Hyundai
Palisade
Kia
Telluride
Hyundai Palisade vs Kia Telluride: 2025 Comparison
The short answer
Based on available data, the Kia Telluride comes out ahead of the Hyundai Palisade 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
Palisade
Overall
Mixed sentiment with a clear generational divide. The vehicle is widely praised for its exceptional value proposition, offering a high level of comfort, spaciousness, and premium features (e.g., ventilated second-row seats, advanced driver assistance systems, abundant storage) at a competitive price point. Many owners express strong satisfaction with the smooth ride, family-friendly design, and technology content.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to declare a definitive "best" trim. The Calligraphy trim is noted by the manufacturer as the expected volume seller and represents the fully-featured version.
Known issues
- ⚠Excessive engine oil consumption (primarily 2020-2021 models): Severe oil burning, often requiring engine replacement under warranty, typically manifesting around 60,000 miles. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Transmission failure: Complete transmission failure reported as early as 87,000 miles; also includes reports of lagging, slipping between gears, and losing power, making the vehicle unsafe to drive. Frequency: recurrent.
- ⚠Fuel system/engine performance issues: Intermittent loss of acceleration despite engine revving (codes P0087, P0661, P021A0 cited), potentially linked to failing fuel injectors or sensors. 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 Hyundai Palisade, based on the data above. If efficiency matters more to you than outright power, the Hyundai Palisade is worth a closer look instead.
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Hyundai Palisade or the Kia Telluride?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Hyundai Palisade and the Kia Telluride. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Hyundai Palisade 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 Hyundai Palisade 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 Hyundai Palisade or the Kia Telluride?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the Hyundai Palisade than the Kia Telluride. See the known issues comparison above.