Which three-row midsize crossover is better, the 2023 Ford Explorer or the 2023 Kia Telluride? Each has its perks, making it all the more difficult of a decision! Luckily, our comparison guide is here to walk you through the pros and cons of each SUV.
Key Takeaways
- Compared to the 2023 Ford Explorer, the 2023 Kia Telluride has the lower starting price.
- The Explorer delivers a sportier ride, with standard rear-wheel drive and three engine options, each more powerful than the Telluride’s V6.
- Both SUVs can tow a pretty big trailer, but the Explorer has a slight advantage, with max tow ratings of 5,600 pounds.
- When it comes to creature comforts and modern technology, each of these three-row midsize SUVs delivers the goods!
Starting MSRP: 2023 Kia Telluride
These three-row crossover SUVs’ starting prices are highly competitive. However, the Telluride provides a slightly better deal, with an MSRP of $35,890. The Explorer’s starting price is $36,760. For both SUVs, however, the price has the potential to rise according to equipment and trim level you select!
Powertrain Options: 2023 Ford Explorer
If you want to maximize horsepower, stick with the Explorer! Even with its base engine, which is standard on most trim models, you’ll eke out more power than the Telluride can manage. The Explorer also comes standard with rear-wheel drive, which provides a sportier ride than the Telluride’s front-wheel-drive platform!
- Standard turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine (300 horsepower, 310 lb-ft of torque)
- Standard for the ST, King Ranch and optional for the Platinum: turbo 3.0L V6 (400 hp, 415 lb-ft)
- Standard for the Platinum, optional for the Limited: 3.3L hybrid V6 (318 hp, 322 lb-ft)
- 10-speed automatic transmission
- Rear-wheel drive
- Optional all-wheel drive
No matter which Telluride trim model you select, you’ll be utilizing the same V6 engine. It provides generous power to get you up to speed, though not as much horsepower as the Explorer. Like the Explorer, the Telluride offers optional all-wheel drive to improve traction when you’re exploring the trail or cautiously traveling down an icy road.
- 3.8L V6 (291 hp, 262 lb-ft)
- Eight-speed automatic transmission
- Front-wheel drive
- Optional all-wheel drive
Max Towing: 2023 Ford Explorer
With the available V6 engine and the proper equipment, the Explorer will tow the biggest trailer, with max tow ratings of up to 5,600. However, the Kia Telluride is also quite capable of towing a boat or a pair of Jet Skis to the shore, with ratings of up to 5,500 pounds.
Tech & Comfort Features: It’s a Tie!
When it comes to interior comfort and modern technology, the 2023 Ford Explorer and Kia Telluride keep things very competitive. For example, both SUVs come standard with three rows of roomy, supportive seating. The Explorer’s standard lineup includes cloth seating, tri-zone automatic climate control, and a power-adjustable driver’s seat. And the Telluride delivers standard dual-zone automatic climate control and faux-leather upholstery.
And both SUVs will impress you with their tech features! Each includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, as well as a central infotainment touchscreen. These SUVs will help you spot danger, thanks to standard features like forward collision mitigation, blind-spot warning, and more.
Each SUV offers a list of trim models. If you so choose, you can climb this list for greater interior luxury. Both the Telluride and Explorer offer upgrades that include heated and ventilated front seats, premium sound systems, and stylish wheels. The Explorer is perhaps the more luxurious model, with available upgrades like real wood interior trim and quilted leather upholstery.
Your Three-Row Midsize SUV
The 2023 Kia Telluride is undeniably stylish and rugged, but it’s the 2023 Ford Explorer that really takes the midsize crossover experience to the next level! Choose Ford’s popular SUV for sporty rear-wheel drive, a range of engine options, max towing capabilities, and more!