2027 Kia Telluride vs. 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander: A Battle of Two Hybrid Three-Row SUVs

Kia released the 2027 Telluride hybrid this week, positioning it as a direct competitor to the 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander hybrid. Both vehicles aim to capture the family SUV market with their three-row seating and hybrid powertrains, offering a blend of efficiency and practicality. The 2027 Kia Telluride hybrid features a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor, producing a combined output of 270 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque. This setup is expected to deliver an EPA estimated 25 mpg combined. The interior boasts a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, a 10.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and available second-row captain's chairs. The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander hybrid, on the other hand, utilizes a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and two electric motors, generating a combined 245 horsepower and achieving an EPA estimated 36 mpg combined. It also offers a 12.3-inch infotainment display and a digital gauge cluster, with seating for up to eight passengers. Pricing for the 2027 Telluride hybrid is expected to start around $48,000, while the 2026 Grand Highlander hybrid begins at approximately $44,000. Both models are designed to appeal to buyers seeking fuel economy without sacrificing the utility of a larger SUV.