Kia Telluride vs. Honda Pilot

Choosing the perfect midsize SUV can be daunting, especially when two highly respected contenders such as the Kia Telluride and Honda Pilot go head-to-head. Both models boast powerful performance, spacious interiors, and a suite of advanced technology, making them top choices for families and adventure seekers alike. However, subtle differences set these SUVs apart in safety, comfort, and overall value.

In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at the 2025 Kia Telluride and the 2025 Honda Pilot to help you determine which one best fits your lifestyle. From performance specs to interior features and pricing, this comparison will guide you to the best choice for your needs.

Detailed Comparison Between the Kia Telluride and Honda Pilot

Let’s explore the 2025 Kia Telluride vs. Pilot across several key areas.

Performance and Engine Specs

When comparing Honda Pilot vs. Kia Telluride specs, both provide commendable V-6 performance. However, the Telluride takes the lead with its 3.8-liter engine producing 291 horsepower. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, it achieves a quicker 0 to 60 mph time of 6.8 seconds compared to the Pilot’s 6.9 seconds. The Telluride SX Prestige X-Pro can tow up to 5,500 pounds, surpassing the Pilot’s all-wheel-drive models that tow 5,000 pounds. Additionally, the Telluride excels in light off-road capability, making it more versatile than the Pilot’s TrailSport trim, which focuses heavily on rugged terrain performance.

Fuel Efficiency and Environmental Impact

Fuel efficiency slightly favors the Honda Pilot, with front-wheel-drive (FWD) models rated at up to 19 mpg city and 27 mpg highway. However, the Telluride remains competitive, offering 20 mpg city and 26 mpg highway in its FWD configuration. While the Pilot’s 10-speed transmission provides minor efficiency gains, the Telluride delivers a balanced performance that doesn’t compromise on power or capability, making it a strong choice for families prioritizing versatility.

Safety Features and Ratings

The Kia Telluride leads in safety with features such as forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring, which provides real-time video feeds for enhanced visibility. These innovations, paired with top ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, give the Telluride a clear edge. The Honda Pilot’s Honda Sensing suite includes adaptive cruise control and pedestrian detection, but it lacks the Telluride’s advanced blind-spot monitoring system. For drivers seeking comprehensive safety technology, the Telluride’s offerings stand out.

Cargo Space and Interior Dimensions

Regarding space, the Telluride has a noticeable advantage, especially for larger families or groups. The Kia Telluride’s rear legroom offers a spacious 42 inches in the second row, and the 21 cubic feet of cargo space in the Telluride expands to an impressive 87 cubic feet when the seats are folded down. The Honda Pilot, on the other hand, provides 19 cubic feet behind the third row but matches the Telluride’s maximum capacity when expanded. While the Pilot’s removable second-row seat adds a degree of versatility, the Telluride excels in overall design with a more spacious and accessible third row.

Passengers in the Telluride will benefit from a thoughtfully designed interior, ensuring greater comfort during long journeys. Additionally, its wide rear opening and flat load floor make cargo management significantly easier. These practical features cement the Telluride’s position as the better choice for those seeking roominess and functionality.

Infotainment Systems and Connectivity Features

The Kia Telluride excels in infotainment and connectivity, setting a benchmark in its class. Standard across all trims is a vibrant 12.3-inch touch screen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and built-in navigation. This seamless integration ensures a user-friendly experience complemented by an intuitive interface. Higher trims elevate your drive with a Harman Kardon audio system that delivers rich, immersive sound alongside features such as Wi-Fi hot spot capability and wireless charging.

The Honda Pilot, while equipped with essential features, starts with a small 7-inch screen in the base trim and increases to a 9-inch screen in the higher trims. The premium Bose audio system, available in the Touring, Elite, and Black Edition trims, delivers quality sound but doesn’t match the Telluride’s extensive tech suite. Additionally, the Telluride responds faster and boasts better graphics, providing a superior infotainment experience for tech-savvy families.

Interior Materials Quality and Craftsmanship

The Telluride’s interior exudes luxury, with nappa leather upholstery, a suede headliner, and premium finishes in its higher trims. In contrast, the Honda Pilot prioritizes practicality with refined materials such as leather in its Black Edition trim but doesn’t reach the same level of sophistication. The Telluride’s meticulous attention to detail and upscale ambiance make it the superior choice for buyers desiring a premium experience.

Price Analysis and Value for Money

Both SUVs are priced competitively, with the Telluride starting at around $36,000 compared to the best Honda Pilot price for the Sport trim of $40,200. The Kia Telluride’s top trims max out at just above $53,000, while the Honda Pilot’s Black Edition exceeds $54,000. Here are the trim level prices for both models.

2025 Kia Telluride

• LX: $36,190
• S: $39,090
• EX: $41,790
• SX: $45,890
• EX X-Line: $46,085
• EX X-Pro: $47,085
• SX X-Line: $49,485
• SX Prestige: $51,090
• SX Prestige X-Line: $52,385
• SX Prestige X-Pro: $53,385

2025 Honda Pilot

• Sport: $40,200
• EX-L: $43,500
• Touring: $47,500
• TrailSport: $49,400
• Elite: $53,080
• Black Edition: $54,580

The Telluride offers exceptional value with luxury features and an industry-leading 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. In contrast, Honda provides a five-year/60,000-mile warranty and one year of complimentary maintenance. For buyers looking for better long-term value, the Telluride outshines the competition.

Final Verdict: Which SUV Wins the Battle?

While the Honda Pilot is an impressive midsize SUV, the Kia Telluride edges ahead with its luxurious interior, user-friendly technology, robust safety features, and exceptional value. If you include its class-leading warranty and upscale craftsmanship, the Telluride rivals vehicles in much higher price ranges.

To learn more about the 2025 Kia Telluride, visit us at Pride Kia in Lynn, Massachusetts. Our staff is here to answer your questions or set you up with a test-drive. Get started today by exploring our current inventory, checking out our latest vehicle specials, or contacting us to schedule a visit.