2026 Honda Pilot vs. 2027 Kia Telluride
The 2026 Honda Pilot combines three-row versatility, confident V6 performance, and family-focused technology in one capable midsize SUV. Every Pilot is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 285 horsepower and paired with a smooth 10-speed automatic transmission. Available i-VTM4® all-wheel drive, multiple drive modes, and standard Hill Descent Control add confidence for everything from daily commuting to changing Midwest weather and weekend adventures.
Compared with the redesigned 2027 Kia Telluride, the Pilot offers several meaningful advantages. The Pilot produces more standard horsepower, uses a 10-speed automatic transmission instead of an 8-speed, provides substantially more maximum cargo capacity, and includes Tire Fill Assist on every trim. Its available AWD system also offers seven drive modes, giving drivers added flexibility for changing road and terrain conditions. For families around Lee’s Summit and the Kansas City area looking for a spacious and capable three-row SUV, the 2026 Honda Pilot makes a strong case.
Honda Pilot Power & Capability
The 2026 Honda Pilot is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 285 horsepower, compared with 274 horsepower from the 2027 Kia Telluride’s standard 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Honda pairs the Pilot’s V6 with a 10-speed automatic transmission, while the Telluride uses an 8-speed automatic.
Available Pilot models equipped with i-VTM4® all-wheel drive provide seven drive modes to help drivers adapt to different road and terrain conditions. Hill Descent Control comes standard across the Pilot lineup and can help maintain a controlled speed on steep downhill grades. Tire Fill Assist is also standard on every Pilot, adding another useful convenience for everyday ownership.
2026 Honda Pilot
Standard Horsepower: 285 hp
Transmission: 10-Speed Automatic
AWD Drive Modes: Up to 7 Modes
Hill Descent Control: Standard; Operates Up to 12 MPH
Tire Fill Assist: Standard on Every Trim
2027 Kia Telluride
Standard Horsepower: 274 hp
Transmission: 8-Speed Automatic
AWD Terrain Modes: Snow, Mud & Sand
Hill Descent Control: Operates Up to 5 MPH
Tire Fill Assist: Not Available
Pilot Interior & Features
The 2026 Honda Pilot is designed to make family life easier with flexible seating, generous cargo capacity, and useful technology throughout the cabin. Depending on trim and configuration, the Pilot provides up to 113.7 cubic feet of maximum cargo space. Even the Pilot Sport offers up to 111.8 cubic feet, compared with 89.3 cubic feet in the 2027 Kia Telluride.
Technology is also easy to access throughout the Pilot lineup. Every 2026 Pilot includes a standard 12.3-inch color touchscreen, Google built-in, and a power lift tailgate. EX-L and several higher trims also feature Honda’s Multi-Function second-row seat with a removable center section, allowing families to switch between three-across seating and a more open second-row configuration without choosing a permanently fixed seating layout.
2026 Honda Pilot
Maximum Cargo Space: At Least 111.8 cu. ft.
Touchscreen: Standard 12.3-inch Color Touchscreen
Google Built-In: Standard on Every Trim
Second-Row Flexibility: Available Removable Middle Seat
Power Lift Tailgate: Standard on Every Trim
2027 Kia Telluride
Maximum Cargo Space: 89.3 cu. ft.
Touchscreen: Available 12.3-inch Display Configuration
Google Built-In: Not Offered
Second-Row Flexibility: Fixed Bench or Captain’s-Chair Configurations
Power Liftgate: Availability Varies by Trim
The 2026 Honda Pilot delivers advantages families can appreciate every day, from strong V6 performance and a refined 10-speed automatic transmission to flexible seating and impressive cargo space. Compared with the 2027 Kia Telluride, the Pilot provides more standard horsepower, significantly greater maximum cargo capacity, standard Tire Fill Assist, and additional AWD drive-mode flexibility. Inside, a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen, Google built-in, a standard power lift tailgate, and an available removable second-row center seat add even more everyday convenience. Explore the 2026 Honda Pilot today at Lee’s Summit Honda.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is a good alternative to the Kia Telluride?
The 2026 Honda Pilot is a strong alternative to the Kia Telluride for families looking for a spacious and capable three-row SUV. The Pilot offers a 285-horsepower V6 engine, a 10-speed automatic transmission, seating for up to eight, and at least 111.8 cubic feet of maximum cargo space depending on trim. For drivers around Lee's Summit and the Kansas City area, the Pilot combines everyday family versatility with available i-VTM4® all-wheel-drive capability.
Which has more cargo space, the Honda Pilot or Kia Telluride?
The 2026 Honda Pilot offers considerably more maximum cargo capacity than the 2027 Kia Telluride. The Pilot provides at least 111.8 cubic feet of maximum cargo space depending on trim, compared with 89.3 cubic feet in the Telluride. That extra room can make the Pilot especially useful for Kansas City-area families carrying luggage, sports equipment, groceries, or other everyday gear.
Which has more horsepower, the 2026 Honda Pilot or 2027 Kia Telluride?
The 2026 Honda Pilot produces more standard horsepower. Its 3.5-liter V6 engine delivers 285 horsepower, compared with 274 horsepower from the standard turbocharged engine in the 2027 Kia Telluride. The Pilot also pairs its V6 with a 10-speed automatic transmission, while the Telluride uses an 8-speed automatic.
Is the 2026 Honda Pilot a good three-row SUV for families?
Yes. The 2026 Honda Pilot offers seating for up to eight passengers, generous cargo capacity, and family-friendly features throughout the cabin. Available configurations include Honda's removable second-row center seat, which gives families additional flexibility when switching between passenger seating and easier third-row access. A standard 12.3-inch touchscreen, Google built-in, and Honda Sensing® driver-assistive technology add even more convenience for everyday driving around Lee's Summit and the Kansas City metro.
Should I buy a 2026 Honda Pilot or a 2027 Kia Telluride?
Both are popular three-row SUVs, but the 2026 Honda Pilot has several advantages for shoppers who prioritize cargo space, V6 performance, and capability. The Pilot offers 285 horsepower, a 10-speed automatic transmission, significantly more maximum cargo space, and available i-VTM4® all-wheel drive with up to seven drive modes. These features make the Pilot a compelling option for families shopping for a new three-row SUV in Lee's Summit and throughout the greater Kansas City area.