By Khalil Kelley | Last updated Oct, 2026
The Hyundai Palisade and Kia Telluride are close cousins: they share a platform, a 3.8L V6, and similar space for seven or eight passengers. The difference is personality. The Palisade leans luxury, with a plusher, more upscale cabin on higher trims. The Telluride leans rugged, with boxier styling and more off-road-themed trims. Both are among the best used three-row SUVs you can buy, so pick the one whose style and price you like best.
Both SUVs launched for the 2020 model year and quickly became family favorites. Here's how they compare on space, power, features, warranty, and value, plus what to check on a used one.
Palisade vs. Telluride at a glance
| Factor | Hyundai Palisade | Kia Telluride |
|---|---|---|
| Seating | 7 or 8 | 7 or 8 |
| Engine (2020 to 2025) | 3.8L V6, 8-speed automatic | 3.8L V6, 8-speed automatic |
| Drive | FWD or AWD | FWD or AWD |
| Towing (properly equipped) | Up to 5,000 lbs | Up to 5,000 lbs (higher on some X-Pro models) |
| Styling | Upscale, luxury-inspired | Boxy, rugged |
| Top trim feel | Calligraphy: near-luxury | SX and X-Pro: premium and outdoorsy |
| Off-road trims | XRT (styling-focused) | X-Line and X-Pro (2023+) |
| Powertrain warranty | 10 yr/100k original owner; 5 yr/60k later owners | 10 yr/100k original owner; 5 yr/60k later owners |
Which is roomier?
They're nearly identical inside. Both offer a usable third row that fits adults on shorter trips, generous second-row space with available captain's chairs, and similar cargo room. Sit in both with your family's car seats or tallest passengers, because small differences in seat shape and access can decide it.
Which is better to drive?
With the same V6 and transmission, performance is very close. The Palisade tends to feel a little softer and quieter, while the Telluride feels a bit more planted. Most drivers won't notice a big difference on a test drive, so focus on comfort and features.
Features and trims
- Palisade: SE, SEL, XRT, Limited, and Calligraphy. The Limited and Calligraphy feel close to a luxury SUV, with features like quilted leather and premium audio.
- Telluride: LX, S, EX, and SX, plus X-Line and X-Pro packages (2023+) with all-terrain styling, and on X-Pro, all-terrain tires.
Both come well equipped with driver-assist tech, and the 2023 refresh brought larger screens and updated styling to each.
Resale value and price
The Telluride has historically held its value slightly better and was in high demand when new. That can make a used Palisade the better deal for the money, especially at the higher trims. Compare similar years, mileage, and trims side by side.
What to check on a used Palisade or Telluride
- Remaining warranty: the 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty covers the original owner only. Later owners get 5 years/60,000 miles from the original sale date, so confirm exactly what's left.
- Open recalls: both models have had recalls. Run the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup and confirm the work was done.
- Third row and seat mechanisms: test every folding and sliding seat.
- Electronics: test the touchscreen, cameras, and driver-assist features.
- Tires and brakes: big three-row SUVs wear both faster.
Other three-row SUVs to compare
If you're cross-shopping, see our used Toyota Highlander guide, our used Hyundai Santa Fe guide for a smaller Hyundai, and our list of the best used SUVs for families.
Shop Palisades and Tellurides at CarVision
Honestly, you can't go wrong with either. Our advice: test drive both back to back and let the interior decide. Families who want a quieter, more upscale cabin usually pick the Palisade, and buyers who like the rugged look lean Telluride. Then compare the specific SUVs on mileage, warranty left, and price, because that's where the real difference shows up.
Drive them back to back
Compare a Palisade and a Telluride side by side at CarVision in Trooper or Maple Shade. We will show you the remaining warranty on each and help with financing.
Join the combined 13,800+ drivers who have reviewed CarVision on Google.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Palisade or Telluride better?
They are very close because they share a platform and V6 engine. The Palisade feels more luxurious on higher trims, while the Telluride has more rugged styling and off-road-themed trims. Pick the one whose style, features, and price you prefer.
Are the Palisade and Telluride the same car?
They are closely related. Both use the same platform and 3.8L V6 and offer similar space, but they have different styling, interiors, trims, and features.
Which holds its value better, Palisade or Telluride?
The Telluride has historically held its value slightly better, which can make a used Palisade a better deal for the money.
Does the Palisade or Telluride warranty transfer?
Partly. The 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty applies to the original owner. Later owners typically get 5 years/60,000 miles from the original sale date.
How much can a Palisade or Telluride tow?
Properly equipped, both are rated to tow up to 5,000 pounds, with some Telluride X-Pro models rated higher.
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