The Volkswagen Teramont 3.6 FSI V6 4MOTION Automatic, produced from 2017 to 2021, represents Volkswagen’s entry into the mid-size, three-row SUV segment for the North American market. Designed primarily for the United States and Canada, the Teramont (known as the Atlas in some markets) aimed to provide a spacious, family-oriented vehicle with available all-wheel drive. This particular variant, equipped with the 3.6-liter V6 engine and an eight-speed automatic transmission, occupied the premium position within the initial Teramont lineup, offering a significant step up in performance compared to the base four-cylinder engine option. It was positioned to compete with vehicles like the Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander, and Ford Explorer.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Teramont |
| Generation | Teramont |
| Type (Engine) | 3.6 FSI V6 (280 Hp) 4MOTION Automatic |
| Start of production | 2017 |
| End of production | 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 14.4 l/100 km (16.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.4 l/100 km (28 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 10.6 l/100 km (22.2 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 247 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 190 km/h (118.06 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.5 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.8 kg/Nm |
| Power | 280 Hp @ 6200 rpm |
| Torque | 360 Nm @ 3500 rpm (265.52 lb.-ft. @ 3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CDVA |
| Engine displacement | 3597 cm3 (219.5 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Kerb Weight | 2105 kg (4640.73 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2700 kg (5952.48 lbs.) |
| Max load | 595 kg (1311.75 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Length | 5036 mm (198.27 in.) |
| Width | 1989 mm (78.31 in.) |
| Height | 1769 mm (69.65 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2979 mm (117.28 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 203 mm (7.99 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 12.4 m (40.68 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 8 |
| Gearbox type | automatic transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Tires size | 255/50 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Teramont 3.6 FSI is the CDVA engine, a 3.6-liter naturally aspirated V6. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection (FSI – Fuel Stratified Injection) to deliver fuel directly into the combustion chamber, improving efficiency and power output. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to its responsive nature. The ‘FSI’ technology allowed for a higher compression ratio, further enhancing performance. Paired with this engine is an eight-speed automatic transmission (Aisin B7A), chosen for its smooth shifting and wide gear ratio spread. This transmission is known for its reliability and ability to handle the engine’s torque output effectively. The 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system is a permanent system, meaning power is constantly distributed between the front and rear axles, enhancing traction in various conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.6-liter V6 and eight-speed automatic combination provided a noticeably more refined and powerful driving experience compared to the base 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder. Acceleration from 0-60 mph was achieved in approximately 8.5 seconds, making it competitive within its class. The eight-speed transmission allowed the engine to operate efficiently at highway speeds, contributing to reasonable fuel economy for a vehicle of its size. While not a sports SUV, the Teramont 3.6 offered ample power for everyday driving, merging onto highways, and carrying a full load of passengers and cargo. The 4MOTION system provided confident handling in inclement weather, and the suspension was tuned for a comfortable ride, prioritizing passenger comfort over sporty handling.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Teramont 3.6 FSI 4MOTION typically came well-equipped, often including features like leather upholstery, heated front seats, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a suite of driver-assistance technologies such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. Higher trim levels added features like a panoramic sunroof, premium audio systems, and ventilated front seats. Standard features also included tri-zone automatic climate control, keyless entry, and a rearview camera. Optional extras included a rear-seat entertainment system and upgraded wheel designs.
Chassis & Braking
The Teramont utilizes a front-engine, all-wheel-drive layout with a unibody construction. The suspension consists of MacPherson struts in the front and a multi-link setup in the rear. The braking system features ventilated discs at all four corners, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, along with electronic stability control. The suspension tuning prioritized ride comfort, with stabilizer bars helping to minimize body roll during cornering. The 4MOTION system utilizes a Torsen differential, automatically distributing torque between the front and rear axles based on traction conditions.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Teramont 3.6 FSI 4MOTION was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and strong V6 engine. However, some reviewers noted that its handling wasn’t as sharp as some competitors. Fuel economy, while acceptable, wasn’t a standout feature. Compared to the base four-cylinder Teramont, the V6 offered a significant improvement in performance and refinement, justifying the higher price tag for many buyers. Against rivals like the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander, the Teramont offered a more aggressive styling and a more powerful engine option, appealing to buyers seeking a bolder SUV.
Legacy
The Volkswagen Teramont 3.6 FSI 4MOTION has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle in the used car market. The CDVA engine, while not without its potential issues (such as timing chain wear, a common concern with many modern engines), has generally demonstrated good longevity when properly maintained. The Aisin eight-speed automatic transmission is also known for its durability. As of today, these Teramonts represent a good value for buyers seeking a spacious, capable, and well-equipped three-row SUV. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and timing chain inspections, is crucial to ensure the long-term reliability of this powertrain.
