Both the 2024 Kia Telluride and the 2024 Hyundai Palisade remain top picks in the three‑row midsize SUV segment, even as newer model years arrive. They share a platform, a 3.8‑liter V6, and a 10‑year/100,000‑mile powertrain warranty, yet each brand tunes the formula differently. This guide breaks down every meaningful difference — design, space, tech, driving feel, ownership costs, and resale outlook — so you can decide which one fits your family’s routine.
Quick Specs at a Glance
| Spec | 2024 Kia Telluride | 2024 Hyundai Palisade |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 3.8 L V6, 291 hp / 262 lb‑ft | 3.8 L V6, 291 hp / 262 lb‑ft |
| Transmission | 8‑speed automatic | 8‑speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD / AWD | FWD / AWD |
| EPA Fuel Economy (city/hwy) | 20 / 26 mpg | 20 / 26 mpg |
| Seating | 7‑ or 8‑passenger | 7‑ or 8‑passenger |
| Cargo (behind 3rd row) | 21 cu ft | 18 cu ft |
| Max Cargo (rows folded) | 87 cu ft | 86 cu ft |
| Warranty | 10 yr/100k mi powertrain | 10 yr/100k mi powertrain |
| Starting MSRP* | $35,990 | $35,950 |
*MSRP reflects 2024 base LX/SE trims; destination and dealer fees extra.
Exterior Design: Bold vs. Refined
The Telluride leans into a rugged, squared‑off stance — wide grille, pronounced wheel arches, and available 20‑inch alloy wheels give it a “ready for the trail” vibe. The Palisade, by contrast, adopts a more fluid silhouette: a cascading grille, slimmer LED headlights, and a subtle chrome accent that runs the length of the beltline. Both wear standard LED lighting front and rear, but the Telluride’s optional “X‑Line” package adds blacked‑out trim and roof rails that reinforce its adventurous image. You can also read our guide on history of suv.
In practice, the Telluride’s boxier roof line translates to a fraction more headroom in the third row, while the Palisade’s lower roofline aids aerodynamic efficiency at highway speeds.
Front‑quarter comparison of the two midsize SUVs
Interior Comfort, Space & Versatility
Seating & Materials
- Telluride: Standard cloth on LX/S; synthetic leather on EX; genuine Nappa leather on SX Prestige. Second‑row captain’s chairs are optional on EX and standard on SX trims, reducing capacity to seven but adding a wide center aisle.
- Palisade: Cloth on SE; leather‑trimmed seats on SEL; quilted Nappa on Limited and Calligraphy. The Calligraphy trim adds unique stitching, a suede headliner, and a 12‑way power driver seat with memory.
Cargo Flexibility
Both SUVs offer a one‑touch fold‑flat third row and a 60/40 split second row. The Telluride’s slightly taller cargo floor yields 21 cu ft behind the third row versus 18 cu ft for the Palisade — enough for a couple of carry‑on suitcases without folding seats. With all rows down, the difference narrows to 1 cu ft.
Noise & Ride Quality
Kia applies additional acoustic glass on the SX Prestige, while Hyundai equips the Calligraphy with a laminated windshield and extra sound‑deadening material. On broken pavement, the Palisade feels a touch more composed; the Telluride’s suspension is tuned for a slightly firmer, more controlled body motion — beneficial when towing up to 5,000 lb (both rated the same). You can also read our guide on invention of suv.
Technology & Infotainment Deep Dive
| Feature | Telluride | Palisade |
|---|---|---|
| Touchscreen | 12.3″ (standard) | 12.3″ (standard) |
| Wireless Apple CarPlay / Android Auto | Standard on EX+ | Standard on SEL+ |
| Digital Instrument Cluster | 7″ (LX/S) → 12.3″ (EX+) | 7″ (SE) → 12.3″ (SEL+) |
| Premium Audio | Harman/Kardon 10‑speaker (SX+) | Bose 12‑speaker (Limited/Calligraphy) |
| Connected Services | Kia Connect (5‑yr free) | Bluelink (3‑yr free) |
| OTA Updates | Yes | Yes |
Both systems are responsive, but the Telluride’s home screen layout places climate controls on a persistent bottom bar, reducing menu diving. The Palisade’s interface groups climate and drive‑mode shortcuts in a customizable “quick‑access” panel — handy for drivers who toggle between Eco, Smart, and Sport modes frequently.
A common mistake is assuming wireless phone projection works on every trim; it arrives only on mid‑grade and above for both brands.
Performance & Driving Dynamics
- Powertrain: Identical 3.8 L V6 paired with an 8‑speed automatic. Power delivery is linear; 0‑60 mph arrives in roughly 7.5 seconds for either SUV.
- All‑Wheel Drive: Both use a torque‑vectoring AWD system with a lock mode that splits torque 50/50 front‑rear — useful on snow or loose gravel.
- Towing: 5,000 lb maximum when properly equipped (trailer‑hitch receiver standard on higher trims).
- Steering & Handling: The Telluride’s steering ratio is marginally quicker, giving a more direct feel in tight corners. The Palisade’s suspension absorbs larger impacts more quietly, which pays off on long highway trips.
Fuel Economy & Real‑World Costs
EPA estimates are identical (20/26 mpg city/hwy). In mixed driving, owners typically see 22‑23 mpg. Over five years, the fuel cost difference is negligible — roughly $150‑$200 depending on local gas prices. For a deeper look at current market pricing trends, see the latest analysis on how new‑car incentives are shifting. You can also read our guide on tesla model x review innovation meets luxury.
Safety & Driver‑Assist Systems
Both models earned IIHS Top Safety Pick+ and NHTSA 5‑star overall ratings for the 2024 model year. Standard suites include:
- Forward Collision‑Avoidance Assist (with pedestrian/cyclist detection)
- Lane Keeping Assist + Lane Following Assist
- Blind‑Spot Collision‑Avoidance Assist
- Rear Cross‑Traffic Collision‑Avoidance Assist
- Driver Attention Warning
- Safe Exit Assist (prevents door opening into traffic)
The Palisade adds Highway Driving Assist 2 (hands‑on lane centering with adaptive cruise) on Limited and Calligraphy; the Telluride offers a comparable Highway Driving Assist on SX Prestige only. For official crash‑test details, consult the NHTSA ratings database.
Warranty, Reliability & Ownership Experience
- Powertrain: 10 yr/100k mi (both)
- Basic: 5 yr/60k mi (both)
- Roadside Assistance: 5 yr/unlimited miles (both)
J.D. Power’s 2024 Vehicle Dependability Study places both nameplates above the segment average, with the Telluride edging out the Palisade by a single point. Routine maintenance intervals mirror each other — oil every 7,500 mi, tire rotation every 5,000 mi. Owners report few recurring issues; the most common service visits involve infotainment software updates, which are now delivered over‑the‑air. You can also read our guide on kia suv hybrid.
Pricing, Trim Walkthrough & Value Proposition
| Trim | Telluride MSRP | Palisade MSRP | Notable Add‑Ons |
|---|---|---|---|
| LX / SE | $35,990 / $35,950 | — | Base cloth, 8‑inch cluster, 18″ wheels |
| S / SEL | $38,690 / $38,750 | — | Synthetic leather, power liftgate, 12.3″ screen |
| EX / Limited | $42,190 / $44,550 | — | Leather, ventilated front seats, surround‑view camera |
| SX / Calligraphy | $46,690 / $48,750 | — | Nappa leather, premium audio, advanced driver‑assist |
| SX Prestige | $50,690 | — | Head‑up display, panoramic sunroof, 20″ wheels |
Both brands frequently offer regional incentives (cash back, low‑APR financing) that can shave $1,500‑$3,000 off MSRP. Checking the latest offers on the manufacturer sites before negotiating is a smart move.
Ownership Costs & Resale Outlook
- Depreciation: After three years, both retain roughly 55‑58 % of original value — among the best in class.
- Insurance: Average annual premium sits $1,300‑$1,500 for a 35‑year‑old driver with clean record.
- Maintenance: Expected 5‑year cost ~ $4,200 (including tires, brakes, fluids).
Because the platform is shared, parts availability is excellent, and many independent shops service both brands interchangeably. You can also read our guide on evaluation of suv.
Which One Fits You?
| Priority | Choose Telluride If… | Choose Palisade If… |
|---|---|---|
| Styling | You prefer a bold, rugged presence | You like a sleek, upscale silhouette |
| Third‑Row Space | Max headroom matters | You value a quieter cabin at speed |
| Tech Layout | Persistent climate bar appeals | Customizable quick‑access panel appeals |
| Towing Frequency | You tow near the 5k lb limit often | You tow occasionally and want softer ride |
| Premium Feel | You want the top‑trim SX Prestige features | You want Calligraphy’s exclusive interior touches |
A test drive of both — back‑to‑back on the same route — remains the single best way to feel the subtle chassis and NVH differences.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do the Telluride and Palisade compare on cargo space?
The Telluride offers 21 cu ft behind the third row vs. 18 cu ft for the Palisade; max cargo is virtually identical.
Which has better fuel efficiency?
EPA numbers are the same (20/26 mpg). Real‑world averages differ by less than 1 mpg.
What are their safety ratings?
Both earned IIHS Top Safety Pick+ and NHTSA 5‑star overall for 2024.
Do they require premium fuel?
No — regular unleaded (87 octane) is recommended for the 3.8 L V6 in both models.
Is the 10‑year/100k mi powertrain warranty transferable?
Yes, it transfers to subsequent owners, adding resale appeal.
Conclusion
The 2024 Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade are essentially two sides of the same well‑engineered coin. Your decision hinges on style preference, third‑row priority, and which infotainment layout feels more intuitive. Both deliver class‑leading warranty coverage, strong safety scores, and competitive resale values.
Next step: Schedule a side‑by‑side test drive at a local dealer and compare current incentive offers on the Kia and Hyundai websites — those numbers often tip the scale more than any spec sheet.
Key spec comparison chart —
Final Thoughts
Both the 2024 Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade deliver exceptional value in the three-row SUV segment, and the gaps between them are narrower than ever. If your daily routine involves hauling gear for kids’ sports, weekend camping trips, or simply appreciates a cabin that feels a class above its price point, either vehicle will serve you well for years. The deciding factors often come down to dealer experience, current incentives, and which design language speaks to you personally. Whichever you choose, you’re getting a proven platform backed by one of the industry’s strongest warranties — peace of mind that’s hard to put a price on.