If you’re looking for a good three-row SUV with plenty of room, the options are seemingly endless. Buyers are no longer stuck with huge full-size SUVs to get their families where they need to go. Instead, many automakers offer a midsize model with three rows, like the Kia Telluride. As one of the most well-reviewed midsize SUVs, the Telluride is very popular. But is the 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L a good forgotten option? Here’s how these two three-row SUVs measure up.
Why is the 2023 Kia Telluride so popular?
According to Kelley Blue Book, the 2023 Kia Telluride is “one of the hottest vehicles in America.” On average, car dealers used to have a six-week supply of vehicles to sell. In the 2023 model year so far, they are struggling to hold on to the Tellurides for more than two weeks. It has a spacious interior with room for passengers and cargo, a potent V6 engine and a surprisingly large number of features for the price. Speaking of price, it starts under $36,000, making it one of the most affordable ways to get three rows and many excellent SUV features.
The Telluride beats the 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L in a few ways
Next, there are a few key ways the 2023 Kia Telluride beats the Jeep Grand Cherokee L. First, it has more cargo space than its competitor. Since the L in Grand Cherokee L stands for “long,” it is the stretched version of the Jeep model. But the Telluride still beats it impressively in cargo space.
Even more important is the Kia three-row SUV’s price. KBB says that’s nearly $8,000 less than the starting price of the Grand Cherokee L. Despite being underpriced, the Telluride comes better equipped than the Jeep competitor. For example, the base LX trim has one-touch sliding and folding rear seats, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and a rear passenger safety alert system.
Finally, Kia beats Jeep with its excellent standard warranty. Telluride buyers receive a 10-year, 100,000-mile powertrain warranty not offered by other automakers. Also, KBB says the Kia’s bumper-to-bumper warranty is longer than the Jeep’s. As a result, the optional warranty is also better.
The Grand Cherokee L has its advantages over the 2023 Kia Telluride
As with most vehicles, they all have their pros and cons. Just as the Telluride beats the 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L in many ways, the Grand Cherokee L also has advantages. First, the standard V6 engine for both midsize SUVs is so close in performance that drivers will hardly notice any difference. Buyers looking for a little more power, however, can get an optional 357-horsepower V8 under the hood of the Jeep three-row model.
In addition to the V8 engine, buyers should choose the Jeep for its towing capacity. When properly equipped, the Grand Cherokee L can tow 7,200 pounds. It’s the perfect amount for owners who regularly want to tow an RV or boat. It’s also much better than the Telluride, which maxes out at 5,500 pounds. As a result, the Grand Cherokee L is a perfect towing alternative to the Kia model.
Finally, Kia Telluride introduced its off-road versions for the new model year. Sometimes midsize three-row SUV drivers have to take a trail or just get through a snowy road. Unfortunately, the Telluride’s off-road capabilities don’t compare to Jeep’s offerings. The Quadra-Drive II all-wheel drive system, an electronic limited-slip differential and skid plates give the Jeep an edge. While the Telluride is fine for off-roading in 2023, serious off-roaders are better off with the Grand Cherokee L.
Is it a good Kia Telluride alternative?
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In conclusion, the 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L is an excellent 2023 Kia Telluride alternative. Although the two excel in opposite areas, that’s why it’s the perfect replacement. Jeep’s three-row SUV could be the answer if you’ve owned or thought about owning a Telluride but want something different because of its few drawbacks. Kia’s SUV wins on cargo space, price, standard equipment and warranty. But anyone who needs a more potent V8 engine, a higher towing capacity and off-road readiness should choose the 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L.