In the world of three row SUVs, there’s two models that compete for the top spot. These are the Ford Explorer and the Kia Telluride. Both are great in their own regards, but there’s only one that is best overall. We’ll be looking to see which one is the best for you, and your family.
Key takeaways
- The Explorer comes with more creature comforts for more seating positions.
- Both the Explorer, and Telluride are safe vehicles.
- The Explorer has two engines, one being stronger, while the other is more fuel efficient. Giving you more options to suit your needs.
Which model has a better engine: Explorer
When it comes to what makes a vehicle good, most will agree that the fuel economy is one of the most important things. The Explorer comes with two engines, with both of them are better than the Telluride’s engine in certain aspects.
The engines that you can find on the Explorer are 2.3L I4, and a 3.0L V6. The I4 is the more efficient engine, having an EPA rated 24 MPG combined. If you’re wanting to go on family road trips, this engine will make that cheaper than the rest. This is because it gets 29 MPG on the highway. This engine has 300 horsepower, and 310 lb-ft of torque. The V6 is less fuel efficient, having an EPA rating of 21 MPG. While it is less efficient, it is more powerful. Coming with 400 horsepower, and 415 lb-ft of torque.
The Telluride comes with one engine, this being the 3.8L V6. This engine comes with an EPA rating of 22 MPG combined. This engine has 291 horsepower, and 262 lb-ft of torque. Both of the vehicles, when using standard equipment, can tow 5000 pounds.
Which has better interior features: Explorer
When looking at comfort features for you and your family, the Explorer does just a little bit more. The main thing that most people will be happy about, especially in the south, is the tri-zone automatic temperature control. This helps you and your family stay cool.
Some other features that you can look for are a power liftgate, a 13.2-inch touchscreen with wireless phone connectivity. On longer rides, you can activate the 5G Wi-Fi hotspot to keep everyone connected. For the driver, when the temperature starts to dip, you even have heated front-row seats and a heated steering wheel.
The features that you can find on the Telluride are a 12.3-inch touchscreen, phone connectivity, dual-zone automatic climate control, and Wi-Fi hotspot. While these features are decent, you do miss out on the creature comforts that make the Explorer better than other SUVs on the market.
Which model is safer: It’s a tie.
When you have a family, you want something safe, and no matter what, we think that safety is important too. When looking at both vehicle’s ratings from the NHTSA, they both have overall 5-star ratings. The Explorer sees 5-star ratings in Frontal Crash and Side Crash tests, while it sees a 4-star rating in Rollover. The Telluride sees a 5-star rating for Side Crash, while it comes with a pair of 4-Star ratings for Frontal Crash and Rollover. While the Telluride is safe, the Explorer is just a bit safer. If you’re wanting the best for you, and your family, then you can never be too safe.
Best family SUV 2025: Explorer or Telluride?
The Explorer is the best option for those who value the most safety, and the best features. It comes with better tech, as well as a better overall build, making it the perfect family road trip, and soccer mom car. If you want to see one in person before you buy, come on down to Banner Ford of Monroe today!