Kia Telluride vs. Toyota Highlander: Which is Better?

Jul 8, 2022

For years, Kia and Toyota have produced go-to vehicles that continue to stand the test of time. 2022 is no different, with each brand releasing a 3-row midsize SUV that is perfect for any family or outdoor enthusiast. The new Toyota Highlander and Kia Telluride are excellent models, so how do you decide between the two?

Analyzing Performance Features

If you require an SUV that packs an impactful performance, the new Kia Telluride and the new Toyota Highlander are top contenders in 2022. Each is powerful in its own right yet has something different to offer when it comes to its engines, trims, and performance enhancements.

The 2022 Kia Telluride has the following features:

3.8-liter V6 engine that gives 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque
8-speed automatic transmission
5,000-pound tow capacity
Snow and AWD Lock modes.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander delivers the following specs:

Two engine options
Standard 3.5-liter V6 that develops 295 hp and 263 pound-feet of torque
8-speed automatic transmission
5,000-pound towing capacity
Base AWD system with selectable terrain modes and hill-descent control.
Higher trim levels include an upgraded system with torque-vectoring technology that transfers engine torque between the rear wheels to enhance grip.

Breaking Down Safety

The Kia Telluride and Toyota Highlander come neck in neck when comparing their overall safety. Both come with two levels to choose from, here is what the safety features in each vehicle have to offer.

The Kia Drive Wise system’s key features include a forward-collision warning system with automatic emergency braking and pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assistance, and an active blind-spot warning system with rear cross-traffic alert. You can also opt for Level 2, which provides traffic jam assistance.

The Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ most notable features are pedestrian detection in high and low lighting conditions, intersection turn assistance, evasive steering assistance, and rear-seat reminder. In addition, the Level 2 system has ACC and traffic-sign recognition.

Both midsize SUVs received a 5-star NHTSA safety rating. However, only the Highlander received the Top Safety Pick+ award, the best safety recognition a vehicle can get from the IIHS. So if you heavily consider these institutions’ awarding, the new Toyota Highlander might be the safer option.

The Toyota Highlander Outshines

These SUVs are an excellent choice and guarantee satisfaction for potential car buyers. The models seem to be on an even playing field regarding safety, comfort, and technology. For example, their standard 8-inch infotainment systems are very similar and compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, the performance features available in the new Toyota Highlander outshine the Kia Telluride, ultimately making it the more desirable option.

While they both have the same towing capacity and transmission, the base engine of the Toyota SUV gives off more horsepower and torque than the Kia’s. In addition, the Toyota offers add-ons and upgrades in higher trim levels, like the torque-vectoring technology, that results in more optimized performance. So if you prioritize customizing and enhancing your SUV’s performance, the Highlander is the obvious choice.

New Toyotas Available at Sunrise Toyota North

The next time you search for a new SUV, look no further than the new Toyota Highlander that is now available at Sunrise Toyota North! Proudly serving the people in Smithtown, Riverhead, Brentwood, Commack, Stony Brook, Middle Island, and other surrounding areas, we carry the best selection of new Toyota vehicles!

If you want to look at other options besides the Highlander, consider the sporty Toyota RAV4, the best-selling Toyota Corolla. We want to help you find your dream car, so apply for financing online, give us a call, or visit our dealership today!