Kia Telluride vs. Chevy Traverse: A Comprehensive Breakdown

Published June 12, 2023
in Car Comparisons

Consumers today looking for SUVs have more options than ever, and if you’re looking for something with 3 rows, most manufacturers will even have multiple options to choose from. Just like every other make and model in other car classes, it will come down to your preference and day-to-day needs for the final decision. Two of the more popular 3 row SUVs are made by Kia and Chevrolet. So when considering the Kia Telluride vs. Chevy Traverse, here’s what to consider.

Kia Telluride vs. Chevy Traverse: Head to head interior winners

Base price: Kia Telluride
Front headroom: Chevy Traverse
Rear headroom: Chevy Traverse
3rd-row headroom: Chevy Traverse
Front legroom: Chevy Traverse
Rear legroom: Chevy Traverse
3rd-row legroom: Chevy Traverse
EPA Passenger Volume: Kia Telluride
EPA Cargo Volume: Chevy Traverse
Maximum seating capacity: Tie

Kia Telluride vs. Chevy Traverse: head to head performance winners

Basic warranty: Kia Telluride
Powertrain Warranty: Kia Telluride
NHTSA Safety Rating: Kia Telluride
Turning diameter: Chevy Traverse
Engine: Kia Telluride
Horsepower: Chevy Traverse
Transmission: Chevy Traverse
Fuel economy: Kia Telluride

Kia Telluride vs. Chevy Traverse: head to head size winners

Wheelbase: Chevy Traverse
Vehicle length: Chevy Traverse
Vehicle width: Chevy Traverse
Vehicle height: Chevy Traverse

Both vehicles feature around 5,000-pound towing capability, limited engine options, and available all-wheel drive on certain trims. Both are fairly affordable for the class and provide average fuel economy.

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Chevy Traverse breakdown

The 2022 Chevy Traverse starts at a base price of just under $35,000 and has seating for seven or eight people depending on the model. Just like its other Chevy brand counterparts, it comes with a strong V6 engine, good safety features and ratings, and above average size with plenty of space. The Traverse is ranked #5 in the midsize SUV class with a total score of 8.³⁄₁₀ by U.S. News and World Report.

In a world that’s increasingly environmentally conscious, it is disappointing that there’s no hybrid option and its fuel efficiency is underwhelming compared to competitors in the same class. The model also charges more for additional features like cruise control and improved trim levels.

It may be no surprise that the Traverse is on the biggest overall vehicles in the midsize 3 row SUV class and provides plenty of space for passengers, it still comes in second in some key performance metrics that are typically won by larger vehicles, and it has approximately 100 cubic feet of baggage capacity. There is only one engine option, and additional cabin technology features may be an additional cost.

The Traverse’s 3.6-liter V6 engine provides over 300 horsepower giving it plenty of muscle, but less than its Chevy siblings in the sports category. Front-wheel drive comes standard, although all-wheel drive is available for roughly $2,000 extra (depending on trim). A leather interior, an enhanced audio system, and adaptive cruise control are available only on higher trim levels.

Pros

Good value
Tons of space
Up to 8 passengers

Cons

Additional cost for more features
Maybe too much size for some drivers

Kia Telluride breakdown

The 2022 Kia Telluride comes at a base price of around $33,000, which is very competitive for the class. It has a surprising engine power for its size and is backed by Kia’s extensive warranty program. Similar to the Traverse, there is no hybrid or eco option for the 2022 model. Overall, the Telluride is rated as the #1 overall midsize SUV for 2022 by U.S. News and World Report and boasts a 9.³⁄₁₀ overall safety rating. It received a “good,” or better rating in every category tested other than the headlights, where it received a “poor” rating.

The overall critical review for the Telluride is that it’s a modestly priced and well-rounded family vehicle with a 3rd row. It has standard seating for seven passengers and has an improved infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto included as standard features. It’s built on the same frame as its cousin, the Hyundai Palisade, and both received high safety ratings.

The Telluride has a luxurious feel to it and still rides with smooth and nimble control. Unlike the Traverse, it has standard adaptive cruise control with Highway Driving Assist, making it a bit more friendly for lengthy travels.

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Pros

Top of the class infotainment system
Surprisingly powerful for its size
Extensive Kia warranty

Cons

A bit cramped with full passengers
Limited add on options for higher trims

Advantages of the Kia Telluride in 2022

Longer warranty
Improved fuel efficiency
Slightly more affordable
Higher safety ratings

Advantages of the Chevy Traverse in 2022

More powerful
More passenger and cargo space
Extra seating capacity

Is there a clear-cut better option?

The short answer will depend on what you are looking for in your day-to-day vehicle. The 2022 Kia Telluride is a good value all-around SUV with a flash appearance and good fuel economy. Kia also has one of the finest powertrain warranties in the industry and gives drivers a bit of security for their purchase. The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse is a spacious three-row SUV with lots of cargo room and a powerful V6 engine. If you need more interior space and power at an affordable price, this is a good option to go with.

Kias, in general, have a lighter and more youthful look, whereas, in comparison to the Traverse, Chevys are often a bit more traditional in their look and feel. If looks aren’t important and performance and price are the more determining factors for your next purchase, consider what you’ll be using the vehicle for on a daily or frequent basis.

WHAT TO DO IF A DEALER REFUSES TO CANCEL EXTENDED WARRANTY

Car buying can occasionally be frustrating, especially if you’re purchasing your vehicle through a dealership. We’re here to tell you how to navigate a situation in which a dealer refuses to cancel your extended warranty.

Both generally have enough space for standard vehicle requirements, but the extra space provided by the Traverse is great for passengers and hauling. If you’re a little more concerned about keeping gas costs down and making sure your passengers are entertained and comfortable, the Telluride might be a better fit.

Chevy may have a bit more brand recognition based on its history in the U.S., but Kia’s added visual flare and enhanced technology make it an enticing option. Both are ultimately strong options, and it’s always a great option to test drive them for yourself to get a better feel for the drive.

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