2027 Kia Telluride vs. Honda Pilot: Which 3-Row SUV Wins?
The Kia Telluride and Honda Pilot are two of the most popular three-row SUVs on the road — and for Denver families deciding between them, the newly redesigned Telluride changes the math. It now offers something the Pilot doesn't: a hybrid powertrain. Here's an honest, side-by-side look at price, power, fuel economy, space, and warranty to help you choose.
The quick answer
Choose the Telluride if you want a hybrid option, a lower starting price, more standard features, and a longer warranty.
Consider the Pilot if you prefer a naturally aspirated V6, want a slightly roomier third row, or value Honda's reliability reputation.
Bottom line: the redesigned Telluride matches the Pilot on space and towing while adding a fuel-sipping hybrid and undercutting it on price — a strong value for Colorado buyers.
Telluride vs. Pilot: side-by-side
| 2027 Kia Telluride | 2026 Honda Pilot | |
|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP | From about $39,190 | From about $42,195 |
| Base engine | 2.5L turbo-4, 274 hp / 311 lb.-ft. | 3.5L V6, 285 hp / 262 lb.-ft. |
| Hybrid available? | Yes — 329 hp hybrid | No |
| Fuel economy (gas, FWD) | Up to 22 mpg combined | Up to 22 mpg combined |
| Fuel economy (hybrid) | Up to ~34 mpg combined | Not offered |
| Seating | 7 or 8 | 7 or 8 |
| Max cargo | 89.3 cu. ft. | 87.0 cu. ft. |
| Max towing | 5,000 lbs | 5,000 lbs |
| Powertrain warranty | 10 yr / 100,000 mi | 5 yr / 60,000 mi |
Pricing and figures are manufacturer estimates and exclude destination, taxes, and fees; hybrid EPA figures may be preliminary. Confirm current specs, pricing, and availability with Emich Kia.
Powertrains: turbo, V6, and the hybrid difference
The redesigned Telluride swaps its old V6 for a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder making 274 horsepower and a stout 311 lb.-ft. of torque — and importantly, it adds Kia's first Telluride hybrid, rated at 329 horsepower. The Honda Pilot sticks with a smooth 3.5-liter V6 producing 285 horsepower, paired with a 10-speed automatic, but offers no hybrid or electrified option. For Denver drivers who cover a lot of miles, the Telluride Hybrid's roughly 34 mpg combined can mean real savings over a Pilot that tops out around 22 mpg. The Telluride's turbo engine also holds its power well at Colorado altitude.
Space, comfort, and family practicality
Both SUVs seat up to eight and offer a genuinely usable third row, but they trade small advantages. The Pilot's third row has a touch more legroom (about 32.5 inches versus 32.1), and it includes a clever removable middle seat in some trims. The Telluride counters with a bit more maximum cargo room (89.3 versus 87.0 cubic feet), an upscale cabin with available second-row captain's chairs, and a longer wheelbase for a planted, quiet ride. For most families, both are excellent haulers — the decision comes down to which cabin feel and feature set you prefer.
Warranty and value
This is where the Telluride pulls clearly ahead. Kia backs it with a 10-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile basic warranty — roughly double the Pilot's 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain and 3-year/36,000-mile basic coverage. Combine that with a lower starting price (about $3,000 less) and more standard technology, and the Telluride makes a strong long-term value case, especially if you plan to keep your SUV for years.
Which is better for Colorado?
For Front Range families, the Telluride's available all-wheel drive, capable X-Pro trim (with 9.1 inches of ground clearance for trailheads and snow), and fuel-saving hybrid option make it especially well suited to Colorado life. The Pilot is a fine, proven choice — particularly its rugged TrailSport — but if efficiency, price, and warranty matter to you, the redesigned Telluride is tough to beat.
Compare them in person at Emich Kia
See the redesigned Telluride — gas and hybrid — and take a test drive just minutes from Denver, Aurora, Lakewood, and the south metro.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Kia Telluride bigger than the Honda Pilot?
They're very close in size. The Pilot is slightly longer overall, while the Telluride offers a bit more maximum cargo space (89.3 vs. 87.0 cubic feet) and a longer wheelbase. Both seat up to eight passengers.
Does the Honda Pilot come as a hybrid?
No. The Honda Pilot is offered only with a 3.5-liter V6. The redesigned Kia Telluride, by contrast, offers a hybrid rated up to about 34 mpg combined.
Which has the better warranty, Telluride or Pilot?
The Telluride. Kia's 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty is roughly double the Pilot's 5-year/60,000-mile coverage, and Kia's basic warranty is longer too.
Can both SUVs tow?
Yes. Both the Telluride and the Pilot are rated to tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped — enough for a small camper or a couple of jet skis.
Which is better for Colorado winters and mountains?
Both offer all-wheel drive. The Telluride X-Pro adds 9.1 inches of ground clearance and off-road tuning, while Honda's Pilot TrailSport is the Pilot's rugged counterpart. Either handles Front Range weather well with AWD.
Do you have the Kia Telluride in stock near Denver?
Emich Kia stocks the Telluride in gas and hybrid trims. Browse live inventory online or visit our Denver showroom to compare it with the Pilot in person.