Kia Telluride: 10 Powerful Facts Drivers Love in 2025
The Award-Winning Family SUV That’s Changing the Game
Kia Telluride is a midsize three-row SUV that has revolutionized the family vehicle segment since its introduction in 2019. If you’re researching this popular model, here’s what you need to know at a glance:
| Kia Telluride Quick Facts | |
|---|---|
| Price Range | $37,585 – $54,780 (2024 model) |
| Engine | 3.8L V6 (291 hp, 262 lb-ft) |
| Fuel Economy | Up to 20 mpg city/26 mpg highway (FWD) |
| Seating | 7-8 passengers |
| Towing Capacity | 5,500 pounds |
| Key Features | Dual 12.3″ screens, available AWD, premium audio |
| Safety | IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating |
| Warranty | 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain |
The Kia Telluride has quickly become one of the most respected and successful three-row crossovers on the market. Designed in California and manufactured in West Point, Georgia, this American-focused SUV combines rugged capability with near-luxury features at a mainstream price point.
Since its launch, the Telluride has collected an impressive trophy case of awards, including the 2020 World Car of the Year, Motor Trend’s SUV of the Year, and a spot on Car and Driver’s 10 Best list. It’s even been named the official SUV of Texas by the Texas Auto Writers Association.
What makes the Telluride stand out in a crowded segment? Its boxy, confident styling gives it presence on the road, while its spacious interior offers genuine comfort for adults in all three rows. With sales climbing from 58,604 units in 2019 to over 110,000 in 2023, it’s clear that families have acceptd this blend of practicality, technology, and value.
Whether you’re looking for a capable weekend trip vehicle or a comfortable daily driver with room for the whole family, the Telluride offers a compelling package that has forced competitors to up their game.
Kia telluride helpful reading:
Kia Telluride Overview, Performance & Efficiency
The Kia Telluride turns heads with its confident, boxy styling that whispers “trip” even in the school pickup line. But don’t let that rugged exterior fool you—underneath lies a refined powertrain that delivers a surprisingly smooth driving experience for something so substantial.
Powering every Telluride is the trusty Atkinson Cycle LAMBDA II 3.8-liter V6 GDI engine. This naturally aspirated powerplant delivers a confident 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque—plenty of muscle for merging onto highways or tackling mountain passes with the family in tow. The engine works in perfect harmony with an 8-speed automatic transmission that shifts with the kind of smoothness you might expect from luxury brands.
You can choose between front-wheel drive for better fuel economy or all-wheel drive for those weekend trips. The AWD system isn’t just for show—it includes a center locking differential that intelligently distributes power between the front and rear wheels when traction gets questionable. With the optional towing package, your Telluride can haul up to 5,500 pounds, making it perfect for pulling the family camper or boat to your favorite getaway spot.
For a vehicle of this size, the performance numbers tell a reassuring story. The Telluride will get you from 0-60 mph in about 7.5 seconds—not sports-car territory, but more than adequate for a three-row family hauler. It can also come to a complete stop from 60 mph in around 120 feet, providing peace of mind when that deer decides to cross the highway unexpectedly.
Ground clearance stands at a trail-friendly 8.4 inches for the X-Pro trim (or 8.0 inches on standard models), giving you enough breathing room for light off-road excursions. The 114.2-inch wheelbase contributes to the Telluride’s planted highway manners and helps smooth out those annoying road imperfections. At 196.9 inches long, it’s substantial but still manageable enough to fit in most garages and parking spaces.
Every Kia Telluride rolls off the assembly line at Kia’s manufacturing facility in West Point, Georgia. While primarily designed with American families in mind, the Telluride has found fans globally and is exported to select international markets, including the Middle East.
What Is the Kia Telluride?
The Kia Telluride is the brand’s flagship three-row midsize SUV, named after the picturesque Colorado mountain town that evokes images of outdoor trip and family memories. Introduced for the 2020 model year, it represents Kia’s largest SUV offering and was designed specifically with American tastes and needs in mind.
The journey to production began with an eye-catching concept vehicle unveiled at the 2016 Detroit Auto Show. The concept turned heads with its distinctive suicide doors and ambitious hybrid powertrain that promised 400 horsepower. While the production version adopted more conventional doors (probably for the best, given the family focus), it maintained much of the concept’s bold, squared-off styling that sets it apart in parking lots full of look-alike crossovers.
What makes the Telluride special is its American DNA—it was the first Kia model designed specifically for the U.S. market, penned at Kia’s design studio in sunny Irvine, California. The designers clearly understood what American families want: space, presence, and features without the luxury price tag.
Built on a modern unibody platform composed of nearly 60 percent advanced high-strength steel, the Telluride strikes that perfect balance between structural rigidity and weight management. This thoughtful engineering provides the safety and towing capacity families need while keeping fuel consumption reasonable for weekend road trips.
Kia Telluride Engine & Powertrain
The heart of the Kia Telluride is its Lambda II V6 engine—a proven powerplant that delivers power in a smooth, linear fashion. Unlike some turbocharged competitors that can feel a bit jumpy, this naturally aspirated engine provides immediate throttle response without that momentary lag, making it predictable whether you’re navigating crowded city streets or merging onto highways.
The standard 8-speed automatic transmission uses shift-by-wire technology, eliminating old-school mechanical linkages between the shift lever and transmission. Beyond creating a more streamlined center console design, this system delivers precise shifts that you’ll barely notice—exactly what you want in family transportation.
One of the Telluride’s most practical features is its customizable drive modes that let you tailor the vehicle’s personality to match conditions or your mood. Comfort Mode serves as the well-balanced default, while Eco Mode stretches your fuel dollars by adjusting throttle sensitivity and shift patterns. When you’re feeling a bit more spirited, Sport Mode sharpens responses and holds gears longer, and the clever Smart Mode actually learns your driving style and automatically selects the appropriate mode. For those living in colder climates, Snow Mode on AWD models optimizes traction when things get slippery.
AWD models also offer a dedicated Lock mode that forces a fixed 50:50 power split between front and rear axles at lower speeds—perfect for those moments when you find yourself on a muddy campsite road after unexpected rain.
Looking ahead, industry insiders suggest that Kia is developing hybrid and extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) powertrains for future Telluride generations. The EREV system would use electric motors for propulsion while a small gasoline engine serves solely as an onboard generator, potentially offering over 600 miles of total range—perfect for those cross-country family road trips.
Safety-conscious families can rest easy knowing the Telluride’s engineering has earned top marks. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has awarded it their coveted Top Safety Pick+ designation, with particularly strong performance in rollover resistance tests.
Fuel Economy & Real-World Mileage
When it comes to fuel efficiency, the Kia Telluride delivers reasonable numbers considering its size and capability. The EPA ratings for the 2024 model tell a familiar story for three-row SUVs:
Front-wheel drive models achieve 20 mpg city, 26 mpg highway, and 22 mpg combined, while all-wheel drive versions come in slightly lower at 19 mpg city, 24 mpg highway, and 21 mpg combined.
What’s particularly interesting is that in real-world testing by several automotive publications, the Telluride often exceeds its EPA highway estimates. During a 75-mph highway test, an AWD Telluride returned an impressive 26 mpg—2 mpg better than its official rating. This suggests that for road-trip-loving families, the Telluride might be more efficient than the numbers initially suggest.
To get the most from each tank, consider using Eco mode for daily driving, maintaining steady highway speeds (the Telluride’s smooth adaptive cruise control is perfect for this), keeping tires properly inflated, and avoiding hauling unnecessary weight. The auto stop-start feature is also notably refined in the Telluride—none of that jarring restart that plagues some systems.
Another wallet-friendly bonus: the Telluride runs happily on regular unleaded gasoline, avoiding the premium fuel requirement that can add hundreds to the annual fuel bill of some competitors.
For more information on efficient options in this segment, check out our comprehensive guide to Fuel-Efficient SUVs.
Trims, Pricing, Interior & Technology
The Kia Telluride family comes in a variety of flavors to match your needs and budget. For 2024, Kia offers a thoughtfully structured lineup that ranges from well-equipped to downright luxurious:
- LX: The starter Telluride at $37,585 gives you all the essentials
- S: Steps up with stylish 20-inch wheels and comfy captain’s chairs at $40,185
- EX: Adds that premium feel with leather seating and convenient power liftgate at $43,785
- SX: Brings the sunshine with dual sunroofs and premium audio at $47,985
- SX Prestige: Goes full luxury with buttery Nappa leather and head-up display at $52,785
For the trip-minded, Kia offers X-Line variants (on EX, SX, and SX Prestige) with a slight lift and rugged styling cues, while the X-Pro models (SX and SX Prestige only) add all-terrain tires and beefed-up towing capacity.
All these prices include destination charges and reflect front-wheel drive where available. Want the security of all-wheel drive? Just add about $2,000 to your budget.
One thing to note – Kia Tellurides hold their value like few others in this segment. A three-year-old model typically retains around 70% of its original price, significantly outperforming the average SUV. While this means used models command premium prices, it’s excellent news if you’re buying new and plan to trade in down the road.
Step inside a Telluride and you’ll immediately understand its appeal. The cabin feels a class above, with thoughtful design and quality materials throughout. Base models offer a surprisingly premium feel, while the higher trims with their Nappa leather, suede headliners, and genuine wood accents could easily wear a luxury badge.
The tech story is equally impressive. Every 2024 Telluride comes with dual 12.3-inch displays that create a wide, seamless digital cockpit. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto keep you connected, while USB-C ports in all three rows ensure nobody’s device dies during the journey. Higher trims add niceties like a crisp head-up display, rich Harman/Kardon sound, the clever Driver Talk intercom system (perfect for communicating with kids in the back without raising your voice), and digital key technology that turns your smartphone into a key.
What truly sets the Kia Telluride apart is its genuinely adult-friendly third row. Unlike many competitors where the back row is best left to small children, the Telluride’s rearmost seats offer comfortable accommodation for grown-ups, with decent headroom and legroom. Getting back there is a breeze thanks to one-touch sliding second-row seats.
When it comes to cargo, the Telluride delivers flexibility in spades. You’ll find 21 cubic feet behind the third row – enough for a family grocery run or weekend bags. Fold that third row and space expands to 46 cubic feet, perfect for larger shopping trips or sports gear. With both rear rows folded, you’ve got a cavernous 87 cubic feet – ready for furniture runs or camping equipment. On higher trims, the power-folding third row makes these changes effortless.
Most trims offer second-row captain’s chairs as an option (standard on S and above), reducing seating from eight to seven but creating a more premium feel and easier third-row access – a worthwhile trade-off for many families.
Planning some epic family trips in your Telluride? Be sure to check out our guide to the Best Cars for Road Trips for additional tips to make the most of your journey.
Cost of Ownership & Warranty
The Kia Telluride really shines when it comes to long-term value, starting with its industry-best warranty coverage:
Your new Telluride comes protected by a generous 5-year/60,000-mile basic warranty that covers practically everything from bumper to bumper. The powertrain – the expensive bits like the engine and transmission – is covered for an incredible 10 years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first. Kia also includes 5-year/100,000-mile anti-perforation coverage (protecting against rust) and 5-year/60,000-mile roadside assistance for those unexpected moments.
This warranty package dramatically exceeds industry norms and speaks volumes about Kia’s confidence in the Telluride’s durability. It’s the kind of peace of mind that lets you enjoy your SUV rather than worry about it.
Day-to-day ownership costs won’t break the bank either. RepairPal gives the Telluride an excellent 4.5 out of 5 for reliability, with average annual repair costs of just $404 – notably below the $485 midsize SUV average. You’ll also visit the shop less frequently, with only 0.13 repair visits per year compared to the segment’s 1.18 average.
Insurance costs generally align with other midsize SUVs, though your personal rate will vary based on your location, driving record, and coverage choices. The Telluride’s outstanding safety ratings often help keep premiums reasonable.
Maintenance follows a straightforward schedule that won’t surprise experienced car owners. Plan for oil changes and tire rotations every 7,500-8,000 miles, air filter replacement every 15,000-30,000 miles, brake fluid service every 30,000 miles, and transmission fluid changes around the 60,000-mile mark.
For more hands-on advice about keeping your vehicle running smoothly for years to come, our Car Maintenance Tips guide offers practical guidance for owners of all experience levels.
Safety, Reliability, Recalls & Future Outlook
When it comes to protecting your family, the Kia Telluride doesn’t cut corners. This SUV has earned impressive accolades from the safety experts who matter most:
- Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS): Top Safety Pick+ (their highest honor)
- National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA): Perfect 5-Star Overall Rating
These aren’t just fancy badges—they’re backed by real-world protection. Every Telluride comes loaded with 17 standard advanced driver assistance systems that work together to keep you and your loved ones safe. From Forward Collision-Avoidance with Pedestrian Detection that watches the road ahead to Lane Following Assist that helps keep you centered in your lane, the Telluride feels like having an extra set of eyes on the road.
One feature that truly stands out is the Blind-Spot View Monitor. Flip on your turn signal, and a live camera feed of your blind spot appears right in the instrument cluster. It’s the kind of thoughtful touch that makes you wonder how you ever drove without it. The Highway Driving Assist system also deserves special mention—it handles the steering, acceleration, and braking on highways, making long road trips much less tiring.
Like any vehicle, the Telluride isn’t perfect. In March 2024, Kia recalled over 427,000 Tellurides (model years 2020-2024) for a potential rollaway issue where the vehicle could shift out of park without pressing the brake pedal. Another recall affected 462,869 units due to a potential seat-motor fire risk. While these issues sound concerning, Kia has been proactive about addressing them, and they haven’t significantly dented the Telluride’s stellar reliability reputation.
Kia telluride owners consistently report high satisfaction with their vehicles’ dependability. With a reliability rating of 4.5 out of 5 from RepairPal, it outperforms many competitors in the three-row SUV segment.
Looking toward the horizon, industry insiders suggest we could see a redesigned Telluride arrive for the 2026 model year. The rumor mill points to some exciting possibilities: a conventional hybrid option for better fuel economy, an extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) variant that could deliver over 600 miles of total range, and styling cues borrowed from the futuristic Kia EV9. We’re also likely to see advancements in autonomous driving capabilities and next-generation infotainment systems.
For those who frequently haul heavy loads, the available self-leveling rear suspension is a game-changer. This smart system automatically adjusts the ride height based on cargo weight, ensuring consistent handling, comfortable ride quality, and properly aimed headlights regardless of how much you’re carrying.
Want the most up-to-date information straight from the source? Visit the Official Kia website for the latest on the Telluride.
Preparing for Trips
The Kia Telluride was born for trip, making it a natural choice for family road trips and outdoor excursions. With a little preparation, you can maximize its impressive capabilities.
If towing is in your future, don’t skip the optional towing package. This bundle of improvements includes a sturdy hitch, self-leveling rear suspension, beefed-up cooling systems, and a specialized tow mode for the transmission. Together, these upgrades open up the Telluride’s full 5,500-pound towing capacity—plenty for hauling a small boat, camper, or trailer for your outdoor toys.
For those who plan to venture off the beaten path, the X-Pro trim deserves serious consideration. Its all-terrain tires grip loose surfaces better than standard rubber, while the increased ground clearance helps you clear obstacles that might trouble other SUVs. The X-Pro’s 18-inch wheels (smaller than the 20-inchers on other trims) allow for more tire sidewall, improving comfort and durability when the pavement ends.
Before heading out on any extended journey, a quick pre-trip check can save headaches down the road. Make sure your tires are properly inflated and in good condition, top off all fluids, test your battery’s health, verify that all driver assistance systems are working correctly, and update your navigation maps and infotainment software for the latest features.
One of the Telluride’s most useful features for travelers is its Drive Mode Select system. Toggle between Comfort mode for smooth highway cruising, Eco for stretching your fuel budget, and Sport for more responsive handling on twisty back roads. If you’ve opted for an AWD model, you’ll also have Snow mode for winter driving and AWD Lock for tackling challenging terrain.
For more expert advice on choosing the perfect vehicle for your trips, check out our comprehensive guide to the Best Trip Vehicles 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Kia Telluride
How much can the Kia Telluride tow?
When it comes to hauling your weekend toys, the Kia Telluride delivers impressive capability. With the proper towing package installed, this family SUV can pull up to 5,500 pounds – plenty for those summer lake trips with a boat or weekend camping trips with a travel trailer.
Without the towing package, you’re looking at a still-respectable 5,000-pound limit. But trust me, the towing package is worth every penny if you plan to pull anything regularly. It adds a proper trailer hitch, self-leveling rear suspension that adjusts to heavy loads, improved cooling systems to keep everything running smoothly, and a specialized tow mode for the transmission.
For the best towing experience, I’d recommend going with the AWD configuration. That extra traction makes a noticeable difference when launching a boat on a slippery ramp or pulling out of a muddy campsite. The X-Pro trim is particularly well-suited for towing duties with its improved cooling systems.
Remember to pay attention to tongue weight too – typically you want about 10-15% of your trailer’s weight pressing down on the hitch. Too little or too much can make for a white-knuckle highway experience that nobody wants!
What fuel economy can owners expect?
Let’s talk real-world numbers with the Kia Telluride, because we all know those EPA estimates can be… optimistic.
Most front-wheel drive owners report city driving returns of 18-20 mpg, while all-wheel drive models typically see 17-19 mpg around town. On the highway, you’re looking at 24-27 mpg for FWD and 23-26 mpg for AWD versions. For mixed driving, expect 21-23 mpg in FWD models and 20-22 mpg with AWD.
Your actual results will vary based on several factors. Heavy-footed drivers will see numbers drop quickly – that V6 loves to drink when pushed hard. Mountainous terrain is another fuel-economy killer, as is hauling a full load of passengers and luggage. Even climate plays a role – blasting the AC in summer or dealing with cold winter starts can temporarily reduce efficiency by 15-20%.
Here’s a little insider tip: many Telluride owners report consistently exceeding the EPA highway estimates on road trips. I’ve heard from several who’ve achieved 26-27 mpg on long interstate journeys – impressive for a vehicle of this size!
To maximize your miles per gallon, use the Eco drive mode for daily driving, maintain steady speeds on highways, and keep those tires properly inflated. Your wallet will thank you at the pump.
Are there upcoming hybrid or electric versions?
While Kia hasn’t made any official announcements about electrifying the Kia Telluride, the industry rumor mill is working overtime. Based on reliable automotive journalists and industry sources, it seems highly likely that the next-generation Telluride (expected around 2026) will finally accept electrification.
A conventional hybrid version seems the most probable first step. This would likely pair a gasoline engine with electric motors in a system similar to what’s already working well in the Sorento Hybrid. Such a setup could boost the Telluride’s fuel economy into the 30-35 mpg range – a significant improvement over the current model.
Even more intriguing is the potential for an Extended Range Electric Vehicle (EREV) variant. This would use electric motors to power the wheels while a small gasoline engine serves solely as a generator to recharge the batteries. The benefit? Potentially over 600 miles of total range without the anxiety of finding charging stations. This approach would be similar to what Ram is doing with their upcoming 1500 Ramcharger.
For context, Kia has already launched the all-electric EV9, which is similar in size to the Telluride but built on a dedicated electric platform. With up to 304 miles of range, the EV9 shows Kia’s commitment to electrification.
Given that Hyundai Motor Group (Kia’s parent company) has pledged to introduce 23 battery electric vehicles globally by 2025, electrifying their popular Telluride makes perfect strategic sense. If you’re in the market but can wait a couple of years, these electrified options might be worth holding out for.
Conclusion
The Kia Telluride has genuinely transformed what families expect from a midsize three-row SUV. It’s not just another option in a crowded segment—it’s become the measuring stick against which competitors are judged. With its commanding presence, genuinely usable interior space, and thoughtful blend of features, the Telluride manages to feel both practical and special at the same time.
What strikes us most at Car News 4 You is how the Kia Telluride performs a delicate balancing act that few vehicles manage. It’s tough enough for weekend trips yet refined enough for daily commutes. It’s packed with technology that feels helpful rather than overwhelming. And perhaps most impressively, it offers third-row seating that actual adults won’t mind using—a rare feat indeed! The sales numbers tell the story: from just under 60,000 units in its first year to breaking 110,000 in 2023, families are voting with their wallets.
If you’re considering a Telluride, here’s what you should know: even the base LX trim offers tremendous value with features that would cost thousands more in other brands. The higher trims like the SX Prestige deliver an experience that will have your passengers questioning whether you’ve secretly purchased a luxury vehicle.
Parents will appreciate the comprehensive safety package with its 17 standard driver assistance features. Weekend warriors will love the capable AWD system and impressive towing capacity. And practical-minded buyers will find comfort in the industry-best 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty that says Kia stands behind their product for the long haul.
The Telluride’s strong resale values aren’t just good news for your future trade-in—they’re a testament to the vehicle’s durability and continued desirability years after purchase. While fuel economy remains the one area where the Telluride doesn’t lead the pack, the rumored hybrid and extended-range electric versions for the next generation model could eliminate this lone weakness.
Whether you’re shopping new or eyeing a certified pre-owned model, the Kia Telluride represents one of the smartest choices in its class. It’s not perfect—no vehicle is—but its thoughtful blend of practicality, comfort, technology, and value creates a compelling package that continues to win over families and critics alike.
For more great options that excel at outdoor trips, be sure to check out our guide to the Best Cars for Outdoor Trips.
