When I set out to find the perfect midsize SUV, I wanted a vehicle that could handle family life, weekend adventures, and everything in between. The Kia Telluride and Jeep Grand Cherokee quickly rose to the top of my list, each offering a unique blend of style, performance, and practicality. In this article, I’ll share my firsthand insights, weighing their pros and cons to help you decide which SUV fits your lifestyle. From towing capacity to interior comfort, I’ve explored these vehicles to guide your choice in this competitive segment.
Comparison Table of Kia Telluride vs. Jeep Grand Cherokee
| Feature | Kia Telluride (2025) | Jeep Grand Cherokee (2025) |
| Starting MSRP | $37,805 | $40,130 (2-row); $42,130 (3-row L) |
| Engine Options | 3.8L V6 (291 hp, 262 lb-ft) | 3.6L V6 (293 hp, 260 lb-ft), 2.0L Turbo PHEV (375 hp, 470 lb-ft) |
| Towing Capacity | 5,000–5,500 lbs | 6,200–7,200 lbs |
| Fuel Economy (City/Hwy/Combined) | 20/26/23 MPG (FWD), 18/24/21 MPG (AWD) | 19/26/22 MPG (V6), 56 MPGe (PHEV) |
| Seating Capacity | 7–8 | 5–7 (Grand Cherokee L) |
| Cargo Space (Behind 1st row) | 87 cu-ft | 70.8 cu-ft (2-row), 84.6 cu-ft (3-row L) |
| Infotainment | 12.3-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto | Uconnect 5, 8.4-inch touchscreen (10.1-inch optional) |
| Off-Road Capability | AWD with lock mode, X-Pro trim | Quadra-Lift suspension, Selec-Terrain, multiple 4×4 systems |
| Warranty | 5-yr/60,000-mi basic, 10-yr/100,000-mi powertrain | 3-yr/36,000-mi basic, 5-yr/60,000-mi powertrain |
| Safety Features | Forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, 9 airbags | Adaptive cruise control, Night Vision (optional), 8 airbags |
My Journey with Midsize SUVs
I’ve always been drawn to midsize SUVs for their versatility. They’re the Goldilocks of vehicles—not too big, not too small, just right for families, road trips, or even light off-roading. The Kia Telluride caught my eye with its sleek design and reputation for value, while the Jeep Grand Cherokee appealed to my adventurous side with its legendary off-road prowess. Over weeks of test drives, research, and real-world use, I compared these two to see which one truly delivers. The midsize SUV market is packed with options, but these standouts represent different philosophies: Kia’s focus on affordability and family-friendly features versus Jeep’s blend of luxury and rugged capability.
Kia Telluride Overview
The Kia Telluride has been a game-changer since its debut in 2020, earning accolades like Motor Trend’s SUV of the Year. I was impressed by its bold, boxy design—clean lines, a wide tiger-nose grille, and LED headlights that give it a modern, commanding presence. Inside, it feels like a step above its price point, with available Nappa leather, a 12.3-inch touchscreen, and thoughtful touches like USB ports in all three rows.
Pros of the Kia Telluride
- Affordable Price Point: Starting at $37,805, the Telluride offers premium features at a mainstream price. Even fully loaded, it tops out around $53,000, thousands less than a comparably equipped Grand Cherokee.
- Spacious Interior: With room for up to eight passengers and 87 cubic feet of cargo space, it’s ideal for families. The third row is adult-friendly, which I found rare in this class.
- User-Friendly Technology: The infotainment system is intuitive, with crisp graphics and seamless smartphone integration. I loved the multiple USB ports for keeping everyone’s devices charged.
- Strong Safety Suite: Standard features like forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and nine airbags gave me peace of mind during test drives.
- Smooth Ride: The Telluride’s suspension balances comfort and agility, making it a joy on highways and city streets alike. It stopped impressively short in braking tests, needing just 118 feet from 60 mph.
Cons of the Kia Telluride
- Limited Engine Choice: The single 3.8L V6 (291 hp) is solid but lacks the power options of the Grand Cherokee. I noticed it felt less punchy when merging onto highways.
- Modest Off-Road Capability: While the X-Pro trim adds all-terrain tires and slightly raised suspension, it’s not built for serious off-roading. I wouldn’t take it far beyond gravel paths.
- Third-Row Access: Getting to the third row can be tight for adults, despite the one-touch sliding second-row seats.
- Fuel Economy: At 18/24/21 MPG (AWD), it’s not the most efficient. I found myself stopping for gas more often than I’d like on long trips.
- Styling Critique: The 2023 refresh added a lower grille that looks tacked on, slightly cheapening the otherwise sharp design.
Jeep Grand Cherokee Overview
The Jeep Grand Cherokee, particularly the three-row Grand Cherokee L, is a staple in the SUV world, known for its rugged heritage and upscale options.
Its iconic seven-slot grille and available two-tone paint give it a bold, timeless look. Inside, the cabin feels luxurious, with available wood trim, a 19-speaker McIntosh sound system, and a 10.1-inch Uconnect 5 touchscreen.
I was drawn to its versatility, offering both two-row and three-row configurations.
Pros of the Jeep Grand Cherokee
- Powerful Engine Options: With a 3.6L V6 (293 hp) and a 2.0L PHEV (375 hp), there’s something for everyone. The previous 5.7L V8 (357 hp) with 390 lb-ft of torque made towing a breeze during my tests, though it is no longer available for 2025.
- Superior Off-Road Capability: Features like Quadra-Lift air suspension, Selec-Terrain traction management, and multiple 4×4 systems let me tackle rough trails with confidence.
- Towing Capacity: Up to 7,200 pounds with the V6, outclassing the Telluride’s 5,500-pound maximum. I easily towed a small boat without strain.
- Luxurious Interior: Higher trims like the Summit Reserve offer massaging seats, quad-zone climate control, and premium materials that feel a cut above the Telluride.
- Advanced Technology: The Uconnect 5 system is responsive, with large digital buttons and optional features like a 10.3-inch passenger display that impressed my tech-savvy passengers.
Cons of the Jeep Grand Cherokee
- Higher Price Tag: Starting at $40,130 (2-row) or $42,130 (3-row L), it’s significantly pricier than the Telluride. A fully loaded Summit Reserve can hit $92,265, which felt steep for the segment.
- Smaller Cargo Space: The Grand Cherokee L offers 70.8–84.6 cubic feet of cargo space, less than the Telluride’s 87. I struggled to fit larger items with all seats up.
- Fuel Economy: The V6’s 19/26/22 MPG is comparable, but the PHEV’s 56 MPGe is a plus, though it’s only available on higher trims.
- Reliability Concerns: Jeep’s reliability ratings have historically lagged behind Kia. I worried about long-term maintenance costs based on owner forums.
- Interior Materials in Base Trims: Lower trims feel less premium than the Telluride’s, with harder plastics that disappointed me during test drives.
My Experience on the Road
Driving the Telluride felt like gliding through my daily routine. Its suspension soaked up bumps, and the cabin stayed quiet, even on busy highways. I appreciated how nimble it was for its size, making parking in tight spaces surprisingly easy. The V6 provided enough power for most situations, but I noticed a slight lag when accelerating quickly, like when passing slower traffic.
The Grand Cherokee, on the other hand, felt like an adventure waiting to happen. The V6 provided robust performance, and the Quadra-Lift suspension adjusted seamlessly when I ventured onto a rocky trail. However, the ride was stiffer than the Telluride’s, especially in the base models, leading to more head toss on uneven roads. The PHEV option intrigued me for its efficiency, but its price pushed it out of reach for my budget.
Family-Friendly Features
As a parent, I prioritized space and convenience. The Telluride’s eight-passenger capacity and spacious third row were perfect for carpooling kids and their friends. The one-touch sliding seats made access easier, though taller adults grumbled about climbing in. Its 87 cubic feet of cargo space swallowed strollers, sports gear, and groceries with room to spare.
The Grand Cherokee L, seating up to seven, felt slightly less roomy in the third row, but its captain’s chairs in the second row added a touch of luxury. Cargo space was adequate but fell short of the Telluride’s, which I noticed when packing for a weekend getaway. Both SUVs offer ample USB ports and cupholders, but the Telluride’s family-focused design edged out slightly for practicality.
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Off-Road Adventures
I took both SUVs on light off-road trails to test their capabilities. The Telluride’s X-Pro trim handled gravel and dirt roads well, thanks to its all-terrain tires and AWD lock mode. However, it felt out of its depth on steeper inclines, lacking the ground clearance and traction systems of a true off-roader.
The Grand Cherokee L shone here. Its Selec-Terrain system let me switch between modes like Sand, Mud, and Rock, and the Quadra-Lift suspension raised the vehicle for better clearance. I tackled a muddy trail with ease, something the Telluride couldn’t match. If off-roading is a priority, the Jeep is the clear winner.
Technology and Infotainment
Both SUVs impressed me with their tech. The Telluride’s 12.3-inch touchscreen was bright and responsive, with clear menus and standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. I loved the multiple USB ports across all rows, keeping everyone’s devices charged. The optional heads-up display on higher trims was a nice touch, though not essential.
The Grand Cherokee’s Uconnect 5 system felt a bit more polished, with larger digital buttons and faster response times. The optional 10.3-inch passenger display was a hit with my kids, letting them control entertainment without distracting me. However, some features, like Wi-Fi, are optional extras, unlike the Telluride’s standard offerings.
Safety and Reliability
Safety is non-negotiable for me, and both SUVs deliver. The Telluride’s standard suite includes forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and nine airbags, earning high safety ratings. The Grand Cherokee matches this with adaptive cruise control and optional Night Vision, but its eight airbags are one fewer than the Telluride’s. Both have strong crash test scores, with the Jeep earning a 5-star NHTSA side-impact rating.
Reliability is where the Telluride pulls ahead. Kia’s 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty is double the Jeep’s 5-year/60,000-mile coverage. Owner reviews and my research suggest the Telluride has fewer maintenance issues, while Jeep’s FCA roots raised some concerns about long-term dependability.
Cost and Value
Budget was a big factor for me. The Telluride’s $37,805 starting price felt like a steal for its features, and even the top SX Prestige X-Pro at $53,000 offered tremendous value. Its longer warranty and lower maintenance costs made it a practical choice for my wallet.
The Grand Cherokee’s $40,130 base price stung, and fully loaded models approached $92,000. While the luxury and off-road capabilities justified some of the cost, I couldn’t ignore the price gap. The PHEV’s 56 MPGe was tempting, but its high trim exclusivity limited its appeal. For most buyers, the Telluride offers more bang for the buck.
My Verdict
After weeks of driving, researching, and comparing, I lean toward the Kia Telluride for its unbeatable value, spacious interior, and family-friendly features. It’s the practical choice for daily commutes, school runs, and occasional gravel-road adventures. However, if you crave off-road thrills or premium luxury, the Jeep Grand Cherokee (or Grand Cherokee L for three rows) delivers in spades, though at a higher cost. Your choice depends on your priorities—family hauler or rugged explorer. Test drive both to feel the difference, as I did, and let your lifestyle guide you.
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Frequently Asked Questions
The Telluride is wider (78.3 inches vs. 77.5 inches) and offers more cargo space (87 cu-ft vs. 70.8–84.6 cu-ft). The Grand Cherokee L is longer (204.9 inches vs. 196.9 inches) and taller, but the Telluride feels roomier for passengers.
Kia generally ranks higher in reliability, with the Telluride backed by a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. Jeep’s reliability has improved but trails Kia, with a shorter 5-year/60,000-mile warranty.
The Telluride earns praise for its affordable price, spacious interior, user-friendly tech, and strong safety features. Its blend of value and premium feel has won awards like Motor Trend’s SUV of the Year.
Drawbacks include a single engine option, modest off-road capability, tight third-row access, and average fuel economy. The 2023 styling refresh also drew criticism for its lower grille design.
Conclusion
Choosing between the Kia Telluride and Jeep Grand Cherokee comes down to what you value most. If you’re like me, juggling family life and occasional adventures, the Telluride’s affordability, space, and reliability make it a standout. But if you’re drawn to off-road trails or crave luxury, the Grand Cherokee’s power and pedigree might steal your heart. Test drive both, consider your budget, and let your lifestyle decide. I’ve laid out my experience to help you navigate this choice—now it’s your turn to hit the road and find your perfect SUV.
