Ford Explorer vs Kia Telluride
The Ford Explorer is more fuel-efficient at 28 MPG combined, against 23 MPG for the Kia Telluride. At EPA assumptions that is about $500 less in fuel per year. (Comparison uses each model's most efficient version.)
Side by side
| Ford Explorer | Kia Telluride | |
|---|---|---|
| Complaints (NHTSA) | 1,755 | 967 |
| Most reported problem | Drivetrain & axles | Lighting |
| Crashes and fires | 58 and 16 | 11 and 15 |
| Typical mileage at complaint | 17,000 miles | 7,000 miles |
| Recalls | 33 | 7 |
| Fuel economy, combined | 28 MPG | 23 MPG |
| City and highway | 27 and 29 | 20 and 26 |
| Yearly fuel cost (EPA) | $2,400 | $2,900 |
| NHTSA overall safety |
What the numbers say
NHTSA has 1,755 complaints for the Ford Explorer and 967 for the Kia Telluride. Complaint counts depend heavily on how many of each vehicle were sold, so a higher count does not by itself mean a less reliable car.
NHTSA's overall safety ratings: 5 stars for the Ford Explorer, 5 stars for the Kia Telluride.
Safety recalls on file: 33 for the Ford Explorer, 7 for the Kia Telluride.