Chevrolet Traverse vs Kia Telluride Comparison
The Chevrolet Traverse and Kia Telluride are two of the most popular three-row SUVs on the market, but they take very different approaches to family hauling—one prioritizes space and power, while the other focuses on refinement and value.
Choosing between these two heavyweights is a tough call. The Traverse has been redesigned with a powerful new turbo engine and a massive interior, while the Telluride has won awards for its balanced driving experience and upscale feel. Here’s how they stack up.
TL;DR
The 2026 Chevrolet Traverse offers more interior space, greater towing capacity, and a more powerful 328-hp turbo engine, but its cabin materials and driving refinement trail the class . The 2025 Kia Telluride provides a more upscale interior, better ride quality, and stronger resale value, plus a new 2027 redesign adds a 329-hp turbo-hybrid option with up to 35 mpg and a 600-mile range . The Telluride has the edge in overall refinement and value, while the Traverse wins on sheer passenger and cargo room.
At a Glance
| Category | 2026 Chevrolet Traverse | 2025 Kia Telluride |
|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP | $40,700 – $56,100 | $36,390 – $55,243 |
| Engine | 2.5L Turbo I4 (328 hp / 326 lb-ft) | 3.8L V6 (291 hp / 262 lb-ft) |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic |
| Fuel Economy (AWD) | 19 city / 24 hwy / 21 combined | 19 city / 24 hwy / 21 combined |
| Max Towing | 5,000 lbs | 5,000 lbs |
| Cargo (max) | 97.6 cu ft | 87.0 cu ft |
| Third-Row Legroom | 32.1 inches | 31.4 inches |
Powertrain and Performance
The biggest difference between these two is under the hood. The Traverse uses a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder producing 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque, while the Telluride sticks with a naturally aspirated 3.8-liter V6 making 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque .
On paper, the Traverse has more power and torque. In reality, the Traverse is also heavier—the RS AWD tips the scales at 4,865 pounds, about 500 pounds more than a comparable Telluride . That weight cancels out the power advantage. In Car and Driver testing, the Traverse RS AWD hit 60 mph in 7.3 seconds, while the Telluride does it in about 6.8 seconds .
The Traverse’s engine sounds gruff under hard acceleration, and reviewers note it sends plenty of noise into the cabin . The Telluride’s V6 is smoother and more refined, even if it makes less power.
Fuel economy is nearly identical. The AWD versions of both are rated at 19 mpg city / 24 mpg highway / 21 combined .
2027 Telluride buyers get a new option: Kia is adding a turbo-hybrid powertrain with 329 horsepower, estimated fuel economy of 35 mpg, and a 600-mile driving range . That could be a game-changer.
Both SUVs can tow 5,000 pounds when properly equipped .
Interior Space and Cargo
Here’s where the Traverse shines. It’s longer (204.5 inches vs 196.9 inches), has a longer wheelbase (121 inches vs 114.2 inches), and offers more passenger and cargo room than the Telluride .
Third Row: Where Adults Can Actually Fit
The Traverse’s third row is one of the roomiest in the class. It offers 32.1 inches of legroom and 38.3 inches of headroom, enough for adults to sit comfortably for shorter trips . The seat bottom is positioned high enough off the floor to avoid the cramped, knees-to-chest seating position common in many three-row SUVs . The Telluride offers 31.4 inches of third-row legroom .
Cargo Capacity
| Configuration | Chevrolet Traverse | Kia Telluride |
|---|---|---|
| Behind third row | 23 cu ft | 21 cu ft |
| Behind second row | 57 cu ft | 46 cu ft |
| All rows folded | 98 cu ft | 87 cu ft |
The Traverse also features one-touch flat-folding second row and power-folding third row on higher trims, adding convenience .
The Traverse’s 17.7-inch touchscreen is one of the largest in the segment and is driver-angled for easy access . The Telluride’s interior is more traditional but uses higher-quality materials.
Safety Ratings
NHTSA crash test results for the 2026 models show the Traverse performing better in frontal impacts:
| Test | Chevrolet Traverse | Kia Telluride |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Rating | 5 Stars | 4 Stars |
| Front Driver | 5 Stars | 4 Stars |
| Side Impact | 5 Stars | 5 Stars |
The IIHS gives the Traverse a “Good” rating in the new, more severe side impact test, with lower injury measurements than the Telluride in several categories .
Both SUVs come with comprehensive safety suites. The Traverse includes Chevy Safety Assist with automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist, and pedestrian detection as standard . The Telluride offers Highway Driving Assist, Forward Collision Avoidance Assist, and Blind-Spot Collision Warning .
Pricing and Value
The Kia Telluride has a lower starting price, but the Traverse has a broader range and a new entry-level LT trim for 2025 after dropping the base LS .
- 2025 Kia Telluride: $36,390 – $55,243
- 2026 Chevrolet Traverse: $40,700 – $56,100
Resale value favors the Telluride. It loses 48.8% of its value over five years, while the Traverse loses 51.9% . The Telluride also gets higher scores from iSeeCars for retained value and reliability .
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the Chevrolet Traverse if:
- You regularly carry adults in the third row
- You need maximum cargo space for sports equipment or road trips
- You prefer the large 17.7-inch touchscreen
- You want the available off-road Z71 trim
- You need the hands-free Super Cruise driving assist
Choose the Kia Telluride if:
- You value a more refined, upscale interior
- You prefer a smoother, quieter engine
- You want better resale value
- You’re willing to wait for the 2027 turbo-hybrid for exceptional fuel economy
- You want a more engaging, carlike driving experience
Frequently Asked Questions
Which has more cargo space, the Traverse or Telluride?
The Chevrolet Traverse offers more cargo space in all configurations—23 cu ft behind third row, 57 cu ft behind second, and 98 cu ft with all seats folded, compared to the Telluride’s 21/46/87 cu ft .
Which is more reliable, Chevy Traverse or Kia Telluride?
JD Power’s 2025 Initial Quality Study ranks Chevrolet above average and Kia below average in initial quality. However, iSeeCars gives the Telluride a higher retained value score, and Consumer Reports typically rates the Telluride highly for reliability .
Does the Traverse or Telluride have a better third row?
The Traverse has a more spacious third row with 32.1 inches of legroom and a higher seat position for better adult comfort. The Telluride offers 31.4 inches .
Is a hybrid Telluride coming?
Yes. Kia unveiled an all-new second-generation Telluride at the 2025 LA Auto Show. The new model adds a turbo-hybrid powertrain with 329 horsepower, estimated 35 mpg, and a 600-mile range. It goes on sale in early 2026 as a 2027 model .
Does the Traverse have AWD?
Yes. All-wheel drive is available on all Traverse trims. The Z71 off-road trim comes with a twin-clutch AWD system, a 1.2-inch suspension lift, all-terrain tires, and skid plates .
How much can the Traverse and Telluride tow?
Both have a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. The Traverse makes it easier with a standard Trailering Package including heavy-duty cooling and hitch view .
Which has better fuel economy?
Fuel economy is almost identical for the current models. Both AWD versions are rated at 19 mpg city, 24 mpg highway, and 21 mpg combined. The upcoming Telluride hybrid will be significantly more efficient .
References
Verified Sources for Chevrolet Traverse vs Kia Telluride Comparison:
- iSeeCars – Telluride vs Traverse Comparison
- Chevrolet Pressroom – 2025 Traverse Specifications
- Just Auto – All-New Telluride Debut
- Car and Driver – 2026 Traverse Review
- Kelley Blue Book – 2025 Traverse Specs
- CarGurus – Traverse vs Telluride Comparison
- Cars.com – 2025 Traverse Review
- Car and Driver – 2024 Traverse Test Review
- Kia Media – 2025 Telluride Specifications
What matters most to you in a three-row SUV—space, refinement, or value? Drop your thoughts in the comments below.
