The 2021 Kia Telluride and the 2021 Kia Sorento are pretty similar. They are both Kia models, after all. But there are some slight differences between them. One is more powerful than the other. One is also more fuel-efficient than the other. So, if you’re in the market for a three-row SUV from Kia, the question becomes, which one should you buy? 

The 2021 Kia Telluride offers more power under the hood

If you’re in the market for a family hauler that offers plenty of power under the hood, then the 2021 Kia Telluride might just be the perfect fit for you. This year’s model comes standard with a 291-hp 3.8-liter V6 engine under the hood. According to Consumer Reports, this year’s model is pretty enjoyable to drive too. Its engine offers “plenty of oomph” and the ride is “quite comfortable.”

As for the 2021 Kia Sorento? Its base engine isn’t quite as powerful. While the Telluride comes standard with a 291-hp engine, this year’s Sorento is standard with a 191-hp 2.5-liter 4 cylinder engine.

The 2021 Kia Sorento is more fuel-efficient than the Telluride

But the 2021 Kia Sorento does have the edge when it comes to fuel efficiency. According to the EPA, this year’s new Sorento is able to deliver an EPA-estimated 24 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. Opt for the hybrid model, and those numbers bump up to an EPA-estimated 39 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.

Unfortunately for this year’s Telluride, its EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings aren’t quite as impressive. According to the EPA, this year’s model is only able to manage 20 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. 

For added passenger space choose the 2021 Kia Telluride

There’s no beating around the bush here. Both the Kia Telluride and the Kia Sorento are three-row SUVs. But when it comes to which has more passenger space, the 2021 Kia Telluride wins out. While both models offer a similar amount of legroom in the front seat, the Telluride offers more headroom. It also offers significantly more hip and shoulder room than the Sorento.

And when it comes to cargo space? The Kia Telluride, once again, has the edge. While the Sorento offers 12.6 cubic-feet of cargo space, this year’s Telluride offers an impressive 21 cubic-feet of cargo space.

Here’s how much you can expect to spend on these SUVs

As it turns out, these SUVs are pretty similar in price. So, if you’re looking to save a few bucks, the savings between the Sorento and the Telluride is fairly minimal. Just take a look at the numbers. While the Kia Sorento’s base price starts at $29,390, the Telluride boasts a base price of $32,190. Opt for a fully loaded Sorento, and you’ll spend around $41,000. The Telluride, on the other hand, will have you spending at least $43,000 on a fully loaded model.

Which family hauler is the perfect fit for your brood? 

Choosing between these two SUVs isn’t going to be easy. If you’re after a powerful three-row SUV that offers plenty of space, then the Telluride is probably going to be a good fit for you. But if you value fuel efficiency? Then you may want to check out the Kia Sorento instead. Either way? We recommend stopping in at your local Kia dealership for a test drive.