Toyota Highlander Vs Kia Telluride: Which 3-row Suv Is Better?

In the realm of midsize SUVs, two titans stand tall: the Toyota Highlander and the Kia Telluride. Both vehicles boast impressive features, spacious interiors, and capable performance, making them popular choices among families and adventure-seekers alike. But which one should you choose?

This comprehensive comparison will delve into the intricacies of the Toyota Highlander vs Telluride debate, helping you make an informed decision based on your unique needs and preferences. We’ll compare their performance, fuel efficiency, interior features, cargo space, safety ratings, and more. So, buckle up and prepare to embark on a journey to determine the ultimate victor in the Toyota Highlander vs Kia Telluride showdown.

Performance: Power and Efficiency Under the Hood

Toyota Highlander:

• Engine Options: The Highlander offers two engine choices: a 3.5-liter V6 that produces 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid system that generates a combined 243 horsepower.
• Transmission: Both engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
• Acceleration: The V6 engine can propel the Highlander from 0 to 60 mph in 7.3 seconds, while the hybrid version takes 8.2 seconds.
• Towing Capacity: The Highlander can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.

Kia Telluride:

• Engine Options: The Telluride comes with a single engine option: a 3.8-liter V6 that produces 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque.
• Transmission: The V6 engine is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission.
• Acceleration: The Telluride can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 7.2 seconds.
• Towing Capacity: The Telluride has a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds.

Fuel Efficiency: Miles per Gallon Compared

Toyota Highlander:

• V6 Engine: The Highlander with the V6 engine achieves an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.
• Hybrid Engine: The Highlander Hybrid boasts an impressive EPA-estimated 36 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.

Kia Telluride:

• V6 Engine: The Telluride’s V6 engine delivers an EPA-estimated 20 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway.

Interior Features: Comfort and Convenience at Your Fingertips

Toyota Highlander:

• Seating: The Highlander offers seating for up to eight passengers, with ample legroom and headroom in all three rows.
• Cargo Space: Behind the third row, the Highlander provides 16.1 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 48.4 cubic feet with the third row folded and 84.3 cubic feet with both rear rows folded.
• Infotainment System: The Highlander comes standard with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.

Kia Telluride:

• Seating: The Telluride also accommodates up to eight passengers, with generous space in all three rows.
• Cargo Space: The Telluride offers slightly more cargo space than the Highlander, with 21 cubic feet behind the third row, 46 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 87 cubic feet with both rear rows folded.
• Infotainment System: The Telluride’s infotainment system features a larger 10.25-inch touchscreen, also with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Safety Ratings: Protecting You and Your Loved Ones

Toyota Highlander:

• NHTSA Rating: The Highlander received a 5-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
• IIHS Rating: The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) awarded the Highlander with the Top Safety Pick+ designation.

Kia Telluride:

• NHTSA Rating: The Telluride also earned a 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.
• IIHS Rating: The Telluride achieved the Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS as well.

Price: Value for Your Money

Toyota Highlander:

• Starting Price: The base price of the Toyota Highlander is $36,620.
• Fully Loaded Price: A fully equipped Highlander can cost upwards of $50,000.

Kia Telluride:

• Starting Price: The Kia Telluride has a lower starting price of $35,690.
• Fully Loaded Price: A top-of-the-line Telluride can reach a price point of around $48,000.

Final Thoughts: The Ultimate Choice

The Toyota Highlander and Kia Telluride are both excellent midsize SUVs that offer a blend of comfort, performance, and safety. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on your individual preferences and needs. If you prioritize fuel efficiency and a hybrid powertrain, the Highlander Hybrid is a compelling option. On the other hand, if you seek more cargo space and a lower starting price, the Kia Telluride might be a better fit.

Regardless of your decision, both the Toyota Highlander and Kia Telluride are vehicles that will serve you well for years to come. Their spacious interiors, capable performance, and advanced safety features make them ideal companions for families and adventure-seekers alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the key differences between the Toyota Highlander and Kia Telluride?

The Toyota Highlander offers a hybrid powertrain option, while the Kia Telluride is exclusively powered by a V6 engine. The Highlander has a slightly better fuel economy, while the Telluride provides more cargo space.

2. Which vehicle has a higher towing capacity?

Both the Toyota Highlander and Kia Telluride have a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.

3. Which SUV has a more advanced infotainment system?

The Kia Telluride features a larger 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system compared to the Highlander’s 8-inch display. Both systems offer Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.

4. How do the safety ratings compare between the two SUVs?

Both the Toyota Highlander and Kia Telluride have received 5-star overall safety ratings from the NHTSA and have been awarded the Top Safety Pick+ designation by the IIHS.

5. Which vehicle is more affordable?

The Kia Telluride has a lower starting price than the Toyota Highlander, making it a more budget-friendly option.