Kia Telluride vs. Ford Explorer, Honda Pilot, Toyota 4Runner, and Toyota Highlander: Specs and Comparison
If you’re searching for a midsize SUV that blends style, performance, and value, the Kia Telluride should be on your shortlist. Here, we compare the Telluride against top competitors—the Ford Explorer, Honda Pilot, Toyota 4Runner, and Toyota Highlander—to highlight why the Telluride consistently ranks as one of the best SUVs in its class.
Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Kia Telluride | Ford Explorer | Honda Pilot | Toyota 4Runner | Toyota Highlander |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Base Engine | 3.8L V6 (291 hp, 262 lb-ft) | 2.3L Turbo I4 (300 hp, 310 lb-ft) | 3.5L V6 (285 hp, 262 lb-ft) | 4.0L V6 (270 hp, 278 lb-ft) | 2.4L Turbo I4 (265 hp, 310 lb-ft) |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | 10-speed automatic | 10-speed automatic | 5-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic |
| Towing Capacity | 5,500 lbs | 5,600 lbs | 5,000 lbs | 5,000 lbs | 5,000 lbs |
| Cargo Space (cu ft) | 21 (87 w/ seats down) | 18.2 (87.8 w/ seats down) | 22.4 (113.7 w/ seats down) | 47.2 (89.7 w/ seats down) | 20.6 (84.3 w/ seats down) |
| Fuel Economy (city/hwy) | 20/26 mpg (FWD) | 21/28 mpg (FWD) | 19/27 mpg (FWD) | 16/19 mpg | 22/29 mpg (FWD) |
| Seating Capacity | Up to 8 | Up to 7 | Up to 8 | Up to 7 | Up to 8 |
| Drivetrain Options | FWD or AWD | RWD or AWD | FWD or AWD | RWD or 4WD | FWD or AWD |
| Warranty | 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain | 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain | 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain | 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain | 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain |
| Starting MSRP | $37,355 | $38,355 | $39,150 | $41,155 | $38,700 |
Why Choose the Kia Telluride?
- Best-in-Class Warranty
- Bold and Stylish Design
- Advanced Technology
- Standard Dual 12.3-inch Screens: Includes a driver display and touchscreen infotainment
- Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto: Seamless smartphone integration
- Available Head-Up Display: Keeps your focus on the road
- High-Tech Safety Suite: Standard Highway Driving Assist, blind-spot monitoring, and forward collision avoidance.
The Kia Telluride comes with a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, which far exceeds what competitors like Ford, Honda, and Toyota offer. This warranty underscores Kia’s confidence in the Telluride’s reliability and durability.
The Telluride boasts a striking design, with a rugged yet elegant exterior featuring LED headlights and a distinctive grille. Inside, the cabin is luxurious and spacious, with premium materials and available options like Nappa leather and ventilated front and rear seats.
The Telluride is packed with tech features that enhance safety, convenience, and entertainment:
- Spacious and Family-Friendly Interior
- Value for the Price
- Off-Road Capability
- Increased ground clearance
- Standard all-wheel drive
- Rugged tires and enhanced traction control
The Telluride offers up to 87 cubic feet of cargo space and three rows of seating for up to 8 passengers. Its rear legroom and overall cabin comfort are among the best in the class, making it perfect for families.
With a starting MSRP of $37,355, the Telluride provides incredible value considering its premium features, advanced safety, and robust performance. It’s often priced more competitively than the Explorer and Highlander, while offering more luxury-like amenities.
The Telluride X-Line and X-Pro trims are designed for adventure with:
Conclusion: The Kia Telluride is the Ultimate Family SUV
The Kia Telluride sets itself apart in the midsize SUV segment with its luxurious design, advanced technology, and industry-leading warranty. With a spacious interior, competitive pricing, and off-road-ready trims, the Telluride is the perfect choice for families and adventurers alike.
Don’t settle for less—test drive the Kia Telluride today and see why it’s consistently ranked as one of the best midsize SUVs on the market.