The Kia Telluride: Is it dependable? The projected reliability rating for the 2022 Kia Telluride is 85 out of 100. A predicted reliability score from J.D. Power of 91 to 100 is regarded as the best, 81 to 90 as great, 70 to 80 as medium, and 0-69 as fair and below average.
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The Kia Telluride has any issues, right?
Driving Some Telluride owners claim that severe vibration happens between 55 and 70 mph.
NHTSA Campaign Number 21V164000 states that some impacted vehicles may fail to recognize when a child restraint device is in the front passenger seat and may instead deploy the airbag, potentially injuring a serious person.
With fewer than 5,000 miles on it, several owners of the brand-new Telluride claim it won’t accelerate to highway speeds. Others on the road have reported that their Telluride frequently shifts into neutral as they are moving.
Possible Causes and Solutions
Powertrain problems result in excessive vibration, abrupt shifting, and a difficulty to travel at typical highway speeds.
Some customers claim that Kia replaces the driveshafts and AWD couplers to fix problems. Kia appears to be giving customers fixes at random. Some owners claim they were successful in getting the powertrain of their car fixed. Others, however, are unable to contact Kia for assistance.
Verify Your Warranties
Owners of Kia vehicles who have faults with their powertrains typically do so far in advance of the 10-year, 100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty from Kia. Any repairs required to get your car back in good condition should be covered by this warranty.
Call your local Kia dealer
To schedule a diagnosis and repair, make an appointment with your local Kia dealer or service facility.
Note: To restore power to the transmission if your Telluride switches into neutral while you’re driving, turn off the engine and restart the car.
While waiting for your repair to be finished, get in touch with the nearby service center right once to make arrangements for a rental vehicle.
What are the Kia Telluride’s shortcomings?
Many drivers are looking for a midsize SUV, and while purchasing a new car can be exciting, the vast array of options available in this segment can make the process quite difficult. We advise starting with the 2020 Kia Telluride to help you narrow down your list. Despite being a brand-new model, it has had a fantastic start. U.S. News and World Report has already given the Telluride the top spot in their rating of midsize SUVs. This is a remarkable accomplishment for a first-generation model, but it is simple to understand why when you take into account the vehicle’s performance, ample interior room, long list of safety measures, and cutting-edge technology throughout.
Everything about the 2020 Telluride is totally new since it is the first of its kind! While the Sorento has been quite popular for many years as Kia’s only SUV option with third row seating, many drivers were yearning for something with additional cargo and passenger room. Kia’s response to these requests is the Telluride. They not only designed a midsize SUV with a roomy interior, but they also crammed it with potent performance, fascinating technology, and unbeatable safety.
Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2020 Kia TellurideThe Pros
1. A Comprehensive List of Required Safety Features
The 2020 Telluride is available in all trim levels with a number of cutting-edge safety technologies that are sure to increase driver confidence. They are a rear cross traffic alert system, a blind spot monitor, a parking distance warning system, a rearview camera, rear parking sensors, and a front collision warning system with automatic emergency braking. There is even a Safe Exit Assist that will send a warning if opening your door is not safe. Owners of the Telluride can rest easy knowing that Kia has taken extra precautions to avoid collisions.
2. Telluride can track motorist attention
The Driver Attention Warning system is another excellent standard safety element that merits its own attention. If it detects that the driver’s concentration on the road has been distracted, it warns them. This device will make every effort to keep the driver awake, whether they are dozing off or are constantly distracted by glancing at their smartphone.
3. A generally secure vehicle
With all of those safety features, it’s no surprise that the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety awarded the 2020 Kia Telluride a Top Safety Pick (IIHS). In terms of crash tests, it received favorable results throughout the board, with a particularly high score in the front crash prevention category.
4. Generous and Modular Interior Space
The 2020 Kia Telluride can accommodate up to 8 passengers, but many mid-size SUVs only accommodate 7 or fewer. There is additionally 87 cubic feet of cargo capacity in addition to this. The third row may be easily accessed by sliding the second row forward at the touch of a button. The second row seats can also be folded flat for additional storage space using buttons in the rear cargo area. It will be simple and comfortable to accommodate passengers or luggage with this interior.
5. The Rear Occupant Alert System Offers Peace of Mind
Those who have newborns or young children will find this feature to be very tempting. In the event that a passenger is left unattended in the car after the driver exits, the Rear Occupant Alert system will issue visual and audio alarms. Drivers can connect their car to Kia’s UVO connection in addition to these instant alerts, which will notify the registered account holder’s cellphone when the audible alert is triggered. All trim levels include this essential safety feature as standard equipment.
6. Cutting-edge Tech
The most cutting-edge technology is included in Kia’s UVO infotainment system, which is included in the 2020 Telluride. Access to Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, an 8-inch touch screen, six USB ports, and a six-speaker sound system are all included as standard features. Wireless phone charging, a larger 10.25-inch touch screen, a navigation system, and a 10-speaker Harman Kardon sound are a few of the technological enhancements available.
Driver Talk allows them to communicate with passengers in the second and third seats using an interior intercom system while Driver Quiet Mode limits audio to the first row. Starting with the EX trim level, both of these items are included as standard equipment.
7. Strengthening Performance
291 and 262 lb-ft of torque are produced by the 3.8-liter V-6 engine and 8-speed automatic transmission, respectively. The four drive modes significantly improve the driving experience, and this offers more than adequate power for handling on both highways and city streets. The Telluride has four driving modes: Eco, Sport, Comfort, and Smart. If you choose to buy an all-wheel-drive Telluride, there are also Snow and Lock options.
In spite of its size, the 2020 Telluride generates a smooth ride and is simple to navigate. It also handles well in a variety of road conditions and gives a very peaceful ride within the cabin.
8. Appealing Exterior Design
The 2020 Kia Telluride may be regarded as a family-friendly car, but drivers will feel as though they are operating a chic and contemporary car thanks to its exterior design. The well-proportioned grill, which gives the front of the car a great touch, is particularly eye-catching. When compared to other cars in its class, the style is very aggressive with its combination of smooth curves and distinct angles, but it still manages to seem elegant and sophisticated.
9. Better Connectivity Using the UVO Link
Drivers can sync their smartphones using UVO Link, which is a feature of the 2020 Kia Telluride. Once downloaded, the app allows you to remotely start the car and lock and unlock the doors. You can also access your owner’s manual and warranty details, as well as the Find My Car tool.
10. The Best Kia Warranty Program in the Industry
A 10-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile limited basic warranty are included with the purchase of a 2020 Kia Telluride. Since Kia stands behind the high caliber of its automobiles, you can be confident that you will be fully covered if anything needs to be fixed. Roadside support for five years and 60,000 miles is also included in this warranty term.
buying advice
Compare prices online before buying a new car to avoid paying too much. Find out the price in advance before entering a dealership. The following free services are suggested by us: Car Clearance Deals, NADAguides, CarsDirect, and Motortrend.
These free sites will provide you the best deals and provide you with numerous price quotations from rival businesses. Before visiting the dealer, you will be aware of the best pricing.
Reasons Not to Buy a 2020 Kia TellurideThe Cons
1. No option to upgrade the engine
All trim levels come standard with the 3.8-liter V-6 engine, and there is no way to upgrade to a better model. For drivers who are dissatisfied with this offering and want more potent performance, this might be a deal-breaker.
2. Lack of a rear-seat video system
The fact that the 2020 Kia Telluride does not allow rear passengers to watch videos is pretty shocking for a car that is packed with fantastic technology amenities. It is a conspicuous omission in a car that is otherwise impressive. This is a regrettable absence that will probably be fixed in later models.
3. Lethargic Mileage
Even if the combined fuel economy of the 2020 Kia Telluride with front-wheel drive is 23 mpg, there is undoubtedly room for improvement.
The 2020 Ford Explorer, 2019 Chevrolet Traverse, and 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee are the key rivals of the 2020 Kia Telluride. There is room for up to 8 people in the Telluride and Traverse, up to 7 in the Explorer, and only 5 in the Grand Cherokee.
It is crucial to note that the 2020 Ford Explorer did not receive any honors due to subpar crash test results, however the 2020 Kia Telluride was named a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS.
Although they all cost substantially more than the Telluride, the Explorer, Traverse, and Grand Cherokee all have slightly more horsepower, better towing capacity, and multiple engine options. If performance and power are your top concerns, you might be more likely to select one of these rivals. But the Telluride is a good option for elegance, comfort, safety features, and general dependability.
Kia has unquestionably put their best foot forward with the release of the new 2020 Telluride. It stands out in the congested midsize SUV market as a first-generation model that is easily keeping up with the competition. When choosing your new vehicle, the Telluride is sure to be a strong candidate after learning about everything it has to offer.
Is the Kia Telluride SX a good investment?
The Kia Telluride appears to combine the greatest elements from each world. Although it is inexpensive, there are some available upgrades. The Telluride has a large interior and seating for seven or eight people.
The SUV also has a lot of security features. The Telluride won the Best Buy award from Kelley Blue Book for overall value. It received top marks from consumers in every category, including comfort, safety, dependability, and value.
The front-wheel-drive LX variant has a starting price of about $31,990. The engine in the Kia Telluride is a 3.8L V6. It has a city fuel economy of around 20 mpg and a highway fuel economy of about 26 mpg. For family road vacations, the 18.8 gallon gasoline tank is more than plenty.
The Telluride can tow up to 5,000 pounds, although the curb weight is 4,112 pounds. The Telluride has 87 cubic feet of space in the cargo area.
For less than $50,000, you can transform the Telluride into the SUV of your dreams using the various trim options and upgrades.
How long does a Kia Telluride last?
For 2020, Kia unveiled the midsize Telluride SUV. The vehicle immediately outsold the Sorento and Sedona, becoming the best-selling three-row vehicle for the manufacturer. There haven’t been any significant dependability issues with the SUV reported to date.
What is the lifespan of a Kia Telluride then? The typical Kia Telluride could endure 200,000 to 250,000 miles without experiencing too many problems thanks to its dependable Lambda II engine. Since 2011, many Kia and Hyundai vehicles have been driven by variations of the motor, all of which have a 200,000-mile range.
According to forums for the Kia Telluride, one owner claims to have logged 168,000 miles without experiencing any issues. In one update, they even include a picture of the odometer as evidence. In this instance, the battery and alternator failed, totaling $1,100. Alternators typically last up to 150,000 miles, so even this is an accomplishment.
Others suggest traveling between 40,000 and 70,000 miles, which is still a sizable amount given the SUV’s brief tenure on the market. However, these people still anticipate many more years of dependable service thanks to Kia’s 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain guarantee.
What drawbacks exist with Kia vehicles?
Kia may have improved in a number of areas, such as the electronic and hybrid market, but some of their models still fall short when it comes to safety. For instance, reviews of the Kia Seltos have been mostly negative due to the lack of safety features that are commensurate with the vehicle’s pricing.
Both hill hold and brake assist are absent. At the moment, features like an electric parking brake are rather widespread. The Kia Rio, which lacks adaptive cruise control, a review camera, and even blind-spot monitoring, is the same.
Is the Kia Telluride a weak vehicle?
Three-row SUVs aren’t always fun to drive, and their usage as family haulers frequently results in drab exterior styling that doesn’t exactly inspire passion. So why are Kia Telluride owners and members of the automotive journalistic community gushing about it and singing its praises from the mountaintops?
The Telluride offers all the desired features of a family hauler, including practicality, spaciousness, comfort, extensive amenities, technology, and safety. This vehicle also comes in an appealing package that, especially in higher trim levels, almost resembles a luxury vehicle without being prohibitively expensive.
Since its release in 2020, the Telluride has established itself as the industry standard for three-row midsized SUVs. In a nutshell, it is the market’s top choice overall.
It is not faultless. Its V6 isn’t very economical, and the suspension leans over potholed roads while also being a little stiff in the corners. The Telluride’s general competence certainly outweighs this little list of drawbacks, though.
A 3.8-liter V6 engine producing 291 horsepower and mated to an eight-speed automated transmission powers all variants. The Telluride’s 18-inch front wheels (20-inch versions are standard on top trims) receive its power, with all-wheel drive being an option on all models for a $2,000 premium.
When the engine’s full 262-foot-pounds of torque is used, it has plenty of grunt and passing power but isn’t very nimble around town. With the exception of a lack of initial vigor at lower speeds, the engine delivers power smoothly and never felt inadequate. In most cases, it goes beyond the gusto required for regular driving circumstances.
The Kia’s brake pedal has significant advancement to enable the right driver’s foot to respond as expected, and the steering has just the appropriate amount of weight to feel accurate without being heavy (or left, if they are feeling adventurous, I suppose).
The Telluride appears smaller from the driver’s seat than its footprint would imply. Additionally, unlike many of its three-row rivals, driving it doesn’t make an enthusiast lose their will to live, making its less-than-stellar 23 combined mpg rating (in FWD variants) more tolerable.
The Telluride is rated to tow up to 5,000 pounds and has plenty of ground clearance for treks on the dirt paths for those who need it. However, most people in Metro Atlanta use their SUVs off road about as much as they make toast in the bathtub.
The Telluride comfortably outperforms its class in terms of the upmarket cabin design, amenities, and practicality.
The Telluride is stylish and made of high-quality materials regardless of trim, but it’s simple to recommend that customers consider spending more money on the top-tier SX model. Even though the highest trim costs $10,000 more than the base LX model, the SX Telluride is still a great deal at under $44,000 due to its value.
A long list of driver assistance and safety features are included in SX models, along with a dual-sunroof, 20-inch black alloy wheels, wood interior trim, 64-color ambient lighting, leather seating, heated and ventilated front seats, a 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation, a Harmon Kardon surround sound audio system, wireless charging, and more.
The Telluride’s opulent vibe is enhanced by the SX Prestige Package’s ($2,300) Nappa leather seat upholstery, improved headliner, head-up display, and heated/ventilated second-row seats. An active all-wheel drive system and automated windshield wipers are also included in the package.
There are six USB connections distributed among the three seats, three power outlets, and standard connectivity for SiriusXM, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and those longer road trips.
Even though some of the Telluride’s rivals offer many of these features in higher trims, the Kia seems completely composed and like it was built to compete with luxury options rather than just being a model that could have some premium equipment and finishes added.
With a variety of buttons and knobs for typical inputs that are arranged logically and feel strong, everyday usability is likewise excellent.
The three rows offer plenty of room for passengers. The second row comes with a standard 60/40 split bench and captain’s chairs in higher trims, and there is still 21 cubic feet of cargo space behind the back seats. When the second row of seats is folded down, the volume increases to 46 cubic feet.
The Kia can easily fit a chest of drawers that was willing to donate when the back seats are folded down. I use the word willing because when I attempted to renovate it, I did such a poor job that a donation center declined to take it.
While I was testing the 2021 model, Kia announced that the Telluride would receive more improvements in 2022. The bottom two versions, the LX and S, will receive extra amenities including fully automatic climate control and a 10.3-inch touchscreen that will replace the 8-inch display that was previously standard. The $700 increase over ’21 versions seems well worth it because they will also be equipped with adaptive cruise control that connects to the navigation system and adjusts the Kia’s speeds around turns like some Mercedes models.
For 2022, Kia has also slightly updated the Telluride, which will have its new logo.
These improvements merely enhance an SUV that already offers nearly everything customers could need in a family hauler while exuding a sense of quality and unquestionable value.
Buying a three-row from any other non-luxury brand is consciously going with second (or worse) best. The equally superb Hyundai Palisade, its sister model, is the sole serious rival for total competency.
So yeah, I am another auto journalist who is gushing about the Telluride. But that ought to say a lot.
Except when they are extraordinarily wonderful or shockingly horrible, three-rows aren’t extremely fun to test or write about. And I can guarantee you that the Telluride is exceptional.