2027 Kia Telluride vs. 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander
A fact-based look at gas and hybrid power, passenger space, towing, cargo room, warranty coverage, and which family SUV makes the stronger fit for drivers around Bristol, Plainville, Southington, and greater Central Connecticut.
Verified July 30, 2026Gas and hybrid comparisonCrowley Kia in Bristol, CT
Up to 8 seats, gas329-hp hybrid availableUp to 5,000-lb gas towingAvailable X-Pro capability
The quick verdict
Choose the 2027 Kia Telluride for a fresh next-generation design, stronger gas horsepower than the Grand Highlander gas model, available X-Pro capability, and Kia's longer limited powertrain warranty for the original purchaser.
Choose the 2027 Telluride Hybrid for a balanced combination of 329 horsepower, EPA-estimated 35 mpg combined on EX FWD, seven-passenger seating, and up to 4,500 pounds of towing.
Choose the 2026 Grand Highlander when maximum cargo capacity is the deciding factor. Toyota lists up to 97.5 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.
Test the fit in person. Seat comfort, third-row access, visibility, controls, and real cargo shape often matter more than one isolated specification.
Two roomy family SUVs, two different approaches
The Kia Telluride and Toyota Grand Highlander both target shoppers who need three usable rows without moving to a full-size, body-on-frame SUV. Toyota emphasizes maximum cargo volume and three distinct powertrain choices. Kia's redesigned Telluride emphasizes a more powerful standard turbo engine, a first-ever turbo-hybrid, available adventure-focused X-Pro equipment, and strong warranty coverage.
For Central Connecticut families, the practical question is not simply which badge is more familiar. It is which SUV better supports school runs, Route 6 and I-84 commuting, winter travel, weekend towing, and long-distance family trips without asking you to compromise on the features you use every day.
274 hp2027 Telluride gas output
329 hp2027 Telluride Hybrid output
35 mpgEPA-estimated combined, Hybrid EX FWD
10 yrKia limited powertrain warranty for original purchaser
Gas power, hybrid choices, towing, and everyday capability
Comparison point
2027 Kia Telluride
2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid
2026 Toyota Grand Highlander
Powertrain
2.5L turbo gas, 8-speed automatic
2.5L turbo-hybrid, 6-speed automatic
2.4L turbo gas, 2.5L hybrid, or 2.4L turbo Hybrid MAX
Output
274 hp, 311 lb-ft
329 hp, 339 lb-ft
265 hp gas, 245 hp hybrid, or 362 hp Hybrid MAX
Fuel economy highlight
Up to an estimated 22 mpg combined in FWD configurations
EPA-estimated 35 mpg combined on EX FWD
Up to a manufacturer-estimated 36 mpg combined for hybrid; 27 mpg combined for Hybrid MAX
Maximum towing
Up to 5,000 lb when properly equipped
Up to 4,500 lb when properly equipped
Up to 5,000 lb gas or Hybrid MAX; up to 3,500 lb standard hybrid
Seating
Up to 8, depending on trim
7 passengers
Up to 8, depending on grade
Maximum cargo
Up to 89.3 cu. ft.
Up to 88.3 cu. ft.
Up to 97.5 cu. ft.
Powertrain warranty
10 years or 100,000 miles for the original purchaser, limited coverage
5 years or 60,000 miles, limited coverage
Specifications vary by trim, drivetrain, equipment, and test methodology. Review current window stickers and manufacturer disclosures before purchase.
Why the Telluride gas model makes a strong case
The redesigned Telluride's standard 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder produces 274 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. Toyota's Grand Highlander gas engine produces 265 horsepower. Both can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped, but Kia combines its slightly higher gas output with a wider range of adventure-oriented X-Line and X-Pro configurations.
Central Connecticut fit
Available all-wheel drive is valuable for mixed winter conditions, but tires remain critical for braking and cornering. Telluride X-Pro models add 9.1 inches of ground clearance and capability-focused hardware for shoppers who regularly use rough access roads, campsites, or unpaved driveways.
The first-ever Telluride Hybrid
Hybrid power without giving up strong three-row performance
The 2027 Telluride Hybrid is the biggest change in this matchup. Its 329-horsepower turbo-hybrid powertrain is considerably stronger than the 245-horsepower Grand Highlander Hybrid, while its EPA-estimated 35 mpg combined rating on the EX FWD stays close to Toyota's efficiency-focused hybrid. Toyota's 362-horsepower Hybrid MAX remains the outright performance leader, but its manufacturer-estimated 27 mpg combined rating shifts the balance toward power rather than fuel savings.
Bold next-generation Telluride styling with a broad, upright stance.
A modern three-row cabin with available comfort and technology upgrades.
The first-ever Telluride Hybrid adds electrified performance to the family SUV formula.
Passenger comfort versus maximum cargo volume
Toyota wins the maximum-cargo comparison with up to 97.5 cubic feet behind the first row. Kia lists up to 89.3 cubic feet in the Telluride gas model and 88.3 cubic feet in the hybrid. That makes the Grand Highlander a strong choice when bulky cargo is the priority.
The Telluride responds with 43.0 inches of second-row legroom, improved third-row access, and 22.3 cubic feet behind the third row in gas models. The hybrid retains three-row usefulness with 21.3 cubic feet behind the third row. The right choice depends on whether your family prioritizes maximum folded-seat cargo or day-to-day passenger comfort with all rows in use.
Bring your real cargo
Strollers, sports bags, child seats, and pet crates reveal more than a brochure figure. Crowley Kia can help you compare seat access and cargo fit in an available Telluride before you decide.
The ownership advantage at Crowley Kia
Shop current Telluride inventory
Review available trims, colors, drivetrains, and equipment in Crowley Kia's live new-vehicle inventory.
Compare gas and hybrid needs
Estimate annual mileage, towing requirements, passenger count, winter driving, and how often every seat is occupied.
Value your trade online
Start with Crowley Kia's trade-in tool, then complete an in-person appraisal for a final offer.
Review finance options
Submit a secure finance application and discuss available purchase or lease programs with the dealership's finance team.
Plan for long-term service
Crowley Kia supports ownership with Kia service, parts, maintenance resources, and current service specials in Bristol.
Which is the better three-row SUV, the Kia Telluride or Toyota Grand Highlander?
The better choice depends on priorities. The 2027 Kia Telluride stands out for its stronger gas output than the 2026 Grand Highlander gas model, its new 329-horsepower hybrid option, available X-Pro capability, and Kia's longer limited powertrain warranty for the original purchaser. The Grand Highlander counters with more maximum cargo space and a 362-horsepower Hybrid MAX option.
Is there a Kia Telluride Hybrid?
Yes. The first-ever 2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid uses a 2.5-liter turbo-hybrid powertrain rated at 329 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque. The EX FWD is EPA-estimated at 35 mpg combined with up to 637 miles of total driving range. Telluride Hybrid models seat seven.
How does the Telluride Hybrid compare with the Grand Highlander Hybrid?
The Telluride Hybrid is positioned between Toyota's two hybrid choices. It produces more power than the 245-horsepower Grand Highlander Hybrid while staying much closer to that model's efficiency than the 362-horsepower Grand Highlander Hybrid MAX. Toyota's standard hybrid reaches up to a manufacturer-estimated 36 mpg combined, while Hybrid MAX is rated at 27 mpg combined.
Which SUV has more cargo room?
The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander has the larger maximum cargo figure at up to 97.5 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The 2027 Telluride provides up to 89.3 cubic feet in gas models and 88.3 cubic feet in hybrid models. Telluride offers 22.3 cubic feet behind the third row in gas models and 21.3 cubic feet in hybrid models.
How much can the Kia Telluride and Toyota Grand Highlander tow?
When properly equipped, the 2027 Telluride gas model can tow up to 5,000 pounds and the Telluride Hybrid can tow up to 4,500 pounds. The 2026 Grand Highlander gas and Hybrid MAX models can tow up to 5,000 pounds, while the standard Grand Highlander Hybrid is rated up to 3,500 pounds.
Which SUV has the longer powertrain warranty?
Kia offers a 10-year or 100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty for the original purchaser, compared with Toyota's 5-year or 60,000-mile powertrain coverage. All warranties are limited and subject to their full terms, exclusions, and transfer rules.
Can I finance a Telluride or value my trade online at Crowley Kia?
Yes. Crowley Kia provides online finance applications, a trade-in valuation tool, and a finance center for new and pre-owned vehicle shoppers. Final terms, approvals, vehicle availability, and pricing vary.
Where is Crowley Kia and how can I contact the dealership?
Crowley Kia is located at 223 Broad Street in Bristol, Connecticut 06010. Call sales at 860-809-5075, service at 860-901-7608, or parts at 888-309-0872. The dealership serves Bristol and nearby Central Connecticut communities including Plainville, Southington, Farmington, Wolcott, Burlington, New Britain, Terryville, Plymouth, and Hartford.
See which Telluride configuration fits your family.
Explore the redesigned gas model, ask about the first-ever Telluride Hybrid, compare available trims, and review financing or trade-in options with Crowley Kia.
Vehicle specifications, mileage estimates, range, towing, features, warranties, and availability are subject to change and vary by trim, drivetrain, equipment, conditions, and manufacturer terms. EPA-estimated mileage and range are for the 2027 Telluride Hybrid EX FWD. Actual mileage and range will vary. Always confirm current specifications, pricing, and inventory with Crowley Kia and review the applicable owner's and warranty materials.
