We understand that choosing between the Honda Pilot and Kia Telluride can be challenging. Both three-row SUVs offer excellent family features, but each has unique strengths that appeal to different drivers in Christiansburg and the New River Valley.
At Motor Mile Honda, we help families every day find the perfect SUV for their lifestyle. Whether you're driving kids to school, heading to Virginia Tech for a game, or exploring the Blue Ridge Mountains, we know what matters most to local families.
Why This Comparison Matters
The Honda Pilot and Kia Telluride represent two different approaches to the three-row SUV market. The Pilot focuses on proven reliability and practical design, while the Telluride emphasizes luxury features and bold styling.
This detailed comparison will help you understand which SUV better fits your family's needs. We'll cover everything from safety ratings to cargo space, fuel economy to technology features. By the end, you'll have the information needed to make the right choice for your family.
Performance and Engine Comparison
When we compare the Honda Pilot vs Kia Telluride in terms of performance, both SUVs take different approaches to power delivery. The differences become clear when you drive them on Virginia's varied terrain, from city streets to mountain highways.
The Honda Pilot comes with a proven 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. This engine pairs with a 9-speed automatic transmission that delivers smooth shifts and reliable performance. We've seen this powertrain prove itself over many years of service.
Honda Pilot Engine
3.5L V6 with 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft torque, paired with 9-speed automatic transmission
Kia Telluride Engine
3.8L V6 with 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft torque, paired with 8-speed automatic transmission
The Kia Telluride uses a 3.8-liter V6 engine that generates 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. Its 8-speed automatic transmission provides responsive acceleration and confident highway merging. Both engines offer adequate power for family hauling and light towing needs.
Fuel Economy Considerations
Fuel efficiency matters to families in Christiansburg, especially with daily commutes and weekend trips. The Honda Pilot achieves an EPA-estimated 20 mpg city and 27 mpg highway with front-wheel drive. All-wheel drive models see slightly lower numbers at 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway.
The Kia Telluride delivers similar fuel economy with 20 mpg city and 26 mpg highway for front-wheel drive models. All-wheel drive versions achieve 19 mpg city and 24 mpg highway. Both SUVs require regular unleaded gasoline, keeping operating costs reasonable.
The Honda Pilot showcases its refined exterior design and family-friendly proportions
Interior Space and Comfort Features
We know that interior space makes or breaks a family SUV purchase. Both the Honda Pilot and Kia Telluride offer three rows of seating, but they approach passenger comfort and cargo storage differently.
The Honda Pilot provides seating for up to eight passengers with its standard second-row bench seat. Families can also choose captain's chairs for seven-passenger seating, which makes third-row access easier. The Pilot's interior focuses on practical design with durable materials and intuitive controls.
Passenger Space and Seating
Front-row passengers in the Honda Pilot enjoy 40.9 inches of legroom and 39.5 inches of headroom. Second-row passengers get 38.4 inches of legroom, while third-row occupants have 31.9 inches. These measurements work well for most families, though taller teenagers might find the third row tight.
The Kia Telluride offers more generous interior dimensions across all three rows. Front passengers get 41.4 inches of legroom and 39.1 inches of headroom. Second-row passengers enjoy 42.4 inches of legroom, and third-row occupants have 36.6 inches. This extra space makes the Telluride more comfortable for larger families.
| Measurement | Honda Pilot | Kia Telluride | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Front Legroom | 40.9 inches | 41.4 inches | Telluride |
| Second-Row Legroom | 38.4 inches | 42.4 inches | Telluride |
| Third-Row Legroom | 31.9 inches | 36.6 inches | Telluride |
| Cargo Space (behind 3rd row) | 16.5 cubic feet | 21.0 cubic feet | Telluride |
Cargo Capacity and Storage
Cargo space often determines which SUV works best for family trips and daily hauling. The Honda Pilot offers 16.5 cubic feet behind the third row, 46.8 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 84.3 cubic feet with both rear rows down.
The Kia Telluride provides more cargo room at every configuration. Behind the third row, you get 21.0 cubic feet of space. With the third row folded, cargo capacity expands to 46.0 cubic feet. Maximum cargo space reaches 87.0 cubic feet with both rear rows folded flat.
Safety Ratings and Technology Features
Safety remains the top priority for families choosing between the Honda Pilot vs Kia Telluride. Both SUVs earn excellent safety ratings and include comprehensive driver assistance features, but they approach safety technology differently.
The Honda Pilot comes standard with Honda Sensing, a suite of safety features that includes collision mitigation braking, road departure mitigation, adaptive cruise control, and lane keeping assist. These systems work together to help prevent accidents and reduce driver fatigue on long trips.
Safety Ratings and Awards
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awards the Honda Pilot a 5-star overall safety rating. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) recognizes the Pilot as a Top Safety Pick when equipped with specific headlights and the optional front crash prevention system.
The Kia Telluride also earns a 5-star overall NHTSA safety rating and receives the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award. This higher recognition comes from the Telluride's standard LED headlights and excellent crash test performance across all categories.
Technology and Infotainment
Both SUVs offer modern infotainment systems, but with different approaches. The Honda Pilot features an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The system includes SiriusXM radio, Bluetooth connectivity, and multiple USB ports throughout the cabin.
The Kia Telluride comes with an 8-inch touchscreen standard, with a 12.3-inch display available on higher trims. The system includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on select models, plus a premium Harman Kardon audio system option. The Telluride also offers more advanced features like a head-up display and surround-view camera system.
Honda Pilot Tech Highlights
8-inch touchscreen, Honda Sensing standard, wireless charging pad available, rear entertainment system option
Kia Telluride Tech Highlights
12.3-inch touchscreen available, wireless smartphone integration, head-up display, premium audio system
The Honda Pilot ready for family adventures in Virginia's beautiful landscapes
Pricing and Value Comparison
We understand that budget plays a major role in choosing between the Honda Pilot and Kia Telluride. Both SUVs offer competitive pricing in the three-row segment, but they provide different value propositions for families in Christiansburg.
The Honda Pilot starts at a lower base price, making it more accessible for budget-conscious families. However, the Kia Telluride includes more standard features at its base level, which can make it a better value when you compare similarly equipped models.
Starting Prices and Trim Levels
The Honda Pilot LX starts around $38,000 and includes essential features like Honda Sensing, tri-zone climate control, and an 8-inch touchscreen. The mid-level EX trim adds leather-trimmed seats, a power tailgate, and additional safety features for about $42,000.
The Kia Telluride LX begins around $36,000 and comes well-equipped with LED headlights, 18-inch wheels, and an 8-inch touchscreen. The S trim adds premium features like leather seating, a 12.3-inch touchscreen, and wireless charging for approximately $40,000.
| Trim Level | Honda Pilot Price | Kia Telluride Price | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base Model | ~$38,000 | ~$36,000 | Essential safety and comfort features |
| Mid-Level | ~$42,000 | ~$40,000 | Leather seating, premium audio, larger screen |
| Top Trim | ~$50,000 | ~$47,000 | All available features and luxury amenities |
Warranty and Reliability
Honda's reputation for reliability gives the Pilot an advantage in long-term value. Honda offers a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. The brand consistently ranks high in reliability studies, which helps maintain resale value.
Kia provides a more comprehensive warranty package with the Telluride. The basic warranty covers 5 years/60,000 miles, while the powertrain warranty extends to 10 years/100,000 miles. This longer coverage provides peace of mind, though Kia's reliability record is still developing compared to Honda's proven track record.
Experience Both SUVs at Motor Mile Honda in Christiansburg
We invite you to visit Motor Mile Honda and experience both the Honda Pilot and Kia Telluride firsthand. Our team understands the unique needs of families in the New River Valley, from navigating Christiansburg's neighborhoods to handling Virginia's mountain roads.
At our dealership, you can compare both SUVs side by side and take them for test drives on local roads. We'll help you understand how each vehicle's features work in real-world situations. Our experienced sales team can explain financing options and help you find the best deal for your budget.
Whether you choose the Honda Pilot's proven reliability or the Kia Telluride's spacious luxury, we're here to support your decision. Our service department is ready to keep your new SUV running smoothly for years to come. Call us at (540) 381-8417 to schedule your test drive today.
Don't just read about these SUVs – experience them yourself. Visit Motor Mile Honda in Christiansburg and discover which three-row SUV is perfect for your family's adventures in Virginia and beyond.
