GMC
Acadia
Kia
Telluride
GMC Acadia vs Kia Telluride: 2023 Comparison
The short answer
Based on available data, the Kia Telluride comes out ahead of the GMC Acadia on 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
Acadia
Overall
Sentiment is sharply divided by generation and is heavily influenced by powertrain reliability. For the 2024+ redesign (2025-2026 model years), owner sentiment is cautiously positive, praising its spacious interior, comfortable ride, modern features (especially Super Cruise and advanced tech on Denali trims), and improved third-row space. However, this is tempered by recurrent reports of significant reliability issues in early production units, including transmission problems and oil leaks.
Best version to buy
For the 2024+ generation, the Denali trim is frequently mentioned as the preferred version for maximizing feature content, including Super Cruise, a digital rearview mirror, heads-up display, massage seats, and advanced parking assist. However, there is no strong consensus recommending lower trims for better value, as the high feature content is a primary draw.
Known issues
- ⚠**Engine failures (3.6L V6): ** Catastrophic failure due to oil pickup tube clogging and cam failures, particularly in 2010-2015 models around 80,000-100,000 miles. Frequency: very frequent for older generations.
- ⚠**Transmission failures: ** Complete transmission failure reported around 100,000 miles on a 2017 model; transmission issues and "known transmission problems" cited as a deal-breaker for 2017-2023 models; early reliability issues with the 2…
- ⚠**Oil leaks/cooler failures: ** Recurrent issue described as the vehicle "weeping oil like BP in the Gulf"; oil cooler failure leading to coolant contamination and overheating in a 2024+ model. 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 more power on its best-equipped version than the GMC Acadia, based on the data above. If efficiency matters more to you than outright power, the GMC Acadia is worth a closer look instead.
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the GMC Acadia or the Kia Telluride?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the GMC Acadia and the Kia Telluride. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the GMC Acadia 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 GMC Acadia or the Kia Telluride?
Fuel consumption data is limited for one or both models. Check the specs table above for the figures available on each catalogued version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the GMC Acadia or the Kia Telluride?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the GMC Acadia than the Kia Telluride. See the known issues comparison above.