Volvo XC90 Vs. Kia Telluride: A Family SUV Showdown

I’ve spent time behind the wheel of both the 2025 Volvo XC90 and the 2025 Kia Telluride, two midsize SUVs that promise space, comfort, and tech for families like mine. My goal here is to share my firsthand experience, breaking down their strengths and weaknesses to help you decide which fits your life best.

With a focus on performance, safety, interior quality, and value, I’ll compare these vehicles through a detailed lens, offering a clear picture of what it’s like to live with each. Below, a comparison table sets the stage, followed by my in-depth thoughts.

Volvo XC90 Vs. Kia Telluride Comparison

My Experience With the Volvo XC90

Driving the Volvo XC90 felt like stepping into a Scandinavian sanctuary.

The minimalist interior, with its soft leather and wood accents, gave me a sense of calm, even during chaotic school runs.

The seats were plush, and the optional air suspension smoothed out bumpy roads, making long drives a breeze.

I tested the T8 Plug-In Hybrid, which impressed me with its 455 horsepower and 36 miles of electric range—perfect for short commutes without burning gas.

The 9-inch touchscreen, while sleek, took some getting used to, as many controls are buried in menus. Safety features like Pilot Assist, a semi-autonomous driving mode, made highway cruising feel effortless, though I noticed the third row was tight for adults.

The XC90’s exterior design is elegant yet understated, turning heads without shouting for attention. Its handling surprised me; despite its size, it felt nimble around corners, especially with the B6 engine’s 295 horsepower. However, the base B5’s 247 horsepower felt underpowered for quick merges.

Fuel economy was a highlight, especially with the T8’s 27 mpg combined, but the premium fuel requirement stung a bit. Cargo space was decent, but I struggled to fit larger items with all seats up. Overall, the XC90 felt like a luxury retreat, prioritizing comfort and safety, though its price tag and smaller interior made me question its value for larger families.

Pros of the Volvo XC90

• Luxurious interior quality: The XC90’s cabin feels like a high-end lounge, with premium materials like leatherette and wood trim. The seats are incredibly comfortable, with adjustable side bolsters and lumbar support, making long drives enjoyable. Even the base trim feels upscale, a step above many competitors.
• Advanced safety suite: Volvo’s reputation for safety shines. Standard features include forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. The optional Pilot Assist system, which handles steering and acceleration on highways, gave me confidence during heavy traffic.
• Hybrid powertrain option: The T8 Plug-In Hybrid delivers 455 horsepower and 36 miles of electric range, ideal for eco-conscious drivers. I loved the seamless transition between electric and gas modes, saving fuel on short trips.
• Smooth ride quality: The optional air suspension absorbs bumps effortlessly, making the XC90 feel refined on rough roads. Even without it, the standard suspension offers a composed ride, though larger wheels can make it jittery.
• Elegant design: The XC90’s sleek lines and minimalist aesthetic stand out. It’s sophisticated without being flashy, appealing to those who value understated luxury.
• Fuel efficiency: The B5 gets 22/28 mpg (city/highway), and the T8’s 27 mpg combined is impressive for a midsize SUV. This helped keep my fuel costs down compared to gas-only rivals.

Cons of the Volvo XC90

• High starting price: At $58,080, the XC90 is pricier than many competitors, including the Telluride. Adding options like the T8 powertrain or air suspension pushes it closer to $80,000, which felt steep for my budget.
• Cramped third row: The third row is best for kids. As an adult, I found it tight, with limited legroom and headroom, making it less practical for larger families.
• Small cargo space: With 11.2 cubic feet behind the third row in the T8 (15.8 in B5/B6), I struggled to fit strollers or sports gear without folding seats, unlike roomier rivals.
• Complex infotainment system: The 9-inch touchscreen looks sleek but buries critical functions like climate controls in menus. I fumbled during drives, which was frustrating compared to physical buttons.
• Base engine lacks power: The B5’s 247 horsepower felt sluggish during highway merges, requiring careful planning to pass slower vehicles.
• Premium fuel requirement: All XC90 engines need premium unleaded, which increased my fuel costs compared to vehicles like the Telluride that use regular gas.

My Experience With the Kia Telluride

The Kia Telluride was a revelation—a family SUV that punches above its price tag.

Sliding into the driver’s seat, I was greeted by a spacious, well-designed cabin that rivaled luxury brands.

The 12.3-inch touchscreen was intuitive, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto making navigation a breeze.

The 291-horsepower V6 felt peppy, hitting 0-60 mph in 6.8 seconds, and the ride was smooth, though not as refined as the XC90’s.

I took it on a weekend trip, and the generous cargo space (21 cubic feet behind the third row) easily swallowed luggage and camping gear.

The Telluride’s bold, boxy design drew compliments, and its 8.4 inches of ground clearance handled light off-road trails with ease. Safety features like blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control were standard, giving me peace of mind.

The third row was surprisingly roomy, fitting adults comfortably, and the 10-year/100,000-mile warranty felt like a safety net. However, the fuel economy (20/26 mpg FWD) was average, and the lack of a hybrid option disappointed me. The Telluride felt like a practical, value-packed choice, but it lacked the XC90’s premium polish.

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Pros of the Kia Telluride

• Affordable pricing: Starting at $39,858, the Telluride offers incredible value. Even loaded SX trims stay under $56,000, making it accessible for families without sacrificing features.
• Spacious interior: With 157.1 cubic feet of passenger space and a roomy third row, the Telluride comfortably fit my family and friends. The 42.4 inches of second-row legroom was a standout.
• Generous cargo capacity: The 21 cubic feet behind the third row (87 with seats folded) made packing for trips effortless. I fit a stroller, groceries, and sports gear without issue.
• User-friendly infotainment: The 12.3-inch touchscreen is crisp and responsive, with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Physical buttons for key functions made adjustments easy on the go.
• Robust safety features: Standard features include forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. The Telluride’s 5-star NHTSA rating reassured me.
• Long warranty: The 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty is unmatched, giving me confidence in long-term reliability. Kia’s extensive dealer network also made servicing convenient.

Cons of the Kia Telluride

• No hybrid option: Unlike the XC90, the Telluride lacks a hybrid or plug-in hybrid, limiting eco-friendly options. Its 20/26 mpg (FWD) was underwhelming for my fuel-conscious mindset.
• Average ride quality: The suspension handles well but feels firmer than the XC90, especially on rough roads. It’s comfortable but lacks the plushness of luxury rivals.
• Limited engine choice: The single 291-horsepower V6 is solid but lacks the versatility of the XC90’s multiple powertrains. I wished for a more powerful or efficient option.
• Less premium interior: While upscale, the Telluride’s materials (like SynTex in base trims) don’t match the XC90’s leather and wood. Higher trims close the gap but still feel less refined.
• Smaller dealer network for luxury buyers: Though Kia dealers are plentiful, they lack the premium service experience Volvo offers, which mattered for my upscale expectations.
• Fuel economy lags: The 19/24 mpg (AWD) is decent but trails the XC90’s hybrid efficiency, increasing my fuel costs over time.

Comparing Driving Dynamics

The Volvo XC90 and Kia Telluride offer distinct driving experiences. The XC90’s optional air suspension and precise handling made it feel agile despite its 4,600-pound weight. I took it through winding roads, and the T8’s 455 horsepower delivered thrilling acceleration, hitting 60 mph in about 5 seconds. The B5, however, felt underpowered, taking nearly 7.5 seconds to reach 60 mph. The XC90’s steering was light yet responsive, and the cabin stayed quiet, even at highway speeds. However, larger 21-inch wheels introduced some jitteriness over bumps, which I noticed on rural roads.

The Telluride, with its 291-horsepower V6, felt punchy for daily driving, reaching 60 mph in 6.8 seconds. Its 8-speed automatic shifted smoothly, and the optional AWD handled wet roads confidently. The ride was firm but not harsh, though it didn’t match the XC90’s refinement over potholes. I appreciated the Telluride’s 8.4 inches of ground clearance for light off-road adventures, like a gravel trail to a campsite. However, road noise was more noticeable than in the XC90, especially on highways. For families prioritizing fun handling, the XC90 edges out, but the Telluride’s simplicity suits everyday needs.

Interior Comfort and Technology

Inside the XC90, I felt enveloped in luxury. The leather seats, wood trim, and 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster screamed sophistication.

The front seats offered heating, ventilation, and massage functions, which were a godsend on long drives.

However, the 9-inch touchscreen frustrated me—adjusting climate settings required navigating submenus, pulling my focus from the road.

The Bowers & Wilkins audio system (optional) was a highlight, delivering crisp sound for my playlists. The second row was spacious, but the third row felt cramped for adults, limiting its use for extended trips.

The Telluride’s interior, while not as luxurious, impressed with practicality. The 12.3-inch touchscreen was a standout, with sharp graphics and quick responses. Apple CarPlay integration was seamless, and physical buttons for climate and audio made adjustments intuitive.

The second row offered 42.4 inches of legroom, letting my teenagers sprawl out comfortably. The third row was a game-changer—adults could sit without complaint, a rare feat in midsize SUVs. Higher trims like the SX added Nappa leather and a head-up display, closing the gap with luxury rivals. Storage was another win, with cubbies and cupholders galore.

Safety and Reliability

Both SUVs prioritize safety, earning 5-star NHTSA ratings. The XC90’s standard suite includes automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. The optional Pilot Assist system, which I tested, handled highway steering and braking with eerie precision, reducing fatigue. Volvo’s reputation for safety gave me confidence, though its 4-year/50,000-mile warranty felt short compared to Kia’s.

The Telluride matches the XC90 with standard safety features like forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and rear cross-traffic alert. Its IIHS Top Safety Pick Plus award for 2019 impressed me, reflecting strong crash test performance. The 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty was a major plus, easing worries about long-term costs. I found Kia’s dealer network more accessible, though service experiences varied compared to Volvo’s polished showrooms.

Value and Ownership Costs

The Telluride’s starting price of $39,858 is a steal compared to the XC90’s $58,080. Even fully loaded, the Telluride SX Prestige stays under $56,000, while a loaded XC90 T8 can hit $88,000. The Telluride’s lower price and longer warranty make it a budget-friendly choice, though its 20/26 mpg (FWD) and regular unleaded fuel keep running costs reasonable. Resale value is another strength, with the Telluride retaining 53.9% of its value after five years, per iSeeCars data.

The XC90’s higher price reflects its luxury positioning, but premium fuel and a 54.4% five-year depreciation rate increase ownership costs. Volvo’s 3-year/30,000-mile free maintenance is a perk, covering oil changes and inspections, which Kia lacks. For budget-conscious buyers, the Telluride offers more bang for the buck, but the XC90 justifies its cost with premium features and hybrid efficiency.

Off-Road and Towing Capabilities

The Telluride’s 8.4 inches of ground clearance gave it an edge for light off-road tasks, like navigating gravel trails to a campsite. Its AWD system handled mud and loose terrain well, though it’s no hardcore off-roader. Towing capacity maxes out at 5,000 pounds, sufficient for small boats or trailers, but I needed the EX or SX trim for the tow hitch.

The XC90 matches the 5,000-pound towing capacity (T8 and B6), and I towed a small camper without strain. Its AWD system felt capable on slick surfaces, but the 8.1-inch ground clearance limited off-road adventures compared to the Telluride. For families needing occasional towing or light off-roading, both SUVs deliver, but the Telluride’s ground clearance gives it a slight edge.

Design and Styling

The XC90’s sleek, minimalist design exudes sophistication. Its Thor’s Hammer LED headlights and clean lines made it a standout at school drop-offs. Inside, the Scandinavian aesthetic felt timeless, though the small touchscreen slightly dated the cabin. The Telluride, with its boxy, rugged look, turned heads with bold confidence. Its head- and taillight designs added flair, and the interior’s modern layout felt fresh, especially in higher trims. While the XC90 leans toward elegance, the Telluride’s bold presence appeals to those wanting a standout SUV.

Family-Friendly Features

For families, the Telluride shines with its spacious third row and 21 cubic feet of cargo space behind it. I easily fit car seats, booster seats, and sports gear. Features like the in-car intercom (SX trim) let me communicate with kids in the back without yelling. The XC90’s integrated booster seat was a clever touch, but its tighter third row and 11.2 cubic feet of cargo (T8) limited practicality. Both offer ample USB ports and cupholders, but the Telluride’s extra space and family-focused features made it the better hauler.

Long-Term Ownership

Owning the Telluride feels like a safe bet, thanks to its long warranty and strong resale value. Kia’s dealer network is widespread, though service quality can vary. The XC90 offers a premium ownership experience, with free maintenance and upscale dealerships, but its shorter warranty and higher depreciation raise concerns. I’d lean toward the Telluride for cost-conscious buyers, while the XC90 suits those prioritizing luxury and hybrid efficiency.

Read More: My Thoughts On  Ford Escape Vs. Mazda CX-5

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Conclusion

You’ll love the XC90 if you crave luxury, hybrid efficiency, and advanced safety. Its plush interior and smooth ride make it a serene choice, but the high cost and tight third row may not suit larger families. It’s best for those prioritizing refinement over space.The Telluride is your pick if you want space, value, and family-friendly features. Its roomy interior, long warranty, and lower price make it a practical choice, though it lacks the XC90’s premium feel and hybrid options. It’s ideal for budget-conscious families.