Telluride or Grand Highlander? The Bottom Line
Families around Olathe and the rest of Johnson County keep putting these two three-row SUVs side by side. Here is a plain-English walk through the questions that usually decide it. The Kia figures are from Kia USA's 2027 pages, and the Toyota figures are from Toyota's 2026 Grand Highlander pages.
Six Questions That Decide It
Which one costs less to start?
The Telluride LX starts at $39,190. The Grand Highlander LE starts at $41,860. That is about $2,670 less for the Kia before options, taxes and fees. A Telluride Hybrid begins at $46,490, while Grand Highlander Hybrid models begin at $45,210.
Which one has more power?
Kia's gas Telluride makes 274 hp and 311 lb-ft from a turbocharged 2.5L. The Telluride Hybrid raises that to 329 hp and 339 lb-ft. Toyota's Grand Highlander Hybrid MAX is the strongest of the group at 362 hp and 400 lb-ft.
Which one is easier on fuel?
On gas power, a front-drive Telluride is rated 20 city, 26 highway and 22 combined. The gas Grand Highlander LE is rated 21 city and 28 highway, or about 24 combined. For hybrids, the Telluride Hybrid reaches an estimated 35 MPG combined, while the Grand Highlander Hybrid reaches up to about 36.
Which one fits more behind the third row?
The Telluride has 22.3 cu. ft. behind its third row. The Grand Highlander has 20.6 cu. ft. in the same spot, and Toyota lists 97.5 cu. ft. with the second and third rows folded.
Which one tows more?
They tie at the top. Kia rates the gas Telluride for up to 5,000 lbs, and Toyota rates the gas Grand Highlander and the Hybrid MAX for up to 5,000 lbs. The Telluride Hybrid is rated for up to 4,500 lbs.
Which one seats more people?
Both seat up to eight. Kia's LX and EX use a second-row bench for eight, and the other Telluride trims use captain's chairs for seven. Toyota also offers seven or eight depending on trim.
Side by Side
| Category | 2027 Kia Telluride | 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander |
|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP | $39,190 | $41,860 |
| Gas engine | 274 hp, 311 lb-ft | Turbo 2.4L (see Toyota for hp) |
| Top hybrid | 329 hp, 339 lb-ft | Hybrid MAX, 362 hp, 400 lb-ft |
| Hybrid starting MSRP | $46,490 | $45,210 |
| Towing | Up to 5,000 lbs (4,500 hybrid) | Up to 5,000 lbs |
| Behind third row | 22.3 cu. ft. | 20.6 cu. ft. |
| Seating | 7 or 8 | 7 or 8 |
Model years differ because that is what each brand currently publishes. MSRPs exclude options, taxes, title and fees. Fuel economy is EPA estimated. Check with Oakes Kia of Olathe and a Toyota dealer for current pricing.
Which Garage Is It For?
The Telluride suits you if
You want the lower sticker price, a little more third-row cargo room and a plush cabin with dual wireless chargers and USB-C ports in all three rows.
The Grand Highlander suits you if
You want the most hybrid power on the list, or you put a premium on gas-model highway mileage.
Telluride vs Grand Highlander: Olathe Shopper Questions
Is the Kia Telluride cheaper than the Toyota Grand Highlander?
On starting MSRP, yes. The 2027 Telluride starts at $39,190 and the 2026 Grand Highlander starts at $41,860, as published by each brand.
Which has more cargo space behind the third row?
The Telluride, with 22.3 cu. ft. against 20.6 cu. ft. for the Grand Highlander.
How much can a Telluride tow?
Kia rates the gas Telluride for up to 5,000 lbs and the Telluride Hybrid for up to 4,500 lbs, with the proper equipment.
Does the Telluride come as a hybrid?
Yes. The 2027 Telluride Hybrid starts at $46,490 with 329 hp and 339 lb-ft of torque. Browse the Telluride Hybrid inventory.
How many people does the Telluride seat?
Up to eight. The LX and EX have a second-row bench for eight passengers, and other trims have captain's chairs for seven.
Which SUV has the stronger engine?
In the gas versions they are close, 274 hp for the Telluride and 265 hp for the Grand Highlander per TrueCar. The Grand Highlander Hybrid MAX tops the group at 362 hp.
Can I test drive a Telluride near Overland Park?
Yes. Oakes Kia of Olathe, at 130 N Fir Street, is a short drive from Overland Park. Check the Telluride lineup or call 913-390-6800.
Does Oakes Kia of Olathe sell Toyotas?
We are a Kia dealer, and our pre-owned inventory includes used Toyotas. Browse the pre-owned inventory or call 913-390-6800 and ask about a used Grand Highlander.
Drive the Telluride in Olathe
Numbers only go so far. Come by 130 N Fir Street, or call 913-390-6800 to line up a Telluride test drive.