There are other capable midsize SUVs that can compete with the Telluride, ranging from the premium Hyundai Palisade and tough Honda Passport to the sporty Mazda CX-9 and potent Dodge Durango.
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Telluride or Palisade, which is more affordable?
It’s never been simple to tell identical automobiles apart, and now that three-row SUVs are more common than ever, it’s more difficult than ever. Each SUV being offered by a number of manufacturers is competitively designed to match the criteria set by the SUV that previously held the title.
Two excellent instances of this are the Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade, both of which have undergone years of iterative improvement to become the finest of the best. You’re in luck if you’re having a hard time telling these two cars apart. You’ve come to the perfect place if you want to find out everything you need to know about choosing between a Kia Telluride and a Hyundai Palisade.
A Brief Overview
The race between the Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade is one of the closest we’ve ever witnessed. These three-row SUVs are essentially equivalent in almost every category, including pricing, engine, and technology and safety features. Your decision will probably come down to more minor details like external style.
However, the Palisade becomes significantly more expensive than the Telluride if you go for a higher level trim, so that’s something to take into account. You definitely can’t go wrong here because these are both fantastic vehicles.
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Specs
Surprisingly, the engine performance between the Kia Telluride and the Hyundai Palisade is identical. The same 3.8 Liter V6 engine with 291 horsepower is included in the 2021 Telluride and 2021 Palisade. This three-row SUV has exceptional power, and since both have the same engine, there is no difference in this area.
There is a little difference between the Kia Telluride and the Palisade in terms of cargo space. The Telluride offers up to 87 cubic feet of capacity when all seats are folded down. You can still get a wonderful 21 cubic feet of space behind the third-row seat even if you want to pack your Telluride full of people. Though not by much, these parameters are superior to the Palisade’s available space. When all the seats are folded down, the Palisade has just about 86.5 cubic feet of total cargo space and roughly 18 cubic feet behind the third-row seat. Therefore, the availability of cargo space is quite unlikely to influence your choice, but if you’re really torn, it might.
Exterior Styling
Most styling choices for both SUVs will probably differ when comparing the Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade.
The Honda Pilot and GMC Acadia, among other popular SUVs, have the same classic attractive aesthetics as the Hyundai Palisade. The Palisade, on the other hand, projects refinement with its split composite headlamps and aims to make a statement with a wide, boldly bent grille. The honeycomb grille and silver trim soon soften the nearly reptilian appearance of the front. In contrast, the rest of the SUV has a more conventional and subdued appearance.
The Kia Telluride, on the other hand, straddles the line between the urbane and the rugged and is more of an urban road warrior. By borrowing ideas and stylistic riffs from some of the top luxury SUVs, including the Land Rover, the Telluride’s aggressive style is successful. Despite having a chunkier appearance than the Palisade, Kia’s premium SUV nonetheless exudes a sense of purpose. The Palisade’s slightly more prominent grille and narrower upright headlights complete the heavy appearance without becoming overpowering.
In essence, the Telluride will draw buyers who desire a more rugged approach, while the Palisade will appeal to those who prefer a more classic SUV style.
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Safety and Reliability
Before moving on to this part of the Kia Telluride vs. Hyundai Palisade comparison, it is important to note that both of these vehicles have excellent safety ratings and will keep you and your passengers secure. Of course, it goes without saying that a car’s dependability and safety are paramount. They are, nevertheless, frequently top priorities for drivers looking to purchase a three-row SUV. After that has been said, let’s move on to the details.
No matter which trim you choose, the 2021 Kia Telluride is a remarkably safe vehicle packed with top-notch safety features. You have cutting-edge safety features including collision avoidance assistance, automated emergency braking, pedestrian detection, and driver attention alert. A top-notch rearview camera completes this safety package by giving you a clear view of what is behind you at all times. All of this sounds great, and it is, but it is not just available in Telluride. The safety package of the 2021 Hyundai Palisade is startlingly close to that of the Telluride, with nearly identical features. As a result, the safety measures offered won’t be a major decision factor.
The Palisade does slightly better than the Telluride in terms of safety rankings from reputable organizations. The Telluride only won the Top Safety Pick designation from the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety, whereas the Palisade received its top accolade, the Top Safety Pick+ award. Since the margin is so little, we must award the Hyundai Palisade the victory in this case.
Gas Mileage
When comparing gas mileage, many of the various elements we’ve discussed in the Kia Telluride vs. Hyundai Palisade comparison have been insignificant.
The Telluride and Palisade virtually have the same fuel efficiency because they share the same engine. The predicted fuel economy for these three-row SUVs is 20 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway, which isn’t great but isn’t terrible either.
Technology
Both SUVs boast cutting-edge, contemporary technology, so which one wins in this category really depends on what you want from your SUV. Both the Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade have nearly comparable technology features, just like the safety features.
Each one has a touchscreen that is eight inches wide, Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, a six-speaker music system, and five different USB connections that you can use. They also support Bluetooth, which is a good contemporary addition. Although it’s really slight, we’ll award the Telluride with this one because it has both HD and satellite radio; nonetheless, whether or not this matters truly comes down to personal preference.
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Price
Pricing for the Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade is quite competitive, with little difference, as it has been in many of our comparisons.
A 2021 Hyundai Palisade costs about $32,500, whilst a 2021 Kia Telluride costs about $32,000. The difference is rather small here, but when we compare it to those top-tier trims, it becomes significantly larger. The 2021 Telluride’s highest expensive model will cost you roughly $42,000. Although it isn’t cheap, this has a ton of extra features. On the other hand, the top-level pricing for the 2021 Palisade starts at around $48,000, which is a significant increase. Here, too, the features become significantly more sophisticated, but you’ll need to decide how much you’re ready to spend and what you want from the car.
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What are the Kia Telluride’s shortcomings?
Many drivers are looking for a midsize SUV, and while purchasing a new car can be exciting, the vast array of options available in this segment can make the process quite difficult. We advise starting with the 2020 Kia Telluride to help you narrow down your list. Despite being a brand-new model, it has had a fantastic start. U.S. News and World Report has already given the Telluride the top spot in their rating of midsize SUVs. This is a remarkable accomplishment for a first-generation model, but it is simple to understand why when you take into account the vehicle’s performance, ample interior room, long list of safety measures, and cutting-edge technology throughout.
Everything about the 2020 Telluride is totally new since it is the first of its kind! While the Sorento has been quite popular for many years as Kia’s only SUV option with third row seating, many drivers were yearning for something with additional cargo and passenger room. Kia’s response to these requests is the Telluride. They not only designed a midsize SUV with a roomy interior, but they also crammed it with potent performance, fascinating technology, and unbeatable safety.
Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2020 Kia TellurideThe Pros
1. A Comprehensive List of Required Safety Features
The 2020 Telluride is available in all trim levels with a number of cutting-edge safety features that are sure to increase driver confidence. They are a rear cross traffic alert system, a blind spot monitor, a parking distance warning system, a rearview camera, rear parking sensors, and a front collision warning system with automatic emergency braking. There is even a Safe Exit Assist that will send a warning if opening your door is not safe. Owners of the Telluride can rest easy knowing that Kia has taken extra precautions to avoid collisions.
2. Telluride can track motorist attention
The Driver Attention Warning system is another excellent standard safety element that merits its own attention. If it detects that the driver’s concentration on the road has been distracted, it warns them. Whether a driver is falling asleep, or they are frequently distracted because they are staring at their smartphone, this system will do its best to keep the driver aware.
3. A generally secure vehicle
With all of those safety features, it’s no surprise that the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety awarded the 2020 Kia Telluride a Top Safety Pick (IIHS). In terms of crash tests, it received favorable results throughout the board, with a particularly high score in the front crash prevention category.
4. Generous and Modular Interior Space
The 2020 Kia Telluride can accommodate up to 8 passengers, but many mid-size SUVs only accommodate 7 or fewer. There is additionally 87 cubic feet of cargo capacity in addition to this. The third row may be easily accessed by sliding the second row forward at the touch of a button. The second row seats can also be folded flat for additional storage space using buttons in the rear cargo area. It will be simple and comfortable to accommodate passengers or luggage with this interior.
5. The Rear Occupant Alert System Offers Peace of Mind
Those who have newborns or young children will find this feature to be very tempting. In the event that a passenger is left unattended in the car after the driver exits, the Rear Occupant Alert system will issue visual and audio alarms. Drivers can connect their car to Kia’s UVO connection in addition to these instant alerts, which will notify the registered account holder’s cellphone when the audible alert is triggered. All trim levels include this essential safety feature as standard equipment.
6. Cutting-edge Tech
The most cutting-edge technology is included in Kia’s UVO infotainment system, which is included in the 2020 Telluride. Access to Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, an 8-inch touch screen, six USB ports, and a six-speaker sound system are all included as standard features. Wireless phone charging, a larger 10.25-inch touch screen, a navigation system, and a 10-speaker Harman Kardon sound are a few of the technological enhancements available.
Driver Talk allows them to communicate with passengers in the second and third seats using an interior intercom system while Driver Quiet Mode limits audio to the first row. Starting with the EX trim level, both of these items are included as standard equipment.
7. Powerful Performance
291 and 262 lb-ft of torque are produced by the 3.8-liter V-6 engine and 8-speed automatic transmission, respectively. The four drive modes significantly improve the driving experience, and this offers more than adequate power for handling on both highways and city streets. Drivers may choose between Eco, Sport, Comfort, and Smart modes, and if you opt to acquire a Telluride with all-wheel-drive, there are also Snow and Lock options.
In spite of its size, the 2020 Telluride generates a smooth ride and is simple to navigate. It also handles well in a variety of road conditions and gives a very peaceful ride within the cabin.
8. Appealing Exterior Design
The 2020 Kia Telluride may be regarded as a family-friendly car, but drivers will feel as though they are operating a chic and contemporary car thanks to its exterior design. The well-proportioned grill, which gives the front of the car a great touch, is particularly eye-catching. When compared to other cars in its class, the style is very aggressive with its combination of smooth curves and distinct angles, but it still manages to seem elegant and sophisticated.
9. Better Connectivity Using the UVO Link
Drivers can sync their smartphones using UVO Link, which is a feature of the 2020 Kia Telluride. Once downloaded, the app allows you to remotely start the car and lock and unlock the doors. You can also access your owner’s manual and warranty details, as well as the Find My Car tool.
10. The Best Kia Warranty Program in the Industry
A 10-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile limited basic warranty are included with the purchase of a 2020 Kia Telluride. Since Kia stands behind the high caliber of its automobiles, you can be confident that you will be fully covered if anything needs to be fixed. Roadside support for five years and 60,000 miles is also included in this warranty term.
buying advice
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Reasons Not to Buy a 2020 Kia TellurideThe Cons
1. No option to upgrade the engine
All trim levels come standard with the 3.8-liter V-6 engine, and there is no way to upgrade to a better model. For drivers who are dissatisfied with this offering and want more potent performance, this might be a deal-breaker.
2. Lack of a rear-seat video system
The fact that the 2020 Kia Telluride does not allow rear passengers to watch videos is pretty shocking for a car that is packed with fantastic technology amenities. It is a conspicuous omission in a car that is otherwise impressive. This is a regrettable absence that will probably be fixed in later models.
3. Lethargic Mileage
Even if the combined fuel economy of the 2020 Kia Telluride with front-wheel drive is 23 mpg, there is undoubtedly room for improvement.
The 2020 Ford Explorer, 2019 Chevrolet Traverse, and 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee are the key rivals of the 2020 Kia Telluride. There is room for up to 8 people in the Telluride and Traverse, up to 7 in the Explorer, and only 5 in the Grand Cherokee.
It is crucial to note that the 2020 Ford Explorer did not receive any honors due to subpar crash test results, however the 2020 Kia Telluride was named a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS.
Although they all cost substantially more than the Telluride, the Explorer, Traverse, and Grand Cherokee all have slightly more horsepower, better towing capacity, and multiple engine options. If performance and power are your top concerns, you might be more likely to select one of these rivals. But the Telluride is a good option for elegance, comfort, safety features, and general dependability.
Kia has unquestionably put their best foot forward with the release of the new 2020 Telluride. It stands out in the congested midsize SUV market as a first-generation model that is easily keeping up with the competition. When choosing your new vehicle, the Telluride is sure to be a strong candidate after learning about everything it has to offer.