So what should you do? Deck out a Kia Telluride or buy the base model Buick Enclave or Volvo XC90? While no one can make that decision for you, a few key factors might help you decide.
How luxurious is the 2021 Kia Telluride SX?
Besides the driver assistance package that comes with all Tellurides, the SX model also has a 12-way power driver's seat, black-painted 20-inch rims, blind-spot monitoring, a 10-speaker Harman/Kardon audio system, front and rear sunroofs, and captain's chairs for the second row.
Or, for $2,300, you can add the Prestige Package, which includes leather heated and cooled seats, a head-up display, a 110V inverter, and special exterior colors.
How base luxury models compare to the fully loaded Kia
Deciding whether to go with a maxed-out Telluride or a luxury brand will depend on the high-class SUV you’re looking at and the features that are most important to you.
The Volvo XC90, on the other hand, offers a lot of the material quality and performance you’d expect in a luxury SUV for a reasonable base price of about $50,000.
All the driver-assist tech you’ll find in a Telluride comes standard in that price, along with a quicker, more fuel-efficient engine. If you want leather seats though, you’ll have to bump up to the $64,300 Inscription model.
The cost of owning a 2021 Kia Telluride SX
Comparing specs and prices, the price of a fully-loaded Telluride is only slightly lower than a luxury SUV. In the long run, though, you’ll most likely see those savings grow.
The Volvo XC90 might have its automaker’s safety record and European design, but repairing and insuring it will cost more than it will for the Kia.