Kia Telluride: Price, Specs, Features & Review
The Kia Telluride is a three-row midsize SUV for families who need real passenger space, useful cargo room, available all-wheel drive, and strong towing capability without moving to a full-size SUV.
The redesigned 2027 Telluride uses a turbocharged four-cylinder engine with more low-end torque than the previous V6. It remains available with seven or eight seats, depending on the second-row layout. This page covers the regular gasoline Telluride; the Telluride Hybrid should be treated as a separate model.
WheelPedia Rating: 8.4/10
The Kia Telluride earns an 8.4/10 WheelPedia Rating for its spacious cabin, family-friendly practicality, strong safety record, modern technology, and useful towing capacity. Its main compromises are average fuel economy, a high price on upper trims, and the lack of a long-term reliability record for its newly redesigned powertrain.
| Rating Category | Score | Weight |
| Safety | 9.3/10 | 20% |
| Reliability and Ownership | 7.7/10 | 15% |
| Performance and Driving | 8.3/10 | 15% |
| Comfort and Practicality | 9.0/10 | 15% |
| Efficiency | 7.0/10 | 15% |
| Features and Technology | 8.8/10 | 10% |
| Price and Value | 8.2/10 | 10% |
| Overall WheelPedia Rating | 8.4/10 | — |
See how WheelPedia rates cars for the full scoring method.
Key Highlights
- Starts from $39,190 MSRP in the US, before destination, taxes, registration, and dealer charges.
- Turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine produces 274 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque.
- Available with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.
- Seats seven or eight, depending on the second-row configuration.
- Tows up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.
- Provides 22.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row and up to 89.3 cubic feet with rear seats folded.
- Returns up to an EPA-estimated 22 mpg combined in front-wheel-drive form.
- The 2027 Telluride earns an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award.
- Best for families who want a roomy, well-equipped three-row SUV with a more manageable footprint than a full-size model.
Quick Specifications
| Specification | Kia Telluride |
| Vehicle type | Three-row midsize SUV |
| Seating capacity | 7 or 8 |
| Engine | Turbocharged 2.5L four-cylinder |
| Output | 274 hp / 311 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD or AWD |
| Best fuel economy | Up to 20 city / 26 highway / 22 combined mpg |
| Maximum towing capacity | Up to 5,000 lbs, when properly equipped |
| Cargo space behind third row | 22.3 cu. ft. |
| Maximum cargo space | 89.3 cu. ft. |
| Length | 199.2 in. |
| Wheelbase | 116.9 in. |
Expert tip:
The EX AWD is the strongest all-round Telluride for most families. It provides all-weather traction and a useful level of equipment without the large price jump of the X-Line, X-Pro, or SX Prestige trims.
About the Kia Telluride
The Telluride is Kia’s largest conventional SUV and is designed around family use. It has three usable rows, a wide range of comfort and driver-assistance features, and enough towing capacity for a small boat, camper, or utility trailer.
The 2027 redesign gives the Telluride a more upright shape, more interior space, and a new turbocharged engine. The 311 lb-ft of torque arrives at low engine speeds, which helps when pulling away with passengers aboard or merging onto a highway.
It is not the right choice for buyers seeking hybrid-level fuel economy, compact-SUV parking ease, or serious off-road ability. It is a strong fit for households that regularly use all three rows and want a comfortable road-trip vehicle.
Price and Trims
The following prices are 2027 US base MSRPs, excluding destination, taxes, options, and dealer-installed accessories.
| Trim | Starting MSRP | Drivetrain | Key Reason to Choose |
| LX | $39,190 | FWD | Lowest entry price and essential three-row practicality |
| S | $42,090 | FWD | More family-focused comfort and convenience equipment |
| S AWD | $44,090 | AWD | Added traction at a reasonable step up |
| EX | $43,790 | FWD | Strong value with a better-equipped cabin |
| EX AWD | $45,790 | AWD | Best all-round family choice |
| X-Line EX | $47,290 | AWD | Rugged styling and added all-weather capability |
| SX | $48,790 | FWD | More premium technology and comfort features |
| X-Line SX | $51,790 | AWD | Upscale equipment with a more rugged look |
| X-Pro SX | $53,690 | AWD | Best choice for towing, rough roads, and light trail use |
| SX Prestige | $53,890 | AWD | Luxury-focused Telluride |
| X-Line SX Prestige | $54,890 | AWD | Premium cabin with X-Line styling |
| X-Pro SX Prestige | $56,790 | AWD | Most capable and best-equipped gasoline Telluride |
The EX AWD is the sensible middle ground. It avoids the base-model feel of the LX while keeping the price well below the highest trims. The X-Pro models are worth the extra money only for buyers who will use their added ground clearance, all-terrain tires, electronic limited-slip differential, and standard trailer hitch.
Engine, Performance, and Driving Experience
Every gasoline Telluride uses a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 274 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. An eight-speed automatic transmission is standard.
The Telluride is not a performance SUV, but it has enough power for highway driving, full passenger loads, and towing within its limits. Its torque-rich engine feels more responsive in everyday driving than the old naturally aspirated V6, particularly at lower speeds.
Front-wheel drive is standard on selected trims. All-wheel drive is optional on the S, EX, and SX, and standard on SX Prestige, X-Line, and X-Pro models.
0–60 MPH Performance
Kia does not publish an official 0–60 mph time for the Telluride. Independent testing of the X-Line SX Prestige recorded about 7.4 seconds to 60 mph, while the X-Pro SX Prestige recorded about 7.5 seconds.
Those figures are adequate for a three-row SUV of this size. Buyers wanting quicker acceleration should compare hybrid or performance-focused alternatives, but most Telluride owners will find its power sufficient.
Driving Experience
The Telluride is tuned for comfort and confidence rather than sharp handling. It feels stable on the highway, absorbs most road imperfections well, and has steering that is easy to use in daily driving.
The standard suspension is the better choice for families who spend most of their time on paved roads. X-Line and X-Pro models have a more outdoors-oriented setup, but the X-Pro’s all-terrain tires can add road noise and slightly reduce fuel economy.
The X-Pro is suitable for dirt roads, uneven campsites, snow, and moderate trails. It should not be mistaken for a dedicated off-road SUV with low-range gearing.
Fuel Economy
| Model | EPA-Estimated City / Highway / Combined Fuel Economy |
| Telluride FWD | 20 / 26 / 22 mpg |
| Telluride AWD | 18 / 24 / 20 mpg |
| Telluride X-Pro AWD | 17 / 22 / 19 mpg |
Fuel economy is acceptable for a large gasoline three-row SUV, but it is not a Telluride strength. Buyers with high annual mileage should compare hybrid alternatives before committing.
Real-world results vary with weather, speed, passenger load, towing, tire type, and use of air conditioning or heat.
Interior, Comfort, and Technology
The Telluride’s cabin is one of its strongest selling points. It has a wide, practical layout, good outward visibility, and enough space for adults in the first two rows. The third row is more useful than in many midsize SUVs, though it is still best for children or shorter adults on long trips.
Standard and available features include:
- Dual 12.3-inch displays, depending on trim
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Kia Connect connected services
- Digital Key capability
- Available head-up display
- Available Meridian premium audio system
- Available heated and ventilated front seats
- Available heated and ventilated second-row seats
- Available dual sunroofs
- Available digital rearview mirror
- Available surround-view monitor
- Ground-view camera system on X-Pro trims
- Available second-row captain’s chairs
The seven-passenger layout uses second-row captain’s chairs and gives passengers a clearer route to the third row. The eight-passenger bench is the better choice for larger families who regularly use every seating position.
Dimensions, Cargo, and Practicality
| Dimension | Measurement |
| Length | 199.2 in. |
| Width | 78.3 in. |
| Height | 69.5–71.5 in., depending on trim |
| Wheelbase | 116.9 in. |
| Front legroom | 41.4 in. |
| Second-row legroom | 43.0 in. |
| Third-row legroom | 32.1 in. |
| Cargo space behind third row | 22.3 cu. ft. |
| Cargo space behind second row | 48.7 cu. ft. |
| Maximum cargo space | 89.3 cu. ft. |
| Seating | 7 or 8 passengers |
The Telluride has enough space behind the third row for groceries, backpacks, and several soft bags. Folding the third row creates useful room for family trips, sports gear, or larger shopping runs.
Buyers who need maximum interior volume and easier access to the third row should also consider the Kia Carnival MPV. Families who need three rows less often may find the smaller Kia Sorento easier to park and less expensive to run.
Exterior Design
The 2027 Telluride has a square, upright design that gives it a more substantial appearance than the previous generation. The larger grille, vertical lighting elements, and broad body sides help it look like a traditional family SUV rather than a tall crossover.
- LX, S, and EX trims have the cleanest, most conventional appearance.
- X-Line trims add darker exterior details and a more rugged visual theme.
- X-Pro trims add all-terrain tires, higher ground clearance, and hardware aimed at light off-pavement use.
- SX Prestige trims focus more on premium appearance and comfort equipment.
Safety Features and Ratings
The 2027 Kia Telluride earns an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award. It received strong results in the Institute’s current crash evaluations, including small-overlap and updated moderate-overlap front testing. Review the full IIHS Kia Telluride safety results for the exact rating details.
Standard and available safety equipment includes:
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Pedestrian and cyclist detection
- Junction turning detection
- Lane Departure Warning
- Lane Keeping Assist
- Lane Following Assist
- Blind-Spot Collision Warning
- Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Smart Cruise Control
- Driver Attention Warning
- Rear Occupant Alert
- Rear parking sensors
- Available parking collision-avoidance assistance
- Ten airbags, including a front-center airbag
Safety equipment can vary by trim, option package, and production date. Confirm the equipment list for the exact vehicle before signing a purchase agreement.
Reliability, Warranty, and Ownership
The Telluride has a strong warranty, but the 2027 model is newly redesigned with a new engine. It does not yet have a long-term ownership record, so buyers should not assume that the reliability experience of earlier Tellurides will automatically apply to this generation.
| Coverage | Length |
| Basic limited warranty | 5 years / 60,000 miles |
| Powertrain limited warranty for original owners | 10 years / 100,000 miles |
| Powertrain coverage for later owners | 5 years / 60,000 miles |
| Anti-perforation warranty | 5 years / 100,000 miles |
| Roadside assistance | 5 years / 60,000 miles |
The warranty is especially useful for buyers planning to keep a Telluride for several years. Still, routine maintenance, correct towing practices, and tire care matter on a heavy three-row SUV.
Used-car buyers should confirm the warranty by VIN number, check for open recalls, review maintenance records, and arrange an independent pre-purchase inspection.
Pros and Cons
What We Like
- Spacious and useful three-row interior
- Seven- or eight-seat layouts
- Strong safety record for the current model
- Good cargo capacity
- Useful 5,000-pound towing limit
- Strong low-speed torque from the turbocharged engine
- Modern technology and available comfort features
- X-Pro trims add meaningful light-duty capability
What We Don’t Like
- Fuel economy is only average
- Top trims become expensive quickly
- Newly redesigned powertrain lacks a long-term ownership record
- Third row is less comfortable for tall adults on long drives
- X-Pro tires reduce fuel economy and can add road noise
- Not intended for serious off-road driving
Competitors
The Telluride should be compared with other three-row SUVs based on how your family will use it.
- The Hyundai Palisade is closely related and worth comparing for trim features and local pricing.
- The Honda Pilot is a strong alternative for families who value a practical third row and light-duty trail capability.
- The Toyota Grand Highlander is worth considering if fuel economy and family cargo space are top priorities.
- The Chevrolet Traverse offers a larger interior and strong cargo capacity.
- The Mazda CX-90 suits buyers who place more emphasis on driving feel or plug-in-hybrid availability.
- The Kia Sorento is the better Kia choice for buyers who want occasional third-row seating in a smaller package.
Related Content
Families deciding between an SUV and a people mover should compare the Telluride with the Kia Carnival MPV. Buyers who need fewer seats and lower running costs should also consider the Kia Sorento Hybrid.
Before financing a Telluride, read how car financing works and consider arranging car loan preapproval before visiting a dealer.
Should You Buy the Kia Telluride?
Buy the Kia Telluride if you want a spacious, comfortable, well-equipped three-row SUV that can carry a family, handle road trips, and tow a moderate trailer.
Choose the EX AWD for the best blend of price, equipment, and year-round usability. Choose the X-Pro SX if you will tow regularly or spend time on unpaved roads. Choose the SX Prestige if premium cabin features matter more than value.
Skip the Telluride if your priority is hybrid fuel economy, a lower purchase price, or the easiest possible city parking experience. Buyers who rarely use the third row may be happier in a smaller SUV.
FAQs
How much does the Kia Telluride cost?
The 2027 Kia Telluride starts from $39,190 MSRP in the US, before destination, taxes, registration, options, and dealer charges. The X-Pro SX Prestige starts from $56,790 MSRP.
Does the Kia Telluride have three rows?
Yes. The Telluride has three rows and seats seven passengers with second-row captain’s chairs or eight passengers with a second-row bench.
Is the Kia Telluride available with all-wheel drive?
Yes. All-wheel drive is available on selected trims and standard on SX Prestige, X-Line, and X-Pro models.
How much can the Kia Telluride tow?
When properly equipped, the Telluride can tow up to 5,000 pounds. Towing capacity can vary with trim, equipment, trailer setup, and payload.
What fuel economy does the Kia Telluride get?
The front-wheel-drive Telluride is rated at up to 22 mpg combined. Most all-wheel-drive versions are rated at up to 20 mpg combined, while X-Pro models are rated at up to 19 mpg combined.
Is the Kia Telluride good for families?
Yes. Its wide cabin, three rows, useful cargo area, available captain’s chairs, and family-focused technology make it a strong choice for many families.
Is the Kia Telluride safe?
The 2027 Telluride earns an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award and has a wide range of standard and available driver-assistance features. Buyers should still review the rating details and confirm equipment for their chosen trim.
Is the Kia Telluride fast?
It is adequately quick for a large three-row SUV. Independent testing has recorded 0–60 mph in about 7.4 to 7.5 seconds for upper all-wheel-drive trims.
What is the best Kia Telluride trim?
The EX AWD is the best choice for most buyers because it combines useful equipment, all-wheel drive, family practicality, and a more reasonable price than upper trims.
Does the Kia Telluride have a hybrid version?
Kia offers a Telluride Hybrid separately. This page covers the regular gasoline Telluride.
What is the Kia Telluride warranty?
Kia provides a 5-year/60,000-mile basic warranty and a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty for original owners. Later owners generally receive shorter powertrain coverage.
Final Verdict
The Kia Telluride is one of the more convincing three-row SUVs for families who need space, comfort, modern safety technology, and useful towing capacity. The redesign keeps the qualities that made the Telluride popular while adding a more responsive turbocharged engine and a more spacious interior.
The EX AWD is the smart choice for most households. Move to the X-Pro only if you will use its capability, and choose the SX Prestige when premium features are worth the higher price.
Its fuel economy is not a standout, and the new generation needs time to prove itself in long-term ownership. For families who want a conventional gasoline three-row SUV and plan to use its space often, the Telluride remains a strong option.
Prices, specifications, fuel-economy ratings, safety results, towing limits, and equipment can change by trim, model year, and market.