If you're looking for a Honda Pilot for sale in Everett, be prepared to find a bold, new look. Here at Klein Honda, we love the way the 2026 model builds on what was great about the previous iteration, updating the styling inside and out while adding more standard features that drivers can enjoy no matter which trim they choose.

But the Pilot isn't the only midsize SUV to get a makeover lately. After a brief hiatus during the 2026 model year, the 2027 Kia Telluride is back with a new look of its own. If you're still deciding which model is right for you, you might be wondering how these two refreshed SUVs stack up.

Today, we'll take a look at which makeover was more worthwhile and which SUV comes out on top.

Comfort

In a three-row SUV, simply having seating capacity for seven or eight people isn't enough. You want to make sure that everyone is actually comfortable, so you can enjoy the ride, whether you're running errands around Everett or heading out on a longer road trip.

Comparing Third-Row Space 

Let's start with the third row. Many drivers looking at SUVs like the Pilot and Telluride are specifically looking for three rows of seating, so while it might be at the back of the vehicle, it's likely to be front of mind for you as you browse your options.

Here's a quick overview of the third row dimensions for both models:

The Pilot provides more space in every dimension, though the advantage is most noticeable in head and shoulder room.

The figures for the all-important leg room are very close, but even that fraction of an inch could make a difference for a tall backseat passenger. The difference is even narrower in the hip room, with both SUVs offering plenty of space for adults to sit side by side.

The Pilot's Advantage for Passenger Comfort 

When it comes to head-and-shoulder room, the Pilot has a multi-inch advantage over the Telluride. Taller riders can sit much more comfortably in the Honda, without feeling cramped. This is clearly a big advantage if you ever want adults to be able to sit in the third row, and even if you're looking for a family SUV with room for the kids, it could come in handy after the next growth spurt. 

With breathing room for all, the Pilot offers a much more comfortable arrangement for those in the way back.

Driver Comfort

Moving up to the front of the vehicle, which SUV offers more comfort for the person behind the wheel? If you're going to be the one focusing your attention on the road, you should be treated to a little extra comfort.

Honda understands this and gives the 2026 Pilot not just a great range of comfort features, but a fantastic lineup of standard comfort features, so you can treat yourself no matter which trim you choose.

The entry-level Pilot Sport comes standard with:

• Heated front seats to help you stave off cold winter mornings.
• A 10-way power-adjustable driver seat with adjustable lumbar support that lets you get your position just right.

Neither of these features is available on the entry-level Telluride LX—you'll have to upgrade to unlock them. And even if you do, you'll still have less hip and shoulder room than you'll get up front from the Pilot. Honda makes sure that you're comfortable behind the wheel, no matter which trim you choose.

Safety

When it comes to safety, both SUVs come standard with a comprehensive lineup of advanced driver-assist features. This is a big advantage of choosing a model that recently had a major refresh—you'll find all of the latest tech to help you drive safely as you travel around Everett and beyond. These technologies can help you stay aware of your surroundings and avoid any potential danger on the road.

Here are some of the features you'll find standard on both the 2026 Pilot and the 2027 Telluride:

• Forward collision alert
• Automatic emergency braking
• Lane departure warning
• Lane keeping assist
• Automatic high-beam heatlights
• Adaptive cruise control
• Traffic jam assist/highway driving assist
• Blind spot information system
• Rear cross-traffic alert

Areas Where the Pilot Goes Further 

There are some features that come standard on the Telluride but aren't included on the entry-level Pilot Sport, like front and rear parking sensors. However, there are some features that are standard on the Pilot but not included on the Telluride at all.

For example, beyond just lane keep assist, the Pilot also has a road departure mitigation system, designed to prevent you from drifting off the road altogether.

The Pilot also has a standard driver attention monitor. When you get tired or distracted behind the wheel, it's hard to recognize it in the moment. You don't want to find out about this problem from a loud honk or a close call with another vehicle. Instead, you can get a friendly warning from your vehicle that it might be a good time to pull over for a cup of coffee or simply refocus your mind on driving. Everyone's human, and we all have times when we're not as focused as we should be. The Pilot has your back during these times.

These extra features make the Pilot a better choice for long road trips, commuting after a long day, and many other situations when it's difficult to give your full energy to driving. In a wide range of situations, Honda has your back.

Style

Both of these SUVs recently changed their looks, taking two different approaches.

The Telluride traded in its more traditional exterior for a controversial front end that's certainly bold but doesn't quite look finished. Inside, the dashboard is so streamlined it looks a bit sterile, and the single screen that stretches from the center to the area behind the steering wheel is high-tech, but it dominates the cabin, making it seem excessive.

The Pilot's Blend of Modern and Rugged Styling 

The Pilot has a boxier, more rugged front end that looks modern without looking too "out there" for drivers who like to balance changing trends with timeless style. Inside, there's a newly standard large touchscreen display paired with a separate display behind the steering wheel that's set back in the dashboard to keep the sun from making it unreadable at certain times of day.

While both SUVs look sharp and fresh, the Pilot has the wider appeal, with a perfect balance between modernity and tradition that's sure to look good wherever you go.

The 2026 Honda Pilot Is a Tough SUV to Beat

Comfortable, safe, and stylish, the newly refreshed Pilot is a tough SUV to beat. Even the slightly more recently updated Telluride has a hard time going up against the three-row Honda. While Kia has done a lot to make their SUV better competition, it still can't quite catch up.

If you want to see the Honda Pilot for yourself, visit us here at Klein Honda. Our dealership is conveniently located near Everett, and our friendly team will be happy to show you our lineup of new Pilot models. No matter which trim you choose, you'll be able to get a great deal and enjoy your time behind the wheel for many miles to come.