The Ultimate Family SUV for Northwest Georgia Adventures
Finding a car that balances busy school runs with weekend fun shouldn’t be a chore. The 2027 Kia Telluride starts at $41,485, providing a more accessible entry point for your family than the 2026 Honda Pilot at $45,240. On a crisp Saturday morning, a Woodstock family can load the Telluride X-Pro with kayaks for a trip to Olde Rope Mill Park. While the Pilot offers a combined 23 MPG, the all-new Telluride Hybrid delivers 329 hp and a Kia-estimated 35 MPG combined on the EX FWD Hybrid trim. With 7- or 8-passenger seating, there is space for everyone. At Matthews Kia of Cartersville, we treat you like family with our Lifetime Powertrain Warranty. Give our team a quick call or visit our showroom to find your next adventure.
Table of Contents
- Power and Efficiency Built for Rydal Forest Trails and Rolling Terrain
- Rugged Style That Fits Rome Historic Streets and Appalachian Hills
- Spacious Seating for Woodstock Growing Families and School Runs
- Seamless Tech for Berry College Commutes and Remote Workdays
- Advanced Safety to Navigate Busy Downtown Rome and Rural Roads
- Smart Value and Long-Term Peace of Mind for Cartersville Buyers
Power and Efficiency Built for Rydal Forest Trails and Rolling Terrain
Engine & Performance
The Telluride moves to a turbocharged four-cylinder while the Pilot retains its naturally aspirated V6.
| Specification | 2027 Kia Telluride | 2026 Honda Pilot |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Type | 2.5L I4 Turbocharged | 3.5L V6 |
| Transmission | Automatic | Automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD or 4WD | 4WD |
Fuel Economy
The Telluride’s new powertrain offers significantly higher efficiency in specific configurations compared to the Pilot.
| Specification | 2027 Kia Telluride | 2026 Honda Pilot |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | Unleaded | Unleaded |
| City MPG | 18 – 32 | 19 |
| Highway MPG | 24 – 34 | 25 – 26 |
| Combined MPG | 21 – 33 | 22 – 23 |
Best combined fuel economy: 2026 Honda Pilot at 22 – 23
The 2027 Kia Telluride arrives with a completely transformed approach to power, perfectly suited for the winding roads and varying elevations of Northwest Georgia. Replacing the previous V6 is a standard 2.5L I4 Turbocharged engine that brings a more athletic feel to your daily drives. For those who prioritize efficiency without sacrificing muscle, the first-ever Telluride Hybrid delivers a combined 329 hp and 339 lb-ft of torque. This setup is ideal for a Rome couple commuting to Berry College, offering a quiet and fuel-efficient experience past historic Victorian homes while maintaining the strength to climb rolling hills.
While the 2026 Honda Pilot relies on a traditional 3.5L V6 across its lineup, it lacks a hybrid alternative for fuel-conscious families. The efficiency gap is clear when looking at the numbers. The Telluride EX offers an impressive 30 city / 32 hwy MPG, resulting in a 31 combined MPG rating. In contrast, the Pilot Sport and EX-L trims reach a 23 combined MPG, while the rugged TrailSport trim dips to 22 combined MPG. If you are looking for a smaller footprint with similar innovation, you might also enjoy exploring the new Kia K4 which shares Kia’s commitment to modern powertrain engineering.
For families in Rydal who frequently visit Carters Lake or explore the Chattahoochee National Forest, the Telluride X-Pro trim offers enhanced capability. It features 9.1 inches of ground clearance and an electronic rear limited-slip differential to help you find traction on muddy paths. While the Pilot TrailSport includes underbody skid plates and a 1.0-inch lift over its base model, the Telluride’s dedicated off-road hardware and 5,000 lbs of towing capacity make it a versatile partner for hauling gear. You can find these capable features across our new Kia Sportage models and larger SUVs. Whether you are browsing our Matthews Kia Preowned Inventory or custom-ordering a new hybrid, the Telluride provides the range and grit needed for every local adventure.
Rugged Style That Fits Rome Historic Streets and Appalachian Hills
Dimensions & Capacity
The Pilot is slightly larger in every exterior dimension and offers higher standard seating capacity.
| Specification | 2027 Kia Telluride | 2026 Honda Pilot |
|---|---|---|
| Seating Capacity | 7 | 8 |
| Length | 199.2 in | 200.1 in |
| Width | 78.3 in | 78.6 in |
| Height | 69.9 in | 71.0 in |
The 2027 Kia Telluride arrives with a bold, redesigned exterior that feels right at home parked next to the Victorian architecture in historic downtown Rome. It balances modern sophistication with a tougher stance, especially in the X-Pro trim which features 18-inch alloy wheels and all-terrain tires. While the 2026 Honda Pilot also updated its look with a boxier front fascia, the Telluride’s footprint is slightly more manageable for navigating narrow historic streets. The Telluride measures 199.2 inches in length compared to the 200.1 inches of the Pilot.
When your weekend plans take you into the Appalachian foothills, the Telluride’s proportions provide a stable, confident ride. It stands 69.9 inches tall and 78.3 inches wide, while the Pilot is a bit taller at 71.0 inches and wider at 78.6 inches. For those seeking extra grit, the Telluride X-Pro offers 9.1 inches of ground clearance to clear obstacles on unpaved paths. Inside, you can choose between 7-passenger or 8-passenger seating to fit your specific needs, whereas the Pilot focuses on 8-passenger capacity.
The all-new hybrid option is a game-changer for local commutes, delivering 329 hp and 339 lb-ft of torque for an athletic drive past the rolling hills near Berry College. If you are looking for a smaller but equally stylish option for your daily drive, you might explore our sporty new Kia K5 inventory. At our dealership, we treat you like family and are happy to show you how these SUVs handle our local terrain. You can also check out our Kia Certified Program to find a high-quality ride that fits your budget.
Spacious Seating for Woodstock Growing Families and School Runs
Warranty & Maintenance
Kia provides significantly longer basic and powertrain warranty coverage compared to Honda.
| Specification | 2027 Kia Telluride | 2026 Honda Pilot |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Warranty | 5 years / 60,000 miles | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
| Powertrain Warranty | 10 years / 100,000 miles | 5 years / 60,000 miles |
| Corrosion Warranty | 5 years / 100,000 miles | 5 years / Unlimited miles |
| Roadside Assistance | 5 years / 60,000 miles | — |
Managing the daily school run in Woodstock requires a car that handles carpools and sports gear with ease. The 2027 Kia Telluride is designed for these busy family schedules, offering seating for up to 8 passengers. While the 2026 Honda Pilot also accommodates 8 people, the Telluride stands out with its class-leading second-row legroom on gasoline models. This extra space makes a big difference when the kids are growing fast or when you are loading up for a weekend trip to Lake Allatoona.
Inside the Telluride, comfort is a top priority for every passenger. You can choose a layout with second-row captain’s chairs for easier access to the back, or stick with the bench seat to maximize your passenger count. For those cold Georgia mornings, the Telluride Hybrid offers available heated seats in all 3 rows, ensuring everyone stays warm. The Pilot Sport includes standard seating for eight, but it lacks the specialized relaxation seats found in the Telluride, which feature ventilation and power adjustments in the first and second rows of the hybrid model.
Quietness is another area where the Telluride shines during long drives. With available acoustic glass for the front and side windows, the cabin remains peaceful even when navigating highway traffic. To keep the mood light, a sequential ambient lighting system allows you to customize the interior glow. If your family needs even more versatility for hauling gear alongside passengers, you might also enjoy exploring the 2026 Kia Carnival for its unique slide-flex seating.
For families who prefer a smaller footprint but still need modern amenities, our new Kia Soul selection offers a fun alternative for city driving. However, for those who need the full 199.2-inch length and 78.3-inch width of a true three-row SUV, the Telluride remains the premier choice. You can also see how our electric options compare by checking out the New Kia EV6 models available now. At Matthews Kia of Cartersville, we want to help you find the perfect fit for your family’s active lifestyle.
Seamless Tech for Berry College Commutes and Remote Workdays
Keeping your family connected while driving through the rolling hills of Rome or heading toward Berry College is simple in the 2027 Kia Telluride. Every model comes standard with a 12.3-inch infotainment screen, while the SX+ trims offer a massive 29.6-inch panoramic display that makes managing work calls and navigation effortless. In comparison, the 2026 Honda Pilot also provides a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen, but it lacks the larger panoramic upgrade found in the Kia. For the driver, the Telluride starts with a 4.2-inch cluster and moves to a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster on SX+ trims, whereas the Pilot uses a standard 10.2-inch gauge cluster across its lineup.
Technology & Infotainment
Both vehicles feature large standard screens, but the Telluride offers a larger panoramic display and more advanced rear-seat entertainment options.
| Specification | 2027 Kia Telluride | 2026 Honda Pilot |
|---|---|---|
| Infotainment Screen Size | 12.3-inch (Standard); 29.6-inch Panoramic (Available) | 12.3-inch (Standard) |
| Digital Instrument Cluster | 4.2-inch (Standard); 12.3-inch (SX+) | 10.2-inch (Standard) |
| Wireless Apple CarPlay | Standard | Standard |
| Wireless Android Auto | Standard | Standard |
| Navigation | Standard (12.3-inch display) | Standard (Google built-in) |
| Premium Audio System | Meridian 14-speaker (Available) | Bose 12-speaker (Touring+) |
| Wireless Phone Charging | Standard (Single); Dual (SX+) | Standard (EX-L+) |
| USB Ports | USB-C (Front, 2nd, and 3rd Row) | USB-A/C (Front); USB-C (2nd Row); USB-C (3rd Row on EX-L+) |
| Wi-Fi Hotspot | Standard | Standard |
| Head-up Display | Available 12-inch | Standard (Elite, Black Edition) |
| Surround-view Camera | Available 360-degree (Standard on SX+) | Standard (TrailSport, Elite, Black Edition) |
| Over-the-air Updates | Standard | Standard |
| Digital Key | Standard on SX+ | — |
| Rear-seat Entertainment | Available (Netflix/YouTube streaming) | — |
Both SUVs support your digital life with standard wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto. However, the Telluride goes further for busy professionals by offering a 12-inch Head-up Display and a Digital Key on SX+ models, a feature not available on the Pilot. If you need to keep the kids entertained during long trips, the Telluride offers an available rear-seat entertainment system with Netflix and YouTube streaming, while the Pilot does not list a comparable built-in streaming option.
Whether you are charging devices via the standard USB-C ports found in all three rows of the Telluride or using the dual wireless phone charging pads on higher trims, staying powered up is easy. You can explore these features in our new Kia Telluride selection or see how they compare to the tech in the all-electric 2026 Kia EV9. If you prefer a smaller footprint with similar connectivity, you might also like the latest Kia Seltos models. We treat you like family here and are ready to help you find the right tech for your daily drive.
Advanced Safety to Navigate Busy Downtown Rome and Rural Roads
Protecting your loved ones is our top priority, and both of these SUVs come equipped with modern systems to help you drive with confidence. The 2027 Kia Telluride earns a prestigious IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK+ (based on the 2025 model year), while the 2026 Honda Pilot holds a IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK rating. Whether you are commuting past the Victorian homes in downtown Rome or navigating the winding hills toward Berry College, these ratings provide essential peace of mind.
Safety & Driver Assistance
Both SUVs emphasize safety with standard ADAS suites and specialized camera systems for their off-road trims.
| Specification | 2027 Kia Telluride | 2026 Honda Pilot |
|---|---|---|
| IIHS Rating | TOP SAFETY PICK+ (2025 model) | TOP SAFETY PICK (2026 model) |
| Advanced Driver Assistance Suite | Standard (Highway Driving Assist, Forward Collision Avoidance) | Standard (Collision Mitigation Braking, Post-collision braking) |
| Off-road Camera System | Ground View Monitor (X-Pro) | TrailWatch Camera System (TrailSport) |
Kia equips the Telluride with a standard suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems, including Highway Driving Assist and Forward Collision Avoidance Assist. These tools work together to help you maintain a safe distance from other cars and can even help apply the brakes if a potential collision is detected. The Pilot also includes standard safety tech like Collision Mitigation Braking and a new Post-collision braking system designed to prevent secondary impacts after an initial accident.
For those who enjoy weekend adventures on more rugged terrain, specialized camera systems make a big difference. The Telluride X-Pro features a Ground View Monitor that provides a composite view of the path directly beneath you at speeds under 6 mph. Similarly, the Pilot TrailSport offers a TrailWatch Camera System to help spot obstacles. While both are capable, the Telluride lineup offers incredible long-term protection with the Kia 10-year/100,000-mile warranty. If you need a smaller but equally safe option for city driving, you might also consider the 2026 Kia Sportage or the fuel-efficient new Kia Sportage Hybrid.
Smart Value and Long-Term Peace of Mind for Cartersville Buyers
Pricing
Comparison of starting MSRPs across the full trim lineups for the 2027 Telluride and 2026 Pilot.
| 2027 Kia Telluride Trim | MSRP | 2026 Honda Pilot Trim | MSRP |
|---|---|---|---|
| LX | $41,485 | Sport | $45,240 |
| S | $46,365 | EX-L | $47,106 |
| EX | $49,075 | TrailSport | $52,345 |
| X-Line EX | $50,069 | Touring | $53,777 |
| SX | $53,785 | Touring Blackout | $54,245 |
| X-Pro SX | $55,980 | Elite | $55,445 |
| X-Line SX | $57,108 | Black Edition | $56,945 |
| SX-Prestige | $59,010 | — | — |
| X-Pro SX Prestige | $59,375 | — | — |
| X-Line SX Prestige | $60,326 | — | — |
At Matthews Kia of Cartersville, we treat you like family, and that means helping you find a car that fits your budget and your busy lifestyle. Choosing the right SUV is a big decision, especially when you are balancing school runs in Woodstock with weekend trips to the mountains. The 2027 Kia Telluride makes a strong case for your wallet right from the start. The LX trim begins at $41,485, offering a more accessible entry point than the 2026 Honda Pilot Sport, which starts at $45,240. As you explore the mid-range options, the Telluride S is priced at $46,365, while the Pilot EX-L comes in at $47,106. For those wanting more features, the Telluride EX at $49,075 remains a smart value compared to the Pilot TrailSport at $52,345.
The savings continue long after you leave our lot, especially if you choose the first-ever Telluride Hybrid. This innovative powertrain delivers a robust 329 hp and 339 lb-ft of torque, while achieving a Kia-estimated 35 MPG combined on the EX FWD Hybrid trim. In comparison, the Pilot relies on its standard V6 to get 23 MPG combined. Whether you are a Rome couple commuting to Berry College or simply running errands around town, those fuel savings really add up over time. If you are looking for the absolute top-of-the-line experience, the Telluride X-Pro SX Prestige at $59,375 and the X-Line SX Prestige at $60,326 offer premium luxury, while the Pilot Black Edition reaches $56,945.
We want you to enjoy every mile with total confidence, which is why every new Kia we sell is backed by a 10-year, 100,000-mile warranty. To give you even more peace of mind, we also provide a Lifetime Powertrain Warranty for our customers. When you are ready to take the next step, our team is here to help you with your Trade-In or your Credit Applicaton online in just a few minutes. You can browse our New Kia Inventory to find the perfect match for your family, or give us a quick call at (770) 386-8400 with any questions. We would love to see you soon, so feel free to drop by and Get Directions to Matthews Kia of Cartersville at our showroom on East Main Street and join our family of happy drivers.
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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.