2023 Kia Telluride vs 2023 Nissan Pathfinder

2023 Kia Telluride

VEHICLE TYPE
Front-engine, all-wheel-drive, 7-passenger, 4-door wagon

PRICE
Base/As Tested: $34,560/$51,790
Options: Platinum trim, $12,780; lighting package, $795; two-tone + premium paint, $745; running boards, $730; carpeted floor mats, $255

POWERTRAIN
DOHC 24-valve V-6, aluminum block and heads, direct fuel injection
Displacement: 213 in³, 3498 cm³
Power: 284 hp @ 6400 rpm
Torque: 259 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm

TRANSMISSION
9-speed automatic

CHASSIS
Suspension, F/R: struts/multilink
Brakes, F/R: 13.8-in vented disc/13.0-in vented disc
Tires: Hankook Dynapro HP2
255/50R-20 105H M+S

DIMENSIONS
Wheelbase: 114.2 in
Length: 197.7 in
Width: 77.9 in
Height: 70.7 in
Passenger Volume: 145 ft³
Cargo Volume: 17 ft³
Curb Weight: 4638 lb

2023 Nissan Pathfinder

VEHICLE TYPE
Front-engine, all-wheel-drive, 7-passenger, 4-door wagon

PRICE
Base/As Tested: $40,225/$40,745
Options: Snowflake White Pearl paint, $395; rear bumper guard, $125

POWERTRAIN
turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 16-valve inline-4, aluminum block and head, direct fuel injection
Displacement: 152 in³, 2488 cm³
Power: 256 hp @ 5000 rpm
Torque: 320 lb-ft @ 2500 rpm

TRANSMISSION
6-speed automatic

CHASSIS
Suspension, F/R: struts/multilink
Brakes, F/R: 12.6-in vented disc/11.9-in disc
Tires: Toyo A36
P225/55R-19 99Z M+S

DIMENSIONS
Wheelbase: 106.2 in
Length: 180.1 in
Width: 72.6 in
Height: 66.3 in
Passenger Volume: 104 ft³
Cargo Volume: 29-31 ft³
Curb Weight: 3832 lb

A Comprehensive Comparison

Introduction

In the realm of mid-size SUVs, the 2023 Kia Telluride and the 2023 Nissan Pathfinder emerge as compelling options, each bringing distinctive features and attributes to the forefront. This in-depth comparison aims to dissect the key aspects of both the 2023 Kia Telluride and the 2023 Nissan Pathfinder, facilitating an informed decision based on individual preferences and needs.

Overview of the 2023 Kia Telluride:

The 2023 Kia Telluride, a perennial member of the 10Best Trucks and SUVs list, is a well-rounded package with stylish aesthetics and an attractive starting price of $37,255. Boasting a smooth V-6 engine, a serene cabin, and confident handling, the Telluride provides a refined on-road experience. With a 5500-pound towing capacity, it is a versatile choice for hauling. The 2023 model introduces a styling refresh, featuring a redesigned grille, headlamps, and a digital instrument panel with dual 12.3-inch screens. The Telluride lineup spans various trims, with the top-of-the-line SX trim delivering a near-luxury experience.

Key Points:

Well-rounded package with stylish design.
Smooth-running V-6 engine and confident handling.
Generous standard features and a refined on-road feel.
Styling refresh for 2023 with new digital instrument panel.
Top trim (SX) offers a near-luxury experience.

Overview of the 2023 Nissan Pathfinder:

The 2023 Nissan Pathfinder, starting at $36,685, positions itself as a family-friendly three-row SUV with a spacious cabin accommodating up to eight people. With a V-6 engine and an eight-speed automatic transmission, the Pathfinder delivers a smooth ride suitable for both daily commutes and long road trips. The Rock Creek model, introduced for 2023, adds rugged styling with a lifted suspension and all-terrain tires. The Pathfinder emphasizes towing capability, boasting 6000 pounds of towing capacity, surpassing key rivals like the Hyundai Palisade and the Kia Telluride.

Key Points:

Family-friendly three-row SUV with a starting price of $36,685.
Spacious cabin, suitable for long road trips.
Rock Creek model adds rugged styling and enhanced towing capacity.
V-6 engine with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Generous 6000 pounds of towing capability.

Comparison of Engine Options

The 2023 Kia Telluride and the 2023 Nissan Pathfinder showcase distinct approaches to engine options. The Telluride relies on a naturally aspirated V-6 engine, delivering 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. In contrast, the Pathfinder offers a V-6 engine with power ranging from 284 to 295 horsepower, with the Rock Creek model featuring the higher output.

Key Points:

Telluride: Naturally aspirated V-6 with 291 horsepower.
Pathfinder: V-6 engine with power ranging from 284 to 295 horsepower.
Both models provide ample power for their respective classes.

Comparison of Exterior Design

The exterior design plays a pivotal role in the visual appeal of these SUVs. The 2023 Kia Telluride boasts a stylish and bold exterior, setting it apart in the mid-size SUV segment. Meanwhile, the 2023 Nissan Pathfinder focuses on a rugged and adventurous image, especially with the introduction of the Rock Creek model.

Key Points:

Telluride: Stylish and bold exterior design.
Pathfinder: Rugged and adventurous exterior, enhanced by the Rock Creek model.
Both SUVs cater to different aesthetic preferences.

Comparison of Interior Features and Comfort

Interior features and comfort are essential for an enjoyable driving experience. The 2023 Kia Telluride showcases an upscale and comfortable interior, with a particular emphasis on build quality, attractive materials, and desirable features. The top-tier SX trim takes it a step further with luxurious options, including a 12-way power driver’s seat and a Harman/Kardon stereo. On the other hand, the 2023 Nissan Pathfinder focuses on thoughtful storage cubbies and a well-isolated cabin, offering features like a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen and hands-free driving.

Key Points:

Telluride: Upscale interior with luxurious options in the SX trim.
Pathfinder: Thoughtful storage cubbies and well-isolated cabin with a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen.
Both models prioritize comfort and convenience.

Comparison of Safety Features

Safety is paramount in both the 2023 Kia Telluride and the 2023 Nissan Pathfinder. Both models come equipped with a comprehensive suite of standard driver-assistance technologies, including forward-collision warning, automated emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-departure warning. However, specific safety features may vary based on trim levels and optional packages.

Key Points:

Both models prioritize safety with standard driver-assistance technologies.
Specific safety features may vary by trim level and packages.

Pricing and Value for Money

Pricing is a crucial factor in the decision-making process. The 2023 Kia Telluride starts at $37,255 and offers a range of trims, with the SX trim standing out as a near-luxury option. The 2023 Nissan Pathfinder has a starting price of $36,685, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. The choice between the two will depend on individual budgets and specific feature preferences.

Key Points:

Telluride: Starting at $37,255, with a near-luxury SX trim.
Pathfinder: Starting at $36,685, catering to budget-conscious buyers.
Value for money depends on individual budgets and feature preferences.

Cargo Space and Practicality

Cargo space is a crucial consideration for SUV buyers. The 2023 Kia Telluride offers a spacious and comfortable cabin, ideal for long-distance cruising. With diverse seating configurations, it provides flexibility for different cargo needs. Meanwhile, the 2023 Nissan Pathfinder, with its three-row seating, is suitable for family transportation, and the Rock Creek model enhances practicality with added cargo space.

Key Points:

Telluride: Spacious cabin with diverse seating configurations.
Pathfinder: Three-row seating for family transportation, enhanced cargo space with Rock Creek model.
Both models offer practical solutions for different cargo requirements.

Fuel Efficiency

Fuel efficiency is a significant consideration for SUVs. The 2023 Kia Telluride, despite its V-6 engine, offers competitive fuel efficiency, especially with front-wheel drive. The 2023 Nissan Pathfinder provides reasonable fuel efficiency, considering its size and capabilities.

Key Points:

Telluride: Competitive fuel efficiency, particularly with front-wheel drive.
Pathfinder: Reasonable fuel efficiency for a mid-size SUV.
Telluride is preferred for those prioritizing fuel efficiency.

Off-Road Capability

Off-road capability is essential for adventure seekers. The 2023 Kia Telluride, with its stylish design, may not emphasize off-road prowess, but it offers up to 8.4 inches of ground clearance for mild off-road excursions. In contrast, the 2023 Nissan Pathfinder, especially with the Rock Creek model, enhances its off-road capability with a lifted suspension and all-terrain tires.

Key Points:

Telluride: Up to 8.4 inches of ground clearance for mild off-road excursions.
Pathfinder: Enhanced off-road capability with Rock Creek model.
Pathfinder is the preferred choice for those prioritizing off-road adventures.

Towing Capacity

Key Points:

Telluride: 5500-pound towing capacity.
Pathfinder: Impressive 6000-pound towing capacity.
Pathfinder is the preferred choice for those with towing needs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the 2023 Kia Telluride and the 2023 Nissan Pathfinder cater to different preferences and priorities within the mid-size SUV segment. The Telluride excels in providing a well-rounded package with a stylish design, refined on-road experience, and a near-luxury option in the SX trim. On the other hand, the Pathfinder focuses on family-friendly features, enhanced towing capacity, and off-road capability, particularly with the Rock Creek model.

Choosing between the two depends on individual priorities. If a stylish design, on-road comfort, and a near-luxury experience are top priorities, the 2023 Kia Telluride is an excellent choice. For those prioritizing family-friendly features, towing capacity, and off-road adventures, the 2023 Nissan Pathfinder, especially with the Rock Creek model, emerges as a compelling option. Ultimately, the decision hinges on personal preferences, budget constraints, and the specific needs of the driver and passengers.