Toyota Highlander Vs Kia Telluride: Which Suv Reigns Supreme In 2023?

In the realm of family-friendly SUVs, the Toyota Highlander and Kia Telluride stand out as two of the most popular and highly regarded options. Both vehicles offer spacious interiors, advanced technology, and impressive performance capabilities, making them ideal choices for families on the go. However, discerning buyers may wonder which of these SUVs truly excels in meeting their needs and preferences. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of the Toyota Highlander and Kia Telluride, providing valuable insights to help you make an informed decision.

Performance and Fuel Efficiency: A Balancing Act

Under the hood, the Toyota Highlander offers a choice of two powertrains: a 3.5-liter V6 engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, delivering 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque, or a hybrid powertrain combining a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with two electric motors, producing a combined 243 horsepower. The Kia Telluride, on the other hand, features a single powertrain option: a 3.8-liter V6 engine mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission, generating 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque.

In terms of fuel efficiency, the Toyota Highlander Hybrid takes the lead, achieving an impressive 36 mpg combined, while the gasoline-powered Highlander returns 21 mpg combined. The Kia Telluride, with its larger engine, offers a combined fuel economy of 20 mpg. While both SUVs provide adequate power for everyday driving and family adventures, the Highlander Hybrid’s superior fuel efficiency may be a deciding factor for eco-conscious buyers.

Interior Space and Comfort: Room for Everyone and Everything

When it comes to interior space, both the Toyota Highlander and Kia Telluride offer ample room for passengers and cargo. The Highlander provides seating for up to eight passengers across three rows, while the Telluride offers seating for up to eight passengers in its base configuration and seven passengers in its higher trim levels. Both SUVs boast spacious second and third rows, ensuring comfortable seating even for taller individuals.

Regarding cargo capacity, the Highlander offers 16.1 cubic feet of space behind the third row, 48.4 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 84.3 cubic feet with both the second and third rows folded. The Telluride offers slightly more cargo space, with 21 cubic feet behind the third row, 46 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 87 cubic feet with both the second and third rows folded. While both SUVs provide ample cargo space for family outings and road trips, the Telluride’s slightly larger cargo area may be advantageous for those who frequently transport bulky items.

Technology and Safety Features: Keeping You Connected and Protected

The Toyota Highlander and Kia Telluride come equipped with an array of advanced technology and safety features to enhance the driving experience and ensure the well-being of passengers. Both SUVs offer a user-friendly infotainment system with a large touchscreen display, smartphone integration, and premium audio systems. They also feature a suite of driver-assistance technologies, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking.

In terms of safety ratings, both the Highlander and Telluride have received top marks from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The Highlander earned a 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick++ by the IIHS. The Telluride also received a 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and was awarded the IIHS’s Top Safety Pick+ designation.

Pricing and Trim Levels: Finding the Right Fit for Your Budget

The Toyota Highlander offers six trim levels: L, LE, XLE, XSE, Limited, and Platinum. Pricing starts at $35,850 for the base L trim and goes up to $51,765 for the top-of-the-line Platinum trim. The Kia Telluride comes in five trim levels: LX, S, EX, SX, and SX Prestige. Pricing starts at $35,690 for the base LX trim and reaches $48,390 for the fully loaded SX Prestige trim.

When comparing the base trims of both SUVs, the Highlander L and Telluride LX, there are some notable differences in standard features. The Highlander L comes equipped with features such as 18-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, a 6.1-inch touchscreen display, and a rearview camera. The Telluride LX adds features like a larger 8-inch touchscreen display, a premium audio system, and heated front seats.

Driving Dynamics and Off-Road Capabilities: Navigating Different Terrains

The Toyota Highlander and Kia Telluride offer distinct driving experiences, catering to different preferences and driving conditions. The Highlander provides a smooth and comfortable ride, with responsive handling and well-controlled body motions. It is well-suited for daily commutes, long road trips, and occasional off-road excursions.

The Kia Telluride, on the other hand, offers a more engaging driving experience, with precise steering and a well-tuned suspension that delivers a sporty feel. It also boasts impressive off-road capabilities, thanks to its available all-wheel drive system and advanced traction control features. If you frequently encounter challenging terrain or enjoy off-road adventures, the Telluride may be the better choice for you.

Warranty and Maintenance: Peace of Mind for Years to Come

Both the Toyota Highlander and Kia Telluride come with comprehensive warranty coverage, providing peace of mind to owners. The Highlander is backed by a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty, a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty, and an 8-year/100,000-mile hybrid component warranty. The Telluride offers a 5-year/60,000-mile basic warranty, a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, and a 5-year/60,000-mile roadside assistance program.

In terms of maintenance costs, the Toyota Highlander and Kia Telluride are comparable. According to RepairPal, the average annual maintenance cost for the Highlander is estimated to be $593, while the Telluride’s average annual maintenance cost is estimated to be $650. These costs may vary depending on driving habits, local labor rates, and the specific maintenance needs of each vehicle.

The Verdict: Choosing the SUV That’s Right for You

Ultimately, the choice between the Toyota Highlander and Kia Telluride depends on your individual needs, preferences, and budget. If you prioritize fuel efficiency, interior space, and a smooth ride, the Toyota Highlander is an excellent option. If you seek a more engaging driving experience, impressive off-road capabilities, and a longer warranty, the Kia Telluride may be the better choice for you. Both SUVs offer exceptional value for money, making them top contenders in the family-friendly SUV segment.

Beyond the Comparison: Unraveling Common Questions

FAQ:

1. Which SUV offers better fuel economy, the Toyota Highlander or Kia Telluride?

The Toyota Highlander Hybrid offers superior fuel economy compared to the Kia Telluride, with an impressive 36 mpg combined compared to the Telluride’s 20 mpg combined.

2. Does the Toyota Highlander have more cargo space than the Kia Telluride?

The Kia Telluride offers slightly more cargo space than the Toyota Highlander, with 21 cubic feet behind the third row compared to the Highlander’s 16.1 cubic feet.

3. Which SUV has a longer warranty, the Toyota Highlander or Kia Telluride?

The Kia Telluride offers a longer warranty than the Toyota Highlander, with a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty compared to the Highlander’s 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.

4. Is the Toyota Highlander more reliable than the Kia Telluride?

According to J.D. Power’s Vehicle Dependability Study, the Toyota Highlander has a slightly higher reliability rating than the Kia Telluride, with a score of 86 out of 100 compared to the Telluride’s score of 83 out of 100.

5. Which SUV has a higher towing capacity, the Toyota Highlander or Kia Telluride?

The Kia Telluride has a higher towing capacity than the Toyota Highlander, with a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds compared to the Highlander’s maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds.