2021 Hyundai Palisade vs Kia Telluride

Some vehicles are so popular you would be lucky to get your hands on them. This is certainly the case for the 2021 Hyundai Palisade and the 2021 Kia Telluride. These full-size SUVs are so desirable, because they represent something that is different from the basic SUV models we see time and time again. Not only are they stylish and functional, but both models are also durable and long-lasting, too. They lead the class with their modern and intuitive features, providing a fresh take on what a contemporary SUV should be like. Despite their shared popularity, the 2021 Hyundai Palisade and the 2021 Kia Telluride have found their groove in different ways.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade is one of the most innovative SUVs we have ever laid eyes on, which gives it plenty of street credit for buyers. It leads the class in its intuitive features, packs every trim full of new attributes, and ensures its technology is felt throughout the cabin. The 2021 Kia Telluride also excels in providing a flawless look in its interior, but its pricing is suited to accommodate families, too. The Kia Telluride balances necessities that are essential for family travel with upscale attributes that make a statement. Both models prove you do not have to be boring and frumpy with a big family. You can purchase an SUV that is just as savvy and sophisticated as a luxury sedan.

Offering a refreshing brake from the similar features of most other full-size SUVs, the 2021 Hyundai Palisade and the 2021 Kia Telluride gives us something new and fresh to set our eyes upon. Look at the comparisons below to decide which model you would prefer.

The Powertrain

Each of these SUVs opts for just one engine provision for buyers to enjoy. This leaves more room for customization in other facets. For the 2021 Hyundai Palisade, buyer will gain access to a 3.8-liter V-6. This engine is complimented by an easy-going eight-speed automatic transmission, and the Palisade's powertrain setup can produce 291 horsepower with these components. Paddle shifters are mounted on the steering wheel to provide drivers with easy access to shifting, while front-wheel drive is considered a standard amenity. All-wheel drive can be had for an upgrade, but this is only available in certain trims.

The 2021 Kia Telluride also relies on a naturally aspirated V-6 to provide power. This model can make up to 291 horsepower and 262 lb.-ft. of torque. A similar eight-speed automatic transmission is used for this model. Also in line with its Palisade rival, standard front-wheel drive is included. Yet, every Kia Telluride model gains access for optional all-wheel drive, which is a preferential upgrade for many. One benefit the 2021 Kia Telluride has going for it is its quick acceleration that buyers seem to appreciate. Although it is not the quickest SUV, it certainly is appreciated for those who want a little more power in their ride.

Oftentimes, SUVs are known for their towing abilities, neither the 2021 Hyundai Palisade nor the 2021 Kia Telluride disappoint in these areas. Each model can tow up to 5,000 pounds, but they are equipped with varying equipment and technology to get the job done. The 2021 Kia Telluride boasts 8.0 inches of ground clearance that is paired with its towing capacity to make off-road travel more convenient. However, this SUV does not strive to promote its towing power. Its strength is simply an afterthought. Yet, the 2021 Hyundai Palisade thrives on providing tow-friendly provisions to its owners. Equipped with a transmission cooler, sway control, and trailer wiring prep, the Palisade shows off its desire to help drivers tap into the inherent capabilities it has.

Drivability

The ride quality of every SUV model is not created equal. The 2021 Hyundai Palisade and the 2021 Kia Telluride differ vastly in the type of drive they offer to passengers. Serious and sturdy, the 2021 Kia Telluride offers a ride that is firmer. While this kind of support can be appreciated, any change in the road ahead can easily throw it off balance. Incorporating a self-leveling suspension setup that enhances its ride, the Kia Telluride has seen some improvement in its absorption of bumps in the road and response to uneven surfaces. Additionally, quick, and responsive braking combined with precision in its steering are high points that consumers love about the 2021 Kia Telluride.

In comparison, the 2021 Hyundai Palisade has a bit more fun and variety throughout its trim level options. Not only does the Palisade come with a standard trailer package and front-wheel drive, but its all-wheel drive upgrade performs rather pleasantly. It is quicker than the Kia Telluride, and the Hyundai Palisade also offers a semi-autonomous driving mode. This is a serious selling point for buyers who veer toward more modern and intuitive vehicles. In fact, it is one of the only available SUV models to offer this type of automated driving.

If it is entertainment and navigation you are looking for, both the 2021 Hyundai Palisade and the 2021 Kia Telluride have some features for you to enjoy. The Kia Telluride is a bit more on the conservative side and sticks to an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment setup with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration potential. Wireless phone charging and an upgrade to a 10.3-inch touchscreen is available on higher level trims, too. Yet, the 2021 Hyundai Palisade prevails in its tech amenities. With similar touchscreen sizes and availability, the Palisade offers navigation and SiriusXM integration in some trims. Hyundai's Blue Link App can also be used to perform tasks remotely via Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant in the modern 2021 Hyundai Palisade.

Safety

Battling it out to the end, the 2021 Kia Telluride and the 2021 Hyundai Palisade both excel in their standard safety amenity offerings. They have similar rankings from safety rating agencies and crash-testing entities, as well. The 2021 Kia Telluride received a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA, and its 2020 model was named as a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS. The 2021 Telluride has not yet been rated by the IIHS, but it is reliable performance in its previous model year gives us high hopes for what we can expect in 2021. All 2021 Kia Telluride trims gain access to a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, and upgrades are offered to higher trims. Standard blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist can be found across the board on Kia Telluride models.

Comparatively, the 2021 Hyundai Palisade is also the recipient of a five-star safety rating by the NHTSA. It also rises about the Kia Telluride in its award of a Top Safety Pick+ in its 2021 model year. Standard safety equipment is included on all Palisade models, and advanced safety features are offered as optional on all trims, as well. This widespread availability of safety elements is proof of Hyundai's commitment to a safer driving experience for buyers. Automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection capabilities, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control are found as standard on all 2021 Hyundai Palisade models. The inclusion of adaptive cruise control as standard is an enhancement not typically seen on other SUVs, as this feature is usually only offered as an upgrade.

Which Has the Best Value?

Typically, buyers are willing to pay more for a vehicle that offers everything they want. What they are not willing to do is validate a higher price for a vehicle that is substandard in an area they find of great importance. This is the process for determining a vehicle's overall value, which will either lead to a buyer's purchase of a model or disregard for it. The availability of trim levels and enhancements included within each option also plays an important role in the determination of a vehicle's overall value. When considering all these facets, buyers can decide on the inherent value of a potential vehicle purchase and what that means to them.

The starting price of the bottom two trims of the 2021 Hyundai Palisade and the 2021 Kia Telluride are extremely comparable. Within just a few hundred dollars of each other, buyers will barely notice a difference in their pricing. Yet, the features that are offered within these trim levels vary quite a bit. The Hyundai Palisade is substantially more equipped in its entry-level model than similar offerings of the Kia Telluride. The 2021 Hyundai Palisade offers many safety features as standard across all models, the inclusion of a semi-autonomous driving mode in some, and a generous collection of convenience features. In contrast, the 2021 Kia Telluride limits access to safety upgrades to certain trims and fails to offer as many convenience and tech amenities as the Hyundai Palisade.

Moving into the higher trim levels, the price difference between the 2021 Hyundai Palisade and the 2021 Kia Telluride begins to widen further. The top model of the Hyundai Palisade ends up being a few thousand dollars more than the highest Kia Telluride trim. Yet, this is not without merit. The Hyundai Palisade becomes quite luxurious in its top trim, almost at an executive level. Heated and ventilated front seats, a premium sound system, and in-dash navigation are a few buyer favorites available in the top trims of the Hyundai Palisade. The Kia Telluride advances in its trim levels, of course, but it does not quite match up to everything the Hyundai Palisade has to offer.

Which is Better?

There may come a time when you must choose between a 2021 Hyundai Palisade and a 2021 Kia Telluride. So, which one would you consider to be the better option? If it were us, we would go with the 2021 Hyundai Palisade every time. Both models are quite upscale and innovative, but the Hyundai Palisade takes everything to the next level. Especially in the lower trims where the prices are extremely comparable, the Hyundai Palisade has more to offer buyers than the Kia Telluride does.

Although there are not many instances where you would want a less-equipped model, we can think of a few. Buyers may opt for a 2021 Kia Telluride over the 2021 Hyundai Palisade if they are interested in a higher trim level that does not break the bank. The cost of the Palisade rises quickly in its top two trims, while the top models of the Kia Telluride are still affordable. Although these models may not offer the same amenities the Hyundai Palisade boasts, the different in cost may be enough to draw some buyers in to the Kia Telluride.

Yet, overall, if we had to choose between these two models the 2021 Hyundai Palisade is the one we would go with. Not only is good-looking, but it is full of fun and innovative features for buyers to enjoy.