Kia Telluride vs. Toyota Highlander

Confident Power, Everyday Control

The Kia Telluride and the Toyota Highlander rely on a single engine across all their trims, but the driving experience they deliver is noticeably different. The Highlander’s 2.4-liter turbo engine produces 265 horsepower (HP), capable enough for everyday driving. Step into the Telluride, though, and its 3.8-liter V6 engine raises output to 291 HP, giving you stronger, more immediate response when the cabin is full or when you’re accelerating onto the highway.

Front-wheel drive comes standard in both SUVs, with available all-wheel drive (AWD) adding traction and confidence when road or weather conditions change. Each pairs its powertrain with an 8-speed automatic transmission for smooth, controlled shifts.

While the Highlander’s AWD trims offer a Multi-Terrain Select dial, the Telluride takes a more intuitive approach. Drive Mode Select comes standard, with Comfort, Eco, Sport, and Smart modes, plus a dedicated Snow mode on AWD models, so the vehicle adapts easily to your drive, not the other way around.

Ready for What’s Next

When the weekend arrives, your SUV should be ready to go beyond the routine. Whether you’re heading toward the mountains, the lake, or a remote campsite, confidence matters, especially when your plans include bringing along a trailer, a boat, or recreational gear.

That’s where the Kia Telluride pulls ahead. With a maximum towing capacity of 5,500 pounds when properly equipped, it gives you more flexibility than the Toyota Highlander’s 5,000-pound rating. The Telluride’s available Tow Mode adds trailer stability assist and a self-leveling rear suspension, helping keep your load balanced and your drive composed.

Ground clearance also plays a role when the pavement ends. While both SUVs offer eight inches of clearance, the Telluride goes a step further with an available 8.4 inches of ground clearance, allowing you to clear obstacles and uneven terrain that could bring the Highlander drive to an early stop.

Room to Stretch, Space to Bring More

When most (or all) three rows are in use, space where it counts makes a real difference. While the Kia Telluride and the Toyota Highlander offer similar front-row comfort, the Telluride pulls ahead in the second and third rows, where passengers enjoy noticeably more headroom and legroom.

MODEL	HEADROOM (2nd/3rd row)	LEGROOM (2nd/3rd row)
Kia Telluride	40.2 / 38.1 in.	42.4 / 31.4 in.
Toyota Highlander	39.4 / 36.1 in.	38.7 / 28 in.

Both SUVs feature sliding, folding second-row seats for easier third-row access, but the Telluride’s more generous dimensions deliver a more comfortable ride for rear passengers.

Cargo space tells a similar story. With more room behind the third row and a higher maximum capacity when seats are folded, the Telluride is better equipped for family life and road trips.

MODEL	CARGO ROOM (Behind 3rd / 1st row)
Kia Telluride	21 / 87 cu. ft.
Toyota Highlander	16 / 84.3 cu. ft.

The extra space offered by the Telluride makes it easy to pack all your essentials, ensuring nothing gets left behind.

Comfort That Goes the Extra Mile

Comfort goes well beyond measurements, and both SUVs deliver a strong mix of standard and available features designed to keep every seat enjoyable on long drives and daily errands alike. Shared amenities include:

• Multi-zone climate control
• Heated front and second-row seats
• Ventilated front seats
• Heated steering wheel
• 10-way power driver’s seat
• Leatherette or leather seating surfaces

Where the Telluride sets itself apart is in the details, most notably with available ventilated second-row seats, a feature the Highlander doesn’t offer.

Both cabins feel open and inviting thanks to expansive glass overhead. The Highlander offers an available panoramic glass roof, while the Telluride features dual power sunroofs. When it comes to atmosphere, Kia leans further into personalization with available mood lighting offering 64 color options, compared to the Highlander’s available white illuminated door sills.

Smarter Screens, Thoughtful Touches

Staying connected on the move is a given in a modern 3-row SUV, and both models deliver the essentials for seamless communication and entertainment. Shared connectivity features include:

• Apple CarPlay®/Android Auto™
• USB ports throughout the cabin
• Power outlets
• Available wireless phone charger

Where the Kia Telluride moves ahead is in screen size and presentation. Its standard 12.3-inch touchscreen makes apps, navigation, media, and contacts easier to see and use than the Toyota Highlander’s standard 8-inch display. Opt for the Telluride’s available dual panoramic displays , and you’re greeted with more than 24 inches of digital real estate across the dash.

Both SUVS offer premium audio systems with double-digit speaker counts, but the Telluride adds a thoughtful touch parents will appreciate. Its available Quiet Mode mutes rear speakers, letting you enjoy music or podcasts up front without disturbing sleeping passengers in the back.

Confidence Comes Standard

When it comes to technology, nothing matters more than protecting the people inside. Both Kia and Toyota prioritize safety, equipping these SUVs with a comprehensive suite of standard driver-assistance features, including automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, smart cruise control with stop and go, and more.

In fact, the Telluride has three additional standard safety features that aren’t available on the Highlander:

• Driver Attention Warning
• Rear Occupant Alert with Ultrasonic Sensors
• Safe Exit Assist

Long-term peace of mind matters, too, and warranties help tell that story. Backing its safety and build quality, Kia includes industry-leading coverage that significantly outpaces the Toyota Highlander.

MODEL	LIMITED POWERTRAIN WARRANTY	LIMITED BASIC WARRANTY	ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE
Kia Telluride	10 years / 100,000 miles	5 years / 60,000 miles	5 years / 60,000 miles
Toyota Highlander	5 years / 60,000 miles	3 years / 36,000 miles	2 years / 25,000 miles

Taken together, the Telluride’s safety tech, top-tier ratings, and class-leading warranty coverage deliver confidence that lasts well beyond the drive home.