2021 Kia Telluride vs 2018 Infiniti QX80
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
2021
Kia Telluride
Grade A-
An exceptional family SUV that delivers premium value and confident reliability, despite a few early production hiccups.
2018
Infiniti QX80
Grade A-
A powerhouse of reliability where it truly counts, offering bulletproof mechanicals with only minor electrical frustrations.
Best For
Best for Lowest Annual Upkeep
2021 Kia Telluride
$450-700
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Cost of Ownership
| Line Item | 2021 Kia Telluride | 2018 Infiniti QX80 |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Maintenance | $450-700 | $600-900 (routine service, tire rotations, oil changes) |
| Moderate Repairs | $600-1,800 occasionally | $500-1,500 occasionally (e.g., HVAC blower, sensor replacement, brake jobs) |
| MPG (City/Hwy) | 20 / 26 | 13 / 19 |
| MSRP (New) | $32,190 | $64,750 |
Major-failure risk and insurance outlook for each vehicle are in their full reliability reports.
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08-18 Nissan 370z Infiniti G37 Exhaust Downpipe Kits|2WD - KSP Performance
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Biggest Risks on Each
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 Infiniti QX80
Infotainment & Electrical Systems
30,000-70,000 mi
HVAC System Components
50,000-90,000 mi
Suspension Bushings & Steering Components
70,000-110,000 mi
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Editorial Take
The 2021 Kia Telluride and the 2018 Infiniti QX80 represent two distinct philosophies in the large SUV segment, yet both appeal to buyers needing significant passenger and cargo capacity. The Telluride, a modern unibody crossover, prioritizes sophisticated design, advanced technology, and family-friendly efficiency. The QX80, a traditional body-on-frame luxury SUV, offers robust V8 power, serious towing capability, and a commanding road presence. Buyers will typically weigh factors like overall value, running costs, off-road potential, and the level of modern technology versus traditional luxury and ruggedness when making their decision between these two contenders. HEAD-TO-
Reliability & Common Issues
2021 KIA TELLURIDE: 1. Infotainment System Glitches: Some early owners reported occasional freezing or slow response from the large central touchscreen infotainment system, usually remedied by a software update or a system restart. This was not widespread but noted in some forums. 2. Minor Interior Trim Rattle: A small number of owners reported minor interior trim rattles, particularly around the dashboard or door panels, often at low mileages. These were typically minor and easily addressed by dealerships. 3. Power Liftgate Malfunctions: Isolated reports of the power liftgate occasionally failing to open or close properly were noted, sometimes requiring manual intervention or a sensor reset. 2018 INFINITI QX80: 1. Fuel Level Sensor Failure: A common issue in many Nissan/Infiniti vehicles from this era, where the fuel level sensor inside the fuel tank can fail, leading to inaccurate fuel gauge readings or the check engine light illuminating. This typically affects vehicles around the 60,000 to 100,000 mile mark and requires replacement of the fuel sender unit. 2. Infotainment System Obsolescence: While generally reliable, the QX80's infotainment system is dated by 2018 standards, lacking modern features like Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. While not a "failure," its older technology can feel limiting compared to newer vehicles. 3. Brake Wear: Due to its substantial weight and powerful engine, the QX80 can be demanding on its braking system. Owners often report quicker wear of brake pads and rotors compared to lighter vehicles, especially with regular use in city driving or towing.
Value & Cost of Ownership
When new, the 2021 Kia Telluride offered exceptional value, with a starting MSRP roughly half that of the 2018 Infiniti QX80. On the used market, a 2021 Telluride still commanded strong prices due to high demand and its newer status, often selling for $30,000 to $45,000+ depending on trim and mileage. A 2018 Infiniti QX80, having depreciated more significantly, could typically be found for $25,000 to $40,000+, offering a lot of luxury and power for the money but at an older age and higher mileage. Insurance costs for the QX80 are generally higher due to its luxury branding, higher original price, and more powerful engine. Maintenance costs for the QX80 will also typically be higher, as it uses premium parts for its V8 engine and luxury components, and requires full synthetic oil. Its significantly lower fuel economy translates to substantially higher fuel costs compared to the Telluride. The Telluride, being a Kia, generally benefits from lower parts costs and a more efficient V6 engine, leading to lower overall running costs. Resale value for the 2021 Telluride has been exceptionally strong, often exceeding original MSRP in its initial years, while the 2018 QX80 followed a more typical luxury SUV depreciation curve.
Editorial Verdict
BEST FOR FAMILIES: The 2021 Kia Telluride. Its more modern safety features, superior third-row space, user-friendly infotainment with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and generally lower running costs make it an ideal choice for the modern family. BEST FOR COMMUTERS: The 2021 Kia Telluride. Its more efficient V6 engine and car-like driving dynamics, combined with a comfortable ride, make it far more pleasant and economical for daily commuting, especially in city traffic. BEST FOR ENTHUSIASTS: Neither vehicle is truly an "enthusiast" car in the traditional sense, but if forced to choose based on raw power, the 2018 Infiniti QX80 with its 400-horsepower V8 offers a more thrilling straight-line acceleration experience. However, its handling characteristics are not sporty. BEST VALUE OVERALL: For long-term ownership, efficiency, and modern features, the 2021 Kia Telluride offers superior overall value, especially considering its robust resale value and lower operating costs. However, if pure luxury, towing capability, and a powerful V8 are paramount and a lower initial purchase price for a used luxury vehicle is desired, the 2018 Infiniti QX80 presents an attractive value proposition despite its higher running expenses.
Parts & Accessories for These Vehicles
Products for 2021 Kia Telluride
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