Comparison between 2023 Kia Telluride and 2023 Ford Explorer

1. Overview

The 2023 Ford Explorer is also an SUV that comes with a similar price of $32,925. The Explorer is a 7-passenger vehicle; however, there is a lower daily driving seating capacity with the two captain chairs in the 2nd row. There are also four trim levels available: XLT, Limited, ST, and Platinum. The Platinum model comes with a hefty price tag of $53,305. The base model of the Explorer comes with a 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 engine RWD. Higher-level trims have the option of upgrading to a 3.0L EcoBoost V6 engine 4WD. The 2023 Ford Explorer has a maximum towing capacity of 5,600 pounds. This vehicle is also good for large families, but the Telluride is the more affordable choice with a larger daily seating capacity. [1][2] Please visit our Comprehensive Guide to Kia Model Comparisons to learn more about 2023 Kia Telluride vs 2023 Ford Explorer.

The 2023 Kia Telluride is a sport utility vehicle (SUV) that comes with an expected starting price of $33,000. It is considered a large-sized SUV with available seating for 7 or 8 passengers. There are four trim levels available: LX, S, EX, and SX. All trim levels come with a 3.8L GDI V6 engine featuring an 8-speed automatic transmission. The Telluride is available in both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive. All Telluride models are capable of towing 2,000 pounds, while AWD models can tow up to 5,000 pounds. This SUV is perfect for large families, road trips, and towing boats, trailers, campers, etc.

1.1. Introduction to the 2023 Kia Telluride

Absolutely, we have been specifically ready forward for any variety of recent or cheaper methods aiming for better gasoline economy-all those proceed to get mysterious. Not astonishingly, these kinds of variations could reflect better for long term design several years, but now in 2023 the Telluride provides only one particular powertrain: a 3.8-liter V6 mated to your refreshing eight-speed automatic transmission. Entrance- or all-wheel drive is to choose from, along with the combo just isn't specifically productive but it can be comfortably enough to acquire a automobile of this form. With its precise steering and admirable deficiency of human human body roll, the Telluride carries alone greater than the highway than most of its rivals. High quality demands a success in just the journey into action measurements along with the attain of massive wheels-though handful of Tellurides will at any time start to see the really challenging things to do. A great deal in the details located on the forthcoming 2023 Telluride are previously outlined along with the outgoing 2022 design, so keep on on to operate with our elements to have a fantastic concept of what's in advance on this unique updated full-size SUV.

The 2023 Kia Telluride is really a 3-row mid-size SUV that carries over uncomplicatedly to 2023. The Telluride joined the Kia array as a very important auto within our ratings thanks to its uncomplicated driving dynamics, functionality, and end family-friendly package. As being a sequel listed here, it is really rough to modify a little something which is now been a aspect for the too much to handle good results. Amid new hybrid cars like Niro and Sorento, the Telluride's carry will develop therefore it will take its spot following the approaching long run total measurement SUV the place the Borrego remaining off. Although the new, far more city-oriented Borrego is simply just all-around the corner, The Telluride can be quite a fantastic car or truck for youthful spouse and children men and women who want a thing roomy and nicely highlighted.

1.2. Introduction to the 2023 Ford Explorer

The addition of independent rear suspension is a significant change that will improve the handling of the new model Explorer. This will create what is considered a smoother and less "truck-like" ride when compared to the previous generation. This is definitely an improvement to the last generation Explorer SUVs and a significant step towards appealing to crossover vehicle customers. This independent rear suspension will also give better handling on rough terrain. This is still something that this SUV will be able to handle because of the frame and available 4-wheel drive.

This SUV is offered in 3 powertrains: the intelligent 4WD V8, the 4WD V8, and the 4WD V6. The addition of many more powertrain options is a significant step up from previous years. The recent trend has been to offer a multitude of engine choices. This is something that the last generation Ford Explorer did not offer. The older version offered only one option, a SOHC V6. The current choices are more appealing to a broader range of customers and have reduced the number of people who would require a non-Ford vehicle to get their wants and needs in a vehicle.

This vehicle keeps its traditional body-on-frame design. However, there have been significant improvements and reinventions. The frame has been increased to add strength to the vehicle, reduce flex, and improve the vehicle's ride. Also, the frame is now stronger and longer-lasting than previous years.

The 2023 Ford Explorer vehicle has drastically transformed the appearance and style of the once rugged and durable 4x4 vehicle. The new look Ford Explorer is a mix of a traditional SUV and a crossover vehicle. These changes to the new generation have produced many valuable additions and subtractions from the vehicle. These include changes to the frame, powertrain options, and the suspension.

2. Design and Exterior Features

When comparing the incoming 2023 model with the existing Telluride, you've really got to have a sharp eye to note the differences. This is because changes are quite subtle, which is actually a good thing as the sequence of past years has seen Kia vehicles undergoing radical redesigns that usually leave the prior year models looking outdated. The 2021 Telluride looks fine, so changing it too much would be overkill. The most noticeable and immediate difference is the new Kia emblem on the front grille. The emblem's overall shape is rounder and a bit bigger. It now has a white background in place of the red letters that used to spell KIA. This new emblem was first seen on the Kia EV6 and most future Kia vehicles will be using it. The emblem change is purely cosmetic and has no bearing on vehicle performance, but it still gives the Telluride a slightly more modern look. Other slight exterior differences are a new black trim above the rear end that holds the license plate, and new wheel designs on most trim levels. All said and done, these are just minor tweaks, but they will keep the Telluride looking fresh and up to date.

For the past few decades, Kia has faced an uphill battle in an effort to gain the respect of American consumers. There have been many successes along the way, but there have been missteps as well. In recent times, the brand has inched closer to its ultimate goal, with the Telluride SUV being a milestone along this journey. While this large vehicle already has strong sales and is seen in many places on the road today, Kia has decided to update it and create a much better version for the coming year. The focus here is on the 2023 Telluride from Kia, and in this review, we will walk you through the various changes that have been made, and explain the difference that this makes compared to the existing model. This first article here looks at the visual and aesthetic differences seen on the outside of the vehicle. This is a crucial area because consumers are often attracted to an automobile mostly by looks at first, thus this is the place to make a positive first impression.

2.1. Styling and aesthetics of the Kia Telluride

The AWD version of the Telluride comes with similar design cues but with a number of modifications to give it a more rugged appearance. The bonnet is taller, the bumpers front and rear are more aggressive, and the wheel arches are more pronounced to give a bit more ground clearance and an overall more robust look. The changes are subtle and avoid the common pitfall of looking like they've been tacked on as an afterthought. Overall, the AWD version looks every bit as cohesive as the FWD version. However, considering that the car is primarily designed for on-road use, the FWD version will most likely be the more popular choice for the majority of buyers.

The Telluride is a strikingly handsome vehicle that has a bold, boxy stance and some really nice design touches. It looks rugged and utilitarian while at the same time exuding an air of sophistication. The front and rear are designed to look different, as a way of symbolizing the Telluride's purpose as an urban explorer that is capable of finding adventure in the hills and mountains. The front-biased look is more like a traditional 4x4 with a small overhang and the skid plates suggesting that it's ready for some light off-road action. The high-mounted tail lights and wide but less tall rear end are meant to portray stability and a more athletic feel. The overall look is big and bold but not overly aggressive; there's just something very approachable and friendly about the Telluride's design.

2.2. Styling and aesthetics of the Ford Explorer

The Ford Explorer did not receive any major updates since the new 5th generation was released in 2011; however, the 2020 model year brings a complete redesign. In the standard car, the biggest aesthetic change is the adoption of a 4-door SUV body. The 6th generation of the Ford Explorer will be built on the new CD6 platform, which it shares with the new Lincoln Aviator. This marks the end of the Ford Explorer being built using a front-wheel-drive platform; all trims will now be built on the new RWD/AWD platform. Moving to an RWD platform has allowed a longer wheelbase and shortened front overhangs, which will completely change the look of the car. The sporty ST is AWD only and has a slightly different suspension setup. This gives the car a more aggressive look compared with the standard Explorer. The looks for the Ford Explorer are more aggressive than the previous generation, and this is emphasized with the sporty trim. There are mixed opinions on whether the change to a more modern RWD look is better than the traditional FWD SUV look. Some people believe that this makes the car look too much like a modern crossover, while others feel it will now be on a level playing field with the likes of its competitors: the Dodge Durango and Chevrolet Traverse.

2.3. Comparison of exterior features

The Telluride and the new Ford Explorer offer two very different approaches to the family SUV formula. The Telluride looks more rugged and is slightly larger than the Sorento, which Kia says is purely a styling choice aimed at broadening the range. Simister says the Telluride is not built off a truck platform and is designed mostly to handle well on road while tackling off-road scenarios as needed, allowing Kia to optimize its on-road drive while still achieving decent or better off-road capability. Despite a move by Ford to make the new Explorer rear-wheel drive based, the design is still aimed at pavement prowess with large wheels and wide tires that are sure to hinder off-road performance. The Telluride's boxy shape maximizes passenger and cargo space, and is one factor contributing to best-in-class interior measurements. The exterior does feature some lashings of cladding to give the rugged look, though Kia promises it's not purely for show. Step-in height is manageable and rear seat legroom is first-rate. The Explorer aimed to improve on its predecessor's packaging with a new unibody platform and trading in a long-held front-drive layout for a rear-drive-based one. Wheelbase has been stretched, overall length is up and the cabin is said to feel more airy and spacious. Nonetheless, approach and departure angles are likely to be inferior to those of the Telluride and the cargo area narrows a bit at the back. Step-in height is likely to be lower and Explorer's on-road ride and handling looks to be a major focus. Both vehicles will have plenty of options for all-wheel drive and various drive modes to aid traction in different conditions. Step-in height is manageable and rear seat legroom is first-rate. The Explorer aimed to improve on its predecessor's packaging with a new unibody platform and trading in a long-held front-drive layout for a rear-drive-based one. Wheelbase has been stretched, overall length is up and the cabin is said to feel more airy and spacious. Nonetheless, approach and departure angles are likely to be inferior to those of the Telluride and the cargo area narrows a bit at the back. Step-in height is likely to be lower and Explorer's on-road ride and handling looks to be a major focus. Both vehicles will have plenty of options for all-wheel drive and various drive modes to aid traction in different conditions.

3. Performance and Engine Options

Performance-wise, both cars are equally matched. The Telluride will go from 0-60 in just 7.4 seconds, which is impressive for a large SUV. The Explorer with the 3.0-litre engine will match that time, though on the base engine, expect it to be a little slower. The Telluride has a towing capacity of 5000 lb. when the vehicle is properly equipped. The Ford Explorer with the 2.3-litre engine will match that towing capacity. However, with other engines, it can have a much higher towing capacity, capable of towing well above 5000 lb. The Ford Explorer has rear-wheel drive as standard and all-wheel drive as an option. The Telluride also has all-wheel drive available. Both cars have driving modes that allow the characteristics of the vehicle to change depending on the conditions. This will give good control on rough surfaces or when towing. The different drive modes for the Telluride are Comfort, Eco, Sport, and Smart. The Explorer has Trail, Deep Snow/Sand, Slippery, Sport, Tow/Haul, and a Normal mode. Both cars have Hill Descent Control and are able to automatically apply the brake when going downhill. Both large SUVs are capable off-roaders and will give a confident driving experience in different conditions beyond the normal tarmac. This is helped by both having 203mm of ground clearance.

The 2023 Kia Telluride and the 2023 Ford Explorer are both powerful SUVs, so how do their engine options compare? The Kia Telluride comes with just one engine and transmission type. It has a 3.8-litre V6 Lambda engine which produces 291 horsepower and 262 lb. ft. of torque. This is propelled to the wheels through an automatic 8-speed transmission. The Ford Explorer has a range of engine options from the standard 2.3-litre EcoBoost I-4 engine and goes up to a 3.0-litre EcoBoost V6 engine on the Platinum trim. The power produced from these engines ranges from 300hp and 310 lb. ft. of torque to 365hp and 380 lb. ft. of torque.

3.1. Engine options of the Kia Telluride

The 2023 Kia Telluride will have one powertrain option, a 2.5L 4-cylinder engine mated with a 1.49 kWh lithium-ion battery and a 6-speed automatic transmission making 191 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque. This is the same setup offered in the 2023 Kia Sorento. When asked why Kia didn't use the 3.5L V6 like in the 2023 Hyundai Palisade, Kia answered the mileage and towing capacity already at the top of the mid-size SUV segment with the V6. This setup has led to a massive 21/29/25 mpg city/highway/combined fuel economy rating. This is very impressive for a mid-size 3-row SUV with traditional AWD, only taking a slight 1 mpg hit in all three categories. A rough 1000 lbs lighter than the V6-only Telluride, the hybrid is expected to feel only slightly weaker off the line. Safe to say this will be the best fuel economy ratings for a three-row SUV without a plug.

3.2. Engine options of the Ford Explorer

There are 4 different kinds of engines that are available for the Ford Explorer. These include the 2.3L EcoBoost I-4, the 3.0L EcoBoost V6, the 3.3L Hybrid and the 3.0L V6. The 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 engine delivers 300 horsepower and it creates 310 lb.-ft of torque. The estimated fuel economy of this engine is 10.5 L/100km in the city and 8.2 on the highway. The 3.0L EcoBoost V6 engine delivers 365 horsepower and it creates 380 lb.-ft of torque. The estimated fuel economy of this engine is 12.1 L/100km in the city and 8.7 on the highway. This type of engine is available for the Explorer's ST and Platinum models. The 3.3L Hybrid engine delivers... and it creates... The estimated fuel economy of the Hybrid is 10.1 L/100km in the city and 9.0 on the highway. This type of engine is only available on the Limited model. Finally, the 3.0L V6 engine is available for the Explorer's Platinum model and it delivers... and it creates... This engine is only available on the Platinum model and the estimated fuel economy is 13.6 L/100km in the city and 9.6 on the highway. This variety of engine options creates multiple choices for consumers who have a preference in regards to fuel economy and power. [3][4][5][6][7][8]

3.3. Performance comparison

And although Telluride is a bit of a gas guzzler when compared to Explorer's hybrids, its larger, more powerful frame is what allows for it to achieve a higher tow rating at 5,000 pounds compared to the Ford Explorer's 3,500 pound tow rating. Although neither one has an off-road package, Telluride's larger towing capability does give it the slight edge for anyone looking to take their SUV on trips that may require the pulling of a trailer.

Telluride only having one engine option compared to Explorer's three really sets the tone for how similar the models really are. The regular fuel Telluride can take consists with all of the Ford Explorer engine options, making the cost of energy relatively the same. Ford's decision to go with smaller engines that can produce similar power to Kia's, the option of achieving better fuel efficiency with the purchase of more expensive premium fuel, is what ultimately tips the scale in Explorer's favor when it comes to performance.

Kia Telluride has a 3.8 liter V6 engine with 291 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 262 lb-ft of torque at 5,200 rpm. Use regular fuel. The Ford Explorer has three engine options. The first is a 2.3 liter EcoBoost in-line 4 with 300 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 310 lb-ft of torque at 3,500 rpm. This takes regular fuel. The second is a 3.0 liter EcoBoost V6 with an output of 365 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 380 lb-ft of torque at 3,500 rpm. It requires premium fuel. The third is a 3.3 liter hybrid that has a combined system output of 318 horsepower and can take regular fuel.

3.4. Fuel efficiency comparison

Overall, the Telluride has a consistent fuel economy across the board for its only engine, while the Explorer offers multiple engines with varying fuel economies. The Telluride and Explorer engines with the most similar fuel economies are the base Explorer I4 engine and the Telluride V6 engine. These options tie for an average of 22 miles per gallon, but the Telluride has an extra 2 miles per gallon in the city and 3 miles per gallon on the highway.

The most powerful Explorer engine, the 3.0L V6, has a fuel economy of 18 miles per gallon in the city and 26 miles per gallon on the highway, which averages to 21 miles per gallon. The hybrid powertrain only offers a fuel efficiency of 20 miles per gallon in the city and 27 miles per gallon on the highway, which also averages to about 22 miles per gallon.

In comparison, the Ford Explorer offers a 2.3L I4, 3.0L V6, and a 3.3L V6 hybrid option for 2023. The base engine has a fuel efficiency of 20 miles per gallon in the city and 27 miles per gallon on the highway. This averages to about 22 miles per gallon, which is the best fuel economy of all the different Explorer powertrains.

The Kia Telluride has one engine option for 2023, a 3.8L V6 with a fuel efficiency of 18 miles per gallon in the city and 24 miles per gallon on the highway. This equates to an average of 20 miles per gallon.

4. Interior and Technology

The Ford Explorer has a luxurious interior matching the price of the Telluride. Buyers can choose between a 6 or 7 passenger vehicle. The Limited and above models come standard with a 1st and 2nd dual panel moonroof. The 2nd and 3rd rows can fold down automatically with a switch or from the driver's seat. The 3rd row split seat can power recline for comfort with a press of a button. Dual-zone electronic temperature control comes standard in all models as well. All models also feature intelligent push-button start and a remote start system. The driver's seat features a 6-way power seat with manual lumbar control. Step up to the Limited model and you will get a 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system, which is said to be a step up from the standard speaker system.

Kia has truly outdone themselves with this one. The interior on the Telluride is high class and surprising for Kia. The Telluride comes standard with stain-resistant cloth seating, while other models feature premium Nappa leather, which is double stitched. Buyers have the option between a 7 or 8 passenger vehicle. A 2nd row bench comes standard on all models but can be replaced with two captain's chairs. The vehicle seats are designed with a recline function to relax during long drives, with the driver's seat having an 8-way power seat and 4-way lumbar support. On the higher trim levels, the driver's seat is upgraded to a 10-way power seat. The SX model comes standard with a double sunroof, with the option to open the front panel or the entire thing for an amazing view. The Telluride has all of the modern features, such as push-button start, dual climate control, and even comes standard with an auto-dimming rearview mirror.

4.1. Interior features of the Kia Telluride

The Kia Telluride will come with a pretty large cabin with seating for eight people. The Telluride also features a 10.25-inch touchscreen display, which adds to the modern interior of the Telluride. Another feature that adds to the luxurious look is the double sunroof, which is available across all trims apart from the base. The Telluride offers a variety of interior colors depending on the trim. The base LX trim comes with the option of black interior or grey interior with SOFINO (synthetic leather) seat trim. The S trim has the same seat trim but offers the option of black interior or grey interior with black leather seat trim. The SX trim comes with black leather seat trim and the option of black interior or grey interior. The top of the range Calligraphy trim has the same seat trim and interior colors as the SX. Other interior features include heated seats and a heated steering wheel for the driver and front passenger. First-row passengers can keep multiple mobile devices charged on the run with an available wireless smartphone charger. Telluride can be equipped with an available dual visor. Rear side window sunshades help reduce glare and brightness for rear-seat passengers, giving it a pretty luxurious feel. All Telluride models equipped with second-row captain's chairs also get a new one-touch button that tilts and slides the outboard seats for easier third-row access. This is another feature which shows that the Telluride has been designed with passenger comfort in mind. The Telluride also offers a premium 10-speaker Harman/Kardon audio system, including a subwoofer and external amplifier, that makes for a more enjoyable ride.

4.2. Interior features of the Ford Explorer

The biggest issue with the Ford Explorer's interior is the low quality of materials used on the dash and other parts of the interior. The dash is plastic and seems to be easily scratched. Over time, these scratches will accumulate and make the dash look quite worn out. The fit and finish of the interior is disappointing for a vehicle of this price range. The dash is comprised of many parts and the gaps in between these parts are not parallel, making it look like a rushed and unthoughtful assembly. This doesn't represent the effort that Ford has put into updating the vehicle to be more family-friendly.

The second row of seats also has a center option for a heated/cold console that offers a good amount of storage for drinks and other items. The console can hold up to 4.6 liters of liquid on the 8-seat model and up to 5.8 liters on the 7-seat model. This console has the same fan feature that the seats have to keep drinks either hot or cold. This is a great feature to have but it takes away the option of having a bench seat in the second row.

The interior is the part of the Ford Explorer that brings the vehicle's overall score down. The front seats are firm and supportive and are power adjustable. It also offers a heated and cooled seat option as well. The cooled seats are a great feature to have on a hot summer day. The cooled seats are a bit different than those found in the Telluride. The Telluride's cooled seats quickly cool down and stay that way until the feature is turned off. The Explorer's cooled seats have a fan in the seat that sends air up through the seat. This option has variable settings and does a good job of keeping the seats cool, but in order to keep the fan going, you must keep the feature turned on. This isn't a huge deal but it would be nice to see the seats stay cool without having to have the feature on.

4.3. Comparison of technology and infotainment systems

Kia Telluride comes with a 10.25-inch touch screen that gives us the ability to have 2 Bluetooth devices connected simultaneously without having to disconnect one to connect to another. It comes with a built-in navigation, SiriusXM Radio, UVO Intelligence connected vehicle features, and more. It has a 6-speaker system and 7 USB charging ports so no one is left with a dead phone or device. And to top it off, it has wireless smartphone charging. The passengers in the back seat have their own climate and heated seat and steering wheel buttons so they don't need to bother the driver to adjust it for them. Another good feature for the driver is the quiet mode. It allows the 2nd and 3rd-row passengers to still listen to their audio while the front row is completely muted. The Ford Explorer features an all-new portrait-mounted 10.1-inch touch screen display. This gives the vehicle a modernistic feel and now only needs to be glanced at instead of turning away from the road to check your map location. It comes with a 6-speaker system and is compatible with Apple Carplay and Android Auto for smartphone integration. The Explorer uses Fordpass to connect to your phone to start, lock or locate your vehicle, check for vehicle recalls, and receive vehicle health alerts. With Fordpass Connect, you are able to use the Wi-Fi hotspot to connect up to 10 devices so you're always connected no matter where you are. Navigation, SiriusXM Radio, and a trial to the all-access audio plan come free for the first 3 months. Wireless charging is also an available option located at the front of the center console.

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