2025 Honda Pilot vs. Kia Telluride vs Hyundai Palisade

Navigating the crowded field of midsize SUVs in order to find the one that’s best suited for your lifestyle can seem like a challenge at first. Rapid growth within this segment has caused more manufacturers to field entrants, providing buyers with more choices than ever before. Whether you’re searching for a roomy interior, capable performance, or innovative technology – a midsize SUV is a perfect tool for drivers all over the country.

In an effort to prove how the Honda Pilot sets the standard for its class, our team at Germain Honda of Dublin has created this informative comparison. You’ll see precisely how the Pilot stacks up against two of its biggest rivals – the Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade. Eager to see which model takes home the victory? Let’s get started!

Honda Pilot vs Kia Telluride

First up to compete against the Honda Pilot is the Kia Telluride. For fairness, we've selected equivalent trim levels for both models. Right from the start, the Pilot boasts a significant $1,890 price advantage over the rival Telluride (excluding destination charges)*. The value only grows as we continue down the list of advantages that you'll enjoy by driving a Honda Pilot.

Although they feature nearly identical performance specs, the Pilot has the edge in terms of highway fuel economy as compared to the Telluride. A large factor in this advantage is its more sophisticated 9-speed automatic transmission. Another bonus is its larger 20-inch alloy wheels, helping you make a memorable first impression upon your arrival. Its standard Tire Fill Assistant, a Pilot-exclusive feature, takes the guesswork out of adding air to your tires by providing a helping hand as you achieve the correct tire pressure.

On top of the already striking good looks of the Honda Pilot, you'll also benefit from standard LED headlights and fog lights integrated directly into the front fascia. Conversely, the Kia Telluride EX only includes inferior halogen headlights that have reduced longevity and visibility. Greater third-row headroom and legroom allow your passengers to stretch out and get comfortable. Rounding out the list of advantages for the Pilot over the Telluride is the fact that its turning radius is half a foot shorter than the Telluride.

Honda Pilot vs Hyundai Palisade

For our next comparison, we look at the Hyundai Palisade. As you can see, the pricing is nearly identical. Of course, identical pricing isn't the same as identical value so it's necessary to take a look at what that price actually gets you on each vehicle. The two vehicles also have nearly identical power outputs but we can see the difference emerge when we look at the transmissions. The Pilot boasts a more sophisticated 10-speed automatic transmission and that means smoother power delivery and better low-end torque. On top of that, the 20-inch wheels of the Honda Pilot let you look better while enjoying that low-end torque.

The larger and more versatile interior of the Honda Pilot is hard to miss with more seating, more cargo space, and a 40-20-40 folding rear seat. You get more and better equipment on the Pilot too with a standard 7-speaker stereo that also allows for active noise cancellation. Keyfob-activated window controls are another feature on the Pilot that you won't find on the Palisade. While you can get the Hyundai with front fog lights, they're only available on the higher trims. Clearly, the Pilot gives you a lot more for that nearly identical price.

*MSRP excluding tax, license, registration, and $1,450 destination charge for 2025 models, and accessories. Dealer prices may vary. MSRP does not include $455 charge for premium colors.

**19 city/27 highway/22 combined mpg rating for 2WD trims. 19 city/25 highway/21 combined mpg rating for non-TrailSport AWD trims. 18 city/23 highway/20 combined mpg rating for TrailSport. Based on 2025 EPA mileage ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle, driving conditions and other factors.