2027 Kia Telluride X-Pro SX Prestige AWD: The Brand’s Flagship 4-Cylinder, Three-Row SUV

 

Highlight:  A hybrid model is available.

Test Vehicle’s MSRP: $59,580 (Base SE Trim MSRP): $40,738

Seating Capacity: 7 or 8

Standard Safety Features: airbags; ABS; a rearview camera; a surround view monitor with forward ground view; a blind spot collision avoidance assist; rear cross traffic avoidance; a lane keep assist system; a lane following assist system; a high beam assist; a forward collision assist system; a vehicle stability system; a tire pressure monitoring system; a hill start assist; a hill start assist system; dash camera; a temporary spare tire and a tire pressure monitoring system

Standard Equipment (X Pro SX Prestige AWD): 18-inch alloy wheels; all-terrain tires; an 8-speed automatic transmission; a body color rear spoiler; electronic slip differential; power tilt telescopic steering wheel wit memory; dual 12-inch screens for driver and infotainment center foldable luggage tray cover; carpet flooring; syntex suede upper seat back; power front seats; heated/vented front seats; second row captain chairs; heated steering wheel; a tri zone automatic temperature control system; cargo area driver’s seat; push button start ignition system; and a handsfree power liftgate; a radar activated cruise control system; dual sunroof’ second row captain chairs;  a factory installed tow hitch; a self-leveling rear suspension; dual sunroof with fixed rear glass; a power front sunroof;  multicolor ambient mood lighting; a heads up display (HUD); and dual wireless phone charger

Options: carpeted floor mats; and Terra Brown Matte paint

Standard Audio On Test Vehicle: an 14-speaker Meridian audio system with AM/FM/HD/SiriusXM

Android/Apple CarPlay: Yes (test model)

Bluetooth Connectivity: Standard

USB Connectivity: Standard

Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty: 5 years or 60,000 miles

Powertrain Warranty: 10 years or 100,000 miles

Standard Engine/Horsepower (Test Vehicle): 2.5-liter, 4-cylinder turbo /274-hp

Recommended Fuel: Regular

Standard Fuel Mileage: 18-city/24-hwy (test model)

Towing: 5,000 lbs (test model)

What’s New: The second-generation Telluride is all new for the 2026 model year. 

Why:

A bolder rugged design

A variety of trims

Larger than the previous generation

X-Pro offers 9- inches of ground clearance

All terrain tires

X-Pro offers a ground view monitor when driving below 6 mph (occupants can monitor pitch, roll and steering angle).

Multiple driving modes

An affordable three-row SUV

AWD or front wheel drive configuration

A car-like ride

A hybrid powertrain is now available

An easy-to-use infotainment system

Spacious interior

Leather interior

A high-level of safety driving aids

A radar-activated co-pilot steering system

Heated seats available throughout the entire cabin

A remote parking assist system

21-inch wheels available

Power adjustable and reclining seats throughout the cabin

Easy-to-use second-row seats allows access to third-row

Hands-free, power operated liftgate

One of the best new-vehicle and powertrain warranties in the segment

Standard recovery hooks

But:

Limited cargo room when third row is occupied

Gasoline model has a limited fuel driving range and diminished MPG when compared to the competition

Unable to unlock and lock second row exterior doors from the outside without using the keyless fob

The standard 4-cylinder engine seems a little sluggish for this large three-row crossover/SUV

Verdict:  Kia has managed to take the second-generation Telluride, with its faceless black grille, to another level. The stylish Land Roverish-like Telluride is larger, roomier and filled with more tech and luxurious features that literally pushes the SUV to the next level.

At a starting price just shy of $41,000, the athletic Telluride is designed for both off-roading and on-roading adventures. Depending on the trim, the vehicle can be outfitted with such features a wireless charging, heated seats throughout the cabin, a panoramic roof and recovery hooks.

The vehicle is even available with a new hybrid powertrain. Despite its athletic look, ride quality and comfort isn't sacrificed. Just like its sibling, the Hyundai Palisade, Kia has another hit on its hand with the all-new Telluride. 

 

Competition: Honda Pilot TrailSport; Hyundai Palisade XRT and Nissan Pathfinder