2024 Kia Telluride vs 2025 Ford Explorer

In Canada, the 2024 Kia Telluride was available in five trims, including the EX, SX, SX Limited, X-Line, and X-Pro, all featuring standard all-wheel drive. The X-Line trim added a centimetre of ground clearance and improved approach and departure angles, while the X-Pro trim enhanced off-road capabilities with 18-inch matte-black wheels and heavy-duty engine cooling, increasing towing capacity to 2,495 kilograms. Prices ranged from $53,433 to $66,133, with the X-Line trim showcasing a striking Wolf Gray paint. The Telluride's design updates maintained its attractive proportions, and the interior offered premium Nappa leather seats, though the black interior was less appealing compared to other available colours.

The 2025 Ford Explorer continued its sleek design with a refreshed front end, giving it a wider and more rugged appearance. New LED taillights and wheel designs enhanced its look. Interior updates significantly improved the Explorer's appeal, with competitive colours, materials, and displays. Ford reduced the trim levels to four: Active, ST-Line, Platinum, and ST, with prices from $52,830 to $71,430. During a driving event, the ST-Line trim impressed with its blue paint and Premium Package, offering a comfortable and stylish experience.

The 2024 Kia Telluride featured a 3.8-litre V6 engine producing 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It offered a towing capacity of 2,268 kilograms, with the X-Pro trim increasing it to 2,495 kilograms. The Telluride provided a smooth driving experience with responsive steering and brakes, though it lacked fuel efficiency, averaging 12.4 L/100 km. It offered various driving modes and a self-leveling rear suspension for enhanced comfort and capability.

The 2025 Ford Explorer offered two EcoBoost engines: a 2.3-litre four-cylinder with 300 horsepower and a 3.0-litre V6 with 400 horsepower. All models featured a 10-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. The Explorer's fuel economy varied, with the four-cylinder averaging 10.4 L/100 km combined, while the V6 in the ST trim averaged 11.6 L/100 km. The Explorer provided quick acceleration and responsive handling, with the ST-Line offering larger wheels for added performance. The V6 engine delivered impressive acceleration and a pleasant sound.

The 2024 Kia Telluride offered a comfortable interior, especially in higher trims with Nappa leather upholstery and heated and ventilated seats. The dual sunroof added light to the cabin, and the 12.3-inch touchscreen was user-friendly. The Telluride provided generous storage space, with a hands-free power liftgate and a maximum cargo volume of 2,463 litres. Roof rails on the X-Line and X-Pro trims added practicality.

The 2025 Ford Explorer seated six in its standard configuration, with an optional second-row bench seat increasing capacity to seven. The ST-Line trim featured heated front seats and a Premium Package with ambient lighting and a wireless charging pad. The Explorer offered good storage space, with a maximum cargo volume of 2,429 litres. The third-row seat was less comfortable for adults, but the overall interior was practical and well-designed.

The 2024 Kia Telluride came with a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, requiring a cable for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It included a Kia Connect trial subscription and features like satellite radio, a Harman Kardon audio system, and a digital key function. The Telluride offered a camera-based rearview mirror and a 10-inch head-up display for added convenience.

The 2025 Ford Explorer introduced the Ford Digital Experience with a 13.2-inch touchscreen, featuring Google Built-in, Amazon Alexa, and wireless smartphone integration. It offered a 5G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot and B&O sound systems. The Explorer's infotainment system was user-friendly, with Google Maps and app downloads enhancing functionality.

The 2024 Kia Telluride impressed with its standard driver assistance features, including collision avoidance, lane-keeping assist, and Highway Driving Assist. It offered safety upgrades like junction cross-traffic alert and a Blind-Spot View Monitor. The Telluride received a five-star overall crash test rating from NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS.

The 2025 Ford Explorer featured Ford CoPilot 360 Assist+ with adaptive cruise control and lane-centring assist. Higher trims included BlueCruise, Ford's hands-free highway driving system. The Explorer earned five-star side-impact and four-star rollover resistance ratings from NHTSA, with IIHS noting some headlight concerns.