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2025 Kia Telluride vs. 2025 Hyundai Palisade: A Comprehensive Comparison

Kia Telluride vs. Hyundai Palisade

Both the 2025 Kia Telluride and the 2025 Hyundai Palisade are among the top contenders in the mid-size SUV market. With identical 3.8L V6 engines and similar pricing, they offer a well-balanced mix of performance, luxury, and practicality. Below is a detailed comparison to help you determine which SUV suits your needs.

General Overview

  • Engine & Performance: Both SUVs are powered by a 3.8L V6 engine producing 291 horsepower. The transmission is a smooth 8-speed automatic, available with front-wheel drive as standard or all-wheel drive as an option. Both vehicles can tow up to 5,000 lbs, making them suitable for hauling boats, trailers, or other recreational gear.
  • Fuel Economy: The Telluride offers an estimated 12.2 L/100km in the city and 9.5 L/100km on the highway, while the Palisade is marginally better with 12.1 L/100km city and 9.3 L/100km highway. These figures are very close, but the Palisade edges out for slightly better efficiency.
Category 2025 Kia Telluride 2025 Hyundai Palisade
Base Price (CAD) ~$53,500 CAD ~$52,800 CAD
Top Trim Price (CAD) ~$64,000 CAD ~$63,500 CAD
Engine 3.8L V6, 291 hp 3.8L V6, 291 hp
Fuel Economy (L/100km) 12.2 (city), 9.5 (highway) 12.1 (city), 9.3 (highway)
Cargo Space 2,455 liters (seats folded) 2,447 liters (seats folded)
Towing Capacity 5,000 lbs 5,000 lbs

Trims and Features

Both SUVs offer a variety of trims that suit different needs, from more affordable base models to top-tier luxury offerings.

  • Kia Telluride trims include the LX, S, EX, and SX models. The SX is the top trim, offering premium features like a dual sunroof, a 12.3-inch touchscreen, and advanced safety systems like blind-spot monitoring and Highway Driving Assist.
  • Hyundai Palisade trims range from the SE to the top Calligraphy trim. The Calligraphy trim stands out with features such as quilted leather seating, ambient lighting, and a premium headliner for an upscale feel.

Interior and Technology

Both the Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade excel in offering spacious interiors, with enough room for up to eight passengers. While the Telluride emphasizes durability and a rugged feel, the Palisade focuses on a more luxurious ambiance with higher-end materials. The Palisade offers slightly more advanced noise insulation, resulting in a quieter cabin, while the Telluride boasts a more technology-driven setup with a head-up display and a customizable digital gauge cluster. Both models come with a 12.3-inch touchscreen, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and plenty of USB ports for connectivity.


Pricing and Value

In terms of pricing, the Kia Telluride starts at approximately $53,500 CAD, with the fully-loaded SX trim reaching about $64,000 CAD. The Hyundai Palisade is slightly cheaper, starting at $52,800 CAD, and the top-tier Calligraphy trim costs around $63,500 CAD. The Palisade’s value proposition leans more toward buyers who prioritize luxury and comfort, whereas the Telluride’s rugged charm, combined with its strong off-road and towing capabilities, appeals to more adventure-oriented buyers.


Reliability and Safety

Both SUVs are expected to maintain excellent reliability, as they are built on the same platform. They are equipped with a host of advanced safety features, including automated emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control with semi-autonomous driving capabilities. The Telluride is particularly noted for its off-road prowess, making it a better option for drivers who may need to navigate rougher terrain. The Palisade, however, excels in providing a smooth and quiet on-road driving experience, making it more suited for urban or highway driving.


Unique Strengths of the Kia Telluride

  1. Off-Road Readiness: The Telluride’s higher ground clearance and available all-wheel drive make it better suited for rough terrain and outdoor adventures.
  2. Technology: The Telluride features advanced tech, including a head-up display, Highway Driving Assist, and a larger infotainment system, catering to tech-savvy users.
  3. Towing Capability: Both vehicles share the same towing capacity, but the Telluride’s rugged build gives it an edge for heavier use in diverse conditions.

Conclusion

Both the 2025 Kia Telluride and 2025 Hyundai Palisade are excellent choices in the mid-size SUV market, each excelling in different areas. The Telluride is the ideal choice for those seeking a rugged, off-road-capable SUV with advanced technology, while the Palisade offers a more refined, luxurious driving experience. For buyers looking for a tough, tech-forward SUV for outdoor adventures, the Kia Telluride stands out as the better option. If you prioritize a quieter, more luxurious ride, then the Hyundai Palisade should be at the top of your list.


FAQs

  1. Which SUV is better for off-roading? The Kia Telluride is better suited for off-road adventures due to its higher ground clearance and rugged design.
  2. Which offers more luxury, the Telluride or the Palisade? The Hyundai Palisade focuses more on luxury, with upscale features like quilted leather seats and ambient lighting, particularly in the Calligraphy trim.
  3. Are the towing capacities the same for both vehicles? Yes, both SUVs have a towing capacity of 5,000 lbs, making them capable of hauling trailers, boats, and more.
  4. Which SUV is better for families? Both the Telluride and Palisade offer plenty of space and safety features for families, but the Palisade’s quieter cabin might appeal more to those who prioritize comfort.