Two of the auto industry’s most acclaimed three-row SUVs are the Kia Telluride and the Mazda CX-9. Both automakers have made massive strides in the past few years, offering near-luxury performance and comfort while keeping prices affordable.
But which one is better? It’s tough to say. Comparing specs, very little separates the two vehicles, though there are a few exceptions.
(KBB) believes the Telluride wins when it comes down to space and affordability. However, the CX-9 has an advantage when it comes to handling and driveability.
In a lot of ways, the Telluride and the CX-9 are good models to compare. Their prices both start in the mid-$30,000 range. They both offer three rows of seating. They both boast an impressive list of available features. But there are a few key differences.
For one, the Telluride’s third row is much more practical than the CX-9’s which KBB says is really only suitable for kids. Elsewhere, passenger and cargo space also surpasses what can be found in the CX-9.
On the other hand, Mazda’s interiors have impressed critics for a few years, and the new CX-9’s doesn’t disappoint. Its fuel economy is also slightly better, and of course, there’s the driving experience factor.
MORE: A Fully Loaded 2021 Kia Telluride Is Comparable to Some Luxury SUVs
Like most comparisons between vehicles this similar, the right model for you likely comes down to personal preference. What is more important to you, having a backseat fit for your teenagers or enjoying how it feels when you drive around corners?
For growing families, the Telluride is the clear winner. Its cargo space alone can make the decision for you, but across all trims, it’s also cheaper than the CX-9 and offers a warranty twice the length of the Mazda.
But if that third row will likely stay tucked away to increase cargo space anyway, and you’re the type of driver who wants to feel the road, you’ll likely be happier behind the wheel of a CX-9—as long as you’re comfortable with a slightly higher price.
Car insurance for the Kia Telluride and Mazda CX-9
A higher starting price typically means higher insurance rates, this is true for these SUVs. Expect to pay a little more to insure a 2022 Mazda CX-9 vs. a Kia Telluride.
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