2026 Chevy Traverse vs 2027 Kia Telluride
Looking for a family vehicle that has considerable power, top tech, and is fun to drive? The Chevy Traverse delivers, but it's not the only game in town, and it has tough competition in its midsize SUV segment. One of its main competitors, the 2027 Kia Telluride, gives the Traverse a serious run for its money. We've got the details below!
Key Takeaways
- The Traverse has no major changes for 2026.
- The Traverse offers more power.
- Kia skipped 2026 to revamp the Telluride.
- Both vehicles have the same tow numbers.
Traverse vs. Telluride Updates and Cost
For 2026, the Chevy Traverse receives a handful of updates, including two new exterior colors: Polar White Tricoat and Sandstone Gray. The Driver Confidence package now includes a key card that allows owners to unlock and start the SUV without a traditional key fob (similar to the system used by Tesla). Chevy equipped the Traverse LT with a rear camera mirror through the Driver Confidence package and retired Iridescent Pearl Tricoat and Harvest Bronze Metallic paint colors from the lineup.
Here's how pricing looks for the Traverse as of May 29, 2026:
- LT: $42,795
- Z71: $50,895
- High Country: $57,095
- RS: $57,395
Rather than giving the current Telluride gen a mid-cycle glow-up, Kia skipped this model year and jumped right into 2027, for a second-generation Telluride built from the ground up. Its models are:
- LX: $40,735
- S: $43,635
- EX: $45,335
- EX X-Line: $48,835
- SX: $50,335
- SX X-Line: $53,335
- SX X-Pro: $55,235
- SX-Prestige: $55,435
- SX-Prestige X-Line: $56,435
- SX-Prestige X-Pro: $58,335
Power in the Traverse and Telluride
Every Traverse comes equipped with a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder producing 328 horsepower and an eight-speed automatic. Front-wheel drive is standard, while all-wheel drive is available throughout the lineup. Buyers who venture beyond the pavement can step into the Z71, which adds a twin-clutch all-wheel-drive system, revised suspension tuning, underbody skid protection, and all-terrain tires designed for rougher conditions.
The redesigned Telluride also uses a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder, but output is just 274 horsepower. Like the Traverse, it pairs with an eight-speed automatic and offers both front- and all-wheel-drive configurations.
Towing capacity is even between the two SUVs, with each capable of pulling up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.
| 2026 Chevy Traverse | 2027 Kia Telluride |
|---|---|
| 2.5L turbo I4 | 2.5L turbo I4 |
| 8-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic |
| RWD, AWD | RWD, AWD |
| Up to 5,000 lbs towing | Up to 5,000 lbs towing |
Who Wins the Tech Face-Off?
Chevy takes a bigger-is-better approach inside the Traverse. Every trim receives a massive 17.7-inch touchscreen along with an 11-inch digital driver display. Wireless Apple CarPlay, wireless Android Auto, and wireless charging all come standard, and buyers can also add built-in Wi-Fi connectivity.
Kia counters with a 12.3-inch infotainment screen and an available 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. One of the Telluride's biggest additions for this generation is its new generative AI voice assistant, which is designed to handle more natural voice commands. Buyers can also upgrade to a 14-speaker Meridian premium audio system.
Both SUVs offer plenty of technology, but the Traverse stands out with its larger standard displays and simpler, more integrated setup.
Which SUV Is Best for Your Family?
After you compare the 2026 Chevy Traverse and 2027 Kia Telluride, you'll find the redesigned Telluride brings fresh styling and new technology to the segment, making it a strong contender for families shopping three-row SUVs. But the Traverse's horsepower, larger standard touchscreen, available off-road capability in the Z71, and a straightforward approach to tech make it a winner in this competition. Stop on by Banner Chevrolet for a test drive!
