2025 Kia Telluride vs Hyundai Palisade vs Toyota Highlander
2025 Kia Telluride vs Hyundai Palisade vs Toyota Highlander: Which Three-Row SUV Fits Your Family?
The new Kia Telluride has received a mild refresh for the 2025 model year, continuing to stand out as a large, premium three-row SUV with bold styling, a plush cabin, and a strong V6 petrol engine. It combines everyday comfort with long-distance touring ability and comes packed with modern features and safety tech.
2025 Kia Telluride: Mild Refresh, Same Bold Presence
The Kia Telluride has earned a reputation as one of the most stylish and premium three-row SUVs in its class. For the 2025 model year, Kia has given it a mild refresh — keeping the bold design, plush cabin, and powerful V6 engine that fans love, while adding subtle updates to maintain its edge in the competitive large SUV segment.
Powertrain & Performance
- 3.8-litre V6 GDI petrol engine
- Produces 295 bhp and 355 Nm of torque
- Paired with an 8-speed automatic gearbox
- Standard all-wheel drive (AWD) ensures confident handling across terrains
- Multiple drive modes for tailored performance
Dimensions & Space
- Length: 5,000 mm
- Width: 1,990 mm
- Height: 1,750 mm
- Wheelbase: 2,900 mm
- Available in 7- and 8-seat configurations
- Premium leather upholstery enhances comfort for long journeys
Tech & Features
- 12.3-inch infotainment display with modern connectivity
- Digital driver’s display for a futuristic cockpit feel
- 360-degree camera for easy maneuvering
- Advanced ADAS suite: blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, smart cruise control
Platform & Pricing
- Shares platform with the Hyundai Palisade
- Global prices start around $37,000
- Positioned as a premium yet accessible option in the large SUV market
Verdict
The 2025 Kia Telluride continues to deliver a winning combination of bold styling, spacious comfort, and advanced safety tech. With its refreshed design and proven V6 performance, it remains one of the most compelling choices for families and long-distance travelers.
Here’s the comparison chart showing how the 2025 Kia Telluride stacks up against its closest rivals, the Hyundai Palisade and Toyota Highlander in the three-row SUV segment.
Three-Row SUV Comparison (2025 Models)
| Feature / Model | Kia Telluride (2025) | Hyundai Palisade (2025) | Toyota Highlander (2025) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 3.8L V6 petrol, 295 bhp, 355 Nm | 3.8L V6 petrol, 291 bhp, 355 Nm | 2.4L turbo petrol, 265 bhp, hybrid option |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic, AWD | 8-speed automatic, AWD | 8-speed automatic, FWD/AWD |
| Dimensions (L/W/H) | 5,000 / 1,990 / 1,750 mm | 4,980 / 1,975 / 1,750 mm | 4,950 / 1,930 / 1,730 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,900 mm | 2,900 mm | 2,850 mm |
| Seating | 7- or 8-seat | 7- or 8-seat | 7- or 8-seat |
| Interior Features | 12.3-inch infotainment + digital cluster | 12.3-inch infotainment + digital cluster | 12.3-inch infotainment + optional digital cluster |
| Safety Tech (ADAS) | Blind-spot monitor, lane-keep assist, smart cruise, 360° camera | Similar ADAS suite, 360° camera | Toyota Safety Sense, lane-trace assist, adaptive cruise |
| Platform | Shared with Palisade | Shared with Telluride | Toyota TNGA platform |
| Price (global) | ~$37,000 | ~$36,000 | ~$39,000 |
Key Takeaways
- Kia Telluride (2025): Bold styling, plush cabin, strong V6 — positioned as the most premium-feeling of the trio.
- Hyundai Palisade (2025): Shares much with Telluride but leans toward value, slightly lower starting price.
- Toyota Highlander (2025): Offers hybrid efficiency, making it appealing for eco-conscious families, though less powerful than the V6 rivals.
Comparing the 2025 Kia Telluride, Hyundai Palisade, and Toyota Highlander.
Introduction: The Family SUV Dilemma
Choosing a three-row SUV in 2025 isn’t just about horsepower or cargo space — it’s about finding the right balance of style, comfort, tech, and practicality for your family’s lifestyle.
The Kia Telluride, Hyundai Palisade, and Toyota Highlander are three of the most popular options, each offering its own personality.
Let’s break down what makes them different, and which one might be the perfect fit for you.
Design & Personality
- Kia Telluride (2025): Bold, boxy, and premium. It’s the SUV that makes a statement in the school pickup line or on a road trip.
- Hyundai Palisade (2025): Sleek and elegant, with a slightly softer design language. It’s stylish without being flashy.
- Toyota Highlander (2025): Conservative and practical, with a modern edge. It appeals to families who value reliability above all else.
Performance & Powertrains
| Model | Engine Options | Power Output | Drive Options |
|---|---|---|---|
| Telluride | 3.8L V6 petrol | 295 bhp / 355 Nm | AWD standard |
| Palisade | 3.8L V6 petrol | 291 bhp / 355 Nm | AWD standard |
| Highlander | 2.4L turbo petrol / hybrid option | 265 bhp (turbo) | FWD / AWD |
- Telluride & Palisade: Both deliver strong V6 performance, ideal for long-distance touring.
- Highlander: Slightly less powerful, but offers a hybrid option for eco-conscious families.
Cabin Comfort & Tech
- Telluride: Plush leather upholstery, 12.3-inch infotainment, digital driver’s display, and a premium feel.
- Palisade: Similar tech setup, but leans toward value with slightly lower pricing.
- Highlander: Practical cabin, Toyota’s latest infotainment, and hybrid efficiency — but less luxurious than Kia.
Safety & ADAS
All three SUVs are loaded with advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS):
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Lane-keep assist
- Adaptive cruise control
- 360-degree camera (Telluride & Palisade)
- Toyota Safety Sense suite in the Highlander
Pricing & Value
- Telluride: ~$37,000 — premium positioning, bold design.
- Palisade: ~$36,000 — similar package, slightly more affordable.
- Highlander: ~$39,000 — higher price, but hybrid efficiency adds long-term value.
Which SUV Fits Your Lifestyle?
- Kia Telluride: Best for families who want style + luxury + power in one package.
- Hyundai Palisade: Perfect for those who want value + comfort + tech without overspending.
- Toyota Highlander: Ideal for eco-conscious families who prioritize reliability + hybrid efficiency.
Final Talk
The 2025 Telluride, Palisade, and Highlander each shine in their own way. The Telluride is bold and premium, the Palisade is stylish and value-driven, and the Highlander is practical with hybrid efficiency. The right choice depends on whether your family values luxury, affordability, or eco-friendliness most.