Compare: Kia Telluride vs. Toyota Highlander

Compare Telluride to Highlander than Visit Benson Kia Today

If you're an adventure seeker or family in need of multiple rows and cargo space, you might be considering larger SUVs like the Kia Telluride or Toyota Highlander. Well, Spartanburg and Greer area drivers are in luck when searching for top Kia Telluride models at great prices. When comparing midsize three-row SUVs for the 2025 model year, the Kia Telluride emerges as a standout choice over the Toyota Highlander. With its superior value, advanced technology, and upscale features, the Telluride offers a compelling package for families and adventurers alike.​ Learn more about the Telluride versus the Toyota Highlander below, then visit us near Greenville to test drive then lease or finance your next Telluride today.

Trims & Pricing: More Features for Less

The 2025 Kia Telluride offers a broad range of trims, from the base LX at $36,190 to the fully equipped SX-P X-Pro at $53,385. Even the entry-level LX comes standard with features like a 12.3-inch touchscreen, synthetic leather upholstery, and a comprehensive suite of safety technologies. In contrast, the 2025 Toyota Highlander starts at $40,970 for the LE trim, which includes a smaller 8-inch touchscreen and cloth seats. To match the Telluride's features, one would need to opt for higher Highlander trims, such as the XLE or Limited, which are priced at $44,120 and $48,225 respectively.  

Seating & Interior Comfort: Spacious and Luxurious

The Telluride provides seating for up to eight passengers, with ample space in all three rows. Its third row is notably more accommodating than the Highlander's, offering better legroom and comfort for adult passengers. Additionally, the Telluride's interior boasts high-quality materials and thoughtful design touches, such as available Nappa leather upholstery and ventilated second-row seats. The Highlander's third row, by comparison, is tighter and less comfortable for adults.​  

Technology: Cutting-Edge Features

Kia equips the Telluride with advanced technology across all trims. Standard features include a 12.3-inch touchscreen with navigation, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a digital instrument cluster. Higher trims offer amenities like a head-up display, surround-view camera system, and the Digital Key 2 Touch, which allows smartphone-based vehicle access. The Highlander, while offering similar tech features in its upper trims, starts with an 8-inch touchscreen and lacks some of the Telluride's innovative offerings in its base models.​

Safety: Comprehensive Protection

Both SUVs come with a suite of advanced safety features. The Telluride includes forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert as standard. It also offers Highway Driving Assist 2.0 in higher trims, providing semi-autonomous driving capabilities. The Highlander features Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, which includes similar safety technologies, but lacks the semi-autonomous driving features found in the Telluride.

Performance & Hybrid Comparison: Power vs. Efficiency

Under the hood, the Telluride is powered by a 3.8-liter V6 engine producing 291 horsepower, delivering robust performance for highway merging and towing. The Highlander offers a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 265 horsepower, which, while efficient, doesn't match the Telluride's power.​

For those prioritizing fuel efficiency, the Highlander Hybrid is available, featuring a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with electric motors, producing a combined 243 horsepower and achieving up to 35 mpg combined. Currently, the Telluride does not offer a hybrid variant, but Kia plans to introduce a hybrid version in 2026.

Final Verdict: Telluride Leads the Pack

While the Toyota Highlander offers a fuel-efficient hybrid option, the 2025 Kia Telluride stands out with its superior value, spacious and luxurious interior, advanced technology, and comprehensive safety features. For families seeking a well-rounded and upscale three-row SUV, the Telluride proves to be the more compelling choice in Spartanburg. Stop in to see us today or hit the test drive button when viewing our vehicles to schedule your visit.