Honda
Pilot
Kia
Telluride
Honda Pilot vs Kia Telluride: 2023 Comparison
The short answer
Based on available data, the Kia Telluride comes out ahead of the Honda Pilot 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
Pilot
Overall
Overwhelmingly positive sentiment regarding long-term reliability, practicality, and driving experience. The Pilot is consistently praised as a durable, high-mileage family vehicle capable of reaching 250,000+ miles with proper maintenance. Owners express deep emotional attachment, describing their Pilots as dependable partners through major life events.
Best version to buy
Second Generation (2009-2015) models, specifically the 2013-2015 years, are frequently cited as the most reliable and desirable used examples. These are described as "tried and true," benefiting from resolved early-generation issues while retaining the simpler, proven 3.5L V6 and 5-speed automatic transmission.
Known issues
- ⚠Rust and corrosion (particularly in Northeast climates on older generations): affects rear unibody, subframe mounting bolts, transmission fluid lines, and catalytic converters. Frequency: recurrent.
- ⚠Transmission problems (varies by generation): 2002-2003 models have "junk" transmissions; 2005-2008 models can experience torque converter shudder; 2023+ models with the 10-speed automatic exhibit jerkiness, gear hunting, and poor low-spee…
- ⚠Timing belt maintenance: critical service required approximately every 105,000 miles on V6 engines; failure leads to catastrophic engine damage. Frequency: very frequent (as a maintenance point, not a defect).
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 Honda Pilot, based on the data above. If efficiency matters more to you than outright power, the Honda Pilot is worth a closer look instead.
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Honda Pilot or the Kia Telluride?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Honda Pilot and the Kia Telluride. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Honda Pilot 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 Honda Pilot 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 Honda Pilot or the Kia Telluride?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but reliability signals above are the closest proxy: fewer reported issues generally means lower repair costs over time.