2025 Hyundai Tucson SE vs 2025 Kia Telluride LX
$6,185 less and 4 mpg better vs 104 more hp and 84 more lb-ft torque. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $6,185 price gap, 187 vs 291 hp, 26 vs 22 MPG.
The Tucson SE leads on $6,185 less, 4 MPG better. The Telluride LX leads on 104 more hp, 84 more lb-ft torque. The spec table compares 8 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 8 specifications.
Full Specification Comparison
Specifications and pricing reflect available data as of early 2026 and may not match current manufacturer figures. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision.
| Spec | 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE | 2025 Kia Telluride LX |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $30,205 | $36,390 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 | 3.8L V6 |
| Horsepower | 187 hp | 291 hp |
| Torque | 178 lb-ft | 262 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | FWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 24 | 20 |
| Highway MPG | 30 | 26 |
| Combined MPG | 26 | 22 |
| Fuel Tank | 14.3 gal | 18.8 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,700/yr | $2,000/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,572 lbs | 4,248 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 108.5" | 114.2" |
| Length | 182.7" | 196.9" |
| Width | 73.4" | 78.3" |
| Height | 66.3" | 68.9" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | No published data | TSP+ |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
| Powertrain | 10yr/100k | 10yr/100k |
| Corrosion | 7yr/unlimited | 5yr/100k |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/unlimited | 5yr/60k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE and 2025 Kia Telluride LX?
The 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE starts at $30,205, $6,185 less than the 2025 Kia Telluride LX at $36,390. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $109/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE?
The 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE is the stronger pick when you want to keep $6,185 in your pocket and the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $294/year less on fuel; you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted.
Who should choose the 2025 Kia Telluride LX?
The 2025 Kia Telluride LX is the stronger pick when the extra 104 hp matters for your commute or driving style; you want the larger footprint for passengers or cargo.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE or 2025 Kia Telluride LX?
The 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE rates 26 combined MPG, 4 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE or 2025 Kia Telluride LX?
The 2025 Kia Telluride LX produces 291 hp, 104 more than the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE at 187 hp. The 2025 Kia Telluride LX also leads in torque at 262 lb-ft vs 178 lb-ft. The 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE runs a 2.5L I4; the 2025 Kia Telluride LX uses a 3.8L V6. Drivetrains differ too: AWD on the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE, FWD on the 2025 Kia Telluride LX.
Is the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE bigger than the 2025 Kia Telluride LX?
The 2025 Kia Telluride LX is 14.2″ longer at 196.9″ vs 182.7″. The 2025 Kia Telluride LX has a 5.7″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE and 2025 Kia Telluride LX have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE comes with AWD, while the 2025 Kia Telluride LX uses FWD. If you drive in snow, heavy rain, or on unpaved roads, the all-wheel or four-wheel drive option provides better traction. If you mostly drive on dry pavement, the two-wheel drive option saves fuel.
How do the warranties compare?
Both offer similar warranty coverage: 5yr/60k bumper-to-bumper and 10yr/100k powertrain.
Explore more: Hyundai trims, Hyundai Tucson trims, Kia trims, Kia Telluride trims
- 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2025 Kia Telluride LX Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
Tucson vs Telluride: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE and 2025 Kia Telluride LX sit in the compact SUV class, where cargo room, ride comfort, and family-friendly features define the competitive landscape. The $6,185 gap adds up to $109/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
Under the Hood
The 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE runs a 2.5L I4; the 2025 Kia Telluride LX uses a 3.8L V6. The 2025 Kia Telluride LX has 104 more hp (291 vs 187). You will feel the difference merging, passing, and driving with a full car. The 2025 Kia Telluride LX adds 84 more lb-ft of torque (262 vs 178), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. The 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE comes with AWD; the 2025 Kia Telluride LX uses FWD. If you deal with snow, rain, or gravel roads, that traction advantage matters.
Running Costs: Tucson vs Telluride
The 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE saves roughly $294/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,470. The 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE wins on both sticker price and running costs, making it the stronger value on paper.
How Each One Fits Your Daily Life
The 2025 Kia Telluride LX is 14.2″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages. The 2025 Kia Telluride LX has a 5.7″ longer wheelbase, typically meaning a smoother ride and more rear-seat legroom. The 2025 Kia Telluride LX weighs 676 lbs more. Heavier vehicles tend to feel more planted at highway speed but use more fuel and are harder to stop quickly.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE when you want to keep $6,185 in your pocket and the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE covers your needs. Choose the 2025 Kia Telluride LX when the extra 104 hp matters for your commute or driving style. At $109/month more, the 2025 Kia Telluride LX needs to earn that gap with something you use weekly.
Specifications shown combine licensed third-party automotive data with official manufacturer, EPA, and NHTSA source material. Actual pricing, features, and availability may vary by region and dealer. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision. TrimAtlas is not affiliated with Hyundai or Kia or any dealership.