Mazda CX-90 vs KIA Telluride

Verdict: Mazda CX-90 vs KIA Telluride

The Kia Telluride demonstrates superior reliability compared to the Mazda CX-90, with an average reliability score of 71/100 versus 51/100 for the CX-90. The Telluride also has a significantly lower owner complaints rate of 23.3 per 10,000 sold compared to 111.2 for the CX-90, alongside a more established recall history with 27 recalls over six years. Additionally, the estimated annual repair cost for the Telluride is $573, providing a clearer cost expectation for potential owners. While both vehicles encounter issues with their electrical systems and engines, the Telluride's overall performance in reliability metrics makes it the more dependable choice.

Reliability problem analysis

The Kia Telluride exhibits a higher volume of complaints, with significant issues in categories such as UNKNOWN OR OTHER, VISIBILITY/WIPER, and ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, each surpassing 190 complaints. Notably, the Telluride's SERVICE BRAKES category has 31 complaints, with 6 linked to crashes, indicating a potential safety concern. In contrast, the Mazda CX-90 has fewer overall complaints, but the STEERING category accounts for a substantial portion, with 80 complaints and 5 crash-linked incidents, suggesting a critical area of concern. While both models have crash-linked complaints in their ELECTRICAL SYSTEM and POWER TRAIN categories, the Kia Telluride's broader distribution of issues highlights a range of reliability challenges.

Which one to buy

If you prioritize reliability and lower maintenance concerns, the Kia Telluride is the better choice for you. With a higher reliability score of 71/100 compared to the Mazda CX-90's 51/100, it promises a more dependable driving experience. The Telluride has a lower owner complaint rate of 23.3 per 10,000 sold and an estimated annual repair cost of $573, making it a cost-effective option for those who want to minimize unexpected expenses.

However, if recall frequency is a major concern for you, it's worth noting that the Mazda CX-90 has fewer total recalls (13) than the Telluride (27). Despite this, the CX-90's higher complaint rate of 111.2 per 10,000 sold suggests potential issues that could affect long-term satisfaction. Therefore, for those who seek peace of mind and lower running costs, the Kia Telluride stands out as the more reliable option.

Cost of ownership

The Kia Telluride's annual repair cost is estimated at $573, with an expected repair frequency of 0.4 visits per year. While specific figures for the Mazda CX-90 are unavailable, industry estimates suggest that the Telluride's predictable repair schedule provides a clear advantage for cost-conscious buyers. Over five years, the Telluride's repair expenses could total approximately $2,865, assuming no major repairs. The lack of data for the Mazda CX-90 means potential buyers face uncertainty regarding repair frequency and major repair risks, making the Telluride a more reliable choice for those prioritizing predictable maintenance and repair expenses.