2027 Kia Telluride vs. 2026 Hyundai Palisade: Comparing SUVs
If you’re shopping for a midsize three-row SUV, you’ve likely come across the 2027 Kia Telluride and 2026 Hyundai Palisade. These two SUVs have become segment favorites thanks to their spacious interiors, advanced technology, impressive safety features, and premium feel without the luxury price tag.
While the Telluride and Palisade share a platform and many engineering components, each brings its own personality to the table. The Hyundai Palisade entered a new generation for 2026, while the Kia Telluride follows with an all-new second-generation model for 2027. Both introduce updated styling, expanded trim lineups, and available hybrid powertrains, making this one of the most compelling SUV comparisons for shoppers today.
Here’s how the 2027 Kia Telluride vs. 2026 Hyundai Palisade stacks up.
Size, Seating, & Cargo Space
From the outside, these SUVs are nearly identical in size. Both ride on a 116.9-inch wheelbase and offer seating for up to eight passengers with a second-row bench seat, or seven passengers when equipped with available captain’s chairs.
Inside, both provide generous space for families, road trips, and everyday errands. However, the Telluride offers a slight advantage in overall cargo capacity.
Cargo Space Comparison
Behind the Third Row
- 2027 Kia Telluride: 21.3 cubic feet
- 2026 Hyundai Palisade: 19 cubic feet
Behind the Second Row
- Telluride: 47.7 cubic feet
- Palisade: 46 cubic feet
Maximum Cargo Capacity
- Telluride: 88.3 cubic feet
- Palisade: 87 cubic feet
While the difference isn’t dramatic, buyers who frequently haul luggage, sports equipment, or camping gear may appreciate the Telluride’s extra storage space.
Performance & Powertrains
Both SUVs now offer two powertrain choices, giving buyers the flexibility to prioritize either traditional performance or improved fuel efficiency.
Gas Engines
- 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder
- 274 horsepower
- 311 lb-ft of torque
- Front-wheel drive or available all-wheel drive
2026 Hyundai Palisade
- 3.5-liter naturally aspirated V6
- 287 horsepower
- 260 lb-ft of torque
- Front-wheel drive or available all-wheel drive
The Palisade’s V6 delivers the familiar smoothness many SUV shoppers appreciate, while the Telluride’s turbocharged engine produces significantly more torque for stronger low-speed acceleration.
Hybrid Powertrains
Both SUVs now offer an available hybrid system pairing a turbocharged 2.5-liter engine with dual electric motors.
Hybrid output includes:
- 329 combined horsepower
- Six-speed automatic transmission
- Standard all-wheel drive
The addition of hybrid models gives both Kia and Hyundai buyers another option for maximizing efficiency without sacrificing capability.
Towing Capability
Whether you’re hauling a small camper, boat, or utility trailer, both SUVs offer strong towing capability.
Gas Models
- Telluride: Up to 5,000 pounds
- Palisade: Up to 5,000 pounds
Hybrid Models
- Telluride Hybrid: 4,500 pounds
- Palisade Hybrid: 4,000 pounds
Available all-wheel-drive models also include dedicated tow modes that optimize transmission performance while towing.
Fuel Economy
Fuel economy remains competitive across both lineups.
For front-wheel-drive gas models:
- Telluride: 20 city / 26 highway MPG
- Palisade: 19 city / 25 highway MPG
All-wheel-drive gas models are rated similarly:
- 18 city / 24 highway MPG
Hybrid models offer the best efficiency, with the Palisade Hybrid achieving up to an EPA-estimated 35 MPG highway on select trims. The Telluride Hybrid has an EPA estimated 35 mpg combined and up to 637 miles of range on one charge.
Technology & Interior Features
Technology is a highlight for both SUVs, with each offering a premium cabin packed with modern conveniences.
Available features include:
- Panoramic digital display
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Wireless phone charging
- Digital instrument cluster
- Premium audio systems
- Heated and ventilated seats
- Panoramic sunroof
- Multiple USB-C charging ports
- Over-the-air software updates
Both cabins feel upscale, though their design philosophies differ.
The Telluride leans toward a rugged, adventure-ready aesthetic with bold lines and practical layouts, while the Palisade emphasizes a cleaner, more luxurious atmosphere with refined materials and elegant styling.
Safety & Driver Assistance
Safety is one of the biggest reasons shoppers compare these SUVs, and both come exceptionally well equipped.
Available driver-assistance technologies include:
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Blind-Spot Collision Warning
- Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Avoidance Assist
- Lane Keeping Assist
- Lane Following Assist
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Highway Driving Assist
- Surround View Monitor
- Parking Collision Avoidance Assist
Whether you’re navigating city traffic or taking a long highway trip, both SUVs provide a reassuring suite of advanced safety technologies.
Off-Road Capability: X-Pro vs. XRT Pro
Drivers looking for additional confidence beyond the pavement can choose adventure-focused trims from either brand.
Both the Telluride X-Pro and Palisade XRT Pro include:
- 18-inch wheels
- All-terrain tires
- Electronic limited-slip rear differential
- Off-road drive modes
- Recovery tow hooks
- Underbody camera system
The Telluride X-Pro offers slightly more ground clearance at 9.1 inches, compared with 8.4 inches for the Palisade XRT Pro, making it a better fit for rougher trails and uneven terrain.
Pricing & Trim Levels
Both SUVs offer extensive trim lineups to fit a variety of budgets.
2027 Kia Telluride
- 10 gas-powered trims
- Starting around $40,735
- Top trims reach approximately $58,335
2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid
- Five trim levels
- Starting MSRP of $46,490
- Top trim starts at $57,590 before options
2026 Hyundai Palisade
- 7 gas-powered trims
- Starting around $41,035
- Top trims reach approximately $56,160
Hybrid models are also available across much of the Palisade lineup.
Pricing between the two remains remarkably close, meaning your decision is likely to come down to styling, preferred features, and driving experience.
Which SUV Should You Choose?
The 2027 Kia Telluride and 2026 Hyundai Palisade continue to set the standard for midsize three-row SUVs.
Choose the Telluride if you prefer:
- Rugged, bold styling
- Slightly more cargo space
- Strong turbocharged torque
- Adventure-focused X-Pro trims
Choose the Palisade if you prefer:
- Elegant, luxury-inspired styling
- A traditional V6 engine
- Refined interior appointments
- Premium comfort features
The truth is, there isn’t a wrong choice. Both SUVs offer exceptional value, advanced safety technology, spacious interiors, and family-friendly versatility.
Compare the Telluride & Palisade at Diehl Kia of Massillon
Reading reviews and comparing specifications is a great starting point, but seeing these SUVs in person is the best way to determine which one fits your lifestyle.
At Diehl Kia, you can compare the 2027 Kia Telluride and 2026 Hyundai Palisade side by side, explore available trim levels, and take both models for a test drive. Whether you’re drawn to the Telluride’s adventurous personality or the Palisade’s refined comfort, our team is here to answer your questions and help you make a confident decision.
Contact us today to learn more about current inventory, financing options, or to schedule your test drive.
