2027 Kia Telluride SX vs 2026 Toyota Highlander Limited
$1,235 less vs AWD. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $1,235 price gap, 274 vs 265 hp.
The Telluride SX leads on $1,235 less. The Highlander Limited leads on AWD. The spec table compares 6 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 6 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 Toyota Highlander Limited |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $48,790 | $50,025 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 Turbo | 2.4L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 274 hp | 265 hp |
| Torque | 311 lb-ft | 310 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | No published data | 21 |
| Highway MPG | No published data | 28 |
| Combined MPG | No published data | 24 |
| Fuel Tank | 19.0 gal | 17.9 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | No published data | $1,800/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 4,381 lbs | 4,453 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 116.9" | 112.2" |
| Length | 199.2" | 194.9" |
| Width | 78.3" | 76.0" |
| Height | 69.9" | 68.1" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | No published data | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | TSP+ | No published data |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 5yr/60k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 10yr/100k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/100k | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/60k | 2yr/25k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2027 Kia Telluride SX and 2026 Toyota Highlander Limited?
The 2027 Kia Telluride SX starts at $48,790, $1,235 less than the 2026 Toyota Highlander Limited at $50,025. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $22/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 $1,235 in your pocket and the 2027 Kia Telluride SX covers your needs.
Who should choose the 2026 Toyota Highlander Limited?
The 2026 Toyota Highlander Limited is the stronger pick when you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted.
Which is more powerful, the 2027 Kia Telluride SX or 2026 Toyota Highlander Limited?
The 2027 Kia Telluride SX produces 274 hp, 9 more than the 2026 Toyota Highlander Limited at 265 hp. The 2027 Kia Telluride SX also leads in torque at 311 lb-ft vs 310 lb-ft. The 2027 Kia Telluride SX runs a 2.5L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Toyota Highlander Limited uses a 2.4L I4 Turbo. Drivetrains differ too: FWD on the 2027 Kia Telluride SX, AWD on the 2026 Toyota Highlander Limited.
Is the 2027 Kia Telluride SX bigger than the 2026 Toyota Highlander Limited?
The 2027 Kia Telluride SX is 4.3″ longer at 199.2″ vs 194.9″. The 2027 Kia Telluride SX has a 4.7″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2027 Kia Telluride SX and 2026 Toyota Highlander Limited have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2026 Toyota Highlander Limited 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 Toyota Highlander 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, Toyota trims, Toyota Highlander trims
How the Telluride and Highlander Stack Up
Two midsize SUVs, two different takes on daily versatility. The 2027 Kia Telluride SX ($48,790) and 2026 Toyota Highlander Limited ($50,025) solve similar problems in different ways. The $1,235 gap is about $22/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
Powertrain: Telluride vs Highlander
The 2027 Kia Telluride SX runs a 2.5L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Toyota Highlander Limited uses a 2.4L I4 Turbo. The 9 hp difference (274 vs 265) is marginal in daily driving. The 2026 Toyota Highlander Limited 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 $1,235 in your pocket and the 2027 Kia Telluride SX covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Toyota Highlander Limited when you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted. At $22/month apart, the price difference alone will not decide this.
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 Toyota or any dealership.