2024 Kia Telluride vs 2023 Honda Pilot

The 2023 Honda Pilot received an extensive redesign, presenting a more rugged and substantial appearance. Its upright grille and boxier styling not only made it look bigger, but it was also physically larger than its predecessor. The new Pilot stretched 3.4 inches longer from nose to tail, widened by up to 1.5 inches, and stood 0.8 inches taller. These dimensional changes suited the all-terrain-capable TrailSport model, which boasted a one-inch increase in ride height, unique 18-inch wheels, chunky all-terrain tires, and robust underbody skid plates capable of supporting the vehicle’s total weight.

The interior of the Pilot took a more conventional design route compared to other new Honda models. Most people found it attractive, functional, and versatile. Materials quality met the elevated standards of the class, driven by the competition. Overall, the 2023 Honda Pilot presented a tidy and utilitarian aesthetic that emphasized functionality without sacrificing appeal.

In contrast, the 2024 Kia Telluride offered five core trim levels: LX, S, EX, SX, and SX Prestige. The rugged X-Line treatment could be added to all but the LX and S trims, while the X-Pro package was exclusive to the top two trims. The X-Line package equipped the Telluride with standard all-wheel drive (AWD) with a center locking differential, nearly half an inch more ground clearance, improved approach and departure angles, distinctive grille and 20-inch wheel designs, and roof rails.

The X-Pro package, building on the X-Line, added 18-inch matte-black wheels with all-terrain tires and heavy-duty engine cooling to enhance towing capacity by 500 pounds to a maximum of 5,500. The Telluride’s styling updates retained the SUV’s attractive proportions and forms despite mixed reactions. Our SX Prestige with X-Line showcased the striking Wolf Gray paint and a blacked-out trim, complementing the premium Nappa leather seats and varied interior color options.

The 2023 Honda Pilot housed an all-new 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 285 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. It paired with a new 10-speed automatic transmission, with front-wheel drive (FWD) as standard for most trims. All-wheel drive (AWD) was available on all models and standard on the Elite and TrailSport trims.

Initial acceleration response for the Pilot was quick, with minimal delay. Its power was adequate but not thrilling. The engine provided a pleasant hum and growl when revved. The brake pedal was suitably soft for a family SUV and easy to modulate for smooth stops. The Pilot cornered well for a three-row SUV, offering stability during conservative driving though it lacked sporty encouragement.

The TrailSport version featured a one-inch increase in ground clearance and all-terrain tires, adding a subtle vibration on pavement. However, the off-road capability did not significantly compromise on-road comfort. Overall, the Pilot struck a balance between daily family duties and off-road ventures.

The 2024 Kia Telluride featured a 3.8-liter V6 engine delivering 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, managed by an eight-speed automatic transmission. AWD models included a locking center differential, Snow mode, and ground clearance of 8.4 inches with X-Line and X-Pro packages. The X-Pro added heavy-duty engine cooling, boosting towing capacity to 5,500 pounds.

The Telluride offered easy acceleration to freeway speeds and good passing power. However, fuel efficiency was less impressive, with EPA ratings of 20 mpg for AWD in combined driving, while real-world driving yielded lower results. A hybrid option was notably absent compared to luxury rivals.

Driving experiences were generally positive, with the Telluride exhibiting agility in curves and responsive steering. Its ride felt firm at lower city speeds but more compliant at higher velocities. The suspension effectively managed road undulations, providing a smooth experience.

Off-road, the Telluride was more capable than expected, handling varying terrains competently, though not matching Jeep performance.

The Honda Pilot’s interior was more conventional compared to other new Honda vehicles, ignoring the horizontal mesh dash trend. It compensated with a useful dash shelf for the front passenger. The base LX and Sport trims came with a seven-inch infotainment touchscreen, while higher trims received a nine-inch display. Controls for climate and drive modes were logically placed, and the space featured convenient storage solutions, including a large shelf for phones and a wide center console bin.

The highlight was the stowable second-row center seat, offering a useful center pass-through for third-row access. The second row provided ample space for adults, while the third row was less inviting but manageable for shorter trips. Cargo space behind the third row was 22.4 cubic feet, increasing to 60.1 cubic feet with the second row flat, and maxed out at 114.3 cubic feet — about 30% more than the Telluride.

The Kia Telluride’s SX Prestige X-Line featured premium Nappa leather upholstery, heated and ventilated seats, and a dual sunroof panel. Controls were horizontally oriented, with a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Physical controls were prevalent, though metallic finish buttons could be hard to read on bright days.

Storage options were thoughtful, and the hands-free power liftgate was safer but could be turned off if desired. Cargo space behind the third row was 21 cubic feet, expanding to 46 cubic feet with the seats folded, maxing out at 87 cubic feet. The X-Line and X-Pro packages added genuine roof rails for additional storage.

The 2023 Honda Pilot, especially the EX-L trim and above, offered a larger infotainment touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, wireless phone charger, and USB ports in every row. Higher trims included a multi-view camera system, head-up display, and a fully digital instrument panel. The infotainment system was responsive, with a logical layout, though the graphics were not particularly modern. Feature-rich options included CabinTalk, a navigation system, Bose premium audio, and a Wi-Fi hotspot.

The 2024 Kia Telluride was equipped with a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, requiring a cable for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Kia Connect subscription offered various plans for additional features like Voice Assist. The Telluride featured satellite radio, wireless charging, and a 10-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. Unique features included a blue-light filter for the infotainment screen, Quiet Mode, digital key functionality, and a camera-based rearview mirror. The 10-inch head-up display and 360-degree camera system provided practical additions.

The 2023 Honda Pilot awaited crash test results from the NHTSA but was expected to score highly. It received a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS. Standard Honda Sensing safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, traffic-jam assist, blind-spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, traffic sign reader, automatic high beams, and a driver attention monitor. Higher trims added low-speed automatic braking, parking sensors, and surround-view and multi-view camera systems.

The 2024 Kia Telluride impressed with its Kia Drive Wise collection of driver assistance features. Standard equipment included collision avoidance, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear occupant protection. Higher trims added front parking sensors, cross-traffic alert, evasive steering assist, and lane-change assist. The Blind-Spot View Monitor and Highway Driving Assist 2.0 with automatic lane changing were available. The Telluride earned a five-star overall crash test rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS.