Twenty-five years ago, mentioning Kia might have evoked images of budget-friendly, yet somewhat unreliable, cars. However, those days are long gone. Kia, along with its sibling brand Hyundai, has undergone a remarkable transformation. Fueled by significant investment in engineering, design, and talent acquisition, Kia now produces vehicles that compete, and often outperform, the best in the automotive industry. If outdated perceptions of Kia still linger, it’s time for a serious recalibration. Modern Kias are not just good; they’re often exceptional, and the Kia Telluride stands as a prime example. This three-row SUV has captured the hearts of families and critics alike, and in this review, we’ll delve into what makes the Telluride such a compelling choice in the crowded SUV market.
Front view of a Wolf Gray Kia Telluride SX-Prestige X-Line parked outdoors, showcasing its distinctive blade-shaped LED daytime running lights.
The Kia Telluride, especially in the SX-Prestige X-Line V6 AWD trim, immediately commands attention. Dressed in the surprisingly sophisticated Wolf Gray paint, this SUV possesses a visual presence that rivals luxury marques. Parked next to BMW or Mercedes-Benz SUVs costing considerably more, the Telluride doesn’t look out of place. Its bold and refined styling challenges preconceived notions about the Kia brand, even if the badge itself remains a point of discussion for some.
Striking Exterior Design: A Head-Turner in the SUV Segment
The Telluride’s exterior is undeniably one of its strongest assets. It manages to stand out in the saturated midsize SUV category with a design that is both modern and subtly aggressive. The front fascia is dominated by Kia’s signature grille, flanked by those striking blade-shaped LED daytime running lights. For the 2024 model year, these DRLs receive a minor update, now offered in amber, further enhancing the Telluride’s unique light signature. These distinctive lights have become a recognizable feature, making the Telluride easily identifiable on the road.
Angled front view of a Kia Telluride highlighting its amber daytime running lights and Wolf Gray paint, parked on an asphalt surface.
Moving to the rear, the L-shaped LED taillights mirror the front’s distinctiveness, while a prominent “Telluride” wordmark stretches across the tailgate, reminiscent of Range Rover’s design language. The overall aesthetic is edgy and contemporary, with design cues that evoke a sense of robust sophistication, setting it apart from more generic-looking SUVs.
Rear view of a Kia Telluride showcasing its L-shaped LED taillights and the Telluride wordmark across the tailgate, emphasizing its modern design.
Interior and Features: Designed with Family in Mind
Step inside the Telluride, and it becomes immediately clear that the interior was crafted with families and their needs at the forefront. Clever storage solutions abound, starting with a well-designed center console that includes dual cupholders, a traditional gear shifter, and a bonus cubby perfect for keys, smartphones, or sunglasses. Further forward, a sizable storage bin with integrated USB ports provides ample space for devices and other essentials.
Interior view of the Kia Telluride's front cabin, focusing on the center console with cupholders, gear shifter, and storage compartments, highlighting its user-friendly design.
Leather-wrapped grab handles add a touch of ruggedness, although the Telluride is more likely to conquer suburban streets than off-road trails. Physical knobs for temperature control are a welcome feature for ease of use. The dashboard is dominated by two seamlessly integrated 12-inch screens – one serving as the digital instrument cluster and the other as the infotainment touchscreen. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, and higher trims like the SX-Prestige boast a 360-degree camera system and a comprehensive suite of safety technologies, including Kia’s highly-regarded adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go and lane centering assist. While not fully autonomous, these systems significantly reduce driver fatigue on long journeys. Comfort is paramount, with both front seats and second-row captain’s chairs offering heating and ventilation, ensuring a pleasant experience for passengers in all climates.
Interior shot of the Kia Telluride showcasing the heated and ventilated second-row captain's chairs, emphasizing passenger comfort and premium features.
Engine and Performance: Power Meets Thirst
Perhaps the most debated aspect of the Kia Telluride is its engine. While competitors increasingly adopt hybrid or turbocharged powertrains, the Telluride relies on a traditional 3.8-liter V6 engine. This naturally aspirated engine produces a robust 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Performance is certainly adequate, with ample power for daily driving and a towing capacity of up to 5,500 pounds. However, this power comes at the expense of fuel efficiency. The Telluride’s EPA fuel economy ratings are 18 mpg city, 24 mpg highway, and 21 mpg combined, resulting in a range of just over 350 miles on a full tank. In a market increasingly conscious of fuel consumption, this is a notable drawback, especially when compared to more fuel-efficient rivals like the Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid. While many buyers may prioritize the V6’s smooth power delivery and towing capability, fuel economy remains a point to consider.
Value and Verdict: A Top Choice in its Class
With a fully-equipped price tag around $55,000, and well-optioned models available in the high $40,000 range, the Kia Telluride presents a compelling value proposition. Manufactured in Georgia, USA, the Telluride’s popularity is undeniable, and for good reason. It combines striking design, a spacious and feature-rich interior, strong performance, and Kia’s industry-leading 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. While the fuel economy could be better, the Kia Telluride excels in nearly every other area, making it a top recommendation for families seeking a capable, stylish, and well-equipped three-row SUV. For those seeking a blend of luxury features without the premium price, the Telluride deserves serious consideration and consistently earns high marks in Kia Telluride Reviews.
