When shopping for a new SUV you have probably come across both the 2023 Ford Explorer as well as the Kia Telluride. Both of these SUVs have different features and will provide different ride experiences. In this guide we will compare the differences between the two, how they perform, and what you can expect for these 2023 models.
Key Takeaways:
- The Ford Escape and the Kia Telluride offer a good amount of power from their drivetrains, however, the Ford Explorer has three engine options, whereas the Kia Telluride only has one engine option.
- These two SUV based vehicles offer similar towing, with only a 100 lbs. towing capacity difference.
- With a platform that is geared toward an active lifestyle the 2023 Ford Explorer has been equipped with many amenities to keep you moving and connected in the world.
Available Powertrains:
The 2023 Ford Explorer comes with a couple of different engine options. The two gasoline options make a good amount of horsepower and the hybrid option can help you save on gas at the pump. With these multiple engine options you will be able to choose the best platform to fit your driving needs. All three of these engines will be hooked up to a 10 speed automatic transmission.
2023 Ford Explorer Engine Options:
- 2.3 liter 4 cylinder (300 horsepower, 310 lbs. of torque)
- 3.0 liter twin turbo (400 horsepower, 415 lbs. of torque)
- 3.3 liter V6 Hybrid (318 horsepower, 322 lbs. of torque)
Kia on the other hand has only one engine option for their new 2023 Telluride. This engine is found from the base level trim of the LX all the way up to the top-tier trim, SX Prestige X-Pro. There is not a hybrid option at this time for this model.
2023 Kia Telluride Engine:
- 3.8 liter V6 configuration (291 horsepower, 262 lbs. of torque)
This engine will be mated to an 8 speed automatic transmission.
Towing and Ride Comfort:
These two vehicles are very similar in what they are able to handle when it comes to the towing aspect of driving. The 2023 Ford Explorer is able to tow 100 pounds more than the Kia Telluride when properly configured. The Explorer can tow a max of 5,600 pounds when set up with the correct tow packages, this sits just above the Kia Telluride which is able to tow a max of 5,500 pounds when properly equipped.
With that being said both of these vehicles have systems in place to help you while you are towing your trailers and campers. Ford Explorers have Trailer Sway Control which will help monitor and maintain engine speed in order to optimize your vehicle while towing. The Kia Telluride has a similar feature called Trailer Stability Assist which will help to apply brakes when needed in order to help you while towing.
Interior Amenities:
Ford has put a lot of thought into what the interior of these new Explorers are going to look like. They have emphasized the fact that their vehicle is made for individuals who are on the go, have a very active lifestyle, and need to have an SUV that can support that sort of lifestyle. Here are a few of the options you will see in the 2023 Ford Explorer.
Interior Features in the 2023 Ford Explorer:
- Contouring front seats designed with Active Motion.
- Seating to carry 7 total passengers.
- Twin power moonroof.
- Cargo management system.
- Power Fold third row seating.
- SYNC 3 Technology.
This is not a comprehensive list of all of the features the Explorers offer, but they are the most notable. On the other hand, the Kia Telluride focuses on the standard safety features that come with the purchase of these vehicles.
Interior Features in the 2023 Kia Telluride:
- Heated and Ventilated front and rear seats.
- Seating to carry 8 total passengers.
- Open Air Dual Sunroofs.
- 12.3 Dual Panoramic touch screen display.
Your Next SUV:
While both of these SUVs line up to be quite similar it becomes clear that a new 2023 Ford Explorer would be the best option. With three different engine options the Ford Explorer can be configured to meet your driving needs. While the Kia Telluride may start at a cheaper starting price of $35,950 and the Ford Explorer starts at $36,760, you will have more options to design the Ford to fit your lifestyle and meet your everyday driving needs.