2027 Ford Explorer vs. 2027 Kia Telluride in Pleasanton, TX

Shoppers near Pleasanton, San Antonio, Floresville, Jourdanton, and Poteet, TX, looking for a three-row SUV may find themselves comparing the 2027 Ford Explorer and 2027 Kia Telluride. Both offer plenty for families, but the Explorer stands out with more available power, strong technology, and a simpler five-trim lineup.

At Ford of Pleasanton in Pleasanton, we carry a range of new Explorer models. This page breaks down exactly how the two vehicles compare so you can make a confident decision before you ever step onto the lot.

2027 Ford Explorer vs. 2027 Kia Telluride: At a Glance

Here is how the gas-powered versions of these two three-row SUVs compare.

2027 Ford Explorer

• Starting MSRP: $38,860

• Engines: 2.3L EcoBoost® I-4 or 3.0L EcoBoost® V6

• Max Horsepower: Up to 400 hp

• Max Towing Capacity: 5,000 lbs

• Seating: Up to 7

• Trims: 5

• Center Display: 13.2 in. on all trims

• Embedded Google Maps: Yes

• Hands-Free Driving: BlueCruise available

• Wireless Apple CarPlay®/Android Auto™: Standard

2027 Kia Telluride

• Starting MSRP: $39,190

• Engine: 2.5L turbocharged four-cylinder

• Horsepower: 274 hp

• Max Towing Capacity: 5,000 lbs

• Seating: Up to 8

• Gas-Powered Trims: 10

• Center Display: 12.3 in.

• Embedded Google Maps: No

• Hands-Free Driving: Not available

• Wireless Apple CarPlay®/Android Auto™: Standard

Performance and Power Near San Antonio, TX

The 2027 Ford Explorer gives drivers more powertrain choices than the gas-powered Kia Telluride. Explorer shoppers can choose between a 2.3L EcoBoost® I-4 and an available 3.0L EcoBoost® V6, while the gas Telluride uses one 2.5L turbocharged engine across its lineup.

Ford Explorer Engine Options

• 2.3L EcoBoost® I-4 — up to 300 hp; standard on Active, ST-Line, Tremor, and Platinum

• 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 — available on Tremor and Platinum and standard on ST

• Maximum Performance — up to 400 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque with the ST

• Maximum Towing Capacity — up to 5,000 lbs when properly equipped

Kia Telluride Gas Engine

• 2.5L Turbocharged Engine — 274 hp and 311 lb-ft of torque

• Maximum Towing Capacity — up to 5,000 lbs when properly equipped

The Explorer's standard 2.3L EcoBoost® already produces more horsepower than the gas Telluride's 2.5L turbo, while the available 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 gives drivers an even stronger performance option. The ST tops the Explorer lineup with up to 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque.

Technology: 2027 Ford Explorer vs. Kia Telluride

Both SUVs provide modern connectivity, navigation, and smartphone integration, but their technology platforms take different approaches.

Technology Comparison

2027 Ford Explorer

• Center Display: 13.2 in. on all trims

• Ford Digital Experience: Standard

• Embedded Google Maps and Google Play: Yes

• Wireless Apple CarPlay®: Standard

• Wireless Android Auto™: Standard

• Over-the-Air Software Updates: Supported

• BlueCruise Hands-Free Driving: Available on select trims

2027 Kia Telluride

• Center Display: 12.3 in. with navigation

• Dual 12.3-in. Panoramic Display: Available on higher trims

• Wireless Apple CarPlay®: Standard

• Wireless Android Auto™: Standard

• Over-the-Air Software Updates: Supported on eligible vehicles

• Highway Driving Assist/Highway Driving Assist 2: Available, depending on trim

One of the Explorer's key differences is the Ford Digital Experience. Its 13.2-inch center display integrates Google Maps and Google Play directly into the vehicle while still supporting wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™.

Another major advantage of the Explorer is its available BlueCruise, which allows hands-free driving on compatible Blue Zone highways. Kia's available Highway Driving Assist 2 can help with lane centering; however, it does not compare to the hands-free experience of BlueCruise.

Safety and Driver Assistance In Pleasanton, TX

The 2027 Ford Explorer combines available BlueCruise with a wide range of driver-assist features designed to make everyday driving easier and more confident. The Explorer Active comes standard with Ford Co-Pilot360™ Assist+, including Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Centering, Evasive Steering Assist, Intersection Assist, and BLIS® with Cross-Traffic Alert and Trailer Coverage.

ST-Line, Tremor, Platinum, and ST models add Ford Co-Pilot360™ Assist 2.0, which includes a 360-Degree Camera with Split View, Front Parking Sensors, and Reverse Brake Assist.

The 2027 Telluride also offers a comparable suite of driver-assist features. However, the Explorer combines advanced standard driver assistance with towing-focused features such as Trailer Coverage and available BlueCruise hands-free highway driving.

2027 Ford Explorer vs. 2027 Kia Telluride: Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 2027 Ford Explorer more powerful than the 2027 Kia Telluride?

Yes. The gas-powered 2027 Telluride produces 274 horsepower from its 2.5L turbocharged engine. The Explorer's standard 2.3L EcoBoost® produces up to 300 horsepower, while the available 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 delivers up to 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque in the ST.

How much can the 2027 Ford Explorer and Kia Telluride tow?

Both the 2027 Ford Explorer and gas-powered Kia Telluride can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.

Does the 2027 Ford Explorer have Google Maps built in?

Yes. The Ford Digital Experience includes embedded Google Maps and Google Play. The system also supports wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™.

Is the 2027 Ford Explorer available with BlueCruise?

Yes. BlueCruise is available on select 2027 Explorer trims and configurations. It allows hands-free driving on compatible Blue Zone highways when the vehicle has the required equipment and an active plan or trial.

How many trims does the 2027 Ford Explorer offer?

The Explorer is available in five trims: Active, ST-Line, Tremor, Platinum, and ST. 

Test Drive the New Ford Explorer at Ford of Pleasanton in Pleasanton, TX

The 2027 Ford Explorer gives three-row SUV shoppers a choice of two gas engines, up to 400 horsepower, a standard 13.2-inch Ford Digital Experience display, available BlueCruise, and five distinct trim levels. 

Visit Ford of Pleasanton to explore a range of new Explorer models, along with a full lineup of new Ford vehicles. 

Explore your financing options, value your trade-in, and schedule your test drive today. Get in touch by calling (830) 200-0983 or visiting our Ford dealership at 3874 E. Hwy 97, Pleasanton, TX 78064.

DISCLAIMERS:

Current Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for base vehicle. Excludes $1,795 destination/delivery fees, government fees, taxes, any finance charges, any dealer fees, and any emission testing fees. Optional equipment not included, including any extra-cost color options. Dealer determines price.

When properly equipped. Max towing varies based on cargo, vehicle configuration, accessories, and number of passengers.

Horsepower and torque ratings based on premium fuel per SAE J1349® standard. Your results may vary.

Driver-assist features are supplemental and do not replace the driver’s attention, judgment, and need to control the vehicle. They do not make your vehicle autonomous or replace your responsibility to drive safely. Please only use if you will pay attention to the road and be prepared to take over at any time. See Owner’s Manual for details and limitations.

Ford Security Package requires the Ford app, modem activation, and an activated plan. Equipped Ford vehicles come with a one-year included trial from new vehicle warranty start date, after which a paid plan is required. Paid plans automatically renew until cancelled. Prices are subject to change. Requires vehicle connectivity and a connected mobile device with enabled push notifications. Not available in U.S. territories. Terms apply.

Driver-assist features are supplemental and do not replace the driver’s attention, judgment, and need to control the vehicle. They do not make your vehicle autonomous or replace your responsibility to drive safely. Please only use if you will pay attention to the road and be prepared to take over at any time. See Owner’s Manual for details and limitations.

Available feature on BlueCruise-equipped vehicles for use in a hands-free Blue Zone. Requires an active plan or trial – see ford.com/bluecruise for details. BlueCruise is a driver-assist feature and does not replace safe driving. A fully alert, attentive driver is always required to monitor the environment and control the vehicle. See Owner’s Manual for details and limitations.

Rated horsepower 383 hp for Platinum™ models.

Always consult the Owner’s Manual before off-road driving, know your terrain and trail difficulty, and use appropriate safety gear.

Driver-assist features are supplemental and do not replace the driver’s attention, judgment, and need to control the vehicle. Remember that even advanced technology cannot overcome the laws of physics. It’s always possible to lose control of a vehicle due to inappropriate driver input for the conditions.

Some Ford Digital Experience features require a Connectivity plan. Don’t drive while distracted or while using handheld devices. Use voice-operated systems when possible. Some features may be locked out while the vehicle is in gear. Not all features are compatible with all phones.

Available Connectivity features vary by model/trim and compatible devices and require an activated modem and compatible network availability. Package pricing, included plans, and term lengths vary by model. Paid plans automatically renew until cancelled. Prices subject to change. Some features may only be available while vehicle is parked. Owners can log in to the Ford app to see specific features available to them. Terms apply.

Ford Security Package requires the Ford app, modem activation, and an activated plan. Equipped Ford vehicles come with a one-year included trial from new vehicle warranty start date, after which a paid plan is required. Paid plans automatically renew until cancelled. Prices are subject to change. Requires vehicle connectivity and a connected mobile device with enabled push notifications. Not available in U.S. territories. Terms apply.

4G/5G not available everywhere. Evolving technology/cellular networks/vehicle capability may limit or prevent functionality.

Compatible Android or iPhone with compatible active data plan and software required. Wireless use of Android Auto requires a compatible Android 11.0+ phone and compatible active data plan. Check g.co/androidauto/requirements for compatibility. SYNC® 4 and Ford Digital Experience system does not control third-party products while in use. Third parties are solely responsible for their respective functionality.

Data speeds may be slowed down after 50GB of usage within a 30-day period.

Don’t drive distracted or while using handheld devices. Use voice controls.

Game only functions when vehicle is in park.

Vehicles enrolled in Ford Security Package may require a software update in order to access Start Inhibit. Please contact us at 866-861-0420 for assistance.

Feature availability varies by model and trim.

Lane-Keeping System does not control steering.

Pre-Collision Assist® with Automatic Emergency Braking detects pedestrians, but not in all conditions, and can help avoid or reduce a collision.

For optimal performance, Ford recommends keeping map data updated by fully activating the vehicle’s modem and enabling available embedded maps.

Cargo and load capacity limited by weight and weight distribution.

See Owner's Manual for important operating instructions.

Auto Start-Stop Technology may not shut your engine off if your vehicle battery is charging, the engine is still warming up, or if you are using heat or air conditioning.