2021 Kia Telluride and 2021 Hyundai Palisade: Similarities and Differences

Palisade Forum

Staff member
Joined
May 18, 2019
Messages
880
Reaction score
292
Points
63
It’s no secret that the 2021 Kia Telluride and 2021 Hyundai Palisade are mechanically identical. Both are on the same platform, they use a 3.8-liter V6 with 291 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque, and they have an eight-speed automatic transmission. Even their optional AWD drive systems are eerily similar with the only difference being the availability of hill descent control on the Palisade. These similarities, however, don’t mean that they drive alike. In fact, that’s far from the truth because the Telluride and Palisade each have a unique character, something that Hyundai Motor Group has mastered making and is in full showing with these two three-row SUVs. With that said, let’s run down what makes the two siblings different from each other.

2021 Kia Telluride and 2021 Hyundai Palisade: Different Features
Those looking to get the most tech and convenience out of their three-row crossover should take a look at the 2021 Kia Telluride and the 2021 Hyundai Palisade. However, the latter distinguishes itself by adding a little more pizzazz and creature comforts. On higher trims of the Palisade, you get four-way lumbar support for the driver’s seat, a power-folding third-row, and a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster. The range-topping Calligraphy model takes things up a notch with quilted door inserts to match Nappa leather upholstery and a microfiber headliner. While the Telluride misses out on all of those above, it still gets similar features plus automatic up/down front and rear windows, and power-folding side mirrors, the latter two you can’t get on the Palisade.

The Kia has slightly more cargo capacity at 21 cubic feet with all seats up, 46 cubic feet with the third row down, and 87 cubic feet with the second and third rows dropped. In comparison, the Palisade has 18 cubic feet with all seats up, 45.8 cubic feet with the third row down, and 86.4 cubic feet with the second and third rows down. The available Harman Kardon surround sound system has 12 speakers in the Palisade whereas the one in the Telluride only has 10. Surprisingly, the version in the Telluride is more immersive and covers the cabin better, giving you a better listening experience. Read more...
 
My Pallisade: the ride/drive/comfort gives me a 2021 experience of somewhere between my prior luxo-boats, a '72 Buick Riviera and '91 & '03 Lincoln Town Cars. Just what the doctor ordered!
 
The Pali has front auto up/down windows; just not rear. Everything else sounded accurate to me. I'm very happy with the Palisade... except the impact harshness. It's really annoying, and not sure it's the tires alone. Road noise could be better on rough asphalt (quite prevalent here), but to be fair, this car is quieter than almost anything else, so can't complain too much. Ha ha. Anyway, better tires might help with the impact harshness, but I feel they won't eliminate the issue. Maybe those who already replaced tires can chime in :). But the good news is I can live with that, but just wish it wasn't there. Don't understand what exactly makes that, since you can also feel it, and Tellurides reportedly don't make it. First time I remember a vehicle feeling like that. Oh well. Other than that, it does what it's supposed to well. And yes, I have the tires at 35 cold, and not a pound more, or it gets even worse.
 
Back
Top