2027 Kia Telluride

The Kia Telluride arrived in 2019 as Kia's largest and most ambitious crossover, quickly becoming one of the most popular vehicles in the U.S. market thanks to its blend of value, refinement, and family-friendly packaging. For 2027, Kia launches the first full redesign of the model, expanding its footprint, modernizing its styling, and introduces an electrified powertrain for the first time. The new Telluride grows slightly in length, adopts Kia's latest design language, and debuts a more premium interior anchored by dual 14.5-inch curved displays. It remains a three-row midsize crossover with seating for seven or eight depending on configuration, and it continues to compete in one of the most crowded segments in the industry. Key rivals include the Chevrolet Traverse, Ford Explorer, Honda Pilot, Hyundai Palisade, Mazda CX-90, Nissan Pathfinder, Subaru Ascent, Toyota Grand Highlander, and Volkswagen Atlas.

Kia offers the 2027 Telluride with two engines. Gone is the normally aspirated 3.8-liter V6. Replacing it as the base engine is a new turbocharged 2.5-liter 4-cylinder that makes 274 hp and 311 lb-ft of torque. It mates to an 8-speed automatic and is offered with front- or all-wheel drive. Kia also offers a hybrid (HEV) variant of the Telluride. It uses the same turbo four but adds electric motors and offers a combined 329 hp and 339 lb-ft of torque. Hybrids get a 6-speed automatic and come standard with all-wheel drive. Towing capacity varies by powertrain, with the base engine rated up to 5,500 pounds and the hybrid model rated up to 4,500 pounds. Trim levels include EX, SX, SX X-Line, SX Prestige, and SX Prestige X-Line.

Pricing for the 2027 Telluride begins around the low-$40,000 range for the V6 and climbs into the mid-$50,000s for upper-trim hybrid and PHEV models. Standard equipment is generous, including the dual 14.5-inch displays, wireless smartphone integration, advanced driver assistance features, and a full suite of airbags. Optional features include massaging front seats, heated third-row seating, a premium audio system, a head-up display, and upgraded interior materials such as vegan leather and recycled composites. Safety tech includes forward collision avoidance, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and Kia's Highway Driving Assist. Special editions include the rugged X-Line and X-Pro variants, which add unique styling cues, all-terrain tires, and enhanced capability.

Engine Performance
Though the new base engine is down a few cylinders from the outgoing V6, it makes up for that with turbo punch. Acceleration is confident rather than urgent, with a 0-60 mph time in the mid-seven-second range, depending on drivetrain. Passing power is adequate, and the linear torque delivery makes it easy to modulate in everyday driving. The 8-speed automatic transmission is well-tuned, offering unobtrusive shifts and a willingness to downshift when needed. While not the quickest engine in the segment, the new turbo four offers refinement and predictability.

The hybrid powertrain is the most balanced option in the lineup, combining strong low-end torque from the electric motor with the mid-range punch of the turbo engine. With 329 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque, the hybrid feels noticeably quicker than the base engine, especially in city driving where the electric motor fills in torque gaps. The hybrid's 0-60 mph time lands in the low-seven-second range, and its e-AWD system provides confident all-weather traction. Transmission behavior is smooth, though occasionally the handoff between electric and gas power can be felt under heavy throttle. Overall, the hybrid offers the best blend of performance and efficiency.

Fuel Economy
Fuel economy varies significantly across the Telluride lineup. The base engine is EPA rated at 20 mpg city, 26 mpg highway front-wheel drive and 18/24 mpg with all-wheel drive.  Hybrid models improve on that netting 32/34 mpg with front drive and 30/32 with all-wheel drive. Both powertrains run regular unleaded fuel and feature a fuel tank capacity of roughly 18.8 gallons, giving the Telluride a highway range of around 450 miles. Real-world fuel economy tends to align closely with EPA estimates, though aggressive driving or heavy loads can push numbers lower.

All-Wheel Drive & Driving Modes
The Telluride's all-wheel-drive systems vary by powertrain. The base engine uses a traditional electronically controlled AWD system that can shift torque rearward when slip is detected, offering predictable traction in poor weather. The hybrid and PHEV models use an e-AWD system that employs an electric motor to power the rear wheels, delivering quicker torque response and smoother transitions. Driving modes include Comfort, Sport, Eco, Snow, and a dedicated Tow mode, each adjusting throttle response, transmission behavior, and AWD logic.

Off-road capability is enhanced in the X-Line and X-Pro trims, which add increased ground clearance, all-terrain tires, unique traction control tuning, and hill-descent control. While not intended as hardcore off-roaders, these trims provide meaningful improvements for gravel roads, light trails, and winter conditions.

Ride Quality
Ride quality has long been a Telluride strength, and the 2027 redesign continues that tradition. The suspension tuning strikes a near-ideal balance between firmness and compliance, absorbing bumps without feeling floaty. Over broken pavement, the Telluride remains composed, and body motions are well-controlled. The hybrid models feel slightly heavier, especially over sharp impacts, but the added weight does not significantly degrade comfort.

Upper trims with larger wheels can introduce a bit more road harshness, though Kia's suspension calibration keeps the ride from becoming brittle. The X-Line and X-Pro models, with their all-terrain tires, feel marginally softer and more compliant, especially over rough surfaces. Overall, the Telluride's ride quality remains one of the best in the segment.

Handling & Roadholding
For a vehicle of this size, handling is confident and predictable, with steering that feels natural and appropriately weighted. While never sporty, the Telluride offers good accuracy and a reassuring sense of control. Body lean is present in corners but well-managed, and the vehicle never feels unwieldy despite its size. Braking performance is strong, with a firm pedal and consistent stopping power. Hybrid models introduce some regenerative braking feel, but Kia has tuned the system well enough that transitions are smooth. 

Interior Noise Levels
Interior noise levels are impressively low, with excellent isolation from wind and road noise. The cabin remains quiet even at highway speeds. Compared to competitors, the Telluride ranks near the top of the segment, rivaling the Mazda CX-90 and Hyundai Palisade for overall quietness. Only the Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid approaches similar noise suppression.

Interior Design, Materials, & Features
The 2027 Telluride's interior represents a significant step forward in design sophistication. The dual 14.5-inch curved displays dominate the dashboard, creating a modern, upscale aesthetic. Materials are noticeably improved, with soft-touch surfaces, available vegan leather, and tasteful metallic accents. The cabin feels more premium than its price suggests, and the layout is both visually appealing and functional.

Features abound, including wireless smartphone integration, multiple USB-C ports, a premium audio system, ambient lighting, and available massaging seats. The floating center console adds storage flexibility, and the overall design feels cohesive and well-executed.

Interior Functionality
Controls are intuitive, with a mix of physical buttons and touchscreen interfaces that avoid overwhelming the driver. The infotainment system is responsive and easy to navigate, and the climate controls remain separate from the main screen for ease of use - though they are somewhat obscured by the steering wheel. Storage solutions are plentiful, with large door pockets, a deep center console, and clever cubbies throughout the cabin.

Technology & Safety Features
Technology is a Telluride hallmark, and the 2027 model expands its capabilities. The infotainment system is faster and more customizable, and the digital instrument cluster offers crisp graphics and useful information. Safety features include forward collision avoidance, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, rear cross-traffic alert, and Highway Driving Assist. Optional tech includes a head-up display, surround-view camera system, and enhanced parking assist.

Seating Area
The Telluride offers seating for seven or eight depending on configuration. Front seats are supportive and comfortable, with available heating, ventilation, and massage. The second row offers generous legroom and headroom, and captain's chairs provide a more premium feel. Access to the third row is straightforward thanks to wide door openings and sliding second-row seats. The third row is usable for adults on shorter trips and comfortable for children. Overall, the Telluride remains one of the most spacious vehicles in its class.

Cargo Capacity
Cargo capacity remains a Telluride strength. Behind the third row, the 2027 model offers around 21 cubic feet of space. Folding the third row expands capacity to roughly 46 cubic feet, and with both rear rows folded, total cargo volume exceeds 87 cubic feet. The load floor is flat, and the tailgate opening is wide, making it easy to load bulky items. Interior storage includes multiple bins, cupholders, and USB-C ports throughout all three rows. Upper trims also offer a household AC outlet for powering small devices.

Bottom Line
The 2027 Kia Telluride builds on its predecessor's strengths while introducing meaningful improvements in technology, refinement, and efficiency. Its new hybrid powertrain broaden its appeal, and its redesigned interior elevates it to near-luxury territory without inflating the price. Ride quality, cabin quietness, and overall comfort remain exceptional, and the Telluride continues to offer one of the most spacious and functional interiors in the segment. Unique trims like the X-Line and X-Pro add personality and capability, making the Telluride a versatile choice for families and adventurers alike.

The Telluride remains one of the most well-rounded midsize SUVs available. Against its rivals, it stands out for its blend of features, performance, and affordability. For most buyers, the SX Prestige Hybrid offers the best combination of luxury, efficiency, and value, delivering a premium experience without pushing into luxury-brand pricing.