The Kia Telluride has quickly become a standout in the mid-size SUV segment, blending spacious interiors, robust performance, and advanced features into a package that’s both family-friendly and adventure-ready. Since its debut, the Kia Telluride has earned accolades for its exceptional value, reliability, and versatility, making it a top choice for drivers seeking a three-row SUV that doesn’t compromise on style or capability. Whether you’re eyeing a new model like the Kia Telluride 2024 or considering a used Kia Telluride, this comprehensive guide covers everything from its history to the latest specs, helping you decide if it’s the right fit for your lifestyle.
The History and Evolution of the Kia Telluride
The story of the Kia Telluride begins with a bold concept unveiled at the 2016 Detroit Auto Show. Kia, a brand known for its innovative designs and affordable vehicles, introduced the Telluride concept as a full-size SUV preview, featuring a rugged exterior, luxurious interior, and hybrid powertrain hints. Although the production model shifted to a mid-size crossover, it retained that adventurous spirit.
The production Kia Telluride launched in early 2019 as a 2020 model, positioned above the smaller Kia Sorento in the lineup. It was designed specifically for the North American market, assembled at Kia’s West Point, Georgia plant. The first-generation Telluride featured a 3.8-liter V6 engine, seating for up to eight, and a suite of standard safety features, quickly earning praise for its upscale cabin and competitive pricing. Sales soared, with the Telluride often outselling competitors due to its blend of luxury and affordability.
Evolution endured with minor updates in subsequent years. The 2021 Kia Telluride delivered functions like a ways off begin at the $64000 aspect fob and better LED lighting fixtures alternatives. by way of the 2022 Kia Telluride, Kia delivered a refreshed grille, a larger infotainment display, and adaptive cruise control as popular on more trims. The 2023 Kia Telluride delivered a tremendous facelift, along with redesigned front and rear fascias, new wheel designs, and upgraded tech like a 12.3-inch twin-screen setup for navigation and instrumentation.
Moving into recent models, the 2024 Kia Telluride refined these changes with improved interior materials and additional driver-assistance features. It maintained its reputation as a reliable family hauler, with high resale value and low ownership costs. As we approach the 2025 Kia Telluride, updates include subtle enhancements to connectivity and safety, while rumors swirl about a larger 2026 Kia Telluride that could rival full-size SUVs like the Chevy Tahoe in size and capability.
This progression reflects Kia’s commitment to continuous improvement, drawing from its roots in the Hyundai Motor Group. Kia has advanced from a budget emblem to a top class contender, with models like the Telluride showcasing advanced engineering shared with siblings like the Hyundai Palisade.
Exploring Model Years: From 2020 Kia Telluride to 2025 and Beyond
Each model year of the Kia Telluride builds on the last, offering incremental improvements that enhance its appeal.
The 2020 Kia Telluride marked the SUV’s get entry to with a bang, winning awards like international automobile of the yr for its spacious cabin (as an entire lot as 87 cubic ft of cargo space with seats folded) and powerful V6 engine turning in 291 horsepower. It used to be as soon as praised for its quiet adventure and modern features like Apple CarPlay and Android vehicle.
The 2021 Kia Telluride added convenience touches, such as trailer stability assist and more USB ports, addressing family needs for long trips. Reliability remained strong, with few reported issues in early ownership surveys.
By the 2022 Kia Telluride, Kia focused on tech upgrades, including a 10.25-inch touchscreen and semi-autonomous highway driving assist. This year saw increased demand, with used 2022 Kia Telluride models holding value well, often selling for around $30,000 to $40,000 depending on mileage and trim.
The 2023 Kia Telluride introduced rugged X-Line and X-Pro trims for off-road enthusiasts, with all-terrain tires and increased ground clearance up to 8.4 inches. Interior refinements included premium leather options and a heads-up display.
For the 2024 Kia Telluride, enhancements included better sound insulation and updated infotainment software. It’s available in trims from LX to SX Prestige, with prices starting around $37,000 and climbing to over $50,000 for loaded models. Used 2024 Kia Telluride vehicles are emerging on the market, often priced in the mid-$30,000s.
The 2025 Kia Telluride brings diffused refreshes, together with a trendy 12.three-inch touchscreen, more advantageous voice popularity, and over-the-air map updates. It retains the 3.8L V6 with 291 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Fuel economy stands at about 20 mpg combined, with all-wheel drive optional. New safety features like improved blind-spot monitoring solidify its family appeal.
Looking ahead, the 2026 Kia Telluride is rumored to grow in size, potentially offering more interior space and hybrid options to compete with electrified rivals. This evolution keeps the Telluride fresh in a competitive market.
Design and Features: Inside and Out
The Kia Telluride’s plan is a masterclass in blending ruggedness with splendor. Its boxy silhouette, stimulated by way of classic SUVs, functions a formidable tiger-nostril grille, LED headlights, and to be had 20-inch wheels on better trims. For 2025, colors like Dawning red and Ebony Black add aptitude, whilst X-pro fashions include roof rails and all-terrain tires for a more adventurous look.
Inside, the Telluride offers seating for seven or eight, with ample legroom in all rows—even the third row accommodates adults comfortably. Premium materials like Nappa leather and wood accents elevate the cabin, approaching luxury levels without the price tag. Functions encompass a 12.3-inch infotainment device with navigation, wi-fi charging, and a Harman Kardon audio device. Tech highlights for 2025 include Digital Key 2.0, a full-display rearview mirror, and Driver Talk intercom for easy communication in the spacious interior.
Cargo space is generous at 21 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 87 cubic feet when folded. These elements make the Telluride ideal for families or those needing versatility.
Performance and Driving Dynamics
Under the hood, the Kia Telluride sticks with a proven 3.8-liter V6 engine across models, producing 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. It’s mated to an eight-speed automatic, offering smooth shifts and a 0-60 mph time of around 6.8 seconds—respectable for a three-row SUV.
Front-wheel drive is standard, with all-wheel drive available for better traction in inclement weather. Towing capacity reaches 5,500 pounds when properly equipped, suitable for boats or trailers. Fuel efficiency is average at 18-24 mpg, though no hybrid variant exists yet—something competitors like the Toyota Grand Highlander offer.
On the road, the Telluride can provide a cozy, quiet journey with particular steerage and sturdy brakes. X-Line and X-seasoned trims decorate off-street capability with higher ground clearance and torque-vectoring AWD. proprietors reward its dealing with, even though some notice it is not as sporty as a Mazda CX-90.
Safety and Reliability: A Trustworthy Choice
Safety is a cornerstone of the Kia Telluride. It earns top marks from the IIHS and NHTSA, with features like forward collision avoidance, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot collision avoidance standard. The 2025 model adds enhancements like junction turning assist and highway driving curve control.
Reliability is strong, with J.D. Power scores around 85/100 for recent years. Long-term tests show minimal issues, with Kia’s 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty providing peace of mind. Consumer reviews highlight durability, though some mention minor infotainment glitches. Overall, the Telluride is considered highly reliable, with low repair costs.
Trims, Pricing, and Kia Telluride for Sale
The 2025 Kia Telluride comes in trims like LX, S, EX, SX, and SX Prestige, starting at about $37,585 for the LX and reaching $53,185 for the SX Prestige X-Pro. Options like AWD add $2,000.
For those shopping used Kia Telluride models, prices vary: A 2020 Kia Telluride might go for $25,000-$35,000, while a 2023 Kia Telluride could fetch $35,000-$45,000. Sites like CarMax and AutoTrader list thousands of Kia Telluride for sale, with certified pre-owned options offering extended warranties.
New Kia Telluride for sale is plentiful at dealerships, often with incentives. Compared to the Kia K5 sedan, which offers sporty handling in a smaller package, the Telluride prioritizes space and utility.
Comparisons: How the Kia Telluride Stacks Up
Against competitors, the Telluride shines. Vs. the 2025 Hyundai Palisade, it’s similar but frequently extra cheap with a bolder format. The Honda Pilot gives better dealing with however much less luxury. Toyota Highlander hybrids facet in efficiency, but the Telluride wins on space and features. For 2024 vs. 2025, the more recent version provides tech refinements besides most important price hikes.
FAQ
Who owns Kia?
Kia is majority-owned by the Hyundai Motor Group, which holds a 33.88% stake. This partnership permits Kia to proportion era and resources with Hyundai whilst keeping impartial operations.
Is the Kia Telluride reliable?
Sure, the Kia Telluride is rather dependable, with J.D. energy scores of eighty five/a hundred or higher and strong lengthy-time period possession comments. Its robust construct and comprehensive assurance make contributions to low renovation expenses.
What is the price of a 2025 Kia Telluride?
Prices start at around $37,585 for the base LX trim and go up to $53,185 for the top SX Prestige X-Pro, excluding options like AWD.
Does the Kia Telluride have good fuel economy?
It achieves about 20 mpg combined, which is average for its class. While not the most efficient, its V6 provides ample power for highway merging and towing.
Is the Kia Telluride good for off-road?
With X-Line and X-Pro trims, yes—it offers increased ground clearance, all-terrain tires, and AWD for light off-roading, though it’s not a dedicated trail vehicle.
How many people does the Kia Telluride seat?
It seats up to 8 passengers, with options for captain’s chairs within the second row lowering it to seven for more consolation.
What are the primary differences among the 2024 Kia Telluride and 2025 Kia Telluride?
The 2025 adds enhanced connectivity like over-the-air updates and minor safety tweaks, but shares the same engine and core design with the 2024.
Is there a hybrid Kia Telluride?
Not yet, but rumors suggest a hybrid option for the 2026 model to improve efficiency.
How does the Kia Telluride compare to the Kia K5?
The Telluride is a three-row SUV focused on family space and towing, while the K5 is a midsize sedan emphasizing sporty driving and fuel efficiency—different needs, same reliable Kia brand.
What warranty does the Kia Telluride come with?
It includes a 5-year/60,000-mile basic warranty and a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, one of the best in the industry.
Conclusion
The Kia Telluride stands out as a versatile, dependable SUV that punches above its weight in luxury and performance. From the groundbreaking 2020 Kia Telluride to the refined 2025 Kia Telluride and beyond, it continues to evolve, offering exceptional value for families and adventurers alike. If you’re searching for a Kia Telluride for sale, whether new or used, its blend of features, safety, and style makes it a smart investment. With Kia’s backing from Hyundai and a track record of awards, the Telluride isn’t always just an SUV—it’s a statement of modern mobility.
