Kia K5 vs Toyota Highlander

2025 Kia K5 at Kia of Columbia

Compare the Kia Telluride vs the Toyota Highlander

When choosing a three-row SUV that combines family capability with premium refinement, the 2025 Kia Telluride for sale in Columbia and near Chesterfield, MO and the 2025 Toyota Highlander represent two distinct philosophies in midsize SUV design. While both deliver practical family transportation, the Telluride excels with superior interior space, advanced safety technology, and exceptional value proposition—making it the intelligent choice for discerning families. Let's examine how the Kia Telluride delivers more capability per dollar than its competitors.

All-Weather Capability & Missouri Driving Conditions

2025 Kia Telluride: Designed for Missouri's variable climate with:

  • Intelligent All-Wheel Drive with terrain management system
  • Snow, Mud, and Sand drive modes for optimal traction
  • Heated and ventilated front seats with heated rear seats
  • Remote start with climate pre-conditioning for comfort
Kia Telluride All-Weather Driving Capability

2025 Toyota Highlander: AWD available but with limitations:

  • Basic AWD system without advanced terrain modes
  • Fewer cold-weather comfort features standard
  • Less sophisticated traction management for challenging conditions

Interior Tech & Connectivity

2025 Kia Telluride: Features a cutting-edge 12.3-inch touchscreen with UVO Connect, wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, and an available premium Harman Kardon® sound system with crystal-clear audio reproduction.

Interior Dimensions:

  • Passenger Volume: 178.6 cu ft
  • Cargo Capacity: 21.0 cu ft (behind 3rd row)
  • Legroom (1st/2nd/3rd): 41.4" / 42.4" / 31.4"
Kia Telluride 12.3-inch Display Technology

2025 Toyota Highlander: Equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen system that feels dated compared to modern standards, with slower processing and limited customization options.

Interior Dimensions:

  • Passenger Volume: 173.3 cu ft
  • Cargo Capacity: 16.0 cu ft (behind 3rd row)
  • Legroom (1st/2nd/3rd): 42.3" / 41.0" / 27.7"

Cargo Space & Family Practicality

2025 Kia Telluride: Engineered for maximum family utility with:

  • 21.0 cu ft behind third row, expandable to 87.0 cu ft
  • Wide rear opening with low load floor for easy loading
  • One-touch second-row seat folding for third-row access
  • Multiple storage compartments and family-friendly features
2025 Kia Telluride Cargo Space and Storage

2025 Toyota Highlander: More constrained cargo management:

  • 16.0 cu ft behind third row, expanding to 84.3 cu ft
  • Higher load floor makes loading bulky items challenging
  • Less intuitive seat-folding mechanisms

Performance & Powertrain Engineering

2025 Kia Telluride: Powered by a robust 3.8L V6 GDI engine producing 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. This proven powertrain delivers confident acceleration and smooth highway cruising with exceptional reliability.

Fuel Economy (3.8L V6):

  • City: 20 mpg
  • Highway: 26 mpg
  • Combined: 23 mpg
2025 Kia Telluride V6 Engine Performance

2025 Toyota Highlander: Features a 3.5L V6 engine (295 hp / 263 lb-ft) with an 8-speed automatic, delivering similar output but with higher maintenance costs and less standard equipment for the price point.

Fuel Economy (3.5L V6):

  • City: 21 mpg
  • Highway: 29 mpg
  • Combined: 24 mpg

Advanced Safety Technology

2025 Kia Telluride: Standard Kia Drive Wise suite provides comprehensive protection with:

  • Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Pedestrian & Cyclist Detection
  • Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist with active intervention
  • Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist for parking safety
  • Highway Driving Assist 2 with advanced lane centering technology
Kia Telluride Drive Wise Safety Suite

2025 Toyota Highlander: Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 offers basic protection but lacks:

  • Advanced collision avoidance intervention systems
  • Comprehensive blind-spot monitoring with steering correction
  • Sophisticated driver attention monitoring algorithms

Who Should Choose the 2025 Kia Telluride?

  • Growing families requiring maximum interior space and third-row comfort
  • Safety-conscious parents seeking advanced collision prevention technology
  • Value-focused buyers wanting premium features without luxury pricing
  • Drivers prioritizing comprehensive warranty protection and peace of mind
Kia Telluride Ideal Family Vehicle

Experience the 2025 Kia Telluride Today!

The 2025 Kia Telluride represents the evolution of family transportation, combining three-row capability with premium amenities and industry-leading safety technology. Its spacious interior, advanced driver assistance systems, and comprehensive warranty coverage deliver exceptional value that extends far beyond the initial purchase price.

Key Features

  • Three-row seating with capacity for up to eight passengers
  • Standard 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system
  • Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration
  • Smart key with push-button start
  • Five USB charging ports throughout the cabin
  • Dual-zone automatic climate control
  • Smart Power Liftgate for easy cargo access
  • 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat
  • Heated front seats with ventilation capabilities
  • Leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob

While the Toyota Highlander offers solid reliability, the 2025 Kia Telluride provides superior space utilization, more advanced safety features, and better overall value proposition. For families seeking maximum capability and peace of mind, visit our car dealership located in Columbia and near Chesterfield, MO or explore our online Kia Telluride inventory today.

Take the next step: Schedule your test drive, speak with our finance experts, or apply for auto financing online today!