Kia Telluride vs Toyota Highlander: A Duel
In this exciting comparison, we’ll look closely at Kia Telluride and Toyota Highlander. They are top choices for family SUVs.
Each has unique features, prices, and performance to consider. We’ll break down their costs, engine specs, and how fuel efficient they are.
This is important when thinking about long-term costs. We’ll also cover what’s inside these SUVs. You’ll learn about comfort, how many people fit, and the space for gear.
Plus, we’ll talk about their safety and tech features. This makes it easier to find your ideal SUV.
By the end, you’ll know enough to confidently pick between Kia Telluride and Toyota Highlander. Let’s dive into the comparison of these two leading SUVs!
Introduction To The SUV Battle
The SUV market is more competitive than ever, with the Kia Telluride and Toyota Highlander leading the way.
The Kia Telluride shines with its roomy interior, sleek design, and tons of features. It’s especially loved by families and those who crave adventure.
On the other hand, the Toyota Highlander is known for being reliable and fuel-efficient. It’s a top choice for those who value practicality and consistency.
This toyota highlander comparison preps us for a detailed look at what each SUV offers.
As you go through this comparison, you’ll find out important details that could sway your buying decision.
Getting to know both SUVs well will help you pick one that perfectly fits your lifestyle and needs.
Pricing Comparison: Kia Telluride vs Toyota Highlander
Price is key when buying an SUV. Knowing the kia telluride pricing and toyota highlander cost helps you decide.
It’s especially useful if you’re on a budget. We’ll give you a quick look at the prices so you can see which SUV is a better deal.
Kia Telluride Pricing Overview
The Kia Telluride’s price starts at $37,805. This makes it a more affordable choice among midsize SUVs.
It’s packed with features like cutting-edge tech and roomy interiors that make it worth the price.
Toyota Highlander Pricing Breakdown
The Toyota Highlander’s price begins at $41,270. It costs more, but it’s known for being reliable and comes with features like the Telluride’s.
When you think about the Highlander, consider what you get now versus its value over time.
| Model | Starting Price (MSRP) | Positioning |
|---|---|---|
| Kia Telluride | $37,805 | Budget-Friendly SUV |
| Toyota Highlander | $41,270 | Higher Initial Investment |
Performance and Engine Specifications
When choosing an SUV, it’s key to know about performance and engine specs. The Kia Telluride and Toyota Highlander offer great choices for different driving tastes.
Each model brings excellent performance features that improve driving joy.
Kia Telluride Specs
The Kia Telluride comes with a strong 3.8-liter V6 engine, giving out 291 horsepower. This engine allows for fast acceleration and smooth rides across different roads.
It also has an 8-speed automatic transmission for easy shifting and better gas mileage. Here are the main specs:
- Engine Type: 3.8L V6
- Horsepower: 291 hp
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
- Towing Capacity: Up to 5,000 lbs
Toyota Highlander Engine Options
The 2023 Toyota Highlander comes with a new turbo engine, offering improved performance.
This new engine is more efficient yet still powerful, replacing the old V6 engine. The Highlander is designed for those who seek the latest in SUV tech.
The key features are:
- Engine Type: 2.4L turbocharged 4-cylinder
- Horsepower: 265 hp
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
- Towing Capacity: Up to 5,000 lbs
Comparing the engines of both SUVs shows their unique advantages. The Kia Telluride shines with its power and dependability.
Meanwhile, the Toyota Highlander stands out for its fuel-saving tech. This comparison helps in picking the SUV that meets your driving needs.
Fuel Efficiency: A Closer Look
Fuel efficiency is key for the cost of owning a car over time. When comparing the Kia Telluride and Toyota Highlander, their miles per gallon (MPG) are important.
This can majorly affect which SUV you choose based on your needs.
Kia Telluride Fuel Economy
The Kia Telluride gives good fuel economy, with 20 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on highways.
These numbers show a mix of good performance and efficiency for a midsize SUV. However, its engine power could affect its MPG.
It’s important to think about how you drive before deciding on the Telluride.
Toyota Highlander Fuel Efficiency Ratings
The Toyota Highlander, however, has better MPG: 22 in the city and 29 on highways. This efficiency is great for those who want to save on fuel costs.
Choosing the Highlander could mean less money spent on gas, making it attractive to budget-minded drivers.
| SUV Model | City MPG | Highway MPG |
|---|---|---|
| Kia Telluride | 20 | 26 |
| Toyota Highlander | 22 | 29 |
An mpg comparison shows the Toyota Highlander is better in fuel efficiency. Remember to also consider other SUV features when you make your choice.
Interior Features and Comfort
The inside of a vehicle greatly affects your driving experience. This is very true for SUVs, which value space and comfort.
The Kia Telluride is packed with features that make rides enjoyable, while the Toyota Highlander is all about making you comfortable. We’ll help you see what makes each SUV special inside.
Kia Telluride Interior Features
The Kia Telluride’s interior stands out with easy-to-use modern tech and smart design. It mixes top-notch materials with the latest technology for a welcoming vibe.
You’ll find:
- Plenty of legroom in the front and back.
- An easy-to-use infotainment system with a big touchscreen.
- Options for heated and ventilated seats for extra comfort.
- Many USB ports for charging your devices.
- Good sound insulation to keep road noise out, making it peaceful inside.
Toyota Highlander Interior Comfort
The Toyota Highlander’s cabin is designed for comfort, especially on long trips. It focuses on:
- Roomy seating for up to eight people.
- Adjustable climate controls for a comfy ride.
- Soft materials throughout the cabin.
- Lots of storage spaces in handy spots.
- A cabin design that makes getting in and out easy.
Seating Capacity and Legroom
When picking a family-friendly SUV, how many people it holds and the legroom matter a lot. The Kia Telluride and Toyota Highlander are both great for families.
But, they have their own set of perks. Here, we dive into their seating and space details.
Kia Telluride Seating Arrangement
The Kia Telluride can fit up to eight passengers comfortably. With 42.4 inches of legroom in the second row, everyone, adults and kids, can stretch out.
This is especially good for big families on long trips.
Toyota Highlander Legroom Comparison
The Toyota Highlander also seats eight people but arranges its space differently. It offers 42.0 inches of legroom in the front row.
For families who need more room in the second row, though, the Telluride has a bit more space.
| Feature | Kia Telluride | Toyota Highlander |
|---|---|---|
| Seating Capacity | Up to 8 | Up to 8 |
| Second Row Legroom | 42.4 inches | 38.4 inches |
| Front Row Legroom | 41.4 inches | 42.0 inches |
Both SUVs are excellent for families. But for those who value more space in the second row, the Kia Telluride shines.
Cargo Capacity and Storage Solutions
Need to carry stuff on trips or for work? It’s key to know how much the Kia Telluride and Toyota Highlander can hold.
Both SUVs have great storage options. Yet, they meet different needs because of their sizes.
Kia Telluride Cargo Space
The Kia Telluride has a big cargo space with up to 21.0 cubic feet behind the third row. When you fold the second row, space grows to 87.0 cubic feet.
It’s perfect for families or anyone needing a lot of room for outdoor gear or bags.
Toyota Highlander Storage Features
The Toyota Highlander offers a bit less space at 16.0 cubic feet behind its third row. But, with the second row down, it also reaches up to 87.0 cubic feet.
This setup is great for everyday needs or fun trips. Looking at both, the Kia Telluride and Toyota Highlander excel in different ways.
Knowing their storage capabilities helps pick the right SUV for your needs.
Safety Ratings and Features
Safety is key when picking a vehicle. You need an SUV that is not just good on the road but also top-tier in safety.
The Kia Telluride has great safety scores, showing it cares about keeping passengers safe. The Toyota Highlander also has strong safety features, keeping your family safe on every trip.
Let’s look at the safety ratings and features of both SUVs to help you compare their safety.
Kia Telluride Safety Ratings
The Kia Telluride gets high safety marks from well-known groups. In tests by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), it often gets top scores.
This shows it’s well-built and has features to protect you. Highlights include:
- High marks in frontal crash and side impact tests.
- Available advanced safety technologies such as blind-spot monitoring and forward-collision warning.
- Standard features include lane-keeping assist and rear cross-traffic alert.
Toyota Highlander Safety Features
The Toyota Highlander is known for safety. It has a wide range of safety features and does well in safety tests, making it a top choice for security-minded families.
Important features are:
- Toyota Safety Sense suite, which includes adaptive cruise control and pre-collision systems.
- Strong performance in crash tests, with excellent ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
- Child safety seat anchors for secure installation of car seats.
| Safety Ratings | Kia Telluride | Toyota Highlander |
|---|---|---|
| NHTSA Overall Rating | 5 Stars | 5 Stars |
| IIHS Top Safety Pick | Yes | Yes |
| Standard Safety Features | Forward Collison Warning, Lane Keep Assist | Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert |
Technology and Infotainment Systems
Nowadays, staying connected makes driving better. It’s key to know how SUV tech and infotainment systems work.
The Kia Telluride makes its mark with a 12.3-inch navigation screen. It links up easily with smartphones. This screen keeps you in the loop and entertained while driving.
Kia Telluride Tech Features
The Kia Telluride is proud of its advanced SUV tech. It lets you make your driving experience your own.
You’ll find features like:
- 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
- Premium sound system for immersive audio experiences
- Navigation with real-time traffic updates
Toyota Highlander Infotainment Options
On another note, the Toyota Highlander brings impressive infotainment options for convenience.
Especially in higher trims, you can get dual 12.3-inch screens for those sitting in the back. Check out these features:
- Entune™ 3.0 multimedia system with navigation
- Available in-car Wi-Fi for internet connectivity
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration
- Multiple USB ports for device charging
Consumer Ratings and Reviews
Looking into consumer ratings and reviews is key when checking out cars. Real users share insights on what’s good or bad. The Kia Telluride scores high for its roomy inside and reliable drive.
Meanwhile, the Toyota Highlander is known for lasting a long time and keeping riders comfy, also getting lots of thumbs up.
Kia Telluride User Reviews
The Kia Telluride gets great feedback, with a 4.89 out of 5 on TrueCar. People love its big space and smart safety tech.
They highlight:
- Spacious seating and legroom for families
- User-friendly technology and infotainment options
- Impressive safety ratings enhancing peace of mind
- Strong performance on both city roads and highways
Toyota Highlander Customer Feedback
The Toyota Highlander gets a 4.82 overall rating. It’s slightly behind the Telluride but still shines for its dependability and comfort.
Customers point out:
- Comfortable seating for longer trips
- User-centric design and quality interior materials
- Good fuel efficiency for an SUV
- Strong safety features contributing to its longstanding popularity
These SUV ratings give important clues for buying. They help you pick a car that fits what you want and need.
| Aspect | Kia Telluride Rating | Toyota Highlander Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Satisfaction | 4.89/5 | 4.82/5 |
| Safety Features | Highly rated | Well-regarded |
| Interior Space | Spacious | Comfortable |
| Technology | User-friendly | Well-engineered |
Long-Term Value and Reliability
Buying a trustworthy SUV means looking at its long-term value and reliability. The Kia Telluride is praised for its dependability.
Many customers are happy with how it performs over time, showing its strength in the market.
Kia Telluride Reliability Insights
When we talk about the Kia Telluride, its durability stands out. People love its toughness and affordable upkeep.
Thanks to a good warranty, buying this SUV feels like a safe bet, making it a wise choice for the long haul.
Toyota Highlander Long-Term Value
The Toyota Highlander is recognized for being sturdy and keeping its value. Its high resale value and Toyota’s reputation for durable vehicles make it a reliable choice.
This means lower costs of owning it over the years.
Kia Telluride vs Toyota Highlander: A Summary of Key Differences
When you look at the Kia Telluride and Toyota Highlander, understanding their differences is crucial.
This kia telluride vs toyota highlander comparison highlights several important areas. Knowing these could greatly help with your buying decision.
- Pricing: The Kia Telluride usually has a lower price than the Toyota Highlander. This makes it a good choice for those watching their budget.
- Performance: The Telluride often comes with a stronger engine. This improves its driving capabilities and power.
- Interior Quality: Both models have great interiors, but the Telluride stands out. It’s praised for its high-end materials and roomy layout, offering more comfort.
- Technology: The Highlander is noted for its advanced tech features, especially in infotainment. The Telluride, however, offers technology that is easy to use.
- Safety Ratings: Both cars are rated highly for safety. But, the Highlander might have more safety features as standard, which is great for those prioritizing safety.
Think about these key differences as you decide. Reflect on how each SUV matches your needs and lifestyle. This will guide you to the right choice for you.
Conclusion
When comparing the Kia Telluride and Toyota Highlander, they each have unique features for different needs.
The Telluride gets points for its roomy interior and stylish look. The Highlander, on the other hand, stands out for being reliable and powerful.
Think about what’s most important to you, like safety or tech, when choosing. Finding the best mid-size SUV involves considering your own lifestyle and how you drive.
Maybe you like the Telluride’s new gadgets or the Highlander’s trusted name. It’s key to look at what each offers, from specs to user reviews, to make a smart choice.
Think about what will be best for your everyday needs. Both the Kia Telluride and Toyota Highlander are big names in the mid-size SUV world, and picking one comes down to personal taste.
By thinking about their price, how they perform, and their value over time, you can pick the SUV that’s right for your life’s ride.
FAQs
What are the Kia Telluride’s starting prices?
With a starting MSRP of ,805, the Kia Telluride is more affordable than many rivals.
How does the Toyota Highlander’s fuel efficiency compare?
The Toyota Highlander leads in fuel efficiency. It gets 22 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway.
What are the safety ratings for the Kia Telluride?
The Kia Telluride shines with top safety ratings. It also has many advanced driving aids.
What interior features does the Toyota Highlander include?
The Toyota Highlander boasts a cabin designed for comfort. It also has leading-edge tech options.
How much cargo capacity does the Kia Telluride provide?
The Kia Telluride offers 21.0 cubic feet of space behind the seats. With the second row down, it reaches 87.0 cubic feet.
Which model has a better overall consumer rating?
TrueCar rates the Kia Telluride at 4.89 out of 5. The Toyota Highlander gets a score of 4.82.
What are the main technological features of the Kia Telluride?
It features a 12.3-inch navigation screen and offers advanced connectivity.
How does long-term reliability of the Toyota Highlander compare to the Kia Telluride?
Both the Toyota Highlander and Kia Telluride are known for their reliability. The Highlander is especially noted for its robust and reliable nature.
