New 2027 Ford Explorer vs Kia Telluride

2027 Ford Explorer vs 2027 Kia Telluride in Marietta, OH

Shoppers near Marietta, Parkersburg, Caldwell, and St. Marys looking for a three-row SUV may find themselves comparing the 2027 Ford Explorer and 2027 Kia Telluride. Both offer plenty for families, but the Explorer stands out with more available power, strong technology, and a simpler five-trim lineup.

At Pioneer Ford in Marietta, we carry a range of new Explorer models. This page breaks down exactly how the two vehicles compare so you can make a confident decision before you ever step onto the lot.

2027 Ford Explorer vs 2027 Kia Telluride: At a Glance

Here is how the gas-powered versions of these two three-row SUVs compare.

2027 Ford Explorer

• Starting MSRP: $38,860

• Engines: 2.3L EcoBoost® I-4 or 3.0L EcoBoost® V6

• Max Horsepower: Up to 400 hp

• Max Towing Capacity: 5,000 lbs

• Seating: Up to 7

• Trims: 5

• Center Display: 13.2 in. on all trims

• Embedded Google Maps: Yes

• Hands-Free Driving: BlueCruise available

• Wireless Apple CarPlay®/Android Auto™: Standard

2027 Kia Telluride

• Starting MSRP: $39,190

• Engine: 2.5L turbocharged four-cylinder

• Horsepower: 274 hp

• Max Towing Capacity: 5,000 lbs

• Seating: Up to 8

• Gas-Powered Trims: 10

• Center Display: 12.3 in.

• Embedded Google Maps: No

• Hands-Free Driving: Not available

• Wireless Apple CarPlay®/Android Auto™: Standard

Performance and Power Near Parkersburg, WV

The 2027 Ford Explorer gives drivers more powertrain choices than the gas-powered Kia Telluride. Explorer shoppers can choose between a 2.3L EcoBoost® I-4 and an available 3.0L EcoBoost® V6, while the gas Telluride uses one 2.5L turbocharged engine across its lineup.

Ford Explorer Engine Options

• 2.3L EcoBoost® I-4 — up to 300 hp; standard on Active, ST-Line, Tremor, and Platinum

• 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 — available on Tremor and Platinum and standard on ST

• Maximum Performance — up to 400 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque with the ST

• Maximum Towing Capacity — up to 5,000 lbs when properly equipped

Kia Telluride Gas Engine

• 2.5L Turbocharged Engine — 274 hp and 311 lb-ft of torque

• Maximum Towing Capacity — up to 5,000 lbs when properly equipped

The Explorer's standard 2.3L EcoBoost® already produces more horsepower than the gas Telluride's 2.5L turbo, while the available 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 gives drivers an even stronger performance option. The ST tops the Explorer lineup with up to 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque.

Technology: 2027 Ford Explorer vs Kia Telluride

Both SUVs provide modern connectivity, navigation, and smartphone integration, but their technology platforms take different approaches.

Technology Comparison

2027 Ford Explorer

• Center Display: 13.2 in. on all trims

• Ford Digital Experience: Standard

• Embedded Google Maps and Google Play: Yes

• Wireless Apple CarPlay®: Standard

• Wireless Android Auto™: Standard

• Over-the-Air Software Updates: Supported

• BlueCruise Hands-Free Driving: Available on select trims

2027 Kia Telluride

• Center Display: 12.3 in. with navigation

• Dual 12.3-in. Panoramic Display: Available on higher trims

• Wireless Apple CarPlay®: Standard

• Wireless Android Auto™: Standard

• Over-the-Air Software Updates: Supported on eligible vehicles

• Highway Driving Assist/Highway Driving Assist 2: Available, depending on trim

One of the Explorer's key differences is the Ford Digital Experience. Its 13.2-inch center display integrates Google Maps and Google Play directly into the vehicle while still supporting wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™.

Another major advantage of the Explorer is its available BlueCruise, which allows hands-free driving on compatible Blue Zone highways. Kia's available Highway Driving Assist 2 can help with lane centering; however, it does not compare to the hands-free experience of BlueCruise.

Safety and Driver Assistance Near Marietta, OH

The 2027 Ford Explorer combines available BlueCruise with a wide range of driver-assist features designed to make everyday driving easier and more confident. The Explorer Active comes standard with Ford Co-Pilot360™ Assist+, including Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Centering, Evasive Steering Assist, Intersection Assist, and BLIS® with Cross-Traffic Alert and Trailer Coverage.

ST-Line, Tremor, Platinum, and ST models add Ford Co-Pilot360™ Assist 2.0, which includes a 360-Degree Camera with Split View, Front Parking Sensors, and Reverse Brake Assist.

The 2027 Telluride also offers a comparable suite of driver-assist features. However, the Explorer combines advanced standard driver assistance with towing-focused features such as Trailer Coverage and available BlueCruise hands-free highway driving.

2027 Ford Explorer vs 2027 Kia Telluride: Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 2027 Ford Explorer more powerful than the 2027 Kia Telluride?

Yes. The gas-powered 2027 Telluride produces 274 horsepower from its 2.5L turbocharged engine. The Explorer's standard 2.3L EcoBoost® produces up to 300 horsepower, while the available 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 delivers up to 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque in the ST.

How much can the 2027 Ford Explorer and Kia Telluride tow?

Both the 2027 Ford Explorer and gas-powered Kia Telluride can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.

Does the 2027 Ford Explorer have Google Maps built in?

Yes. The Ford Digital Experience includes embedded Google Maps and Google Play. The system also supports wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™.

Is the 2027 Ford Explorer available with BlueCruise?

Yes. BlueCruise is available on select 2027 Explorer trims and configurations. It allows hands-free driving on compatible Blue Zone highways when the vehicle has the required equipment and an active plan or trial.

How many trims does the 2027 Ford Explorer offer?

The Explorer is available in five trims: Active, ST-Line, Tremor, Platinum, and ST. 

Test Drive a New Ford Explorer at Pioneer Ford in Marietta, OH

The 2027 Ford Explorer gives three-row SUV shoppers a choice of two gas engines, up to 400 horsepower, a standard 13.2-inch Ford Digital Experience display, available BlueCruise, and five distinct trim levels. 

Visit Pioneer Ford to explore a range of new Explorer models, along with a full lineup of new Ford vehicles. Don’t forget—every new vehicle purchase includes our P Guarantee, which offers a free powertrain warranty, along with free brake and alignment inspections for life.

Explore your financing options, value your trade-in, and schedule your test drive today. Get in touch by calling (740) 373-3431 or visiting our Ford dealership at 909 Pike Street, Marietta, Ohio 45750.