2025 Kia Telluride vs 2025 Chevrolet Traverse

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse showcased a commendable exterior design, aligning with Chevrolet's recent trend of attractive SUV styling. Its interior design followed suit with digital instrumentation and a Google-based infotainment system, offering an appealing layout. However, the quality of materials used inside the Traverse left much to be desired. The hard, glossy plastic and Evotex artificial leather detracted from the overall impression, especially considering the Traverse's price point. The Z71 trim, tested with extra-cost features like Radiant Red paint and a panoramic sunroof, had an MSRP of $55,900, including destination charges.

In contrast, the 2025 Kia Telluride presented a more cohesive and upscale design. The SX Prestige X-Pro package, with its Midnight Lake Blue paint and Terracotta Nappa leather upholstery, elevated the SUV's aesthetic appeal. Despite the blacked-out X-Line and X-Pro treatments diminishing some of its personality, the Telluride maintained a distinctive look. Inside, the combination of simulated wood trim, metallic accents, and chevron-pattern Nappa leather created a luxurious atmosphere. However, the lower cabin plastics revealed cost-cutting measures. The dual-screen display added a modern touch, though some metallic finishes made markings hard to discern in daylight.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse was powered by a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 328 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 326 pound-feet of torque at 3,500 rpm. While the engine's exhaust note was less than pleasing, it delivered ample power, especially in all-wheel drive (AWD) mode. The Z71 trim, designed for off-road adventures, offered 7.7 inches of ground clearance, unique 18-inch wheels with all-terrain tires, and a Twin Clutch AWD system. Despite its off-road capabilities, the Z71's tires and suspension provided a smoother ride on daily commutes. The Traverse Z71 averaged 21.5 mpg, slightly exceeding its EPA rating of 21 mpg in combined driving.

The 2025 Kia Telluride featured a 3.8-liter V6 engine, generating 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. While some competitors opted for turbocharged four-cylinders, the Telluride's V6 offered smooth and refined performance. The SUV returned 20.2 mpg over nearly 1,200 miles, aligning with its EPA rating. The X-Pro package, with its 18-inch all-terrain tires, excelled on rough terrains but sacrificed some on-road grip. The Telluride's 8.4 inches of ground clearance in X-Line and X-Pro trims provided confidence on trails, while the brake pedal occasionally felt sticky in heavy traffic.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse boasted significant interior volume, particularly in width, providing ample space for front-seat occupants. The Z71 trim featured heated front seats and a heated steering wheel, enhancing comfort during cold weather. With a second-row bench seat, the Traverse accommodated eight passengers, though our test vehicle had captain's chairs. The third-row seats offered adequate comfort but lacked USB charging ports and a clear view due to window design. Cargo space was generous, with 22.9 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 97.6 cubic feet with all seats folded. However, folding the third row required adjusting the second-row seats.

The 2025 Kia Telluride's interior was thoughtfully designed, with heated and ventilated second-row seats, USB-C charging ports, and smartphone storage sleeves. The driver's seat offered a lumbar massage function, enhancing long-distance comfort. The second-row captain's chairs provided ample legroom and storage solutions, while the third-row seat, though not class-leading in space, was comfortable for adults. Cargo space measured 21 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 87 cubic feet with all seats folded. The hidden compartment under the load floor added practicality, though the carpeted cargo mat complicated access.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse impressed with its standard 17.7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring Google Built-in, Google Maps, and Google Assistant. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The 11-inch digital instrumentation panel offered customizable views, while options like the digital rearview mirror and surround-view camera system enhanced convenience. The lack of a tuning knob was a minor drawback, but the overall technology package was user-friendly and effective.

The 2025 Kia Telluride's SX and SX Prestige trims featured a 12.3-inch digital driver display and a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, complemented by a 10-inch head-up display. The head-up display provided blind-spot alerts, while the Blind Spot View Monitor showed live video feeds. However, the lack of wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto was a notable omission. The native voice recognition system was basic, but the Harman Kardon audio system delivered impressive sound quality. Despite some limitations, the Telluride's technology package was functional and aesthetically pleasing.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse came equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. The Driver Confidence Package added a surround-view camera system and traffic sign recognition, while the Enhanced Driving Package introduced Super Cruise, a hands-free driving assist system. The Traverse earned a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a "Top Safety Pick" award from the IIHS.

The 2025 Kia Telluride's Drive Wise suite included forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, and automatic emergency braking. Highway Driving Assist combined adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist for semi-autonomous driving. The SX Prestige X-Pro trim added features like the Blind Spot View Monitor and evasive steering assist. The Telluride received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, the highest available.