Kia Telluride vs Toyota Highlander
The 2022 Kia Telluride and 2022 Toyota Highlander are two of the most popular three-row family SUVs on the market, frequently landing on the same shortlist for families needing space, reliability, and everyday versatility. The Telluride dazzles with its upscale interior and lower price point, while the Highlander leans on Toyota's legendary long-term dependability and resale dominance. Understanding the true 5-year cost beyond the sticker price is where the real difference emerges.
The 2022 Kia Telluride comes in roughly $1,000 cheaper to purchase and carries lower insurance premiums and competitive maintenance costs, resulting in a meaningfully lower 5-year total cost of ownership despite slightly softer resale value compared to the Highlander.
2022 Kia Telluride
Winner- Lower purchase price reduces loan interest and depreciation dollar amount
- Comprehensive 10-year/100k powertrain warranty cuts long-term repair risk
- Strong predicted reliability scores from J.D. Power keep maintenance costs lean
- Resale value trails Toyota brand historically, accelerating depreciation curve
- Higher trim variants can push insurance costs up due to replacement part pricing
- Turbocharged engine variants may show slightly elevated long-term maintenance costs
2022 Toyota Highlander
- Toyota's best-in-class resale value slows depreciation over the ownership period
- Hybrid variant available offering meaningful fuel savings over 5 years
- Industry-leading long-term reliability reduces unexpected repair bills
- Higher purchase price increases total loan cost and initial depreciation hit
- Less interior space and a less premium cabin feel relative to cost
- Standard V6 fuel economy only marginally better than Telluride, limiting energy savings
Category by category
The verdict
Over 5 years at 12,000 miles per year, the 2022 Kia Telluride saves an estimated $1,700 in total ownership costs compared to the Highlander, driven primarily by lower purchase price and insurance rates. However, if you plan to own the vehicle long-term or can stretch to the Highlander Hybrid, Toyota's reliability legacy and superior resale value can close that gap quickly. For most buyers seeking the best immediate value in a three-row SUV, the Telluride edges out the Highlander — but it's genuinely one of the closest competitions in its segment.
Kia Telluride: The 2022 Kia Telluride is best for family buyers who prioritize interior space, a premium feel, and lower upfront costs and don't plan to hold the vehicle beyond 7 years.
Toyota Highlander: The 2022 Toyota Highlander is best for buyers who plan to keep their SUV for 8-10 years, want maximum resale protection, or are considering the hybrid variant for significant fuel savings.
Frequently asked questions
Does the Kia Telluride or Toyota Highlander have better reliability?
The Toyota Highlander has a longer proven reliability track record, but the 2022 Kia Telluride earned strong J.D. Power scores and Kia's 10-year warranty significantly reduces financial risk from unexpected repairs.
Which has better resale value, the 2022 Telluride or 2022 Highlander?
The Toyota Highlander retains resale value better by roughly 5-10% at the 5-year mark, a consistent pattern driven by Toyota's brand reputation and lower depreciation rates tracked by ALG.
How much does it cost to insure a 2022 Kia Telluride vs Toyota Highlander?
The 2022 Kia Telluride averages around $1,650-$1,750 per year to insure nationally, while the Toyota Highlander runs closer to $1,720-$1,820 per year depending on trim, driver profile, and location.
Is the Kia Telluride cheaper to maintain than the Toyota Highlander?
Annual maintenance costs are nearly identical at roughly $650-$900 per year, though Kia's industry-leading 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty provides a meaningful buffer against expensive unplanned repairs.
Should I buy a used 2022 Kia Telluride or 2022 Toyota Highlander?
If budget and interior space are top priorities, the Telluride offers better value at a lower price; if you prize long-term reliability, fuel efficiency via the hybrid option, or plan to resell in 5+ years, the Highlander is the smarter investment.