Since the Kia Telluride debuted last year, it’s gotten rave reviews from just about everyone that’s ever driven it, seen it, or even heard of it. And from what we know, it’s worth all the praise as Kia has stepped up their game a lot in the past couple of years.

It’s true that the Telluride has a lot to offer in a three-row SUV, however, everyone knows that despite its capability, a minivan like the Toyota Sienna is actually better suited for daily duty. And while both vehicles offer the same type of features, is it possible that the Toyota Sienna is actually more capable than the Kia Telluride?

Toyota Sienna

Even in the world of minivans, it’s tough to compete with the original “swagger wagon.” The Sienna is currently in its third generation and has had the same body style since 2011, although it did get a facelift in 2018.

Under the hood, the Sienna is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine that pushes out 296 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque. The engine is mated to an eight-speed transmission and the power is sent to the front wheels, however, an all-wheel drivetrain is available, which comes in handy when the Sienna needs to tow a maximum of 3,500 pounds.

The Sienna seats up to 8 passengers although the higher trim levels will only seat 7 due to the available second-row captain’s chairs. Since it is a minivan, space is of the utmost importance as all the passengers have a large amount of head and legroom when the seats are in place.

But if all the seats are removed, the Toyota Sienna boasts a whopping 150 cubic feet of total cargo volume. That’s more than enough for when you need to stock up on bulk items or take a large haul from the local hardware store.

Kia Telluride

The Kia Telluride came out just last year and is currently living it up in the spotlight for its first year of the production line. Rightfully so, as the Telluride boasts a luxurious interior and boldly handsome exterior styling.

The Telluride is powered by a 3.8-liter V6 that produces 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque and is connected to an eight-speed transmission. This combination is good for a maximum tow rating of 5,000 pounds when configured with the optional all-wheel-drive system, however, a front-wheel-drive system is standard.

On the inside, the Telluride is capable of seating up to 8 passengers, however, seven seats are the usual configuration when captain’s chairs are chosen. As far as cargo room, the Telluride has a total of 87 cubic feet in order to store people and their cargo.

Is the Toyota Sienna more capable?

If you really need the extra tow capacity, then it’s a no-brainer that an SUV like the Kia Telluride would be a better way to go than a minivan. However, when it comes to hauling around your family and all their stuff in the most comfort possible, then the Toyota Sienna would be the wiser choice.

As far as capability, both vehicles have all-wheel drive and plenty of interior space to put stuff in it. However, the Sienna has a more pragmatic capability, thanks to its lower entry height and power sliding doors that make it more superior and easier to live with when it comes to daily driving duties.

In that case, we would say that the Sienna is more capable than the Telluride when it comes to familial convenience and all-around usage.

So if you’re thinking about getting an SUV for your family, we would suggest that you consider a minivan as well because you never know, the swagger wagon might just win you over.