What?! How can the Kia Telluride beat the tried and trusted 2021 Toyota 4Runner? One SUV is a Kia, and the other has proven itself as a dependable off-roader for decades. Well, times are changing, and the 2021 Kia Telluride figured out how to defeat the 4Runner. 

The Kia Telluride has more room for families 

While reading a review about the 2021 Toyota 4Runner by AutoBlog, one quote really stuck out. They said the 2021 Kia Telluride would be the better family-hauling choice. This is because the third row of the 4Runner is extremely limited in terms of space. 

It might be difficult for children to squeeze in back there, and it limits cargo space. In the other seats, headspace is limited, but legroom is pretty abundant. But they did say dogs would love the back of the 4Runner because the power window will let them enjoy some fresh air. 

The Toyota 4Runner has 47.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats with up to 89.7 cubic feet of cargo space total. The Kia Telluride has 21 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats with up the 87 cubic feet total. 

So, while the 4runner has more storage space, the Telluride has more passenger space in each row. AutoBlog mentions that the 4Runner has a massive second row with reclining seats that cut into space for third-row passengers. 

How do the Telluride and 4Runner compare? 

We aren’t saying the Kia Telluride is better than the Toyota 4Runner. They both excel in different areas. For example, the 4Runner is the more capable choice for off-roading adventures, while the Telluride may be comfier for road trips. 

Families may also be attracted to the Telluride because it has a lower starting price. It has an MRSP of about $31,990. The 4Runner begins around $36,590. This is before dealership markups have been factored in. Plus, both of these base models don’t have all-wheel drive or 4×4, so you’ll have to pay to add it. 

The Telluride also gets an EPA estimated 20 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. The 4Runner gets an EPA estimated 16 mpg in the city and 19 mpg on the highway. So, if fuel costs are a concern, the Telluride wins again. 

If you want to tow a camper, the Telluride and 4Runner both can tow up to 5,000 lb. The Kia Telluride has a 3.8-liter V6 engine with 291 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque, while the 4Runner has a 4.0-liter V6 engine that provides 270 hp and 278 lb-ft of torque. 

Telluride and 4Runner features 

The 2021 4Runner has a touchscreen auto system with clear graphics and numerous easy to use shortcuts. It can connect to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The 2021 Telluride also has these features along with USB ports for each row. 

Because the 2021 Toyota 4Runner has such a tall ride height, it can be a little more challenging to access than the Telluride, but runners and steps help. The rear power window in the 4Runner also improves accessibility. 

The Telluride may have a smoother ride than the 4Runner, but the 4Runner has more ground clearance and a suspension that’s much beefier for off-roading. In the Telluride, you can hear the engine a little bit, but the cabin is mostly quiet. Due to the boxy shape of the 4Runner, wind noise is often present.