign Recognition
• Speed-Limit Assist
• Front and Rear Parking Sensors
• Highway Drive Assist
• Seat-belt Pretensioners

What Comfort Features & Seating Configurations are Available?

The interior of the 2026 Volkswagen Atlas is family-friendly with plenty of cupholders and a roomy cargo area. The third-row defies expectations, as it comfortably fits two full-size adults. With the three rows occupied, the cargo area is a roomy 21 cubic feet, which is enough for four full-size suitcases. With the second and third rows lowered, the cargo area increases to a massive 97 cubic feet.

Comfort features in the 2026 Atlas include standard:

• Synthetic leather upholstery
• A power-adjustable driver’s seat
• Heated and ventilated front seats
• Heated steering wheel

The 2026 Hyundai Palisades is also built for families. The front row is roomy, and shoppers can choose a three-passenger bench or a pair of captain’s chairs in the front room. The third row is built for children. The cargo space with the three rows upright is 19 cubic feet, while the maximum space with the two rows lowered is 87 cubic feet.

Additional comfort features in the entry-level Hyundai Palisades are:

• Cloth upholstery
• 60/40 split bench seats

Why is the 2026 Volkswagen Atlas a Better Three-Row SUV?

While both SUVs are family-friendly, capable, and pleasant to drive, the 2026 Volkswagen is a better choice for drivers around Orwigsburg, PA. It comes with a fuel-efficient powertrain and a roomy cargo area. Drivers appreciate the Atlas for its adult-sized third row, suite of driver-assistance features, and intuitive interior technology.

The entry-level Volkswagen Atlas has a slightly lower MSRP than the entry-level Hyundai Palisades, and the Atlas has more standard features - especially when it comes to driver-assistance tech. On the inside, the synthetic leather provides a more durable surface for busy families, and the loyal J. Bertolet Volkswagen customers rave about the numerous cupholders scattered all over all Atlas trim levels.

The redesigned Hyundai Palisades has an attractive new exterior design, but it could be too bold for some drivers. On the other hand, the Volkswagen Atlas continues the minimalist VW design with classic lines and refined styling.

Find Your New 2026 Volkswagen Atlas at J. Bertolet Volkswagen Orwigsburg, PA

We invite you to visit J. Bertolet Volkswagen in Orwigsburg, PA, to explore the 2026 VW Atlas. Our customer-focused team will listen to your driving needs and show you the Atlas trim levels with your favorite features. We can help you arrange a test drive, and our finance team can build a loan or lease with the incentives and offers that fit your lifestyle.