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2025 Kia EV9 Vs. Kia Telluride: Should You Take The EV Plunge?
In a story of two similar three-row SUVs, the Kia EV9 vs. Telluride, you'll be the only winner. Both SUVs define the brand's endeavors to bring drivers the best of modern technology, safety, power, comfort, and convenience, along with a heaping dose of eye-catching style. They look very similar, and inside, they're similarly spacious and well-equipped. The main difference? One is an EV, and the other is a traditional gasoline-powered SUV.
Read our Kia EV9 vs. Telluride guide below, then visit Gunther Kia to test-drive both models.
2025 Kia EV9 vs. 2025 Kia Telluride: Overview
- The Kia EV9 and Telluride have similar sizes, features, seating layouts, and capabilities. However, the EV9 brings it all into the EV realm; the Telluride sticks to familiar gasoline power and fill-up convenience.
- The Kia EV9 does have a higher starting price than the Telluride, but the cost of gasoline vs. electricity and the EV9 SUV's more premium standard features even out the playing field.
- The Kia EV9 can accelerate faster than the Telluride, but the Telluride has more towing power.
- The Kia EV9 is sleek and futuristic, while the Telluride is rugged and stylish; either model will put a smile on your face as you walk out and look at your driveway.
- Both models include advanced Kia Drive Wise Technologies for your peace of mind.
Kia EV9 vs. Kia Telluride Specs & Performance
The first and most noteworthy aspect of the Kia EV9 vs. Telluride showdown is the power inside of each SUV.
In the Telluride, you'll find a 3.8-liter V-6. It makes 291 horsepower and, according to expert testing by Car and Driver, achieves a zero to 60 mph time of 6.8 seconds.1
Exploring Kia Telluride vs. EV9 options, we see that the EV9 has multiple available configurations with outputs ranging from 201 to 379 horsepower. As for Kia EV9 vs. Telluride acceleration, the EV9 can outrun the Telluride with a zero to 60 mph time as fast as 5.0 seconds.
As for efficiency and range, the Telluride delivers up to an EPA-estimated 20/26/22 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).2 The Telluride has an 18.8-gallon fuel tank, which, when multiplied by its highest combined MPG rating, equates to around 413 miles of combined driving.3
The Kia EV9 has various range estimates depending on the version you select. The top dog here is the Light Long Range RWD model. It has an EPA-estimated 304 miles of range.4 Under EPA estimates, Wind AWD and Land AWD versions have 280 miles of range,4 GT-Line AWD models deliver 270 miles,4 and the Light RWD model has 230 miles of range.4
Kia EV9 vs. Telluride towing capacities are nearly identical: The Telluride can tow up to 5,500 pounds,5 and the EV9 can tow up to 5,000 pounds.5
Both SUVs protect their specs with the Kia brand's leading 10-year/100,000-mile Limited Powertrain Warranty.6
Rounding things off, the Telluride SUV's gas tank can be filled in single-digit minutes at a typical gas station. In contrast, the Kia EV9 can be recharged from 10% to 80% in around 24 minutes7 at a DC fast-charging station or overnight with at-home charging. However, as you likely know, 18 gallons of gasoline can put a dent in your wallet; the electricity required to recharge an EV battery is often a fraction of the price.
Overall, the Kia EV9 vs. Telluride comparison boils down to whether you'd prefer gasoline's convenience or electricity's cost-effectiveness.
Kia EV9 vs. Kia Telluride Specs & Performance
The first and most noteworthy aspect of the Kia EV9 vs. Telluride showdown is the power inside of each SUV.
In the Telluride, you'll find a 3.8-liter V-6. It makes 291 horsepower and, according to expert testing by Car and Driver, achieves a zero to 60 mph time of 6.8 seconds.1
Exploring Kia Telluride vs. EV9 options, we see that the EV9 has multiple available configurations with outputs ranging from 201 to 379 horsepower. As for Kia EV9 vs. Telluride acceleration, the EV9 can outrun the Telluride with a zero to 60 mph time as fast as 5.0 seconds.
As for efficiency and range, the Telluride delivers up to an EPA-estimated 20/26/22 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).2 The Telluride has an 18.8-gallon fuel tank, which, when multiplied by its highest combined MPG rating, equates to around 413 miles of combined driving.2
The Kia EV9 has various range estimates depending on the version you select. The top dog here is the Light Long Range RWD model. It has an EPA-estimated 304 miles of range.3 Under EPA estimates, Wind AWD and Land AWD versions have 280 miles of range,3 GT-Line AWD models deliver 270 miles,3 and the Light RWD model has 230 miles of range.3
Kia EV9 vs. Telluride towing capacities are nearly identical: the Telluride can tow up to 5,500 pounds,4 and the EV9 can tow up to 5,000 pounds.4
Both SUVs protect their specs with the Kia brand's leading 10-year/100,000-mile Limited Powertrain Warranty.5
Rounding things off, the Telluride SUV's gas tank can be filled in single-digit minutes at a typical gas station. In contrast, the Kia EV9 can be recharged from 10% to 80% in around 20 minutes6 at a DC fast-charging station or overnight with at-home charging. However, as you likely know, 18 gallons of gasoline can put a dent in your wallet; the electricity required to recharge an EV battery is often a fraction of the price.
Overall, the Kia EV9 vs. Telluride comparison boils down to whether you'd prefer gasoline's convenience or electricity's cost-effectiveness.
| 2025 Kia EV9 | 2025 Kia Telluride | |
| Engine: | N / A - Single or Dual Electric Motor | 3.8L V-6 |
| Transmission: | 1-Speed Direct Drive | 8-Speed Automatic |
| Horsepower: |
|
291 |
| Torque: |
|
262 lb-ft |
| 0-60 mph: |
|
6.8 Seconds1 |
| EPA-Est MPG / MPGe (Cty / Hwy / Comb): |
|
|
| Max Towing Capacity: | 5,000 lbs5 | 5,500 lbs5 |
| Limited Powertrain Warranty: | 10 years / 100,000 miles6 | 10 years / 100,000 miles6 |
Kia EV9 vs. Kia Telluride Dimensions & Style
Comparing Kia EV9 vs. Telluride SUVs from the outside, we find that both models showcase the latest in modern Kia design language. The EV9 takes inspiration from the Telluride but has future-forward accents that make it stand out, like the enclosed grille and 24-cube LED projection headlights. The Telluride takes on a traditional SUV look with the open grille and LED headlamps, and with more ground clearance and max tow capacity, it is ready to take on adventures at greater heights.
Size-wise, minor differences like the 0.3-inch longer body of the EV9 are the only real way these three-row SUVs are set apart. However, other differences between Kia EV9 and Telluride SUVs include the Telluride trims offering eight seats as standard; the EV9 models provide accommodations for up to seven.
Kia EV9 vs. Telluride interior space is also a close race, with the biggest gap being the EV9 SUV's 0.4 inches of extra legroom in the second row and a 3.2 cubic-foot front trunk. See the full dimensions below:
| 2025 Kia EV9 | 2025 Kia Telluride | |
| Exterior Length: | 197.2 in | 196.9 in |
| Exterior Width: | 77.9 in | 78.3 in |
| Exterior Height: | Up to 70.1 in | Up to 70.5 in |
| Exterior Ground Clearance: | Up to 7.8 in | Up to 8.4 in |
| Seats: | 7 or 6 | 7 or 8 |
| Total Interior Volume: | Up to 160.3 cu ft | 178.1 cu ft |
| Interior Cargo Volume (Behind Front / Second / Third Row): | 81.7 / 43.5 / 20.2 cu ft | 87 / 46 / 21 cu ft |
| Front Trunk: | Up to 3.2 cu ft | N/A |
| Maximum Headroom (Front / Second / Third Row): | 41.2 / 39.8 / 39.5 in | 40.9 / 40.2 / 38.1 in |
| Maximum Legroom (Front / Second / Third Row): | 41.4 / 42.8 / 32.0 in | 41.4 / 42.4 / 31.4 in |
Kia EV9 vs. Telluride Features & Technology
The Kia EV9 vs. Telluride comparison reaches its climax when we move to the standard features inside each SUV. While the new Kia EV9 does have a higher starting price than the Telluride, things balance out when you consider its higher-end standard features and the savings you'll get as you ditch gasoline for affordable electricity.
Specifically, the Kia EV9 has the following key standard amenities in its cabin:
- Eight-way power-adjustable, heated and ventilated front seats with two-way power lumbar
- 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen display with navigation
- 12.3-inch digital instrument display
- Wireless smartphone charger
- Eight-speaker sound system
- LED interior lighting
- Sound-absorbing windshield and front door windows
- Tri-zone automatic climate control
The more-affordable new Kia Telluride also has a standard 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen display with navigation and a sound-absorbing windshield. However, you can expect a six-speaker sound system, dual-zone automatic climate control, and six-way manual front seats starting on the base iteration.
Available features can make them tie, though, and comparably equipped trims of each model have a very similar starting price.
Neither model skimps on safety, as this is a core value of every new Kia vehicle. Kia EV9 vs. Telluride safety features do involve a bit more in the more expensive EV9, but both models go above and beyond at every level. To demonstrate, the following driver assistance systems come standard in both the Kia EV9 and Telluride:
- Blind-Spot Collision Warning
- Forward Collision Warning
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Pedestrian, Cyclist, and Junction Turning Detection
- Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Park Distance Warning-Rear
- Lane Departure Warning
- Lane Keeping Assist
- Lane Following Assist
- Navigation-Based Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go and Curve
- Intelligent Speed Limit Assist
- Driver Attention Warning
- Safe Exit Assist
Kia EV9 vs. Telluride: Make Your Choice at Gunther Kia
Whether you're interested in the Telluride SUV's off-road capabilities or other aspects of the all-new EV9, like its optional premium lounge seats, Gunther Kia can help you secure a ride you're confident in. Our dealership is now receiving inventory of the 2025 Kia EV9, and we have many Telluride SUVs available today. Visit us at your leisure and thoroughly explore each SUV with expert guidance from our team.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is bigger: the Kia EV9 or Kia Telluride?
Kia EV9 vs. Telluride dimensions show that the EV9 is bigger than the Telluride in terms of exterior length, but the Telluride is a bit wider. Inside, the Telluride is the larger vehicle, boasting 178.1 cubic feet of interior volume vs. the 160.3 cubic-foot maximum cabin volume of the EV9. However, legroom, headroom, and cargo capacities behind the third row are very similar between them.
Which has better gas mileage between the Kia EV9 and Kia Telluride?
As the 2025 Kia EV9 does not use gasoline, it does not technically have any gas mileage. However, the EV9 has up to an EPA-estimated 304 miles of range, 4 while the Telluride has up to an EPA-estimated 22 MPG (Combined). 2 Multiplying the Telluride SUV's 18.8-gallon fuel tank with that combined gas mileage estimate, we see a maximum combined range of around 413 miles.3
Which is best for me: the Kia Telluride or Kia EV9?
The 2025 Kia Telluride and Kia EV9 can be thought of as innovative SUVs, with a major difference being gasoline power vs. all-electric power. Consider how far you drive and whether you can afford to stop at a DC fast charging station for a little over 20 minutes to charge the EV9 from 10% to 80%.7 The ease of gasoline is appealing, but EVs are rapidly catching up.
Why is the Telluride so highly rated?
The Kia Telluride is a highly rated SUV for four main reasons:
- Affordability: It offers the features and style that modern drivers crave at a price they can afford.
- Capability: It includes a powerful V-6 engine as standard while still delivering great MPG values.
- Reliability: The 10-year/100,000-mile Limited Powertrain Warranty6 is proof.
- Comfort: It is a spacious SUV loaded with benefits that embarrass pricier competitors.
Do EVs last longer than gas cars?
As EVs in their modern form are a relatively new creation, the longevity of electric vs. gas cars has yet to be fully revealed. In general, a gasoline vehicle can often last for around 200,000 miles when properly cared for. However, both Kia EVs and gas cars, like the 2025 Telluride and EV9, include a 10-year/100,000-mile Limited Powertrain Warranty,6 which shows their intended longevity.
Is electric really cheaper than gas?
While electric vehicles like the Kia EV9 often have a higher starting price than gas-powered models like the Kia Telluride, the cost of recharging an EV battery is negligible compared to the cost of filling up a tank of gas, especially in today's economy. The tradeoff is time spent at refueling stations, as gas vehicles can be filled up much faster.
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1This information is not verified by the official manufacturer and shall serve solely as unofficial general information. For details, visit: https://www.caranddriver.com/kia/telluride
2Based on EPA estimates. Actual mileage will vary with options, driving conditions, driving habits and your vehicle's condition. See www.fueleconomy.gov.
3Estimated ranges provided are subject to variation based on factors such as fuel levels, driving habits, road conditions, and individual vehicle performance. These estimates should be used for comparison purposes only and shall not be solely relied upon.
4Based on EPA estimates on a full battery charge. Actual range will vary with options, driving conditions, driving habits, vehicle maintenance, charging practice, battery age, weather, temperature, and your vehicle’s condition. Battery capacity will decrease with time and use. For more information on range, please see www.fueleconomy.gov.
5Towing requires additional equipment. See Owner's Manual for towing capacity, additional instructions and warnings. Always use caution while towing.
6Warranties include 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain and 5-year/60,000-mile basic. All warranties and roadside assistance are limited. See retailer for warranty details.
7Actual charge will vary with options, driving conditions, driving habits, vehicle maintenance, charging practice, battery age, weather, temperature and your vehicle’s condition. Battery capacity will decrease with time and use. Frequent use of DC fast charging can negatively impact battery performance and durability, and Kia recommends minimizing use of DC fast charging.
8EPA-estimated MPG equivalent on a full battery charge. Actual MPGe will vary with options, driving conditions, driving habits, vehicle maintenance, charging practice, battery age, weather, temperature and your vehicle’s condition. Battery capacity will decrease with time and use. For more information on MPGe, please see www.fueleconomy.gov.
Warranties include 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain and 5-year/60,000-mile basic. All warranties and roadside assistance are limited. See retailer for warranty details.