The Toyota Highlander was one of the first platforms to claim the mantle of crossover SUV. In its several years of production, the Highlander has continually set the standard for the rest of the class. For the current model year, a comparison of the 2021 Toyota Highlander vs. 2021 Kia Telluride will show how far the three-row crossover SUV class has come and why this segment is so competitive. The 2021 Highlander will introduce potential buyers to the new XSE trim grade that will provide a sportier aesthetic and more athletic handling than other existing trim grades. Additionally, independent online reviews have lauded the 2021 Highlander for its quiet and smooth ride, excellent outward visibility as well as for its strong performance and efficiency.
Lexington Toyota customers can start the pre-ordering process for the 2021 Toyota Highlander today by calling, 781-325-8558.
2021 Toyota Highlander |
VS |
2021 Kia Telluride |
3.5-L, V-6 | Engine | 3.8-L, V-6 |
295/263 | Horsepower/Torque | 291/262 |
84.3 cu.-ft. | Max. Cargo Volume | 87cu.-ft. |
8 people | Max. Seating Capacity | 8 people |
At this point in the development of 21st-century crossover SUVs connectivity technology is a must-have feature for any vehicle to be even remotely attractive to buyers. Both the 2021 Highlander and 2021 Telluride will offer a smartphone-compatible infotainment system with access to both Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ suites of apps. However, the current Highlander goes several steps further by offering universal compatibility with the Amazon Alexa digital home assistant as well as a high-speed Wi-Fi hotspot, that can be connected to several devices at the same time. The 2021 Kia Telluride is not available with either of these connectivity options.
Cargo and passengers space dimensions for the 2021 Toyota Highlander and 2021 Kia Telluride are very similar. Both three-row crossover SUVs are available with seven- or eight-passenger seating configurations, depending on trim grade. Future owners of the 2021 Highlander will have 16, 48.4 and 84.3 cubic-feet to use behind the third, second and first rows, respectively. On the other hand, the 2021 Telluride offers very similar cargo volume dimensions.
Performance and towing capacity are two more areas where the current Highlander and Telluride models are evenly matched. Lexington Toyota customers will be able to use up to 295 horsepower and pull up to 5,000 pounds with the 2021 Highlander. The 2021 Telluride makes just more than 290 horsepower and can tow about the same amount of payload.