Compare 2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid vs. 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid in Mankato, MN
Telluride Hybrid or Grand Highlander Hybrid: Which Three-Row Hybrid Fits Your Family?
The 2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid and 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid bring electrified efficiency to the three-row SUV segment without requiring drivers to plug in. Both combine gas and electric power, offer available all-wheel drive, and provide the passenger and cargo flexibility families expect from a larger SUV.
The first-ever Telluride Hybrid takes a performance-focused approach with a turbocharged hybrid system producing 329 horsepower and 339 lb.-ft. of torque, while achieving up to an EPA-estimated 35 MPG combined. The standard Grand Highlander Hybrid prioritizes efficiency with 245 combined horsepower and up to an estimated 36 MPG combined. Toyota also offers a substantially more powerful 362-horsepower Grand Highlander Hybrid MAX for shoppers who prioritize performance over maximum fuel economy.
2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid Snapshot
- 329-Horsepower Turbo Hybrid: A 2.5L turbocharged hybrid system produces 329 horsepower and 339 lb.-ft. of torque.
- Up to 35 MPG Combined: The EX FWD achieves an EPA-estimated 35 MPG combined.
- Three-Row Utility: The hybrid provides three rows of passenger space and 21.3 cu. ft. of cargo room behind the third row.
- Available AWD: All-wheel drive is available for additional traction during changing Minnesota conditions.
2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid Snapshot
- 245-Horsepower Hybrid: The standard 2.5L hybrid system produces 245 combined horsepower.
- Up to 36 MPG Combined: Select standard hybrid configurations achieve an estimated 36 MPG combined.
- Up to Eight Passengers: Available three-row configurations provide seating for as many as eight.
- Hybrid MAX Available: Toyota also offers a separate 362-horsepower Hybrid MAX powertrain for drivers seeking additional performance.
2027 Telluride Hybrid vs. 2026 Grand Highlander Hybrid Head-to-Head
Comparing Two Different Approaches to a Three-Row Hybrid
Efficiency is only one consideration when choosing a large hybrid SUV. Power, passenger room, cargo flexibility, towing capability, and winter traction can be just as important for families using their vehicle throughout southern Minnesota.
Hybrid Performance
Both SUVs reduce fuel consumption through electrification, but their standard hybrid powertrains produce substantially different output.
- 2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid: Produces 329 combined horsepower and 339 lb.-ft. of torque from its turbo-hybrid system.
- 2026 Grand Highlander Hybrid: The standard hybrid produces 245 combined horsepower. The available Hybrid MAX increases output to 362 horsepower.
Fuel Economy
These large three-row SUVs achieve fuel economy that would have been difficult to find in a vehicle of this size without hybrid assistance.
- 2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid: The EX FWD achieves an EPA-estimated 35 MPG combined.
- 2026 Grand Highlander Hybrid: Standard hybrid configurations achieve up to a manufacturer-estimated 36 MPG combined, while the more powerful Hybrid MAX is rated lower.
Cargo Flexibility
Three-row SUVs need useful cargo room both when every seat is occupied and when the rear rows are folded.
- 2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid: Provides 21.3 cu. ft. behind the third row, 47.7 cu. ft. behind the second row, and up to 88.3 cu. ft. behind the first row.
- 2026 Grand Highlander Hybrid: Provides 20.6 cu. ft. behind the third row and up to 97.5 cu. ft. with the rear seats folded.
Towing Capability
Hybrid efficiency does not prevent either SUV from providing useful towing capability for recreational equipment.
- 2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid: Provides a maximum towing capacity of 4,500 pounds when properly equipped.
- 2026 Grand Highlander Hybrid: The standard hybrid is rated to tow up to 3,500 pounds, while Hybrid MAX models increase capacity to 5,000 pounds.
Minnesota Winter Driving
Both lineups provide AWD options for drivers who want additional traction during snow and slippery conditions.
- 2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid: Available AWD complements the hybrid's 339 lb.-ft. of torque, while select configurations add additional terrain-focused capability.
- 2026 Grand Highlander Hybrid: Offers available Electronic On-Demand AWD on standard hybrid models, while Hybrid MAX receives full-time electronic AWD.
Driving Character
The engineering behind each hybrid gives the SUVs different personalities on the road.
- 2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid: A turbocharged engine and conventional 6-speed automatic help provide strong output and familiar gear changes.
- 2026 Grand Highlander Hybrid: The standard hybrid uses an ECVT and prioritizes efficiency, while Hybrid MAX is designed as Toyota's higher-performance alternative.
Discover the First-Ever Telluride Hybrid at Kia of Mankato
The 2027 model year marks a major change for the Telluride. For the first time, Kia's three-row SUV is available with hybrid power, pairing a turbocharged engine with electric assistance to produce 329 horsepower while achieving up to an EPA-estimated 35 MPG combined.
That combination makes the Telluride Hybrid particularly interesting for families who want to reduce fuel consumption without moving to a smaller SUV. It retains three-row passenger space, useful cargo capacity, available AWD, and 4,500 pounds of towing capability while adding the efficiency of an electrified powertrain.
Hybrid SUV Shopping Tips
- Compare standard hybrid and performance-hybrid models separately.
- Check MPG ratings for the specific drivetrain and trim you are considering.
- Test third-row access and cargo room with all seats in use.
- Consider towing requirements before choosing between efficiency-focused hybrid configurations.
Telluride Hybrid vs. Grand Highlander Hybrid: Efficiency With Different Priorities
The 2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid and 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid demonstrate how differently manufacturers can approach a three-row hybrid. The standard Grand Highlander Hybrid delivers a slight maximum fuel-economy advantage and substantially more maximum cargo capacity. The Telluride Hybrid produces considerably more horsepower than Toyota's standard hybrid, provides slightly more cargo room with all three rows in use, and can tow 1,000 pounds more than the standard Grand Highlander Hybrid. Toyota's available Hybrid MAX changes the equation by offering 362 horsepower and 5,000 pounds of towing capacity, though with lower fuel economy than the standard Toyota hybrid.
2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid
A 329-horsepower turbo-hybrid three-row SUV offering up to an EPA-estimated 35 MPG combined, available AWD, 21.3 cu. ft. of cargo room behind the third row, and a 4,500-pound maximum towing capacity.
View Telluride Inventory2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid
A spacious three-row hybrid offering up to an estimated 36 MPG combined, seating for up to eight, as much as 97.5 cu. ft. of maximum cargo capacity, and a choice between standard Hybrid and higher-output Hybrid MAX powertrains.
Compare Your OptionsA New Generation of Telluride Interior Design
The redesigned Telluride brings a new cabin to Kia's three-row SUV, combining passenger space with available comfort and technology designed for daily family use and longer trips. Hybrid models provide 41.4 inches of second-row legroom and 32.1 inches in the third row, while available second-row captain's chairs create a seven-passenger layout.
Explore the 2027 Telluride Hybrid at Kia of Mankato
The Telluride Hybrid expands the choices available to families shopping for a three-row Kia SUV. Kia of Mankato can help you compare hybrid trims, front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive configurations, seating arrangements, technology, and availability.
Shop Telluride Inventory
Explore current Kia Telluride inventory and compare available trims, drivetrains, seating configurations, colors, and features.
Explore Financing
Review financing options and prepare for your next three-row Kia SUV.
Value Your Trade
Estimate your current vehicle's trade-in value and see how it could contribute toward your next Telluride.
Contact Kia of Mankato
Ask about Telluride Hybrid availability, trims, features, financing, or upcoming test-drive opportunities.
Comfort and Technology for Three-Row Travel
The redesigned Telluride expands its focus on passenger comfort with available power-operated and climate-controlled second-row captain's chairs, available front relaxation seating, and modern connectivity technology. The result is a cabin designed to serve both everyday family transportation and longer-distance travel.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the 2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid compare with the 2026 Grand Highlander Hybrid?
The 2027 Telluride Hybrid produces 329 horsepower and achieves up to an EPA-estimated 35 MPG combined. The standard 2026 Grand Highlander Hybrid produces 245 combined horsepower and achieves up to an estimated 36 MPG combined. Toyota also offers a separate 362-horsepower Hybrid MAX powertrain.
How much horsepower does the 2027 Telluride Hybrid have?
The 2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid produces 329 combined horsepower and 339 lb.-ft. of torque from its 2.5L turbocharged hybrid powertrain. Power is delivered through a 6-speed automatic transmission.
What is the fuel economy of the 2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid?
The 2027 Telluride Hybrid EX FWD is EPA-estimated at 34 MPG city, 36 MPG highway, and 35 MPG combined. AWD hybrid configurations are rated at up to 31 MPG combined. Actual mileage varies with trim, driving conditions, habits, equipment, and other factors.
Do I need to plug in the Telluride Hybrid?
No. The Telluride Hybrid is a conventional hybrid rather than a plug-in hybrid. Its gasoline engine, electric motors, battery, and regenerative braking system work together without requiring routine external charging.
Which has more cargo space, the Telluride Hybrid or Grand Highlander Hybrid?
The Telluride Hybrid provides 21.3 cu. ft. behind its third row compared with 20.6 cu. ft. in the Grand Highlander. With the rear seats folded, however, the Grand Highlander provides up to 97.5 cu. ft. of maximum cargo capacity compared with 88.3 cu. ft. in the Telluride Hybrid.
Can the Telluride Hybrid tow?
Yes. The 2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid has a maximum towing capacity of 4,500 pounds when properly equipped. The standard Grand Highlander Hybrid is rated for up to 3,500 pounds, while Grand Highlander Hybrid MAX models can tow up to 5,000 pounds.
Is all-wheel drive available on the Telluride Hybrid?
Yes. All-wheel drive is available on the 2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid. Front-wheel drive is also available on select Telluride Hybrid trims.
Where can I shop for a 2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid in Mankato, MN?
Contact Kia of Mankato in Mankato, Minnesota, to learn about 2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid availability. The dealership can help you compare trims, drivetrains, seating configurations, features, financing options, and test-drive availability.