Two of America's best-selling midsize suvs go head-to-head. Compare performance, features, space, and value to find the right fit for your lifestyle.
The 2026 Honda Pilot and Kia Telluride are remarkably similar in their core specifications, offering identical performance, fuel economy, and warranty coverage. While the Pilot boasts a slightly lower starting MSRP, the Telluride provides specific interior and exterior measurements like rear legroom and ground clearance, which can be valuable for buyers. Ultimately, both are strong contenders in the midsize SUV segment, with the choice potentially coming down to design preference or specific feature availability not covered by these core specifications.
2026 model year data. Specs vary by trim level.
| Specification | Honda Pilot | Kia Telluride |
|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP | $37,885 | $38,300 |
| Engine | 3.8L V6 | 3.8L V6 |
| Horsepower | 291 hp | 291 hp |
| Combined MPG | 22 | 22 |
| Cargo Space | N/A cu ft | N/A cu ft |
| Rear Legroom | N/A in | 42.4 in |
| Basic Warranty | 5 yr / 60,000 mi | 5 yr / 60,000 mi |
| Powertrain Warranty | 10 yr / 100,000 mi | 10 yr / 100,000 mi |
What sets these midsize suvs apart.
Detailed breakdown of how these midsize suvs compare.
While specific cargo space and passenger volume figures are not available for either the 2026 Honda Pilot or the 2026 Kia Telluride, the Telluride does provide a specific rear legroom measurement of 42.4 inches. This offers a tangible metric for rear passenger comfort that is not yet available for the Pilot, giving the Telluride a slight edge in this category based on available data.
Both the 2026 Honda Pilot and the 2026 Kia Telluride are powered by a 3.8L V6 engine, producing an identical 291 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque. Their fuel economy ratings are also the same, with 20 MPG city, 26 MPG highway, and 22 MPG combined. Both vehicles also share a 5,000 lbs towing capacity, resulting in a tie for performance and efficiency.
Specific details regarding standard technology and safety features for the 2026 models of both the Honda Pilot and Kia Telluride are not yet available. Therefore, a direct comparison in this category cannot be made at this time, resulting in a tie.
The 2026 Honda Pilot has a slightly lower starting MSRP of $37,885 compared to the 2026 Kia Telluride's $38,300. Both vehicles offer identical warranty coverage with a 5-year/60,000-mile basic warranty and an impressive 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. The lower initial cost gives the Honda Pilot a minor advantage in value.
Match your priorities to the right vehicle.
Answers to help you decide.
Specific cargo space and passenger volume figures for the 2026 models are not yet available for either the Honda Pilot or the Kia Telluride. However, the Kia Telluride does specify a rear legroom of 42.4 inches, while the Pilot's figure is not provided. Without full interior dimensions, a definitive answer on overall size cannot be given.
Both the 2026 Honda Pilot and the 2026 Kia Telluride achieve the same EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings: 20 MPG in the city, 26 MPG on the highway, and 22 MPG combined. Neither vehicle offers better gas mileage than the other based on these specifications.
Reliability data for the 2026 models is not yet available. However, both the Honda Pilot and Kia Telluride come with identical and robust warranty coverage: a 5-year/60,000-mile basic warranty and an excellent 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, suggesting confidence from both manufacturers in their products' durability.
Both the 2026 Honda Pilot and Kia Telluride offer 8-passenger seating and a 5,000 lbs towing capacity, making them strong contenders for families. The Telluride provides a specific rear legroom of 42.4 inches, which is a good indicator of comfort for rear passengers. Without full interior dimensions for the Pilot, it's difficult to definitively say which is 'better' for families, but both are well-equipped for family duties.
Resale value for 2026 models is speculative at this time. Historically, both Honda and Kia models have demonstrated strong resale values in their respective segments. It is advisable to consult independent automotive valuation guides closer to the release date for more accurate projections.
Based on available 2026 specifications, the main differences are subtle. The Honda Pilot has a slightly lower starting MSRP ($37,885 vs. $38,300). The Kia Telluride provides specific measurements for rear legroom (42.4 inches) and ground clearance (8.3 inches), which are not yet available for the Pilot. Performance, fuel economy, seating capacity, towing capacity, and warranty terms are identical between the two models.
Visit Steve Padgett's Honda of Lake Murray to test drive the Pilot and see the difference for yourself.
Steve Padgett's Honda of Lake Murray · 750 Western Ln, Irmo, SC 29063 · 888-933-4998
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