Dodge
Durango
Owner report available
Kia
Telluride
Owner report available
Dodge Durango vs Kia Telluride
The short answer
The Dodge Durango offers power, while the Kia Telluride excels at fuel economy instead. Choose the Dodge Durango if you prioritize power in daily driving, or the Kia Telluride if fuel economy matters more for your needs. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
Durango
Overall
Sentiment is mixed but leans positive, with a clear generational divide. Long-term owner reports for the third generation (post-2011) generally describe it as a reliable, powerful, and practical family hauler when properly maintained. The V8 Hemi engines and the ZF 8-speed automatic transmission (available from 2014 onward) receive consistent praise for strong performance, smooth operation, and durability.
Best version to buy
For the refreshed generation (2021+), the R/T trim with the 5.7L Hemi V8 and the ZF 8-speed transmission is frequently recommended as the best balance of performance, reliability, and value. The Tow 'N Go (TNG) package is highlighted as a desirable addition for those needing maximum towing capability.
Known issues
- Water pump failure: A known issue on Hemi V8 engines. Frequency: recurrent.
- LED headlight/DRL failure: Complete assembly replacement required at high cost ($1,600-$2,300 USD); very common, with some owners noting water ingress in tail lights as a related issue. Frequency: very frequent.
- Exhaust manifold bolt failure: Broken bolts on Hemi V8 engines causing exhaust leaks. 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 Dodge Durango, based on the data above. If power matters more to you than running costs, the Dodge Durango is worth a closer look instead.
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Common problems by model year
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Dodge Durango or the Kia Telluride?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Dodge Durango and the Kia Telluride. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Dodge Durango or the Kia Telluride?
The Kia Telluride seats more passengers than the Dodge Durango on its catalogued best-equipped version. Body type also differs: the Dodge Durango is classed as a SUV, the Kia Telluride as a SUV.
Which has better fuel economy, the Dodge Durango or the Kia Telluride?
The EPA rates the 2027 Dodge Durango at 13–20 mpg combined and the 2027 Kia Telluride at 19–35 mpg, depending on the version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Dodge Durango or the Kia Telluride?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the Dodge Durango than the Kia Telluride. See the known issues comparison above.