Kia Telluride vs. Nissan Pathfinder - SUV Comparison

When you're in the market for a new SUV, the Kia Telluride and Nissan Pathfinder are two names that often come up. Both vehicles offer impressive features, but which one is the right fit for you? Here at Huffines Kia Corinth, we want to help you make an informed decision. In this comparison, we'll delve into the design, comfort, performance, safety, technology, pricing, and customer experiences of both the Kia Telluride and Nissan Pathfinder so you can choose the best SUV for your lifestyle.

Exterior Design

Both the Kia Telluride  and Nissan Pathfinder make strong first impressions with their striking looks. The Kia Telluride has a bold, muscular stance with a wide grille and sleek LED headlights. Its sculpted body lines and aggressive front fascia give it a commanding presence on the road. The Nissan Pathfinder goes for a more rugged design, featuring a V-motion grille and sturdy lines that emphasize its off-road capabilities. Its boxier shape reflects its adventurous spirit.

In terms of size, Nissan's SUV is slightly larger, measuring 197.7 inches long, 77.9 inches wide, and 70.9 inches high, while Kia's offering measures 196.9 inches long, 78.3 inches wide, and 68.9 inches high. These minor size differences add to each vehicle's character. The Kia looks strong and tough, while the Nissan appears more refined, matching its smooth design.

Both SUVs have their own unique appeal, but the sophisticated design of the Kia Telluride might win you over if you're looking for something that turns heads in the city of Corinth.

Interior Comfort and Space

These SUVs both have spacious interiors, comfortably seating up to eight passengers. However, the Telluride outshines the Pathfinder in this area, offering a substantial 178.1 cubic feet of passenger space compared to the Pathfinder's 148 cubic feet. You'll notice this extra room as soon as you enter the Telluride, as it feels open and spacious, providing more legroom.

In terms of cargo space, the Kia Telluride also comes out on top, offering 21 cubic feet behind the back row as opposed to the Nissan's 16.6 cubic feet. However, the Nissan Pathfinder offers a convenient feature: the ability to remove the middle console in the second row, making it easier to access the back seats.

The Telluride's interior design is also a highlight, boasting a refined look with high-quality materials that give it an upscale feel. If you prioritize spaciousness and an upscale interior, the Telluride is the clear winner. On the other hand, if you value a mix of comfort and flexibility, the Pathfinder might be more suitable for your needs.

Performance and Powertrain Options

When it comes to performance, the Telluride and Pathfinder offer different experiences. The Telluride comes with a 3.8-liter V-6 engine that produces 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. If you select the Pathfinder, you'll find a 3.5-liter V-6 engine that delivers 284 horsepower and 259 lb-ft of torque, mated to a nine-speed automatic gearbox. Although the Telluride has slightly higher power numbers, the real-world performance difference between the two vehicles is minimal. 

The Pathfinder takes the lead in terms of towing capacity, with the option of up to an impressive 6,000-pound capacity, surpassing the Telluride's 5,000-pound limit. This makes the Pathfinder a better choice if you need to transport heavy loads. If we look at acceleration, both the Telluride and Pathfinder can reach 60 mph in 6.7 seconds. Additionally, both vehicles offer all-wheel-drive options to enhance traction in different driving conditions.

For environmentally conscious SUV buyers, the Pathfinder has a slight edge, particularly in its front-wheel-drive configuration. It achieves fuel efficiency ratings of 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. The Telluride's front-wheel-drive version closely follows, with ratings of 20 mpg city and 26 mpg highway. With all-wheel drive, both models perform similarly, getting around 19 mpg in the city and around 24 to 25 mpg on the highway. These numbers suggest the Pathfinder may offer slightly better fuel economy during long highway trips.

Technology and Infotainment

Staying connected and entertained is easy in both the Telluride and Pathfinder. The Telluride features an intuitive infotainment system with an 8-inch touch screen, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto compatibility. Higher trims offer a 10.25-inch touch screen and a premium Harman Kardon sound system, providing an immersive audio experience.

The Pathfinder also offers a user-friendly infotainment system, but it doesn't quite match the Telluride's. It comes with an 8-inch touch screen and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. You also get a Bose premium audio system that delivers excellent sound quality.

Pricing and Value

The Kia Telluride offers a compelling value proposition. With a starting MSRP of $36,190, it provides a lot of features for the money. The Telluride's higher trims are also competitively priced, making it an attractive option if you're looking for a well-rounded SUV.

The Pathfinder starts at a slightly higher MSRP of $36,650. While it offers a range of features, you may need to opt for higher trims to get the same level of equipment found in the Telluride. Overall, the Telluride offers better value for your money, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious buyers in Corinth.