2026 Ford Escape Platinum vs 2027 Kia Telluride X-Pro SX-Prestige AWD
On paper, the 2027 Kia Telluride X-Pro SX-Prestige AWD wins on 24 more hp, 31 more lb-ft torque, 18.0″ longer. The 2026 Ford Escape Platinum has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: $18,850 price gap, 250 vs 274 hp.
The Escape Platinum leads on $18,850 less. The Telluride X-Pro SX-Prestige AWD leads on 24 more hp, 31 more lb-ft torque. The spec table compares 4 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 4 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 | 2026 Ford Escape Platinum | 2027 Kia Telluride X-Pro SX-Prestige AWD |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $37,940 | $56,790 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.0L I4 Turbo | 2.5L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 250 hp | 274 hp |
| Torque | 280 lb-ft | 311 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 23 | No published data |
| Highway MPG | 31 | No published data |
| Combined MPG | 26 | No published data |
| Fuel Tank | 15.7 gal | 19.0 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,700/yr | No published data |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | No published data | 4,736 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 106.7" | 116.9" |
| Length | 181.2" | 199.2" |
| Width | 74.1" | 78.3" |
| Height | 66.0" | 71.5" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | No published data |
| IIHS Award | No published data | TSP+ |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 5yr/60k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 10yr/100k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 5yr/100k |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Ford Escape Platinum and 2027 Kia Telluride X-Pro SX-Prestige AWD?
The 2026 Ford Escape Platinum starts at $37,940, $18,850 less than the 2027 Kia Telluride X-Pro SX-Prestige AWD at $56,790. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $332/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Ford Escape Platinum?
The 2026 Ford Escape Platinum is the stronger pick when you want to keep $18,850 in your pocket and the 2026 Ford Escape Platinum covers your needs; you prefer a smaller vehicle that is easier to park and maneuver.
Who should choose the 2027 Kia Telluride X-Pro SX-Prestige AWD?
The 2027 Kia Telluride X-Pro SX-Prestige AWD is the stronger pick when you want the larger footprint for passengers or cargo.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Ford Escape Platinum or 2027 Kia Telluride X-Pro SX-Prestige AWD?
The 2027 Kia Telluride X-Pro SX-Prestige AWD produces 274 hp, 24 more than the 2026 Ford Escape Platinum at 250 hp. The 2027 Kia Telluride X-Pro SX-Prestige AWD also leads in torque at 311 lb-ft vs 280 lb-ft. The 2026 Ford Escape Platinum runs a 2.0L I4 Turbo; the 2027 Kia Telluride X-Pro SX-Prestige AWD uses a 2.5L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2026 Ford Escape Platinum bigger than the 2027 Kia Telluride X-Pro SX-Prestige AWD?
The 2027 Kia Telluride X-Pro SX-Prestige AWD is 18.0″ longer at 199.2″ vs 181.2″. The 2027 Kia Telluride X-Pro SX-Prestige AWD has a 10.2″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
The Ford Escape comes with 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain. The Kia Telluride offers 5yr/60k bumper-to-bumper and 10yr/100k powertrain. Longer warranty coverage can offset higher maintenance costs over time.
Explore more: Ford trims, Ford Escape trims, Kia trims, Kia Telluride trims
Escape vs Telluride: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2026 Ford Escape Platinum and 2027 Kia Telluride X-Pro SX-Prestige AWD sit in the compact SUV class, where cargo room, ride comfort, and family-friendly features define the competitive landscape. The $18,850 gap adds up to $332/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 2026 Ford Escape Platinum runs a 2.0L I4 Turbo; the 2027 Kia Telluride X-Pro SX-Prestige AWD uses a 2.5L I4 Turbo. The 2027 Kia Telluride X-Pro SX-Prestige AWD has 24 more hp (274 vs 250), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. The 2027 Kia Telluride X-Pro SX-Prestige AWD adds 31 more lb-ft of torque (311 vs 280), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use AWD.
How Each One Fits Your Daily Life
The 2027 Kia Telluride X-Pro SX-Prestige AWD is 18.0″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages. The 2027 Kia Telluride X-Pro SX-Prestige AWD has a 10.2″ longer wheelbase, typically meaning a smoother ride and more rear-seat legroom.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2026 Ford Escape Platinum when you want to keep $18,850 in your pocket and the 2026 Ford Escape Platinum covers your needs. Choose the 2027 Kia Telluride X-Pro SX-Prestige AWD when you want the larger footprint for passengers or cargo. At $332/month more, the 2027 Kia Telluride X-Pro SX-Prestige AWD 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 Ford or Kia or any dealership.