With their rugged style, high-end comfort, and streamlined performance, the 2020 Ford Explorer and Kia Telluride seem like pound-for-pound competitors. But when you look closer, you’ll see that one of these crossover SUVs actually stands apart. Check out our comparison guide to learn more.
Sheer Style: 2020 Kia Telluride
With its distinctive headlights and sturdy stance, you can see the Telluride coming from a long way off. It’s equally stylish inside. And the Telluride cabin really works to deliver something extra, with clean-cut design and high-end materials on offer.
You’ll recognize the 2020 Ford Explorer at first sight, though from down the road it’s not quite as distinctive as the Telluride. The Explorer might be newly redesigned, but it’s got classic Ford style, including a big, shiny grill and chiseled body panels.
Maximum Comfort: It’s a Tie!
If family-style comfort is high on your list of must-have features, choosing between the 2020 Ford Explorer and Kia Telluride just got a little tougher. Both of these crossover SUVs puts an emphasis on seating comfort, so you and your entire family can coast along in total bliss. And both SUVs offer an impressive array of upscale items, from classic leather upholstery to heated-and-ventilated front seats.
Rugged Performance: 2020 Ford Explorer
Rugged Performance: 2020 Ford Explorer
This year’s Explorer is one for the books. After years of front-wheel-drive performance, the Explorer is reverting to its sporty rear-wheel-drive ways. But, unlike the truck-based models of old, this new edition pairs rear-wheel drive with unibody construction for a ride that’s both sporty and highly maneuverable. And, should you crave extra traction, you can always add all-wheel-drive capabilities.
You can add all-wheel drive to your Kia Telluride too, but you won’t enjoy the sporty benefits of rear-wheel drive. The Telluride’s performance is based on front-wheel-drive power.
The 2020 Explorer also tows more, though both crossover SUVs are pretty impressive in the towing department. Depending on equipment, the Explorer can tow up to 5,600 pounds. The Telluride maxes out at 5,000 pounds. Depending on how big your boat is, you may need the Explorer.
Smartest Drive: 2020 Ford Explorer
Smartest Drive: 2020 Ford Explorer
The Explorer comes standard with just about every imaginable infotainment feature, including a savvy 8-inch touchscreen, complete smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot.
The Kia Telluride is almost as connected, if not quite so much. It lacks a Wi-Fi connection, so you’re going to have to come up with your own. However, you can charge smartphones and tablets in every row, thanks to a smattering of USB ports throughout the cabin. In fact, the Telluride is really big on smartphone connectivity. It too comes standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capabilities.
The all-new Kia Telluride might draw you in with its refreshing good looks, but the 2020 Explorer wins you over with its unparalleled rugged substance. It’s our all-around pick for family hauling and outdoor adventure.