Choosing the right three-row SUV for your family in Lakewood often comes down to two heavy hitters: the Honda Pilot and the Kia Telluride. The 2026 Honda Pilot remains a benchmark for reliability and engineering, while the redesigned 2027 Kia Telluride enters the fray with a new powertrain. At Honda Universe, we want to help you make an informed decision by comparing these two leaders side-by-side.
When you’re merging onto the Garden State Parkway or heading out of Toms River with a full cabin, powertrain matters. The 2026 Honda Pilot continues to utilize its proven V6 engine paired with a sophisticated 10-speed automatic transmission. In contrast, the 2027 Kia Telluride has shifted toward a smaller, turbocharged four-cylinder engine.
| Feature | 2026 Honda Pilot | 2027 Kia Telluride |
|---|---|---|
| Base Engine | 3.5L V6 | Turbocharged 2.5L 4-Cylinder |
| Horsepower | 285 hp | 274 hp |
| Transmission | 10-Speed Automatic | 8-Speed Automatic |
| Max Towing | 5,000 lbs | 5,000 lbs |
The Pilot offers a smoother delivery of power thanks to its two additional gears, providing a more refined driving experience through Jackson. While both vehicles share a 5,000-pound maximum towing capacity, the Pilot’s V6 provides the traditional displacement many SUV owners prefer for heavy-duty tasks.
Safety is non-negotiable for families in Lakewood. The 2026 Honda Pilot has already secured its reputation with high marks from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Because the 2027 Kia Telluride features a significant redesign, it has not yet been fully rated by the IIHS for the upcoming model year.
Honda Pilot: Includes the Road Departure Mitigation System, Traffic Sign Recognition, and the specialized TrailWatch™ camera system for rugged adventures.
Kia Telluride: Offers standard Blind-Spot Collision Warning and Lane Keeping Assist, though it lacks several of Honda’s brand-exclusive mitigation systems.
The Pilot also includes a standard Post-Collision Braking System, which can help prevent secondary impacts by applying brake pressure after an initial collision—a feature not found on the 2027 Telluride.
While the competition is fierce, the 2026 Honda Pilot offers a level of mechanical refinement and proven safety that is hard to beat. Whether you are coming from Freehold or anywhere else in Ocean County, our team is ready to show you why the Pilot is the premier choice for your next family vehicle.
Ready to see the difference for yourself? Apply for financing online or visit us in Lakewood to explore our new Honda Pilot inventory and experience its 10-speed performance firsthand.
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