2025 Kia Telluride EX X-Pro vs 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum
$5,580 less vs 3 MPG better and 48 more lb-ft torque. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $5,580 price gap, 291 vs 300 hp, 20 vs 23 MPG.
The Telluride EX X-Pro leads on $5,580 less. The Explorer Platinum leads on 3 MPG better, 48 more lb-ft torque. The spec table compares 5 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 5 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 Kia Telluride EX X-Pro | 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $47,385 | $52,965 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 3.8L V6 | 2.3L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 291 hp | 300 hp |
| Torque | 262 lb-ft | 310 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | 10-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 18 | 20 |
| Highway MPG | 23 | 27 |
| Combined MPG | 20 | 23 |
| Fuel Tank | 18.8 gal | 20.2 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $2,200/yr | No published data |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 4,522 lbs | No published data |
| Wheelbase | 114.2" | 119.1" |
| Length | 196.9" | 198.8" |
| Width | 78.3" | 78.9" |
| Height | 70.5" | 69.9" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | TSP+ | TSP+ |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 5yr/60k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 10yr/100k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/100k | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Kia Telluride EX X-Pro and 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum?
The 2025 Kia Telluride EX X-Pro starts at $47,385, $5,580 less than the 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum at $52,965. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $99/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Kia Telluride EX X-Pro?
The 2025 Kia Telluride EX X-Pro is the stronger pick when you want to keep $5,580 in your pocket and the 2025 Kia Telluride EX X-Pro covers your needs.
Who should choose the 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum?
The 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum is the stronger pick when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $274/year less on fuel.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Kia Telluride EX X-Pro or 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum?
The 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum rates 23 combined MPG, 3 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Kia Telluride EX X-Pro or 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum?
The 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum produces 300 hp, 9 more than the 2025 Kia Telluride EX X-Pro at 291 hp. The 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum also leads in torque at 310 lb-ft vs 262 lb-ft. The 2025 Kia Telluride EX X-Pro runs a 3.8L V6; the 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum uses a 2.3L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2025 Kia Telluride EX X-Pro bigger than the 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum?
The 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum is 1.9″ longer at 198.8″ vs 196.9″. The 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum has a 4.9″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
The Kia Telluride comes with 5yr/60k bumper-to-bumper and 10yr/100k powertrain. The Ford Explorer offers 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain. Longer warranty coverage can offset higher maintenance costs over time.
Explore more: Kia trims, Kia Telluride trims, Ford trims, Ford Explorer trims
How the Telluride and Explorer Stack Up
Two midsize SUVs, two different takes on daily versatility. The 2025 Kia Telluride EX X-Pro ($47,385) and 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum ($52,965) solve similar problems in different ways. The $5,580 gap adds up to $99/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
Powertrain: Telluride vs Explorer
The 2025 Kia Telluride EX X-Pro runs a 3.8L V6; the 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum uses a 2.3L I4 Turbo. The 9 hp difference (300 vs 291) is marginal in daily driving. The 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum adds 48 more lb-ft of torque (310 vs 262), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use AWD.
What It Actually Costs to Own
The 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum saves roughly $274/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,370.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2025 Kia Telluride EX X-Pro when you want to keep $5,580 in your pocket and the 2025 Kia Telluride EX X-Pro covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $274/year less on fuel. At $99/month more, the 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum 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 Kia or Ford or any dealership.