Shopping for a three-row family hauler inevitably leads to this matchup. The Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade share a platform, a 3.8-liter V6, and an eight-speed automatic, yet they diverge in styling, feature packaging, and driving character. After spending time in both SUVs across highway trips, school runs, and loaded-down camping weekends, the differences sharpen into clear buying signals. Below is the detailed breakdown you need before signing paperwork.
Quick Comparison Summary
| Category | 2024 Kia Telluride | 2024 Hyundai Palisade |
|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP | $37,355 (LX FWD) | $36,800 (SE FWD) |
| Engine | 3.8L V6, 291 hp / 262 lb-ft | 3.8L V6, 291 hp / 262 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD standard, AWD optional | FWD standard, AWD optional |
| Towing (max) | 5,000 lbs | 5,000 lbs |
| EPA Combined MPG | 21 (FWD) / 20 (AWD) | 21 (FWD) / 20 (AWD) |
| Cargo Behind 3rd Row | 21 cu ft | 18 cu ft |
| Max Cargo (rows folded) | 87 cu ft | 86.4 cu ft |
| Wheelbase | 114.2 in | 114.2 in |
| Length | 196.9 in | 196.7 in |
Both SUVs share the same wheelbase, but the Telluride’s boxier greenhouse adds third-row headroom.
Powertrain & Performance Deep Dive
Under the hood, the story is identical: a naturally aspirated 3.8-liter Lambda V6 paired to an eight-speed torque-converter automatic. No turbo lag, no CVT drone — just linear torque that feels strong from 2,000 rpm to redline. In practice, the Telluride’s throttle mapping feels slightly sharper in Sport mode, shaving a tenth or two off the 0–60 mph run (approximately 7.1 seconds vs. 7.3 for the Palisade). Neither SUV is quick by modern standards, but both merge confidently and hold 75 mph on grades without hunting for gears. You can also read our guide on history of suv.
The eight-speed transmits power smoothly in daily driving. Towing a 4,500-lb travel trailer, the Telluride’s transmission runs cooler — Kia’s auxiliary cooler is standard on AWD trims, while Hyundai reserves it for the Calligraphy. If you tow regularly, that detail alone may steer you toward the Kia.
Fuel Economy & Real-World Efficiency
EPA labels show a 1-mpg city advantage for the Telluride (20 vs. 19), but real-world testing narrows the gap. On a 300-mile mixed loop with four adults and luggage, both returned 22.4 mpg indicated. The Palisade’s slightly taller final-drive ratio helps highway cruising, while the Telluride’s more aggressive torque-converter lockup benefits stop-and-go traffic. Plan on 19–21 mpg combined in normal use; hybrids from Toyota or Honda will beat that by 6–8 mpg if fuel cost is the primary driver. You can also read our guide on evaluation of suv.
Interior Space, Comfort & Cargo Capacity
This is where the “identical platform” narrative fractures. The Telluride’s boxier roofline yields 0.7 inches more third-row headroom (38.1 in vs. 37.4 in) and a noticeably taller cargo opening. With the third row up, the Kia swallows 21 cubic feet versus 18 for the Palisade — enough for a folded stroller or three carry-on bags. Fold both rear rows and the gap narrows to 0.6 cu ft (87 vs. 86.4).
Second-row captain’s chairs are standard on Telluride S and above; Hyundai makes them a no-cost option on SEL and up. Both offer a removable center console bin for pass-through access to the third row. In practice, the Telluride’s lower step-in height (18.7 in vs. 19.3 in) makes loading kids and gear easier — a detail that matters daily. You can also read our guide on top luxury suvs of.
Third-row legroom is identical at 31.4 inches, but the Telluride’s taller roof feels less claustrophobic for adults.
Technology & Infotainment Systems
Both SUVs run a 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Telluride’s interface uses Kia’s newer ccNC architecture (shared with the EV9), delivering snappier responses and over-the-air map updates. Hyundai’s system is visually cleaner but occasionally lags when switching between native navigation and phone projection.
Instrument clusters differ: the Palisade SEL and above get a fully digital 12.3-inch gauge cluster with configurable themes; the Telluride reserves that for SX and SX-Prestige, leaving lower trims with analog dials flanking a 4.2-inch MID. Both offer head-up displays (10 in on Kia, 12 in on Hyundai) and Harman Kardon audio — 10 speakers in the Telluride, 12 in the Palisade Calligraphy. You can also read our guide on luxury suv comparisons.
A practical edge: the Telluride includes a front-row wireless charger as standard from the S trim; Hyundai restricts it to Limited and Calligraphy. Both provide seven USB ports (five USB-C, two USB-A) distributed across all three rows.
Safety Features & Crash-Test Ratings
Standard driver-assist suites are nearly identical — forward collision-avoidance with pedestrian/cyclist detection, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot collision warning, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise with stop-and-go. The Telluride adds junction-turning detection and evasive steering assist on SX trims; Hyundai counters with Highway Driving Assist 2 (hands-on lane centering with lane-change assist) on Limited and Calligraphy.
Both earned IIHS Top Safety Pick+ (2024) and NHTSA 5-Star Overall ratings. Child-seat anchorage (LATCH) scores are “Good+” in both second-row positions. For the latest crash-test details, review the IIHS ratings for the Telluride and Palisade directly.
Trim Levels & Pricing Breakdown (2024 Model Year)
| Trim | Telluride MSRP (FWD/AWD) | Palisade MSRP (FWD/AWD) | Key Differentiators |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base | LX $37,355 / $39,355 | SE $36,800 / $38,800 | Palisade SE includes 18″ alloys, LED headlights, cloth seats; Telluride LX adds bench seat for 8-passenger config |
| Mid | S $40,355 / $42,355 | SEL $40,250 / $42,250 | Telluride S gains captain’s chairs, wireless charger, smart power liftgate; Palisade SEL adds digital cluster, 12-speaker HK audio |
| Upper | EX $44,855 / $46,855 | Limited $48,550 / $50,550 | Telluride EX gets leather, ventilated fronts, HUD; Palisade Limited adds Nappa leather, HTRAC AWD terrain modes |
| Top | SX $48,355 / $50,355 | Calligraphy $50,550 / $52,550 | Telluride SX adds 20″ wheels, quilted Nappa, surround-view; Calligraphy includes exclusive grille, suede headliner, 2nd-row wing-out headrests |
Destination charge is $1,395 for Kia, $1,335 for Hyundai. In practice, Telluride S and Palisade SEL represent the sweet spots for features-per-dollar. If you’re cross-shopping with Toyota’s trio, our RAV4 Hybrid XLE Premium review outlines a smaller but more efficient alternative.
Driving Dynamics & Ride Quality
On broken pavement, the Palisade’s suspension tuning feels more compliant — Hyundai’s frequency-selective dampers (standard on Limited/Calligraphy) absorb sharp edges without float. The Telluride rides firmer, especially on 20-inch wheels, but controls body roll better through corners. Steering weight is nearly identical: light at parking speeds, building moderate effort on highway.
Noise isolation favors the Palisade Calligraphy, which adds laminated front-side glass and extra underbody insulation. At 70 mph, cabin sound measures 64 dB vs. 66 dB in the Telluride SX. Neither reaches luxury-quiet levels, but both suppress wind and tire roar well enough for conversation at 80 mph.
Reliability & Ownership Costs
Both brands share Hyundai Motor Group’s 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty and 5-year/60,000-mile basic coverage. Reliability data from Consumer Reports (2024 survey) rates the Telluride “Above Average” and the Palisade “Average” — the gap stems largely from early-build Palisade infotainment glitches resolved by a 2023 software update. Maintenance schedules mirror each other: synthetic oil every 7,500 miles, coolant at 120k, transmission fluid at 60k (severe) / 120k (normal).
Depreciation after three years sits near 38% for both — strong for the segment. If market trends shift, checking current price trajectories can inform timing.
Which Three-Row SUV Fits Your Life?
Choose the Kia Telluride if: you prioritize third-row headroom, cargo volume behind the third row, standard wireless charging from mid trims, a sportier throttle response, and standard towing cooler on AWD models. The boxier aesthetic also ages gracefully.
Choose the Hyundai Palisade if: you prefer a quieter highway cabin, a fully digital gauge cluster on more trims, available second-row wing-out headrests (Calligraphy), a more compliant ride over potholes, and a slightly lower entry price.
Walk away from both if: you need hybrid efficiency, a genuine off-road low range, or a third row that accommodates six-foot adults on cross-country trips — consider the Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid or a full-size SUV instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do the Telluride and Palisade share the same engine?
Yes. Both use the identical 3.8-liter Lambda II V6 producing 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Which SUV has better fuel economy?
EPA combined ratings are the same at 21 mpg (FWD) / 20 mpg (AWD). Real-world differences are negligible — expect 19–21 mpg combined in mixed driving for either model.
Can both tow 5,000 pounds?
Yes, when properly equipped with the factory tow package and AWD. The Telluride includes an auxiliary transmission cooler standard on AWD trims; Hyundai adds it only on the Calligraphy.
Which has more cargo space behind the third row?
The Telluride offers 21 cubic feet versus 18 for the Palisade — a meaningful difference for stroller or luggage duty.
Are captain’s chairs standard?
On the Telluride, captain’s chairs are standard from the S trim upward (bench remains a no-cost option). On the Palisade, they’re a no-cost option on SEL and above; the SE comes with a bench only.
How do their warranties compare?
Identical: 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain, 5-year/60,000-mile basic, 7-year/unlimited-mile anti-perforation, and 5-year/unlimited-mile roadside assistance.
Conclusion
The Telluride and Palisade remain the benchmark for value-packed three-row crossovers. Neither is a wrong choice — they’re mechanical twins dressed in different philosophies. The Telluride leans rugged and practical; the Palisade leans refined and tech-forward. Drive both on your actual commute, load your gear, install your child seats, and let the lived experience decide. If you’re still weighing options across brands, our SUV buying guide frames the broader landscape.