Jun 26, 2025

The Hyundai Palisade and Kia Telluride are two of the most popular midsize SUVs on the market. Each vehicle is exceptionally well built and packed with great features, but knowing their differences can help you choose the one that best fits your lifestyle. In this comparison of the Hyundai Palisade and the Kia Telluride, you’ll discover why the Palisade is your ultimate SUV.

Palisade

Palisade vs. Telluride: Performance and Engine Specs

The Hyundai Palisade has a 3.8-liter V-6 engine that produces 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, and it pairs with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The Kia Telluride’s 3.8-liter V-6 engine also produces 291 horsepower. However, the Palisade’s transmission tuning has slightly smoother shifts, resulting in more refined and comfortable long-distance drives. The Palisade’s better suspension setup contributes to superior handling, especially on uneven surfaces or rough roads.

Fuel Efficiency: Which SUV Saves You More at the Pump?

Fuel efficiency is a critical factor when selecting your next SUV. The Hyundai Palisade achieves an EPA-estimated 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway, making it great for daily driving and long road trips with the family.

The Kia Telluride provides an EPA-estimated 20 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. Though these SUVs have similar fuel efficiency ratings, the Palisade’s eco-driving modes and advanced transmission controls make it the better option.

Interior

Interior Comfort and Technology

The Palisade has generous interior dimensions, offering spacious passenger seating across all three rows and a large cargo area. With a total cargo volume of 86.4 cubic feet behind the front seats, there’s more than enough space for your family and gear.

The Kia Telluride also offers substantial space, with a maximum cargo capacity of 87 cubic feet. Still, it’s less optimized for passengers, especially in the third row, which can feel tight for adults. In contrast, the Palisade provides more comfortable seating across all rows.

Seating Options and Everyday Comfort

The Palisade and the Telluride can be configured for seven or eight passengers. In the Palisade, you can get optional nappa leather upholstery and heated and ventilated front and second-row seats. Meanwhile, the Kia Telluride is comfortable but lacks the Palisade’s refinement. Other features in the Palisade include premium ambient lighting and ergonomic seats.

Interior

Infotainment, Connectivity, and Audio Options

The Hyundai Palisade excels with its innovative interior, anchored by the accessible 12.3-inch touch-screen infotainment display with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and optional Harman Kardon premium audio. The Telluride offers the same size display but a slightly less polished interface. In the Palisade, dynamic voice recognition enhances hands-free convenience.

Advanced Safety and Hyundai Reliability

Although both vehicles offer many safety features, the Palisade has the edge over the Telluride with SmartSense, Hyundai’s advanced safety feature suite, which includes blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control.

Both SUVs have performed well in crash tests, but Hyundai has a more proactive approach to safety features, and nearly all come standard. It also has a great powertrain warranty of 10 years/100,000 miles. The Palisade features new driver-assistance technologies such as Safe Exit Assist and Rear Occupant Alert, ensuring peace of mind for families.

Exterior Design

Regarding styling, the Hyundai Palisade offers an elegant look with its bold grille and LED accent lighting. The Kia Telluride’s aesthetic is more rugged, which may appeal to some but be less versatile in more formal settings. The new Palisade is appropriate for business or an evening out in Olympia, Washington.

Recommendations Based on Different User Profiles

You can determine which SUV is best for you based on how you plan to use it:

  • Family-oriented drivers: The Palisade’s expansive interior and advanced safety features make it the perfect family SUV.
  • Long-distance travelers: With improved passenger comfort and transmission tuning, the Palisade makes long trips easier.

Final Verdict: Which SUV Takes the Crown?

The Hyundai Palisade emerges as the clear winner in this showdown. It offers a compelling blend of luxury, practicality, and advanced features, making it the best choice for SUV buyers.

Test Drive the Hyundai Palisade at Titus-Will Hyundai in Olympia

When you’re ready to experience the Hyundai Palisade, contact our friendly team at Titus-Will Hyundai. We’re ready to answer your questions, schedule a test-drive, review financing options, and get you on the road in your dream vehicle. Our dealership is located at 2255 Carriage Loop SW in Olympia, Washington. Call us at Phone Number360-528-3912 or complete our secure online form to get started.