Chevrolet
Traverse
Owner report available
Kia
Telluride
Owner report available
Chevrolet Traverse vs Kia Telluride
The short answer
Based on available data, the Kia Telluride comes out ahead of the Chevrolet Traverse on fuel economy and power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
Traverse
Overall
Sentiment is sharply divided and heavily dependent on model year and generation. For the 2018-2023 generation, owner feedback is mixed, with many reporting trouble-free, spacious, and practical family vehicles, while others report significant and recurring mechanical and electrical failures. The 3.6L V6 engine is frequently praised for its smoothness and power, but the associated transmission is a major source of criticism, with reports of failures, leaks, and shifting issues.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to declare a consensus "best" trim or package. Feedback is focused on generations and powertrains.
Known issues
- Transmission failures and problems: includes complete failure, fluid leaks, rough shifting, stalling, and speed sensor issues. Affects multiple generations. Frequency: very frequent.
- Electrical and infotainment system failures: encompasses "Service Driver Assist System" errors disabling all ADAS features, complete failure of the myChevrolet app and connected services (remote start, lock/unlock), screen freezes, and Blu…
- Engine timing chain issues: a known concern for the 3.6L V6 engine in older models (2009-2012 mentioned), requiring costly repair. Frequency: recurrent.
Telluride
Overall
Mixed to positive sentiment overall, with a clear generational divide. The Telluride is widely praised for its spacious and functional third row, high-quality interior materials, boxy and attractive exterior styling, strong value proposition, and comprehensive standard features. The naturally aspirated 3.8L V6 engine is frequently cited as a mature, reliable, and simple powertrain, especially when compared to newer turbocharged or hybrid alternatives.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to declare a consensus "best" trim. Discussions mention various trims (SX, EX, Calligraphy) without a clear, repeated preference for one over another.
Known issues
- Engine oil consumption: reports of excessive oil consumption requiring top-ups between changes and, in isolated cases, engine replacement. Frequency: recurrent.
- Underpowered 3.8L V6 engine: described as lethargic, slow, lacking responsiveness, and struggling with acceleration compared to turbocharged rivals. Frequency: very frequent.
- Dealer/service department problems: poor customer service, difficulty getting warranty repairs approved, lack of respect for customers, and general service quality concerns. Frequency: very frequent.
The verdict
The Kia Telluride is the better choice for most buyers.
It has better fuel economy on its best-equipped version than the Chevrolet Traverse, based on the data above. If power matters more to you than running costs, the Chevrolet Traverse is worth a closer look instead.
Explore further
Common problems by model year
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Chevrolet Traverse or the Kia Telluride?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Chevrolet Traverse and the Kia Telluride. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Chevrolet Traverse or the Kia Telluride?
Data on family-specific factors like cargo space is limited for one or both models, but based on available reports, both are positioned as practical daily drivers. Check the specs table above for seating and body type.
Which has better fuel economy, the Chevrolet Traverse or the Kia Telluride?
The EPA rates the 2027 Chevrolet Traverse at 21–22 mpg combined and the 2027 Kia Telluride at 19–35 mpg, depending on the version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Chevrolet Traverse or the Kia Telluride?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the Chevrolet Traverse than the Kia Telluride. See the known issues comparison above.