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.
In This Article...
What issues does the Kia Telluride have?
The Kia Telluride lacks a lot of historical data as one of the more recent SUVs to hit the market. That so, we still know which Kia Telluride years to steer clear of.
Quick Response: There is only one Kia Telluride year to avoid, and that is 2020.
Since 2020, the Telluride has been manufactured. The good news is that the 2021 and 2022 models both score highly and have a small number of issues.
The major issues with the 2020 model relate to visibility. Let’s look more closely at what these issues are and if they make the Kia Telluride or break it in order to help you make your purchasing decision.
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Which Kia Telluride Models Are Good to Buy Used?
The Kia Telluride is still relatively new to the SUV market and is still building its reputation. What that actually is will depend on time. However, for the time being, customers seem to be content overall with their Tellurides.
The Kia Telluride is easy to use and has plenty of room for everyone. That contains seating and cargo rooms that can accommodate all of your adventures, as well as enough for seven to eight passengers.
Additionally, the SUV has a cross-traffic rear accident prevention system to help you while driving on the highway. Additionally, there is a hill-start control to keep you from rolling back on hills.
A strong 10-year warranty is also included with the Kia Telluride, which is always a pleasant feature to cars. Powertrain coverage for 100,000 miles is also covered by this warranty.
It’s good to see that Kia offered this guarantee on the Telluride because the powertrain has frequently been the subject of consumer complaints, as we’ve seen time and time again.
J.D. Power gave the 2021 and 2022 models a strong 85 out of 100 for reliability, which is excellent for both of them.
Given that ratings between 81 and 90 are considered “Great,” it is safe to assume that buying a Kia Telluride made in 2021 or 2022 will be a wise investment.
- Kia Telluride for 2021
- Kia Telluride for 2022
The NHTSA and consumers had slightly more complaints about the 2022 model than the other model (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration). The 2022 Telluride has 11 NHTSA miscellaneous complaints, according to CarComplaints.
In addition, 10 NHTSA complaints have been filed addressing issues with exterior accessories. Additionally, there are a few customer complaints about windshield issues.
The windshield has a propensity to crack quickly, according to CarComplaints. And so far, every incident has taken place while driving normally.
Another complaint from the NHTSA supports these ones from the consumers. One 2022 Telluride owner hadn’t even had the car for a week when the windshield started to shatter in the middle of a calm day.
Nevertheless, it’s important to note that there are extremely few instances of these issues. The rest of the car receives great marks for the majority of factors and is a dependable SUV. So the Telluride is a vehicle to consider if you’re shopping for a secondhand SUV.
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Kia Telluride Years to Avoid
The Kia Telluride years to avoid only comprise the initial year of production of the SUV, as was said in the introduction:
Kia Telluride 2020
What is the NHTSA’s and consumers’ main grievance, then? The headlights can develop a malfunction, claims CarComplaints.
Furthermore, considering that this problem only occurred at low mileage, it may recur at any point while you are the 2020 Telluride’s owner.
It’s important to note that this issue persisted even after the bulbs were changed. 37 NHTSA complaints have added to this reality.
In addition to the current issue with malfunctioning headlights, customers have also complained that the headlights cast a dim light.
Similar to the issue with the broken headlights, the poor illumination happened when the mileage was low. At the time of reporting, the standard was 15,000 people.
Overview of Kia Telluride Problems by Year
Let’s take a minute to quickly go through the main issues and what they imply to you now that we’ve covered the main issues with the 2020 Kia Telluride.
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Kia Telluride: Faulty Headlights
The SUV made its debut in 2020, which just so happens to be the only Kia Telluride year to stay away from.
It’s fascinating to note that every other small issue revolves around headlights. While other drivers reported that their low beams remained fully functional, their high beams entirely failed.
Additionally, there have been allegations of the Telluride’s headlights abruptly and automatically altering brightness levels.
Additionally, other people tried in vain to turn on the high beams. It is obvious that the 2020 Tellurides has an underlying issue that impacts the headlights.
Unfortunately, there isn’t just one main issue that has to be addressed. As you now know, there are many different headlight problems that could occur.
Does that imply that none of the 2020 Kia Telluride cars will be produced? No, not always. Given the small number of complaints, it is safe to assume that not all 2020 vehicles have issues with their headlights.
It’s likely that buying a used SUV will make you happy if you’re seeking for a dependable SUV. Overall, Tellurides is receiving favorable reviews.
The SUV is cozy, has a ton of extra features and options, and is generally very dependable. It should be a wise purchase as long as the used vehicle you’re thinking about purchasing doesn’t have the headlight problem.
In Closing
Undoubtedly, the Kia Telluride is still a young SUV. Since it just recently hit the market in 2020, it might be years before other problems appear (if there are any).
But until then, we must rely on the data that is already available. And based on what we already know, the Telluride is a dependable performer that competes successfully in the congested SUV market. As a result, the Kia Telluride should suit your needs if you’re seeking for an SUV that gets good reviews.
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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
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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.