What To Know
- Its distinctive front grille and sculpted bodywork make a statement on the road, exuding a sense of confidence and luxury.
- The Telluride, on the other hand, offers Kia Drive Wise, which includes similar features as well as a driver attention monitor and a blind-spot collision avoidance system.
- If you’re looking for a reliable and fuel-efficient SUV with a spacious interior, the Toyota Highlander is a solid choice.
Choosing the right SUV can be a daunting task, especially when you’re considering two popular contenders like the Toyota Highlander and the Kia Telluride. Both vehicles offer spacious interiors, impressive safety features, and plenty of power. But which one comes out on top? This comprehensive comparison delves into the key aspects of each SUV, helping you make an informed decision.
Design and Styling: A Tale of Two Aesthetics
The Toyota Highlander boasts a familiar, conservative design that prioritizes practicality over flash. Its sleek lines and subtle curves give it a refined and sophisticated look. The Kia Telluride, on the other hand, takes a bolder approach with its imposing stance and angular styling. Its distinctive front grille and sculpted bodywork make a statement on the road, exuding a sense of confidence and luxury. Ultimately, the choice between these two designs comes down to personal preference.
Interior Comfort and Space: A Room for Everyone
Both the Highlander and the Telluride excel in terms of interior space and comfort. The Highlander offers ample legroom and headroom for all three rows, making it a great choice for families. Its cabin is well-appointed with high-quality materials and a user-friendly layout. The Telluride, however, takes the lead in terms of sheer luxury. Its plush leather seats, premium sound system, and panoramic sunroof create an opulent atmosphere. It also offers a slightly more spacious third row, making it a more comfortable option for adults in the back.
Performance and Handling: Power and Efficiency
Under the hood, the Toyota Highlander is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque. This engine offers a smooth and responsive driving experience, making it adequate for everyday driving and highway cruising. The Kia Telluride, meanwhile, packs a 3.8-liter V6 engine that generates 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. While the horsepower figures are similar, the Telluride’s engine delivers a more robust and powerful feel, especially when accelerating. Both SUVs offer a choice between front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive, depending on your needs.
Fuel Economy: Balancing Power and Efficiency
In terms of fuel economy, the Toyota Highlander edges out the Kia Telluride. The Highlander achieves an EPA-estimated 21 mpg city, 29 mpg highway, and 24 mpg combined. The Telluride, on the other hand, gets 20 mpg city, 26 mpg highway, and 22 mpg combined. While the difference is not significant, the Highlander’s slightly better fuel economy can translate into savings over time, especially for frequent drivers.
Technology and Features: A Connected Drive
Both SUVs are loaded with advanced technology features that enhance convenience, safety, and entertainment. The Toyota Highlander comes standard with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a suite of driver-assistance features. The Kia Telluride takes things a step further with its optional 10.25-inch touchscreen display, a premium sound system, and a comprehensive suite of safety features that includes adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist.
Safety and Reliability: Peace of Mind on the Road
Both the Highlander and the Telluride have earned top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA. The Highlander comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, which includes features like automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The Telluride, on the other hand, offers Kia Drive Wise, which includes similar features as well as a driver attention monitor and a blind-spot collision avoidance system. In terms of reliability, Toyota has a reputation for building durable and long-lasting vehicles, while Kia has made significant strides in recent years to improve its reliability ratings.
Pricing and Value: Finding the Right Balance
The Toyota Highlander starts at a lower price point than the Kia Telluride. However, the Telluride’s higher starting price is justified by its more luxurious features and its overall value proposition. Ultimately, the best value for money depends on your individual needs and budget.
Verdict: Choosing the Right SUV for You
The choice between the Toyota Highlander and the Kia Telluride ultimately boils down to your priorities. If you’re looking for a reliable and fuel-efficient SUV with a spacious interior, the Toyota Highlander is a solid choice. If you prioritize luxury, technology, and a more powerful driving experience, the Kia Telluride is the better option.
The Final Say: More Than Just a Ride
Choosing between the Toyota Highlander and the Kia Telluride is not just about picking an SUV; it’s about choosing a lifestyle. The Highlander represents a practical and dependable choice, while the Telluride embodies a more luxurious and adventurous spirit. Take a test drive of both vehicles, consider your individual needs, and make the decision that aligns with your lifestyle and driving preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Which SUV has more cargo space?
A: The Kia Telluride offers slightly more cargo space than the Toyota Highlander, especially with the third row folded down.
Q2: Which SUV is better for off-roading?
A: Both SUVs are primarily designed for on-road driving. However, the Highlander’s available all-wheel drive system and higher ground clearance give it a slight edge in off-road capability.
Q3: Which SUV has better fuel economy?
A: The Toyota Highlander offers slightly better fuel economy than the Kia Telluride.
Q4: Which SUV is more reliable?
A: Toyota has a long-standing reputation for reliability, while Kia has improved its reliability ratings in recent years.
Q5: Which SUV is better for families?
A: Both SUVs are excellent options for families, offering spacious interiors, ample safety features, and plenty of cargo space. The choice ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences.
