In the competitive midsize SUV market, the Hyundai Palisade and Kia Telluride stand out for their features, style, and value. Both have strong reputations for quality and performance, making it tough to choose between them. A closer look is needed to compare these two top contenders head-to-head.
Hyundai Palisade vs. Kia Telluride
Built on the same platform, the Hyundai Palisade and Kia Telluride are like siblings with distinct personalities.1 Of course, they each bring their own unique design and character to the table. The Palisade leans towards a more upscale, refined look with a focus on luxury, while the Telluride emphasizes a rugged, adventurous vibe. Both offer impressive technology, spacious interiors, and strong safety ratings, making them standout options in the midsize SUV category.
Design and Style
The Hyundai Palisade exudes a more upscale and refined design, with its bold grille and sleek lines. Its interior follows suit, offering a luxurious feel with high-quality materials and a sophisticated layout. On the other hand, the Kia Telluride takes a more rugged and adventurous approach, with a boxier shape that appeals to those looking for a bolder aesthetic. Inside, the Telluride also impresses — but with a slightly more utilitarian feel, emphasizing practicality alongside style.
Performance and Handling
When it comes to performance, both SUVs are powered by a 3.8-liter V6 engine delivering 291 horsepower. This powertrain ensures that both the Palisade and Telluride offer strong acceleration and smooth highway cruising. However, the Palisade is tuned for a more comfortable and refined ride, prioritizing a quiet cabin and a softer suspension. The Telluride, meanwhile, leans slightly toward a more engaging driving experience, with a firmer suspension that enhances road feedback. Both vehicles offer all-wheel drive options, making them capable in various driving conditions.
Interior Space and Comfort
Interior space is a major strength for both the Palisade and Telluride, with each offering three rows of seating. The Palisade tends to favor luxury, with available Nappa leather seating, a quieter cabin, and a focus on a more serene driving experience. The Telluride, while equally spacious, has a slightly different approach, focusing on versatility and family-friendly features like multiple USB ports and a straightforward infotainment system. Both SUVs offer generous cargo space, but the Telluride edges out slightly with more room when all seats are folded down.
Technology and Safety Features
Technology is a strong suit for both the Palisade and Telluride, with each offering a wide array of standard and optional features. The Palisade includes an impressive 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.25-inch touchscreen, along with features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Kia’s Telluride matches this with similar tech offerings, but it’s the safety features where these SUVs truly shine. Both come standard with a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems, including lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking. However, the Palisade offers an optional blind-spot view monitor, adding an extra layer of safety.
Price and Value
Pricing is another key factor when comparing the Palisade and Telluride, with both offering excellent value for their respective starting prices.2 The Hyundai Palisade tends to be slightly more expensive, especially at higher trims where luxury features abound. The Kia Telluride, on the other hand, often provides a more budget-friendly option without sacrificing quality or features. The value proposition for both is strong, but the Telluride may appeal more to those looking for a rugged, feature-packed SUV at a slightly lower price point.
Alternatives Worth Considering
While the Hyundai Palisade and Kia Telluride are top picks, other midsize SUVs deserve attention. The Honda Pilot stands out for its reliability and spacious interior, making it a great family vehicle. The Toyota RAV4, known for its fuel efficiency and versatility, offers a more compact yet capable option. For those seeking a premium experience, the Mazda CX-9 delivers with its refined interior and sporty handling. Lastly, the Ford Explorer is a tried-and-true SUV. These alternatives provide a variety of features to suit different needs and preferences.
The Choice Is Yours
This SUV showdown ultimately comes down to personal preference and priorities. The Palisade appeals to those who prioritize luxury, comfort, and a more refined driving experience. The Telluride, on the other hand, is designed for those seeking a rugged, family-friendly SUV with a slight edge in practicality and value. Both are excellent choices, offering a blend of style, performance, and technology that makes either a winner in the midsize SUV segment.
