Meet the Kia Telluride: Midsize SUV with Full-Size Value
The Kia Telluride is a standout in the midsize SUV market, known for its bold styling, spacious 3-row SUV layout, and unbeatable value. Designed for modern families and road trip warriors, it blends rugged utility with premium comfort. From daily commutes to weekend getaways, the Telluride delivers performance, safety, and versatility in one sleek package.
Kia Telluride Trim Levels Explained
The Telluride comes in a variety of trims to match your driving needs
- LX: Great entry-level option with all essentials
- S: Adds style and comfort upgrades
- EX: Introduces premium features and technology
- SX: Focuses on advanced safety and luxury touches
- SX Prestige: The top-tier trim with everything included
- X-Line and X-Pro: For adventure seekers with rugged styling and enhanced off-road capability
Each configuration offers a distinct balance of comfort, performance, and design, giving buyers plenty of choices.
Performance and Engine Specs
Every Telluride is powered by a 3.8L V6 engine that produces 291 horsepower—plenty of muscle for merging, passing, and towing. Whether you’re hauling camping gear or a small trailer, the Telluride’s towing capacity of up to 5,500 lbs (on the X-Pro) is more than capable. With all-wheel drive (AWD) available across trims, you’ll have the traction you need in all seasons and terrains.
Interior Comfort and Space
Inside, the Telluride feels like a premium lounge. Thoughtfully designed with high-quality materials, it features spacious third-row seating for adults—not just kids. With available leather upholstery, dual sunroofs, and ventilated seats, it’s all about comfort. Need room for gear? The cargo space behind the third row is generous, and folding the seats opens up even more room for everything from groceries to luggage.
Safety Features and Ratings
Kia prioritizes safety, and it shows. The Telluride consistently earns high marks from IIHS and NHTSA, thanks to its strong crash-test performance. Standard Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) include blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning, lane keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. It’s no wonder the Telluride is often called one of the safest family SUVs on the road.
Fuel Economy and Ownership Costs
For a V6-powered SUV, the Telluride offers respectable efficiency: around 20 mpg city / 26 mpg highway (FWD models). Ownership costs stay low thanks to Kia’s long warranty and affordable maintenance cost structure. It also holds its value well, with slower depreciation compared to many rivals, making it a smart long-term buy.
Kia Telluride vs Competitors
When comparing the Kia Telluride vs Toyota Highlande or Hyundai Palisade, the Telluride wins in key areas like third-row comfort, feature-rich trims, and overall value. While the Highlander emphasizes efficiency and the Palisade leans toward luxury, the Telluride balances both—delivering more standard features for the price and a confident, composed ride.
Pricing, Deals & Financing Options
The Kia Telluride price starts at around $35,000, depending on trim and options. Upper trims like the SX Prestige can reach over $50,000, especially with AWD and packages. Keep an eye out for lease deals and manufacturer incentives, which often make this SUV even more accessible through Kia dealerships.
Real Owner Feedback & Expert Reviews
Owners praise the Telluride for its ride comfort, upscale interior, and rock-solid reliability. Experts from Edmunds and Car and Driver regularly highlight its composed handling, intuitive tech, and thoughtful design. Whether it’s school runs or long trips, drivers report a consistently smooth experience
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Are Kia Tellurides reliable?
Yes, Kia Tellurides are considered highly reliable by most owners and third-party reviewers. With high ratings from J.D. Power and consistently positive customer feedback, the Telluride stands out for long-term dependability.
Q2: How much is a Kia Telluride?
Pricing varies by trim, but a new Kia Telluride typically starts around $35,000 and can go up to over $50,000 with all options included. Used models are often available under $30,000.
Q3: Is the Kia Telluride reliable?
Absolutely. It consistently earns high reliability scores thanks to its solid engineering, advanced safety features, and strong resale value.
Q4: Are Kia Tellurides better than GMC Acadia Denali?
In many categories, yes. The Kia Telluride offers more standard features, higher-quality materials, and better third-row space compared to the GMC Acadia Denali, though preferences may vary by use case.
Q5: Is Kia Telluride a good car?
Yes, it’s widely praised as one of the best midsize SUVs available today—offering excellent comfort, safety, technology, and value for the price.
Final Verdict – Is the Kia Telluride Right for You?
The Kia Telluride is more than just a stylish SUV—it’s one of the best all-around packages in its class. With standout safety, generous space, and premium features at a competitive price, it hits every mark for families, commuters, and adventure seekers alike. If you’re shopping for a 3-row midsize SUV that delivers real value, the Kia Telluride should be at the top of your list.
