Choosing a three-row SUV means thinking about more than how many people it can seat. You need enough room for everyone to travel comfortably, space for luggage when all three rows are occupied, and the capability to handle whatever your family has planned for the weekend.
The 2027 Nissan Pathfinder and 2027 Kia Telluride are both worth considering if you need that extra space. The Pathfinder offers a V6 engine and up to 6,000 pounds of towing capacity when properly equipped. The redesigned Telluride brings a turbocharged gasoline engine, an available hybrid powertrain and more published cargo space than the Pathfinder.
For families driving around East Windsor, Trenton and the surrounding New Jersey communities, the decision comes down to how you plan to use your SUV. Whether you're managing school drop-offs, heading down the highway or taking a camper out for a weekend, here's how these two three-row SUVs compare.
If Nissan is already on your shortlist, start by exploring the Nissan Pathfinder research page at Windsor Nissan to learn more about the model and its available features.
Seating and Getting to the Third Row
Both the 2027 Nissan Pathfinder and 2027 Kia Telluride offer seating for up to eight passengers on appropriately equipped models. Seven-passenger configurations with second-row captain's chairs are also available on selected trims.
Third Row Seating in the Nissan Pathfinder
The Pathfinder offers Nissan's LATCH AND GLIDE seating technology. The second-row seats can tilt and slide forward to help passengers reach the third row, even when a compatible child safety seat is installed. The seat being moved must be unoccupied. For parents who regularly travel with children in car seats, that extra flexibility can make getting everyone settled a little easier.
Third Row Seating in the Kia Telluride
The redesigned Telluride also improves third-row access and offers additional second-row legroom compared with the previous generation. Seating capacity and seat arrangements vary by trim, so it's worth checking the exact configuration before making a decision.
If you regularly carry children, grandparents or older kids who use the third row, try the seating arrangements in person. Check the space available for the front passenger with a rear-facing child seat installed, too. A vehicle can look spacious on paper but feel different once everyone is seated.
You can also browse Windsor Nissan's new vehicle selection to see what other Nissan models are available if you're still comparing SUVs.
How Much Cargo Space Do You Get?
Cargo space becomes especially important when you're carrying passengers in all three rows. There is a big difference between fitting a few grocery bags and having enough room for everyone's luggage without folding seats.
The 2027 Nissan Pathfinder provides 16.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row. Folding that row increases the available space to 45.0 cubic feet behind the second row. With both rear rows folded, the maximum cargo volume is 80.5 cubic feet.
The 2027 Kia Telluride gasoline model offers 22.3 cubic feet behind the third row, 48.7 cubic feet behind the second row and 89.3 cubic feet behind the first row. The Telluride Hybrid has slightly different published measurements of 21.3, 47.7 and 88.3 cubic feet, respectively.
The Telluride has the advantage in published cargo volume with either powertrain. That extra space behind the third row could be useful when you're traveling with a full cabin and need to keep backpacks, groceries or smaller suitcases accessible.
Measurements only tell part of the story, though. The shape of the cargo area and the size of your usual gear affect how much you can fit. If you regularly travel with a stroller, cooler or sports equipment, bring those items along when comparing the SUVs.
Engine Performance and Towing Capacity
The Pathfinder and Telluride take different approaches to power, and that distinction matters if you plan to tow a camper, boat or recreational trailer.
The 2027 Nissan Pathfinder uses a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 284 horsepower and 259 lb-ft of torque on most trims. The Rock Creek produces up to 295 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque when using premium fuel. Both use a nine-speed automatic transmission.
Towing capacity depends on the Pathfinder's trim and equipment. The SV and SL are rated for 3,500 pounds as standard, but can reach 6,000 pounds with the required towing equipment. The Rock Creek, Special Edition and Platinum are rated for up to 6,000 pounds.
The 2027 Kia Telluride gasoline model uses a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 274 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. It pairs with an eight-speed automatic transmission and offers up to 5,000 pounds of towing capacity when properly equipped.
Kia also offers the 2027 Telluride Hybrid, which produces a combined 329 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque. Its maximum towing capacity is 4,500 pounds.
The Pathfinder has the higher maximum towing rating, making it worth a closer look for families who regularly pull a camper or boat. The gasoline Telluride can still handle a range of recreational towing needs, while the hybrid offers an alternative for shoppers considering a different balance of power and fuel efficiency.
If towing is part of your plans, check the specific vehicle's listed equipment and confirm its towing rating before choosing a trailer. Passengers, cargo and loaded trailer weight must remain within the vehicle's limits.
AWD and Driving in New Jersey Weather
Rain, slush and snow can make driving around New Jersey more challenging, particularly during the winter. If you regularly travel in changing conditions, the drivetrain should be part of your comparison.
The 2027 Nissan Pathfinder offers front-wheel drive on several trims and available Intelligent 4WD. The Rock Creek comes standard with 4WD, and the system offers selectable driving modes for different road and terrain conditions.
The 2027 Kia Telluride offers front-wheel drive on selected configurations and available or standard all-wheel drive depending on the trim. AWD is standard on the gasoline X-Line and X-Pro models, while the hybrid lineup includes both FWD and AWD options.
For drivers who mainly travel on paved roads, front-wheel drive may be sufficient. If you regularly encounter snow-covered roads, steep driveways or unpaved surfaces, an AWD or 4WD model may be worth considering.
Neither system eliminates the risks of slippery conditions. Tires, braking distance and driving speed remain important, especially when winter weather affects visibility and traction. Check the drivetrain and tire equipment on the specific SUV you're considering rather than assuming every trim comes with AWD or 4WD.
Safety and Technology for Everyday Driving
A family SUV should work well during ordinary trips, not just long road trips. Smartphone connectivity, useful camera views and driver-assistance features can help make daily driving easier, whether you're navigating traffic, parking or heading onto the highway.
Nissan Pathfinder Safety & Technology
The 2027 Nissan Pathfinder includes a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Nissan Safety Shield 360 is standard, and the lineup includes ProPILOT Assist and Intelligent Cruise Control to help with certain aspects of highway driving. Selected trims offer additional equipment, including a Bose premium audio system and camera technology such as Invisible Hood View and Front Wide View.
Kia Telluride Safety & Technology
The 2027 Kia Telluride features a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen with navigation, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Kia also includes 19 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems on the gasoline LX trim, with additional convenience and technology features available on higher trims.
The best setup depends on what you use most often. If you spend a lot of time on the highway, compare the available cruise-control and driver-assistance systems. If parking in crowded lots is part of your routine, check the camera views and parking aids on the specific trims you're considering.
For more information about Nissan's driver-assistance technology, visit the manufacturer's official Nissan safety overview. Confirm the equipment on your chosen Pathfinder, since feature availability varies by trim.
2027 Pathfinder vs. Telluride: Pricing and Trims
Starting prices are a useful place to begin, but the most meaningful comparison is between vehicles with similar equipment and drivetrains.
Nissan Pathfinder Pricing
The 2027 Nissan Pathfinder starts at an MSRP of $39,990 for the SV with front-wheel drive. The SL starts at $42,790, the Rock Creek at $45,390, the Special Edition at $47,390 and the Platinum at $49,890. The SV, SL, Special Edition and Platinum are also available with 4WD at higher starting prices. Nissan lists a destination and handling charge of $1,575.
Kia Telluride Pricing
The 2027 Kia Telluride gasoline lineup starts at $39,190 for the front-wheel-drive LX, before its $1,545 destination charge. Other trims include the S, EX, SX, SX-Prestige, X-Line and X-Pro, with prices varying by configuration.
For families interested in a hybrid, the 2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid starts at $46,490 for the front-wheel-drive EX, before destination. Higher hybrid trims and AWD configurations are available at additional cost.
These are manufacturer suggested retail prices, not guaranteed dealership selling prices. Options, taxes, fees, dealer discounts and incentives can affect the final amount. Availability and pricing may also change, so confirm the details for the exact vehicle you're considering.
When comparing the two, look beyond the starting price. A higher trim may include features you want, while a lower-priced model may require additional equipment to provide your preferred drivetrain or convenience features.
Once you've narrowed down the Pathfinder trim that fits your budget, you can get started with the Windsor Nissan financing application.
Should You Choose the Nissan Pathfinder or Kia Telluride?
Both SUVs offer room for a family, modern technology and the flexibility to handle everyday driving alongside weekend plans. The better choice depends on which features matter most to you.
The Pathfinder deserves a closer look if towing capacity is a priority. Its available 6,000-pound maximum, V6 engine and flexible second-row seating make it a practical option for families who want to bring a camper or recreational equipment along.
The Telluride stands out for its larger published cargo measurements and its choice of gasoline and hybrid powertrains. Families who travel with all three rows occupied may appreciate the extra room behind the third row. The hybrid is worth considering if fuel efficiency is important, although its towing capacity is lower than that of the gasoline model.
Think about your family's usual routine before deciding. If your SUV mainly handles school runs and everyday errands, seating comfort, cargo access and fuel economy may matter most. If you regularly tow a trailer, pay closer attention to the vehicle's towing rating and required equipment.
If you're replacing your current vehicle, use the Windsor Nissan trade-in valuation tool to get an estimate of its value as you plan your budget.
Find Your Next Family SUV at Windsor Nissan
Ready to see if the 2027 Nissan Pathfinder is the right fit for your family? Visit Windsor Nissan and get behind the wheel to experience its spacious interior, family-friendly features and impressive towing capability for yourself. Whether you're upgrading to a three-row SUV or looking for a vehicle that can keep up with your family's next adventure, our team is ready to help you find the right fit.
Don't wait to find your next family SUV. Explore our Nissan Pathfinder inventory, find your favorite model and contact Windsor Nissan to schedule your visit and take the next step toward driving home in a Pathfinder you'll love.
Image Source: Nissan
