Honda Pilot Advantages Over The Kia Telluride Explained
If you're searching for a three-row SUV that can keep up with your family, chances are a Honda Pilot vs. Kia Telluride comparison is at the top of your list. Both bring plenty to the table with spacious interiors, modern technology, and versatility, but one stands out where it matters most. Let's compare these two popular midsize SUVs side-by-side to understand why the 2026 Honda Pilot comes out ahead. Then, stop by Planet Honda in Tilton, NH, to experience the difference for yourself.
2026 Honda Pilot vs. 2027 Kia Telluride at a Glance
- With its V-6 and 10-speed automatic transmission, the Pilot harnesses stronger horsepower and smoother gear changes than the Telluride.
- The Telluride has a slight advantage in maximum cargo capacity, but the Pilot counters with more standard comfort amenities.
- From advanced braking assistance to the available TrailWatch system, the Pilot has safety components that you won't find on the Kia SUV.
- The Honda Pilot is more simple with a streamlined selection and the freedom to add AWD on the entry-level trim.
Honda Pilot Vs. Kia Telluride Specs
The new Honda Pilot for sale comes outfitted with a proven 3.5-liter V-6 engine producing 285 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, but the real standout is its refined 10-speed automatic transmission. With closely spaced gear ratios, it delivers quick, seamless shifts that keep the powertrain in its sweet spot, making acceleration feel effortless and highway cruising remarkably smooth.
For 2027, the Telluride trades its longtime V-6 for a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. While it produces more torque than the Pilot, it gives up some of the horsepower that made the previous model so capable. It's also paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Although it's fluid in everyday driving, it doesn't have the same wide gear range or quick-response shifting as the Honda Pilot's 10-speed automatic, making highway passing and acceleration feel a bit less immediate.
Available AWD gives both SUVs extra confidence when traction is limited, but the Pilot takes versatility a step further with seven selectable drive modes, allowing it to adapt at the turn of a dial. The Pilot also edges out the Telluride in AWD efficiency, earning up to an EPA-estimated 19/25/21 MPG (City/Highway/Combined),1 compared to the Telluride's EPA-estimated 18/24/20 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).2
Interior Comfort & Cabin Space
Each SUV seats up to eight passengers, and a closer look at the Pilot vs. Telluride interior dimensions reveals a tight race. Front-, second-, and third-row headroom and legroom are remarkably similar, while the 2027 Telluride holds a slight edge in overall passenger and cargo volume. Both include standard three-zone automatic climate control, which makes everyone on board stay comfortable.
Where the 2026 Honda Pilot begins to pull away is with its standard amenities. Core features such as heated front seats, a 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel give the cabin a more upscale feel from the start. By comparison, the 2027 Telluride sticks with a six-way manual driver's seat in its base model, and heated front seats aren't included until you move up to higher trim levels.
| Specifications | 2026 Honda Pilot | 2027 Kia Telluride |
| Engine | 3.5L V-6 | 2.5L 4-cyl |
| Horsepower | 285 | 274 |
| Torque | 262 lb-ft | 311 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 10-speed auto | 8-speed auto |
| Drivetrain |
|
|
| EPA-Est. AWD MPG (Cty / Hwy / Comb) | 19 / 25 / 211 | 18 / 24 / 202 |
| Seating Capacity | 7 - 8 | 7 - 8 |
| Cargo Space (Behind 3rd / 2nd / 1st Row) | 18.6 / 48.5 / 87 cu ft | 22.3 / 48.7 / 89.3 cu ft |
Honda Pilot vs. Kia Telluride: Reliability & Safety Tech
Safety takes center stage in the Pilot and Telluride, with each SUV boasting a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance technology, including Lane-Keeping Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control, and Blind-Spot Monitoring. The Pilot, however, includes a few thoughtful features that the Telluride doesn't offer, like a standard Post-Collision Braking System, which automatically applies the brakes after an initial impact to reduce the risk of a secondary collision, and Tire Fill Assist.
For drivers who like to venture beyond the pavement, the Pilot boasts an available TrailWatch. This off-road camera system displays multiple views of the terrain around the vehicle so drivers can spot rocks, ruts, and other obstacles that might otherwise be hidden from view. It's a valuable tool for exploring backgrounds with greater awareness and control.
Lastly, the Pilot's reputation extends beyond its system list. The 2026 model earned an IIHS Top Safety Pick designation3 and received a "Great" Quality & Reliability score from J.D. Power.4 At the time of writing, the 2027 Kia Telluride has not yet been rated by either organization.
Kia Telluride vs. Honda Pilot Trim Options
2026 Honda Pilot Trim Levels
- Sport
- EX-L
- TrailSport
- Touring
- Touring Blackout
- Elite
- Black Edition
2027 Kia Telluride Trim Levels
- LX
- S
- EX
- X-Line EX
- SX
- X-Line SX
- X-Pro SX
- SX Prestige
- X-Line SX Prestige
- X-Pro SX Prestige
While a larger collection gives shoppers more choices, it can also make narrowing down the right one more time-consuming. Even with the expanded 2026 Pilot lineup, flexibility remains a priority. For example, you can add AWD to the base Sport, whereas AWD isn't available on the entry-level Telluride LX. So, if you prefer all-wheel drive, you'll need to move up to a higher trim and pay for additional equipment that may not be on your wish list.
Honda Pilot vs. Kia Telluride: Which Should You Choose?
At the end of the day, both SUVs bring plenty of strengths to the table, but the 2026 Honda Pilot delivers a more complete package with its blend of capability, amenities, and customization, making it a more well-rounded choice for families.
Visit Planet Honda to get behind the wheel and experience everything this three-row SUV has to offer. Before visiting our showroom, browse our current Honda Pilot lease deals and finance promotions online to see how you can bring home the Pilot that aligns with your price point.
Telluride vs. Pilot Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Honda Pilot more reliable than the Kia Telluride?
According to Consumer Reports, the 2026 Honda Pilot earns a higher Predicted Reliability score than the 2027 Kia Telluride5,6 and also received a "Great" Quality & Reliability score from J.D. Power.4
Which SUV has more cargo space: the Pilot or Telluride?
When it comes to load capacity, the 2027 Kia Telluride holds a slight advantage over the 2026 Honda Pilot. The Telluride has up to 89.3 cubic feet of maximum cargo space, while the Pilot follows close behind with a peak of 87 cubic feet.
Does the Honda Pilot hold its value better than the Telluride?
Yes, the Honda Pilot has a stronger track record for holding its value compared to the Telluride. Its reputation for long-term reliability, lower ownership costs, and dependable performance helps it maintain strong resale value over time. Honda's commitment to value was also recognized by KBB®, which named the automaker its "Best Value Brand" for 2026.7
1Based on 2026 EPA mileage ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary depending on driving conditions, how you drive and maintain your vehicle, and other factors.
2Based on EPA estimates. Actual mileage will vary with options, driving conditions, driving habits and your vehicle's condition. See https://www.fueleconomy.gov.
3Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this award, visit https://www.iihs.org
4Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, visit https://www.jdpower.com/cars/
5Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, Consumer Reports members can visit https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/honda/pilot/2026/overview/
6Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, Consumer Reports members can visit https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/kia/telluride/2027/overview/
7Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, visit https://www.kbb.com/awards/consumer-choice-awards/