The Kia Telluride and Honda Pilot are both three-row SUVs, but the two vehicles do things a little differently. It starts with strikingly different exterior styling between the two. The Pilot has a conservative, neutral design with smooth lines, while the Telluride stands out with more angles and a truck-like front fascia. Let’s take a closer look.
Similar Beneath the Surface
Despite the strikingly different looks between the two SUVs, the Pilot and Telluride do have a lot of base similarities. The Honda Pilot has a higher starting price of $38,080, but it tops out at $51,870, while the Telluride starts lower at $35,890 but tops out higher at $52,985. The Pilot gets slightly better fuel economy than the Telluride, but the Telluride is more powerful.
Both SUVs can seat seven to eight passengers depending on configuration, but the Telluride has roughly five cubic feet of additional cargo space compared to the Pilot. Both SUVs are roughly the same length and width and have pretty similar front leg room. However, the Telluride has a good four inches of extra leg room in the rear. Head room is about the same for both.
Where the Pilot Stands Out
The Pilot takes well-known Honda quality and reliability into the market, giving buyers a brand name they recognize and trust. With an almost minivan appearance, the Honda Pilot has a sleek and neutral design on the exterior. On the interior, it has plenty of tech and boasts above-average ride comfort. The Pilot is slightly more fuel-efficient than the Telluride, and it handles better with agile maneuverability in tight spots.
Although the Pilot has a higher starting price than the Telluride, it has a lower price for the top trim if your goal is to get all the options. There’s no doubt that the Pilot has an urban feel and leans toward comfort and convenience.
Where the Telluride Stands Out
Some buyers might prefer the conservative appearance of the Honda Pilot, but for those who want to stand out, the Kia Telluride is the better choice. The Telluride’s exterior design is more of a throwback to the burly, truck-based SUVs of years past. With more horsepower and torque than the Pilot, the Telluride can tow more when properly equipped.
While the Telluride has plenty of comfort and convenience for city driving, it’s equipped for a bit more adventure than the Pilot. The Kia SUV offers better ground clearance, and it has a stiffer suspension. Compared to the Honda Pilot, the Kia Telluride is more spacious in the cargo hold and the rear seats.
Pilot vs. Telluride: Our Verdict
If you’re tired of the usual boring crossover style, the Kia Telluride will certainly add more flare to your garage. It also offers more power than the Pilot and decent chops for a few treks off the pavement. Both SUVs give you plenty of creature comforts for your money. Although we’re a little more partial to the Telluride, both of these SUVs are worth taking out for a test drive.
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