Kia Telluride vs the Competition

 

Kia Telluride vs. Toyota Highlander and Honda Pilot: Compare midsize family SUVs at Grand Kia in Thornton, near Denver, CO

While the Kia Telluride is only in its second year of production, it has already established itself as a favorite in the three-row midsize crossover segments. Critics and customers alike laud its bold style, spacious and upscale accommodations, strong performance, excellent versatility, and all but unbeatable value. Here's a quick look at how the Kia Telluride compares to two of its most prominent class competitors, the Toyota Highlander and Honda Pilot.

Kia Telluride vs. Toyota Highlander

Style: While the Toyota Highlander's 2020 redesign is a marked improvement over the previous generation, it doesn't quite match-up to the Telluride's strong character lines, muscular sculpting, and confident front fascia.

Accommodations: Both models offer standard seating for eight or seven with available second-row captain's chairs. However, the Telluride makes better use of its interior space, offering a roomy third-row that makes the Highlander feel quite cramped by comparison.

Performance: The Kia Telluride and Toyota Highlander are both set in motion by robust V-6 powerplants that accelerate them from zero to 60 mph in just over seven seconds. However, the Telluride holds a significant edge when it comes to driving dynamics, thanks to its precise steering, capable handling, and composed ride quality. This is especially true when equipped with the available self-leveling rear suspension.

Features: Both SUVs offer well-equipped base trims with 8-inch touchscreens, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration, and advanced driver-assistance technologies like Forward Collision Avoidance, Lane Keeping, and Smart Cruise Control. However, the Telluride goes a step further by including Blind Spot and Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Warning as standard equipment as well.

Kia Telluride vs. Honda Pilot

Style: The Kia Telluride presents a bold exterior aesthetic, with clean lines, a broad-shouldered stance, and an assertive front fascia. The Honda Pilot's exterior style appears comparatively uninspired and makes it look more like a slightly more angular minivan than a midsize SUV.

Accommodations: Both SUVs offer spacious, refined cabins with comfortable seats and high-quality materials. However, the Telluride provides an appreciably more premium experience, even at the base trim level, with attractive modern style and standard amenities like simulated leather upholstery and rear HVAC controls. The Pilot comes standard with cloth seats, and its design becomes more dated by the year, with its last big refresh coming in 2016.

Performance: While both models find their motivation in a capable and responsive V-6, the Telluride's 291-horsepower powerplant outperforms the Pilot's 280-horsepower engine without sacrificing fuel efficiency. Lakewood drivers will also find the Telluride more enjoyable to drive thanks to its precise steering and balanced handling.

Technology: The Kia Telluride comes standard with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration. And by moving up to the EX trim level, Thornton drivers can enjoy a larger 10.25-inch display. The Pilot's base trim level includes a simple 5-inch display, while an 8-inch touchscreen and smartphone integration require moving up a level.

Additionally, while both models come standard with advanced driver-assistance technologies, the Tellurides base trim also includes Blind Spot and Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Warning, while the Pilot requires climbing the trim ladder.

 

Test-drive the Kia Telluride near Westminster and Arvada

For more information about the Kia Telluride and its available trims, options, and finance offers, get in touch with Grand Kia at your convenience. And if you'd like a closer look at the Telluride's features, accommodations, and performance, we welcome you to visit us for a test drive and see for yourself what sets it apart from the competition. We'll be happy to give you a tour.

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