Kia Telluride: Top Alternatives for 2025
If an auto expert suggested ten years ago that Kia would reset the bar for the three-row SUV segment, it would have elicited more than a few laughs. Kia’s progress was steady in small quirky vehicles, but it hadn’t had a breakout hit with large vehicles. Yet.
Kia did reset the bar, and the Telluride has that special something. Drivers who think many full-size SUVs are too large say, “Hmm, I think that could work…” and drivers who don’t like compact SUVs say the same thing.
Here’s our take on vehicles we feel compete well with the Kia Telluride.
Kia Telluride Weaknesses
The Takeaway: The Kia Telluride is a very popular 3-row SUV, but finding a good deal may be challenging.
The Telluride is also sold out. So when you can find one, dealers are marking them up to levels that make buyers wince. Even Hyundai, a sibling brand to Kia, has had to react to the Telluride’s success.
As good as the Telluride is, and we haven’t found a flaw to report, shoppers still like to have alternatives to consider.
Kia Telluride Competitors Comparison Summary
The 2025 updates to the Kia Telluride and its competitors highlight the diverse options available in the 3-row midsize SUV market. Each model brings its strengths to the table:
- Jeep Grand Cherokee L offers unmatched off-road capability and a plush interior, appealing to adventure seekers and luxury buyers.
- Hyundai Palisade focuses on value, comfort, and style, making it ideal for families looking for a premium experience without the premium price tag.
- Dodge Durango stands out for its performance and towing capacity, catering to those who need power and practicality.
- Ford Explorer offers versatility with its range of trims and powertrains, including a hybrid option, appealing to a wide audience.
1. Jeep Grand Cherokee L
The 2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee brings its legendary off-road capability into the new model year with updated technology and more luxurious options.
It offers a variety of trims to cater to both off-road enthusiasts and those looking for luxury in an SUV.
With advanced 4×4 systems across the lineup and a range of powertrains, including a plug-in hybrid option, the Grand Cherokee remains a versatile choice for adventurers and families alike.
The Takeway: The Jeep Grand Cherokee L offers a wider variety of powertrains, more off-road capability, and comes with included maintenance.
Current Grand Cherokee L Deals & Incentives
You may qualify for additional deals and incentives, check out this month’s Jeep deals.
2. Hyundai Palisade
Hyundai’s Palisade sees significant updates for 2025, including refreshed exterior styling and enhanced interior features.
he Palisade continues to offer a spacious and comfortable cabin, with advanced safety and technology features standard across all trims.
With its combination of value, comfort, and style, the Palisade strengthens its position as a top contender in the family SUV category.
The Takeaway: The Palisade is Hyundai’s version of the Kia Telluride and comes with included maintenance.
Current Hyundai Palisade Deals & Incentives
You may qualify for additional deals and incentives, check out this month’s Hyundai deals
3. Dodge Durango
The 2025 Dodge Durango emphasizes performance and versatility, with a focus on powerful engine options, including a V8.
It offers a sportier take on the 3-row SUV format, with updated infotainment and safety features to keep it competitive.
The Durango’s towing capacity and performance-oriented trims make it a unique option for those who need the practicality of an SUV but want the heart of a muscle car.
The Takeaway: Those shoppers looking for a three-row SUV alternative to the Kia Telluride that really want a muscle car will find the Durango from Dodge is the ideal solution.
Current Dodge Durango Deals & Incentives
You may qualify for additional deals and incentives, check out this month’s Dodge deals
4. Ford Explorer
Ford’s Explorer for 2025 continues to offer a broad appeal with its mix of trims, including the adventure-ready Timberline and the performance-focused ST.
The Explorer provides a balanced ride with plenty of technology and safety features, along with a range of powertrain options, including a hybrid.
Its versatility and capability make it a solid choice for families looking for an SUV that can do it all.
The Takeaway: How can the safest and longest-running three-row SUV model of the modern age not be a consideration when shopping for a vehicle in this segment?
Current Ford Explorer Deals & Incentives
You may qualify for additional deals and incentives, check out this month’s Ford deals
Frequently Asked Questions
Which three-row SUV like the Kia Telluride offers the most cargo space?
The Kia Telluride, Dodge Durango, Jeep Grand Cherokee L, Hyundai Palisade, and Ford Explorer all have very similar cargo volumes of just under 90 cubic feet.
Is the Kia Telluride bigger than a Ford Explorer?
The Kia Telluride and Ford Explorer have nearly identical passenger volume and cargo volume specifications.
Which other models compete with the Kia Telluride?
The Hyundai Palisade is the closest match to the Kia Telluride. The Jeep Grand Cherokee L, Dodge Durango, and Ford Explorer are all also very good alternatives.
Which three-row SUV is like a Kia Telluride but with better performance?
The Dodge Durango is the hands-down best-performance SUV with three rows. Dodge offers multiple trims that take the basic formula the Telluride uses and ramps up performance.
Are there any hybrids in the Kia Telluride’s segment?
Yes. Jeep offers a plug-in hybrid version of the Grand Cherokee L, and Ford offers a hybrid Explorer.
