2027 Kia Telluride SX vs 2026 Ford Explorer ST
On paper, the 2026 Ford Explorer ST wins on 126 more hp, 104 more lb-ft torque, AWD. The 2027 Kia Telluride SX has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: $8,115 price gap, 274 vs 400 hp.
The Telluride SX leads on $8,115 less. The Explorer ST leads on 126 more hp, 104 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 | 2027 Kia Telluride SX | 2026 Ford Explorer ST |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $48,790 | $56,905 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 Turbo | 3.0L V6 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 274 hp | 400 hp |
| Torque | 311 lb-ft | 415 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 10-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | No published data | 18 |
| Highway MPG | No published data | 25 |
| Combined MPG | No published data | 20 |
| Fuel Tank | 19.0 gal | 20.2 gal |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 4,381 lbs | No published data |
| Wheelbase | 116.9" | 119.1" |
| Length | 199.2" | 198.8" |
| Width | 78.3" | 78.9" |
| Height | 69.9" | 69.9" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | No published data | 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 2027 Kia Telluride SX and 2026 Ford Explorer ST?
The 2027 Kia Telluride SX starts at $48,790, $8,115 less than the 2026 Ford Explorer ST at $56,905. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $143/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2027 Kia Telluride SX?
The 2027 Kia Telluride SX is the stronger pick when you want to keep $8,115 in your pocket and the 2027 Kia Telluride SX covers your needs.
Who should choose the 2026 Ford Explorer ST?
The 2026 Ford Explorer ST is the stronger pick when the extra 126 hp matters for your commute or driving style; you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted.
Which is more powerful, the 2027 Kia Telluride SX or 2026 Ford Explorer ST?
The 2026 Ford Explorer ST produces 400 hp, 126 more than the 2027 Kia Telluride SX at 274 hp. The 2026 Ford Explorer ST also leads in torque at 415 lb-ft vs 311 lb-ft. The 2027 Kia Telluride SX runs a 2.5L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Ford Explorer ST uses a 3.0L V6 Turbo. Drivetrains differ too: FWD on the 2027 Kia Telluride SX, AWD on the 2026 Ford Explorer ST.
Is the 2027 Kia Telluride SX bigger than the 2026 Ford Explorer ST?
The 2027 Kia Telluride SX is 0.4″ longer at 199.2″ vs 198.8″. The 2026 Ford Explorer ST has a 2.2″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2027 Kia Telluride SX and 2026 Ford Explorer ST have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2026 Ford Explorer ST comes with AWD, while the 2027 Kia Telluride SX 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?
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
- 2027 Kia Telluride SX Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2026 Ford Explorer ST Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
How the Telluride and Explorer Stack Up
Two midsize SUVs, two different takes on daily versatility. The 2027 Kia Telluride SX ($48,790) and 2026 Ford Explorer ST ($56,905) solve similar problems in different ways. The $8,115 gap adds up to $143/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 2027 Kia Telluride SX runs a 2.5L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Ford Explorer ST uses a 3.0L V6 Turbo. The 2026 Ford Explorer ST has 126 more hp (400 vs 274). You will feel the difference merging, passing, and driving with a full car. The 2026 Ford Explorer ST adds 104 more lb-ft of torque (415 vs 311), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. The 2026 Ford Explorer ST comes with AWD; the 2027 Kia Telluride SX uses FWD. If you deal with snow, rain, or gravel roads, that traction advantage matters.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2027 Kia Telluride SX when you want to keep $8,115 in your pocket and the 2027 Kia Telluride SX covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Ford Explorer ST when the extra 126 hp matters for your commute or driving style. At $143/month more, the 2026 Ford Explorer ST 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.