Passenger and Cargo Space

These SUVs are very close in overall exterior size. They ride on the same 116.9-inch wheelbase, and their lengths are nearly identical. Both offer three-row seating standard, with lower trims using a second-row bench for eight passengers and mid-to-upper trims often switching to second-row captain’s chairs for seven-passenger seating.

The Telluride wrings out a bit more cargo room in every measured configuration. That gives it a practical edge for larger families or frequent road-trip use, especially behind the third row.

Engines, Transmissions, and Towing

Hyundai and Kia now both offer hybrid powertrains in these SUVs. That shared gas-electric setup uses a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, a six-speed automatic transmission, and two electric motors. Total output is 329 horsepower, and all-wheel drive is standard with the hybrid setup.

The biggest difference between the two comes with the standard gas powertrain. Hyundai keeps a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 in the Palisade, producing 287 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. Kia switches the Telluride to a 2.5-liter turbo-four making 274 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. Both offer front- or all-wheel drive in their non-hybrid versions.

Fuel Economy

The hybrid versions are the efficiency leaders for both SUVs. At the time of this comparison, Hyundai has published EPA numbers for the Palisade Hybrid, while full Telluride Hybrid EPA ratings were not yet available.

In front-wheel-drive form, the most efficient Palisade Hybrid configuration is rated at 33 mpg city and 35 mpg highway. Other front-wheel-drive trims return 31 mpg city and 32 mpg highway, while all-wheel-drive Palisade Hybrid models are rated at 29 mpg city and 30 mpg highway.

On the gas-only side, the Telluride has only a very slight advantage in front-wheel-drive form. With all-wheel drive, the two SUVs are essentially matched.

Off-Road-Oriented Trims

The Palisade XRT Pro and Telluride X-Pro are closely matched in mission and equipment. Both use 18-inch wheels with all-terrain tires, off-road drive modes, recovery tow loops, and under-vehicle camera views at very low speeds. The Telluride X-Pro offers slightly more ground clearance, while the Palisade XRT Pro stays close behind.

Neither is intended to replace a true off-road SUV, but both should appeal to drivers who want a bit more confidence on rough roads, trails, or outdoor-focused trips.

Pricing and Trim Levels

Pricing between these SUVs is very close. The Palisade ranges from $41,035 to $56,160 in gas form and offers seven trims. The Telluride spans $40,735 to $58,335 with its base engine and offers a larger total trim count.

The Palisade Hybrid is priced slightly above the non-hybrid Palisade and ranges from $45,760 to $58,380. Telluride Hybrid pricing had not yet been announced in the source comparison, but it is expected to sit slightly above comparable non-hybrid trims.

Which SUV Fits Your Needs Better?

Explore Hyundai Palisade Inventory and Shopping Links

If the Hyundai Palisade feels like the better fit for your next three-row SUV, you can browse available inventory and connect with the team at McCarthy Olathe Hyundai to learn more about trims, pricing, and current offers.

Hyundai Palisade vs. Kia Telluride FAQs