The Volkswagen Teramont, also known as the Atlas in some markets, is VW’s most direct attempt at winning over the large three-row SUV segment. In a space dominated by American and Japanese heavyweights, the Teramont is a full-size, family-focused SUV with European quality. While it doesn’t scream for attention, it delivers space, comfort, and a clean design ethos, without trying to be a luxury SUV.
Volkswagen Teramont – Design
The Teramont’s design is geometric, upright, and blocky in a deliberate way. The wide grille, squared-off LED headlamps, and broad shoulders give it a strong visual presence. VW’s current design language carries over here, but scaled up for size and utility.
At over five meters in length, the Teramont makes its size known. Chrome accents, optional 20-inch wheels, and clean body creases help elevate what could otherwise be seen as a conservative design. Subtle updates in recent model years have sharpened the lights and grille, but the overall profile remains the same: confident and practical.
Volkswagen Teramont – Interior
Inside, the Teramont stays true to Volkswagen’s playbook, offering a functional layout, straightforward controls, and durable materials. The horizontal dash layout, digital cockpit, and large infotainment screen form the focal point. Physical HVAC knobs and a simple button layout are welcome in today’s era of screens.
The cabin is spacious across all three rows. The second row offers either a bench or captain’s chairs, depending on trim, and the third row is usable even for adults on short trips, a rarity in this class. The materials won’t challenge premium rivals, but the soft-touch surfaces, tight panel gaps, and minimalistic design offer a quiet sense of quality.
Cargo space is ample: 583 litres with all seats up, and over 1,500 litres with the third row folded flat. A power tailgate, generous door bins, and multiple USB-C ports complete the practicality checklist.
Volkswagen Teramont – Calm and Composed Powertrain
The Teramont offers two engine options, depending on the market. The entry-level unit is a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder producing 235 HP and 370 NM, while higher trims feature a 3.6-litre VR6 with 276 HP and 360 NM. Both engines are paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard in base variants, while VW’s 4Motion all-wheel-drive system is available or standard in higher trims.
Performance is adequate, not aggressive. The turbo-four is smoother and more efficient for urban use, while the V6 delivers better highway overtaking and towing capacity.
Volkswagen Teramont – Technology and Features
Volkswagen’s digital cockpit is standard on higher trims, offering configurable displays for navigation, media, and vehicle data. The infotainment system ranges from 8 to 10 inches, depending on spec, and includes Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and connected services. Touch response is generally good, though the haptic sliders on newer models require some acclimation.
Other features include three-zone climate control, ventilated front seats, wireless charging, premium audio (Harman Kardon in higher trims), and a panoramic sunroof.
Volkswagen Teramont – Verdict
The Volkswagen Teramont is not trying to be everything to everyone; it’s trying to be the rational choice. For buyers who need genuine three-row space, predictable performance, and up-to-date technology, it offers a calm, well-rounded alternative to flashier or more off-road-focused SUVs.
It lacks some of the charm or punch of newer Korean competitors, and it won’t turn heads like a luxury badge. But its quiet competence, smart packaging, and honest execution make it a contender for anyone shopping with logic, not logos in mind.
