SUV Ownership Costs
Toyota Highlander Proves Cheaper to Own Over Time Than Kia Telluride
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The Kia Telluride and Toyota Highlander are two of the most popular three-row SUVs on the market, but which one actually costs less to own over time? The answer depends on more than just the window sticker, according to Herald Sun. Total cost of ownership includes depreciation, fuel, insurance, maintenance, and repairs — and the two SUVs tell very different stories across each category.
The Telluride starts at around $40,700 and packs in more standard features than most rivals. But the Highlander fights back with stronger fuel economy and better resale value. Over five years, those advantages can flip the script on who actually pays less, according to Mahoning Matters.
Kia's Lower Sticker Price Comes Loaded With Features
The Telluride starts at roughly $40,700, according to Kentucky. That price includes features Toyota charges extra for — like a large touchscreen, ventilated front seats, and a surround-view camera. Buyers get more for their money upfront. That is a real advantage for shoppers watching their budget at the dealership.
Kia also sweetens the deal with one of the best warranties in the segment. The coverage lasts longer than Toyota's standard plan. For buyers who plan to keep the car for many years, that warranty acts like free insurance — and it can save hundreds in unexpected repair bills, according to Myrtle Beach Online.
Highlander's Fuel Savings Add Up Fast Over Five Years
The Toyota Highlander wins on fuel economy. Its hybrid version is especially efficient, and even the standard model beats the Telluride at the pump. Over five years of typical driving, the fuel savings can offset a large chunk — or even all — of the Telluride's lower purchase price, according to Charlotte Observer.
Fuel costs are one of the biggest ongoing expenses for any SUV owner. If gas averages $3.50 per gallon and you drive 15,000 miles per year, even a few extra miles per gallon adds up to hundreds of dollars annually. The Highlander's edge at the pump is not just a small perk — it is a meaningful long-term saving, according to Idaho Statesman.
Toyota Holds Its Value Better When It's Time To Sell
Depreciation is the single biggest cost of owning any vehicle. The Toyota Highlander retains a larger share of its original price than the Telluride, according to Herald Sun. That means when you sell or trade in a Highlander, you walk away with more money in your pocket. Over five years, that gap in resale value can be significant.
The Telluride has good resale value for a Kia, but Toyota's reputation for reliability gives the Highlander an edge buyers trust. Stronger resale value can offset the Highlander's higher starting price, making it competitive on total cost even before factoring in fuel savings, according to Mahoning Matters.
Maintenance Costs Are Close, With Key Differences
Both SUVs are reliable, and maintenance costs are similar over time. Toyota parts tend to be cheaper and easier to find at local shops. That can mean lower labor costs and faster repairs, according to Charlotte Observer. For drivers in smaller towns, Toyota's wider service network is a practical advantage.
Kia's longer warranty coverage balances things out. If something breaks in year four or five, Kia owners are more likely to have it covered at no cost. The bottom line: the Highlander is the better long-term value for drivers who prioritize fuel savings and resale. The Telluride wins for buyers who want more features now and longer warranty peace of mind, according to Myrtle Beach Online.
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