Kia Telluride S vs EX
Compare, trims, specifications, features and pricing on the Kia Telluride S and EX
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What Is The Telluride S?
The Kia Telluride S is a well-equipped mid-level trim of the Telluride SUV, offering a blend of style, technology, and practicality, featuring:
- Exterior: Sporty styling with 20 inch alloy wheels, a signature grille, and LED daytime running lights.
- Interior: SofTex trimmed seating, a 10.25 inch touchscreen infotainment system, and a power adjustable driver’s seat.
- Features: Standard adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, and a powerful 3.8L V6 engine with 291 horsepower.
What Is The Telluride EX?
The Kia Telluride EX is a premium mid-to-upper trim level, enhancing comfort, technology, and upscale features, featuring:
- Exterior: Sleek design with 18 inch machine finished alloy wheels, LED taillights, and a power folding side mirrors.
- Interior: Leather trimmed seating, ventilated front seats, a 12.3-inch touchscreen, and a power adjustable passenger seat.
- Features: Smart power liftgate, wireless phone charging, advanced driver assistance systems, and a 3.8L V6 engine with 291 horsepower.
Telluride S vs EX Comparison Video
S vs EX Exterior Visual Differences
Front Grille & Badging:
- Telluride S: Features a gloss black grille with silver accents, giving it a sporty and refined look.
- Telluride EX: Upgrades to a satin chrome-finished grille for a more upscale and sophisticated appearance.
Wheels & Tires:
- Telluride S: Rides on 20-inch alloy wheels with a machined finish, enhancing its aggressive stance.
- Telluride EX: Comes with 18-inch machine-finished alloy wheels, prioritizing a smoother ride and premium styling.
Exterior Trim & Styling:
- Telluride S: Includes gloss black exterior accents and roof rails, giving it a sportier aesthetic.
- Telluride EX: Features body-colored side mirrors with integrated turn signals and a more refined chrome trim finish.
S vs EX Interior Visual Differences
Interior Features:
- Telluride S: SofTex-trimmed seats with power-adjustable driver’s seat for comfort and durability.
- Telluride EX: Upgrades to leather-trimmed seating with ventilated front seats for added luxury.
Technology & Convenience:
- Telluride S: 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto, and Smart Key with push-button start.
- Telluride EX: Upgrades to a 12.3-inch touchscreen, Smart Power Liftgate, and a power-adjustable passenger seat for enhanced convenience.
Telluride S vs EX - Value Breakdown
Feature
S
EX
Added Residual Value
Seating Capacity
8-passenger
7-passenger
$0 (Preference-based)
Driver’s Seat Adjustment
6-way manual
8-way power w/ 2-way lumbar
$300
Heated Front Seats
Not Available
Standard
$250
Sunroof
Not Available
Standard
$750
Leather-Wrapped Gear Shift Knob
Not Available
Standard
$25
LED Interior Lighting
Not Available
Standard
$50
Wireless Phone Charger
Not Available
Standard
$150
Smart Power Liftgate
Not Available
Standard
$250
Roof Rails
Not Available
Standard (Low-Profile, Silver)
$50
20-inch Alloy Wheels
Not Available
Standard
$350
Premium SynTex Seating
Cloth Seats
Synthetic Leather
$400
Table of Contents
Kia Telluride S vs EX Differences
| Specification | Telluride S | Telluride EX |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 3.8L V6 | 3.8L V6 |
| Horsepower | 291 hp | 291 hp |
| Torque | 262 lb-ft | 262 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-Speed Automatic | 8-Speed Automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD (AWD optional) | FWD (AWD optional) |
| Fuel Economy (FWD) | 20 city / 26 hwy MPG | 20 city / 26 hwy MPG |
| Length | 196.9 inches | 196.9 inches |
| Width | 78.3 inches | 78.3 inches |
| Height | 68.9 inches | 68.9 inches |
| Wheelbase | 114.2 inches | 114.2 inches |
| Seating Capacity | 7-passenger (Captain's Chairs) | 8-passenger |
| Wheels | 20-inch alloy | 18-inch alloy |
| Sunroof | Standard | Standard |
| Heated Front Seats | Standard | Standard |
| Ventilated Front Seats | Not Available | Standard |
| Wireless Phone Charger | Standard | Standard |
| Power Driver’s Seat | 8-way power with lumbar | 8-way power with memory settings |
| Smart Power Liftgate | Standard | Standard |
| Roof Rails | Standard | Standard |
| Leather Seating | Synthetic Leather (SynTex) | Genuine Leather |
| Interior Ambient Lighting | Not Available | Standard |
| Second-Row Sunshades | Not Available | Standard |
Check Your Spec | S vs EX
Choosing between the S and EX trims can be tricky, so let’s clarify their differences and how those differences translate into real world value. We’ll delve into the features that separate the base S from the upgraded EX, giving you a clear picture of what you’re getting for your money. This will help you decide which model best suits your driving habits, budget, and even your plans for future resale.
All valuations below are based on a 36-month/60,000-mile ownership profile.
Kia Telluride S - Is It Worth It?
Value Focus/Cost Savings: The S trim offers a significantly lower purchase price. If budget is a primary concern, the S gets you into the Telluride for less money.
Adequate Standard Features: The S trim includes the core essential features for comfortable and safe driving. If you only need the core features, the S gets you the best bang for your buck.
Limited Value Upgrade: Spending the extra $2700 for the EX trim only gives you an estimated $1700 in terms of value, due to depreciation.
Good Base Functionality: The S trim provides the core functionality and features needed in a vehicle, like fast charging.
Non-Essential Extras: The S trims doesn’t include unnecessary features such as:
Auto-dimming rearview mirror.
Sound-absorbing front window glass
Front grille differences.
60/40 vs 50/50 split fold second row seats.
Kia Telluride EX - Is It Worth It?
Enhanced Convenience: The EX trim offers convenience features which are not available on the S, such as:
Power Fold Door Mirrors.
Additional Front Center Console USB Fast Charging Port.
Better Comfort: The EX trim offers features which can make driving more comfortable, such as:
Eight-Way Power Passenger Seat with Lumbar Support.
Ventilated Front Seats.
Family-Friendly Additions: The EX trim offers second-row integrated windows sunshades, which can be beneficial for small children.
Enhanced Appearance: The EX trim includes the following enhanced aesthetic features:
Leather Seat Trim.
LED Tail Lights.
Door Handle’s Body Color.
Kia Telluride S vs EX Cost Of Ownership
Initial Purchase Price
- Telluride S: Higher than the LX, with additional comfort and convenience features.
- Telluride EX: Typically costs around $3,000 more than the S, but includes leather seating, ventilated front seats, and a power passenger seat.
Kia Telluride S vs EX Maintenance Costs
Routine maintenance costs for both models are similar since they share the same engine and drivetrain.
- Oil Changes: Every 5,000–7,500 miles. Cost: $50–$100 (independent shop) to $150+ (dealer).
- Tire Rotations: Every 6,000–8,000 miles. Cost: $50–$100 per service.
- Brake Inspections: Pads may need replacement every 20,000–50,000 miles. Cost: $150–$300 per axle for pads; $300–$500 for a full brake job.
- Fluid Checks & Changes: Coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid need periodic maintenance. Cost: $50–$150 depending on fluid type.
- Other Wear Items: Air filters, spark plugs, and battery replacements at manufacturer-recommended intervals.
Estimated Annual Maintenance Costs: $800–$1,200 per year
First 5 Years Maintenance Estimate: $8,000–$10,000
Kia Telluride S vs EX Insurance Costs
- The EX may have slightly higher insurance costs due to its increased value and additional features.
- Estimated Difference: $100–$300 more per year for the EX over the S, depending on provider and coverage.
Kia Telluride S vs EX Depreciation
- The EX retains value slightly better due to its premium features like leather upholstery, which may appeal more in the used market.
- Projected 3-Year Depreciation:
- Telluride S: Estimated to retain around 65% of its original value.
- Telluride EX: Estimated to retain 68–70% of its original value due to higher demand for upscale trims.
- Estimated Resale Value Difference After 3 Years: EX may be worth $1,500–$2,000 more than the S.
Kia Telluride S vs EX Warranty
- Both models come with Kia’s 5-year/60,000-mile basic warranty and 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty.
- No difference in coverage between trims.
Final Thoughts
Consider the Telluride S if:
- You Want a More Affordable Option: The S offers many premium features at a lower price point, making it a great value.
- You Prioritize Essential Features Over Luxury: It comes with key upgrades like a sunroof, heated front seats, and a power driver’s seat, without the added cost of leather seating and ventilated seats.
- You Want to Keep Insurance Costs Lower: The S generally has slightly lower insurance premiums compared to the EX.
- You Don’t Mind a Slightly Lower Resale Value: While still retaining strong value, the S won’t hold quite as much resale value as the EX in the long run.
Consider the Telluride EX if:
- Luxury and Comfort Matter: You want premium features like leather seats, ventilated front seats, and a power passenger seat for a more upscale feel.
- You Plan to Keep the Vehicle for a Longer Time: The EX trim’s higher resale value helps offset its initial price difference.
- You Prefer a More Refined Driving Experience: Extra features contribute to a quieter, more comfortable cabin.
- You’re Willing to Pay a Bit More for Insurance and Maintenance: While not significantly higher, costs for the EX can be slightly more than the S due to its premium features.
Which One Should You Choose?
- On a Budget? The Telluride S offers great value while still including key comfort features.
- Looking for Long-Term Value? The Telluride EX has better resale value and added luxury.
- Want a Balance of Features and Price? The S trim is the best bang for your buck, while the EX is ideal if you plan to keep the car longer and enjoy premium touches.
Kia Telluride S vs EX: Your Frequently Asked Questions
What's the biggest difference between the Kia Telluride S and EX trims?
The biggest difference is the price and the included features. The EX costs more upfront but adds several convenience and comfort features. The S is the more budget-friendly option with fewer bells and whistles, but still provides the core Telluride experience.
Is the Kia Telluride EX worth the extra money over the S?
That depends on your needs and priorities. The EX adds features like leather seats, power-adjustable passenger seat, ventilated front seats, and other convenience items. If you value these features and they fit your budget, then yes, it could be worth it. If you’re primarily concerned with affordability and don’t need the extra features, the S is a great choice.
What features does the Kia Telluride EX have that the S doesn't?
Key EX features not found on the S include:
Leather Seat Trim
Eight-Way Power Passenger Seat with Lumbar Support
Ventilated Front Seats
Second-Row Integrated Window Sunshades
Power Fold Door Mirrors
Additional Front Center Console USB Fast Charging Port
LED Tail Lights
Door Handles Body Color
Are the Kia Telluride S and EX trims reliable?
Reliability should be similar for both the S and EX, as they share the same engine, transmission, and core mechanical components. Reliability ratings are usually based on the model as a whole rather than specific trims. However, the EX having electrical components might be more prone to issues.
Which Kia Telluride trim, S or EX, is better for families?
The EX is slightly better suited for families, especially those with young children, due to the inclusion of second-row integrated sunshades. The EX will also offer a higher seating comfort with leather seats and power adjustable seats, which can be beneficial for long trips.
Is it easy to upgrade a Kia Telluride S to have EX features later?
Some features can be added aftermarket (e.g., leather seat covers, window tinting). However, many EX features (e.g., power passenger seat, ventilated seats) are difficult or cost-prohibitive to add later. It’s generally better to buy the EX trim if you want those features from the start.
Unlock accurate valuations for your car’s features in seconds – find out what your options are worth today and in the future.
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