Kia EV9 vs. Telluride

Kia’s lineup of three-row SUVs continues to grow with the all-new 2024 EV9. Thanks to its all-electric powertrain, the EV9 gives shoppers who want a family-friendly SUV a new option to explore if they don't want a gas-powered vehicle. While the EV9 is an all-new model, Kia’s had one of the more popular midsize SUVs in the segment with the Telluride.

If you’re shopping for a three-row SUV from Kia, you might have some trouble choosing between the two. In this comparison, we’ll explore how the EV9 and Telluride stack up to one another in key categories that include pricing, size, engine performance, cargo capacity, and technology. Whether you’re looking for a three-row SUV that can seat the entire family or a midsize SUV with a premium cabin, we’ll help you choose the right model for you.

Kia EV9 vs. Telluride Price

The cheapest Kia EV9 starts at $56,395. The most expensive Kia EV9 is priced at $75,395. The Telluride is far more affordable than the EV9, as Kia Telluride prices start at $37,355 and go up to $54,550. You could purchase a fully loaded Telluride for less than the base EV9.

There’s a $19,040 difference in price between the Kia EV9 and Telluride. Comparing range-topping trims to one another reveals a price difference of $20,845.

As the more affordable SUV of the two, the Telluride is available with better lease deals than the EV9. When it comes to financing deals, Kia offers the EV9 with better deals.

Kia EV9 vs. Telluride Size

The Kia EV9 and Telluride are similar to one another in size. The EV9 is 197.2 inches long, 77.9 inches wide, and 68.9 inches tall. The Telluride is slightly smaller, but not by much. The Telluride is 196.9 inches long, 78.3 inches wide, and 68.9 inches tall.

The only noticeable difference between the two midsize SUVs is the wheelbase length. The EV9 has a wheelbase that’s 122 inches long, while the Telluride’s wheelbase measures 114.2 inches in length.

Because of the EV9’s larger wheelbase, it offers slightly more interior space for passengers than the Telluride.

Kia EV9 vs. Telluride Specs

Kia offers the EV9 with a few different powertrains. The entry-level SUV comes with a single electric motor on the rear wheels that makes 215 horsepower. The EV9 is available with dual electric motors and all-wheel drive. Dual-motor EV9 models are rated at up to 379 hp.

The Telluride continues to come with a 3.8-liter V6 engine that makes 291 hp. Unlike the EV9, the Telluride comes with front-wheel drive as standard. AWD is available.

With the available dual-motor configuration, the EV9 has much peppier performance than the gas-powered Telluride. That’s not surprising, as the EV9 makes 88 more horsepower than the Telluride.

When properly equipped, the Telluride can tow up to 5,500 pounds. The most the EV9 can haul is 5,000 pounds.

Kia EV9 vs. Telluride Cargo Space

With the Kia EV9 and Telluride being similar in size, it shouldn’t come as a surprise to hear that both SUVs have a similar amount of total cargo space.

The EV9 has 20.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, 43.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, and a total of 81.7 cubic feet of cargo space.

The Telluride offers up to 21 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, 46 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, and a total of 87 cubic feet of cargo space.

Kia EV9 vs. Telluride Technology

Kia offers the EV9 and Telluride with similar tech features, though the all-electric EV9 comes with a few more features. The Telluride comes standard with a 12.3-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, a Wi-Fi hotspot, navigation, six audio speakers, five USB ports, and Bluetooth.

Standard tech features with the EV9 include a 12.3-inch touchscreen, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a five-inch touchscreen, a Wi-Fi hotspot, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, a wireless charging pad, six USB ports, Bluetooth, and eight audio speakers.

Most of the EV9’s standard features are optional with the Telluride, but there’s no denying that the EV9 comes with more features high-tech features.

Kia EV9 vs. Telluride Which Is Better?

The Kia EV9 and Telluride are very similar to one another. Both SUVs have three rows of roomy seats, large cargo areas, and high-tech features. For most shoppers, the Telluride’s more affordable price tag makes it the better option. It’s available with similar features as the EV9, but has slightly more cargo space, and can tow more cargo. Its lower starting price tag, though, is its standout quality in this comparison.

While the Kia EV9 loses this comparison, it’s a great choice for shoppers looking to make the switch to an EV, but want a three-row SUV. It’s packed with high-tech features, has a spacious interior, can tow an impressive amount of cargo, and has good performance. Its higher starting price tag is its main negative against the Telluride.