2020 Kia Telluride vs 2021 Kia Telluride vs 2018 Volvo XC90
Too Close to Call on Reliability Alone
These vehicles are neck-and-neck on reliability. The "Best For" breakdown below shows where each pulls ahead — pick the one that matches your priorities.
Reliability Side-by-Side
2020
Kia Telluride
Grade A-
A remarkably solid first-year effort, the Telluride offers premium feel and impressive reliability with only a few minor quirks to consider.
2021
Kia Telluride
Grade A-
An exceptional family SUV that delivers premium value and confident reliability, despite a few early production hiccups.
2018
Volvo XC90
Grade B
A safe, stylish, and comfortable SUV that demands attention to its complex systems to remain reliable.
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Cost of Ownership
| Line Item | 2020 Kia Telluride | 2021 Kia Telluride | 2018 Volvo XC90 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual Maintenance | $450-650 | $450-700 | $600-900 (routine service, oil changes) |
| Moderate Repairs | $600-1,800 occasionally for items like windshield replacement or significant sensor failures. | $600-1,800 occasionally | $500-1,500 occasionally (e.g., Sensus repair, sensor replacement, suspension bushings) |
| MPG (City/Hwy) | 20 / 26 | 20 / 26 | — / — |
| MSRP (New) | $31,890 | $32,190 | — |
Major-failure risk and insurance outlook for each vehicle are in their full reliability reports.
Printed Owner's Guidebooks · $29.99 each · free US shipping
2020 Kia Telluride
Reliability report · logs · 13 chapters
2021 Kia Telluride
Reliability report · logs · 13 chapters
2018 Volvo XC90
Reliability report · logs · 13 chapters
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Biggest Risks on Each
2020 Kia Telluride
Infotainment/Electrical System
5,000-40,000 mi
Windshield Fragility
10,000-60,000 mi
Transmission Shift Quality
10,000-30,000 mi
2021 Kia Telluride
Electrical / Infotainment System
5,000-30,000 mi
Suspension Components
20,000-60,000 mi
8-Speed Automatic Transmission
10,000-40,000 mi
2018 Volvo XC90
Sensus Infotainment System
30,000-70,000 mi
Air Suspension System (Optional)
60,000-100,000 mi
Electrical Gremlins & Sensors
40,000-80,000 mi
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Editorial Take
These three-row SUVs frequently appear on shopping lists for discerning families due to their blend of style, space, and available features. The 2020 and 2021 Kia Telluride offer a compelling value proposition with a premium feel and extensive standard equipment, appealing to buyers who want luxury without the luxury price tag. The 2018 Volvo XC90, conversely, targets those seeking genuine European luxury, advanced safety, and sophisticated powertrain options, even if it means a higher initial investment and potentially greater long-term costs. Key decision factors often revolve around budget, desired level of luxury, perceived reliability, and long-term ownership expenses. HEAD-TO-
Reliability & Common Issues
2020-2021 Kia Telluride: 1. Windshield Cracking: A small number of owners have reported the windshields being prone to cracking or chipping more easily than expected, sometimes requiring replacement. This appears to affect early production models more frequently. 2. Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) False Positives: While rare, some drivers have experienced instances of the AEB system activating unnecessarily, particularly at lower speeds. Software updates have addressed some of these concerns. 3. Infotainment Glitches: Minor issues such as occasional screen freezing, Bluetooth connectivity drops, or slow response from the touchscreen have been reported, often rectifiable with a system reset or software update. 2018 Volvo XC90: 1. Sensus Infotainment System Issues: The vertically oriented Sensus infotainment system, while visually appealing, has been a source of complaints for its early versions. Common issues include freezing, slow boot-up times, unresponsive touch commands, and occasional Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity problems. Many of these issues are software-related and some can be mitigated with updates. 2. Electrical Gremlins: Some 2018 XC90 owners have reported various minor electrical issues, ranging from flickering headlights, malfunctioning sensors (e.g., parking sensors, blind-spot monitoring), or intermittent warning lights appearing on the dashboard. 3. Air Suspension Problems: For models equipped with the optional air suspension, common issues as the vehicle ages can include air leaks in the system, leading to the vehicle sagging when parked, or compressor failures, which can result in expensive repairs. These issues typically appear beyond the original warranty period, around 60,000 miles and up.
Value & Cost of Ownership
When new, the Kia Telluride was significantly more affordable, with its highest trim barely touching the starting price of a mid-range XC90. This makes the Telluride an incredible value proposition out of the gate. For the used market (as of mid-2024), a 2020-2021 Kia Telluride typically ranges from approximately $28,000 to $40,000 depending on mileage and trim. A 2018 Volvo XC90, having depreciated from a higher initial MSRP, can often be found in a similar price bracket, ranging from around $25,000 for a T5 model to $45,000 for a well-equipped T6 or T8, with higher mileage examples being even less. This makes the XC90 an appealing used luxury buy. Insurance costs for the Telluride are generally lower due to its mainstream brand status and less expensive parts and repair costs. Volvo, as a premium brand, often commands higher insurance premiums, especially for the more powerful T6 and T8 models with complex systems. Maintenance costs will also favor the Telluride. Kia parts are more readily available and labor rates at non-dealership mechanics are typically lower. Volvo parts and specialized diagnostic equipment mean higher labor rates at dealerships, and parts can be significantly more expensive, particularly for the T6's supercharged/turbocharged engine or T8's hybrid components, and any repairs to the optional air suspension. Resale value has been a strong point for the Telluride, which has held its value exceptionally well since its introduction, experiencing slower depreciation compared to many competitors, including the XC90. The XC90, while holding its value reasonably well for a luxury SUV, still experiences greater absolute depreciation due given its higher starting MSRP.
Editorial Verdict
BEST FOR FAMILIES: The 2020 and 2021 Kia Telluride. Its more spacious and accessible third row, slightly larger cargo capacity, lower running costs, and strong reliability make it the undisputed champion for family duties where practicality and value are paramount. Its premium feel ensures no compromises on comfort. BEST FOR COMMUTERS: This depends on priorities. For ultimate luxury and impressive fuel economy (especially with its electric range), the 2018 Volvo XC90 T8 is an excellent choice for commuters with access to charging. For those prioritizing a smooth, quiet ride and strong value without the plug-in complexity, the Kia Telluride is a fantastic highway cruiser. However, if pure power and a more refined, if not fuel-efficient, daily drive is desired, the XC90 T6 also excels. BEST FOR ENTHUSIASTS: Neither of these vehicles are true enthusiast offerings, being large three-row family SUVs. However, for those who appreciate robust power delivery and a more sophisticated, though not sporty, driving experience, the 2018 Volvo XC90, particularly in T6 or T8 guise, offers significantly more horsepower and acceleration than the Telluride. Its optional air suspension also contributes to a more controlled ride. BEST VALUE OVERALL: The 2020 and 2021 Kia Telluride. When new, it offered an unparalleled package of features, style, and quality for its price. On the used market, its lower maintenance costs, better fuel economy, and strong resale value consistently make it the more financially sensible long-term choice. While a used 2018 XC90 offers luxury at a depreciated price, the higher running costs temper its overall value proposition.
Parts & Accessories for These Vehicles
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