2021 Kia Telluride vs 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid

The 2021 Kia Telluride was available in four trim levels: LX, S, EX, and SX, with options for front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. Pricing ranged from $32,190 to $42,490, excluding destination charges. The Telluride SX trim, especially with the Prestige package, transformed the SUV into a luxury vehicle with features like premium Nappa leather and a head-up display. The Nightfall Edition added a blacked-out aesthetic with unique wheels and grille. The Telluride's design was praised for its contemporary style and quality, with only minor criticisms regarding interior color options and some plastic materials.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid featured a distinctive design that required an acclimation period. Its bold front and floating roof design were initially polarizing but became familiar over time. The Highlander Hybrid was available in LE, XLE, Limited, and Platinum trims, with pricing from $38,410 to $48,365, plus destination charges. The test vehicle, a Limited trim with AWD, included features like a 12.3-inch touchscreen and a surround-view camera. The interior offered a two-tone look with leather upholstery, but some materials felt cheap. The dashboard design was asymmetrical, and the infotainment screen suffered from reflections in bright sunlight.

The 2021 Kia Telluride featured a 3.8-liter V6 engine with 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It offered various driving modes and optional AWD with a Lock function for better traction. The Telluride excelled in challenging conditions, such as snowy and muddy terrains, and provided a smooth ride with minimal head-toss. Its suspension tuning allowed for a firm yet comfortable drive, with commendable grip from the 20-inch wheels. The Telluride's fuel economy was rated at 21 mpg combined, with a test average of 20.5 mpg.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid used a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with a total output of 243 horsepower. It was EPA-rated for 36 mpg combined, with AWD as an option. The hybrid system used an E-CVT to mimic an automatic transmission. The Highlander Hybrid improved in efficiency compared to its predecessor but sacrificed driving enjoyment. The powertrain felt strained during acceleration, and the steering was lifeless. The regenerative brakes were improved, but the ride suffered from unwanted body movement. On smooth roads, it handled well, but rough surfaces revealed its shortcomings. The Highlander Hybrid excelled in urban environments with its electric motor torque and quiet ride.

The 2021 Kia Telluride offered a comfortable and spacious interior with a 14-way adjustable driver's seat and heated and ventilated front seats. The second-row captain’s chairs were also heated and ventilated, with easy access to the third row. The Telluride provided ample storage solutions, including smartphone holders and a smart hands-free power liftgate. Cargo space measured 21 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 87 cubic feet with seats folded.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Limited provided comfortable seating for the driver and front passenger, with heated and ventilated seats. The second-row bench seat increased capacity to eight but felt cramped. The third-row seat was uncomfortable and difficult to access. Storage was adequate but less generous than before, with a smaller dashboard shelf and obstructed storage bin. Cargo space was 16 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 84.3 cubic feet with seats folded.

The 2021 Kia Telluride came with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM. The EX and SX trims featured a 10.25-inch screen with navigation. UVO Link services offered various connected features, but no WiFi hotspot. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with a 10-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. Features like Driver Talk and Quiet Mode enhanced convenience, while the Prestige package added a head-up display.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. The top infotainment system featured a 12.3-inch touchscreen and an 11-speaker JBL audio system. The system was user-friendly, with large knobs and shortcut buttons. Driver Easy Speak projected the driver’s voice to rear passengers, and a video rearview mirror provided a clear view behind the vehicle.

The 2021 Kia Telluride included standard safety features like blind-spot warning, lane-keeping assistance, and automatic emergency braking. Highway Drive Assist offered semi-autonomous driving capabilities. The SX trim added features like front parking sensors and a Blind-Spot View Monitor. The Telluride earned a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, with enhancements like intersection support and emergency steering assistance. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard from the LE trim. The Highlander received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.