The VW Atlas has gotten atrocious initial quality reviews, and I don't condone the purchase of any German vehicle (yes, I'm biased because I work on them). I hadn't heard the Telluride/Pallisade issue's yet, but it wouldn't surprise me as it's a relatively new platform. There is the new Genesis GV80, which looks STUNNING and is based on RWD architecture vs. the FWD base of the Tell/Pall. However, it won't be on sale until spring 2021, if reports are to be believed.
If you're in the market now, I still say the Jeep GC Hemi or Durango (if you need the space) Hemi are the way to go. Yes, it's an ANCIENT platform. Yes, they're missing some of the braaaaand new bells and whistles of the newer designs, however they're proven and reliable. Again, I'm a bit biased: the early models do have issues with TIPM's failing, and FCA just released a second recall to fix the fuel pump relay that was "fixed" with a previous relay, however all of these issues can be fixed by most shadetree mechanics with a laptop, youtube, and hand tools. Try and do that with a brand new vehicle.
OP, if you were shopping a new Explorer ST why don't you look at a CPO Durango or GC SRT? You'll save a boat load over MSRP, have a full warranty, and not have any of the turbo, intercooled, complicated, this that and the third nonsense that you would get with the ST. Plus, behind that mighty Hemi is a proven ZF gearbox that simple doesn't fail. Sounds like a win to me!