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2027 Kia Telluride vs 2027 Toyota Highlander

Redesigned 2027 Kia Telluride three-row SUV at Barker Kia in Houma, LA
Midsize SUV Showdown in Houma, LA

2027 Kia Tellurideversus2027 Toyota Highlander

When comparing top three-row family SUVs, the all-new 2027 Kia Telluride sets a high benchmark with robust turbo and hybrid performance, spacious third-row legroom, and class-leading warranty protection. The 2027 Toyota Highlander remains a popular choice with standard hybrid efficiency, but the Telluride wins on passenger volume and cabin tech. Barker Kia outlines every comparison detail below.

Specs reviewed October 2026
2027 Kia Telluride SX All-New Second Generation

2027 Kia Telluride

Turbo Gas or Turbo Hybrid

  • 329 hpMax power
  • 8 seatsMax seating
  • 35 mpgBest combined
VS
2027 Toyota Highlander Midsize Three-Row SUV

2027 Toyota Highlander

Gas or Hybrid Options

  • 243 hpMax power
  • 8 seatsMax seating
  • 36 mpgBest combined
The Short Answer

Two premier SUVs with very different strengths

The 2027 Kia Telluride delivers superior interior room, stronger turbo-hybrid performance, and cutting-edge cabin displays. The Toyota Highlander focuses on fuel economy and Toyota's long-standing hybrid reputation, but falls short on adult passenger space in the third row.

Go with the 2027 Kia Telluride if you want

  • Spacious Third Row & CargoA longer wheelbase and larger overall body provide genuine adult-friendly legroom in the 3rd row and more cargo capacity.
  • High-Output Hybrid & Turbo OptionsChoose between a responsive 274-hp turbo gas engine or a robust 329-hp turbo hybrid powertrain.
  • Industry-Leading WarrantyBacked by Kia's 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, doubling Toyota's coverage.
View 2027 Telluride Inventory

The 2027 Toyota Highlander makes sense if you want

  • Standard Hybrid Fuel EconomyExceptional base fuel efficiency across standard hybrid model configurations.
  • Compact Parking FootprintA slightly shorter overall body length that makes tight parking spots easier to manage.
  • Toyota Safety Senseā„¢Comprehensive suite of standard driver-assist and safety features.
What's Different

Six key advantages of the 2027 Kia Telluride

The redesigned second-generation Telluride introduces high-end amenities, advanced hybrid technology, and rugged capability features that stand apart from the Highlander.

Advantage

Stronger Hybrid Performance

The Telluride Turbo-Hybrid kicks out 329 horsepower, providing significantly punchier acceleration than the Highlander hybrid system.

Advantage

Superior Passenger Room

With a stretched wheelbase, the Telluride offers noticeably more second- and third-row legroom and cargo space than the tighter Highlander cabin.

Tech

Panoramic Digital Displays

Dual 12.3-inch curved panoramic screens create an immersive cockpit dashboard experience that dwarfs the Highlander's standard display setup.

Capability

Rugged X-Pro Trim

The Telluride X-Pro offers 9.1 inches of ground clearance, all-terrain tires, and an electronic limited-slip differential for genuine off-road capability.

Comfort

First-Class Seating Options

Available front relaxation seats with leg rests, massaging driver's seat, and heated seats across all three rows elevate long-distance comfort.

Warranty

10-Year Protection

Enjoy peace of mind with Kia's 10-year/100,000-mile Powertrain Limited Warranty, far outlasting Toyota's 5-year/60,000-mile coverage.

Spec Sheet

Full 2027 Telluride vs. Highlander specifications

Comparison data reflects standard and available performance metrics for both models.

Specification 2027 Kia Telluride 2027 Toyota Highlander
Powertrain & Performance
Standard Engine 2.5L Turbo 4-Cylinder (274 hp) 2.4L Turbo 4-Cylinder (265 hp)
Available Hybrid Power 2.5L Turbo Hybrid (329 hp) 2.5L Hybrid (243 hp)
Seating Capacity Up to 8 Passengers Up to 8 Passengers
Max Cargo Volume Generous Class-Leading Space Smaller Rear Cargo Area
Powertrain Warranty 10 Years / 100,000 Miles 5 Years / 60,000 Miles

? Win Indicates category benchmark or superior specification.

Trim Level Guide

Comparing the trim lineups

From well-appointed base trims to rugged off-road variants and ultra-luxury flagships, both brands offer robust trim selections.

2027 Kia Telluride Trims

LX / EX

Well-equipped with advanced safety tech, dual panoramic screens, and spacious 8-passenger seating.

SX / SX Prestige

Premium luxury featuring leather upholstery, ventilated seats, dual sunroofs, and premium audio.

X-Line / X-Pro

Rugged styling, increased ground clearance, all-terrain tires, and specialized towing modes.

2027 Toyota Highlander Trims

LE / XLE

Essential family features, Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, and power liftgate options.

Limited / Platinum

Leather-trimmed seating, JBL premium audio, panoramic glass roof, and head-up display.

XSE

Sport-tuned suspension, unique exterior styling accents, and 20-inch black alloy wheels.

Frequently Asked Questions

2027 Telluride vs. Highlander FAQs

Does the 2027 Kia Telluride offer a hybrid model?

Yes! The all-new 2027 Kia Telluride introduces an available high-output 2.5L Turbo Hybrid powertrain generating 329 horsepower, combining excellent efficiency with strong towing and acceleration.

How does the interior space compare between the Telluride and Highlander?

The Kia Telluride features a longer wheelbase and expanded overall dimensions, offering significantly more legroom in the third row and greater cargo capacity behind the seats compared to the Toyota Highlander.

What is the warranty coverage for a new Kia Telluride?

Every new Kia Telluride comes with an industry-leading 10-year/100,000-mile Powertrain Limited Warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile Basic Warranty, providing twice the powertrain protection offered by Toyota.

Visit Barker Kia

Experience the 2027 Kia Telluride in Houma, LA

Ready to discover why the redesigned 2027 Kia Telluride outperforms the competition? Visit Barker Kia today to explore our new inventory, schedule a test drive, and speak with our finance team about lease and purchase options.

Why Choose Barker Kia?

  • Transparent pricing and stress-free trade-in appraisals
  • Certified Kia product specialists ready to assist
  • Convenient online financing and scheduling tools
  • Proudly serving Houma, Thibodaux, and surrounding communities

Disclaimer: All specifications, features, and comparative details were compiled based on official manufacturer specs available as of October 2026. Fuel economy ratings, pricing, and availability are subject to change. See Barker Kia for complete inventory details and warranty terms.