If you're narrowing down your next three-row SUV and stuck between the 2025 Ford Explorer and the Kia Telluride, you're not the only one. Both are standout family haulers but take a different path in their approach. Let’s unpack the differences in this 2025 Kia Telluride vs Ford Explorer comparison.
Key Takeaways
- As of May 4, 2025, the Kia Telluride ranges from $37,805 to $55,100, while the Ford Explorer starts at $41,350 and tops out at $57,100.
- Ford streamlined its lineup this year and introduced new infotainment and driver-assist tech.
- The Telluride sticks to the same formula from last year, while Ford focuses on practical improvements that enhance your overall driving experience.
Which Midsize SUV Has More Upgrades: 2025 Ford Explorer
You might have expected a full redesign for the Explorer this year, but Ford took a smarter approach—refining the cabin with more soft-touch materials, improving passenger comfort, and simplifying the lineup to make it easier to choose the right fit.
The Explorer also now comes standard with BlueCruise hands-free driving and features Ford’s new Digital Experience system. You can stream content, use Google Assistant, and enjoy seamless navigation right from the start. Cosmetic tweaks to the grille, lighting, and front fascia round out the update.
Ford also narrowed the Explorer lineup to focus on high-demand trims:
- Active: $41,380
- ST-Line: $46,190
- Tremor (late availability): $52,000 est.
- Platinum: $53,695
- ST: $55,835
In contrast, the Telluride keeps the same wide range of trims with no real changes. Here’s the full list:
- LX: $37,805
- S: $40,805
- EX: $43,505
- SX: $47,605
- EX X-Line: $47,900
- EX X-Pro: $48,800
- SX X-Line: $51,300
- SX Prestige: $52,805
- SX Prestige X-Line: $54,200
- SX Prestige X-Pro: $55,100
Which Midsize SUV Has More Powertrain Options: 2025 Ford Explorer
This one goes to the Explorer. While the Telluride only offers one engine—a 3.8-liter naturally aspirated V6 delivering 291 horses—the Explorer gives you more flexibility and far more power.
Its engines are:
- A turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder with 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque (standard on most trims)
- A turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 with 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque (standard on the ST, optional on Platinum)
Both engines mate with 10-speed automatic transmission, and you get the choice of rear-wheel or all-wheel drive.
Which Midsize SUV Is Better on Fuel Economy: 2025 Ford Explorer
If fuel economy is a big factor, the Explorer has a slight edge, especially with the 2.3-liter turbo four. Here's the breakdown:
Explorer MPG (rear-wheel drive):
- 2.3L turbo: 21 city / 28 highway
- 3.0L V6: 18 city / 26 highway
Telluride MPG (front-wheel drive):
- 3.8L V6: 20 city / 26 highway
- AWD versions drop to 18 city / 24 highway
While it’s pretty close, the Explorer gives you better city mileage and more range overall, especially with its four-cylinder engine.
Which Midsize Offers More Interior Comfort: It Depends
The Telluride has made its name on premium finishes and a refined cabin, especially in its higher trims. That said, Ford’s stepped up its game in 2025. The Explorer’s new color schemes, improved materials, and roomier front passenger area make a real difference. You also get a redesigned dash and easier third-row access with one-touch sliding second-row seats.
Ford’s new Digital Experience system is also more dynamic than Kia’s setup, offering Google Play integration, cloud-based voice control, and over-the-air updates.
Which Midsize SUV Should You Choose: 2025 Ford Explorer
The Telluride is still a great choice if you want style and plush interiors—but the 2025 Explorer feels more capable, more powerful, and better equipped where it matters. If you want a midsize SUV that balances performance, practicality, and modern tech, it is hard to beat! Contact us today for a test drive!