There are four trim levels available for the Telluride: base LX, S, mid-level EX, and top-of-the-line SX. [12] The latter is available with an optional “SX Prestige Package” that offers premium features including heated and ventilated second-row seats, all-wheel drive, Nappa leather trim, a head-up display, and more. [13] Since 2021, Kia has offered the “Premium Package” with the EX trim, which consists of 20-inch Alloy Wheels with a Machined Finish, LED Projector Beam Headlights, Low Profile Roof Rails with a Satin Chrome Finish, 7-Passenger Seating with 2nd-Row Captain’s Chairs, and 50/50 Split-Folding 2nd Row Seats. [14]
No matter the trim level, all Tellurides have three rows of seating and come standard with a number of luxury-focused features that are otherwise optional in some of its rivals. These features include “Sofino” (leatherette)- or leather-trimmed seating surfaces, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, and Kia’s suite of “Drivewise” advanced driver assistance technologies.
All Tellurides are either with Kia’s “Dynamax” all-wheel-drive (AWD) system or a 291-horsepower, 3.8-liter Lambda II gasoline V6 engine mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission (the latter is similar to the system found in the smaller Kia Sorento).
The Telluride’s higher trim levels also come with heated and ventilated first and second row bucket seats and a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone connection for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
[16]
In This Article...
What country produces the Kia Telluride engine?
USA West Point, Georgia
In WestPoint, Georgia, Kia’s US production facility, which has been in operation since 2010, produces the Telluride. The plant, which cost $1,1 billion to construct, can produce a large number of automobiles.
In total, Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia (KMMG) is capable of producing 360,000 automobiles annually for both the US market and other international markets.
Is there a v8 version of the Kia Telluride?
The Telluride is the only three-row SUV available with a V-6 engine, in contrast to several competitors. According to the EPA, the front-drive model is the most economical, getting 20 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the interstate. The fuel economy of all-wheel-drive vehicles drops to 19 city mpg and 24 highway mpg, which is marginally better than V-6 competitors like the Volkswagen Atlas and slightly worse than the Honda Pilot. On our 75 mph highway fuel-economy route, the all-wheel-drive Telluride we tested returned 24 mpg, matching its government rating. During our actual test, the Atlas likewise achieved 24 mpg and the Pilot achieved 27 mpg. Visit the EPA website for more details regarding the Telluride’s fuel efficiency.
Is there a V6 engine in the Kia Telluride?
The 3.8L V6 engine in the 2020 Kia Telluride has a strong output of 291 HP. This beast boasts a 262 lb.-ft. of torque and can pull up to 5,000 pounds.
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. While the highest trim comes with an added $10,000 premium above a base LX model, the value-for-money element still makes the SX Telluride a bargain at around $44,000.
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.
What are the Kia Telluride’s shortcomings?
Ten Arguments in Favor of Buying a Kia Telluride and a Few Arguments Against
The Telluride has received a lot of favorable press ever since it made its debut in 2019. With this three-row SUV, Kia has provided clients with a fashionable, dependable, and contemporary car. The 2021 Kia Telluride has plenty of technology and a luxurious feel. It would be a fantastic option for anyone looking for a roomy car with good handling.
Given how recent the Telluride is on the market, it makes natural that Kia hasn’t made many changes for the Telluride’s second model year. The majority of the mechanical parts are still in place, and the cabin still feels the same.
The 2021 improvements are largely aesthetic. For instance, LED headlights are now an option on the EX model, and there are two new paint shades (Black Copper and Sangria). The trailer harness has been improved from a four-pin connection to a seven-pin connection, and the key fob now has a “On” button so users can simply turn on their engines remotely. Anyone seeking a brash, urban appearance can now purchase the new Nightfall bundle. It has various components, including 20-inch wheels and a black grille.
Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2021 Kia TellurideThe Pros
Rev up the Engine
The large, highly capable engine that powers the 2021 Kia Telluride packs a lot of power. The Telluride’s 3.8 liter V6 engine provides effortless performance in a variety of conditions. With 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, it is powerful. Additionally, people have some flexibility in terms of moving freight because to the 5,000-pound towing capability. The engine is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission that has a Sportmatic sports shifter for drivers who occasionally like the feel of a manual transmission.
2. Travel off-road
An on-demand all-wheel drive system is offered on all Telluride levels. It can keep an eye on how the wheels are doing and adjust the power supply if slippage is noticed. There is a means to lock in all-wheel drive for those situations where it is desired continuously. Additionally, a snow mode for the winter climate exists.
The Telluride offers a comparatively pleasant ride even on rough roads. It has a strong suspension system that can smooth out some of the peaks and valleys one might experience off the main track. An optional self-leveling rear suspension is offered with the SUV’s top two grades. This could improve handling even more.
3. A selection of price points
There are four Telluride models, thus Kia has been able to meet a range of price points. With a starting price of little under $32,000, the Telluride’s LX trim is reasonably priced given its size, functionality, and features. Given their enhancements, the price increases for the S and EX are each a few thousand dollars, which is more than reasonable.
The SX is priced at $42,190, which is at the high end of the spectrum. The SX may no longer be affordable for many clients as a result, but not necessarily for all. Customers who desire luxury amenities but aren’t willing to spend more than $50,000 on their next vehicles may find it to be a decent deal.
4. Plenty of Cargo Room
Three-row SUVs occasionally don’t have much room behind the back row of seats. With the Telluride, which offers 21 cubic feet of storage space in the back, this isn’t the case. This is ideal for many people who are constantly moving and need to tote a lot of equipment. The third seat may be folded down to generate 46 cubic feet of storage space, and the cargo volume can be increased to 87 cubic feet by lowering the second and third rows.
5. Straighten Your Legs
People need space to spread out and feel comfortable, especially on long road trips. There is 41.4 inches of legroom in the Telluride’s front row. There is considerably more space in the second row, where there is 42.4 inches of legroom. Since there is just 31.4 inches of legroom in the third row, children should sit there.
Select Your Cabin Configuration in Step 6
Either eight or seven people can be accommodated in the 2021 Kia Telluride. For the middle and third rows of the eight-person seating arrangement, bench chairs are used. The second row of the seven-passenger configuration has captain’s seats. This configuration appeals to some individuals since it gives the second-row passengers a more comfortable space to unwind and gives the cabin a bigger sense. Keep in mind that the LX has eight-passenger seats, the S and SX are equipped with captain’s chairs, and the EX offers passengers the option of either.
7. Put safety first
There are numerous driver-assistance features that come standard on all Telluride levels. Automatic emergency braking can lessen the likelihood that the Telluride will collide with other cars or pedestrians in its path. Drivers can better understand who is nearby thanks to blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, and a number of devices can keep the SUV centered in its lane. Even if the driver’s eyes aren’t on the road, a driver attentiveness warning feature can identify it.
8. Maintain Contact
The 2021 Kia Telluride has eight-inch touchscreens in the base two trims and 10.25-inch touchscreens in the top two trims. Both Bluetooth and smartphone connectivity are commonplace. The Kia’s cabin has five or six USB ports, depending on the trim, making it possible for practically everyone to keep their gadgets completely charged.
9. Remotely start the engine
Even if the majority of people don’t necessarily need remote start, it’s undeniably a pretty cool function. The 2021 Telluride has an engine-starting button on the key fob, as was discussed before in this review. This is a very useful feature that also allows the temperature control system to start preparing the cabin for comfort.
10. High-end materials
Sofino faux leather is used to cover the seats in the LX and S trim levels. This material is upscale-looking and simple to maintain. Leather seats are added to the EX and SX, and the SX may be had with a high-end Nappa leather material. All grades include leather around the steering wheel, while the S, EX, and SX models also have leather on the shifter. The inside look of some trims is enhanced by woodgrain accents, while the SX sports distinctive stainless-steel pedals and door sill scuff trim.
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 2021 Kia TellurideThe Cons
1. Insufficient Efficiency
The Telluride gets an estimated 20/26 (city/highway) mpg with front-wheel drive. All-wheel drive reduces mileage to roughly 19/24 miles per gallon. These figures are by no means impressive, especially when compared to the other hybrids that are readily accessible.
Boxy Frame 2.
Some people like the Telluride’s external design, but not everyone. The Telluride’s frame is boxy and upright, which may turn some people off.
3. Only One Engine
The 2017 Kia Telluride functions and appears in many ways like a high-end SUV. The availability of multiple engine options with many luxury companies’ automobiles is one distinction, though. The Telluride just has one engine, which is a bad thing. Despite the fact that it has more than enough capacity, customers looking for a vehicle with more than 300 horsepower may not find it appealing.
4. Hills May Be Difficult
There is no equivalent functionality to the hill start assist control function, which helps the SUV move while stopped on a slope. Many SUVs on the market have a hill descent system that regulates the vehicle’s speed when going downhill. Given the weight of these vehicles and the potential for cargo hauling, it can be quite helpful. The Telluride will only require drivers to carefully watch their speed and apply the brakes when necessary.
How It Stacks Up to the Competition:
The 2021 Kia Telluride nevertheless manages to stand out in a crowded market. Comparisons to two other SUVs with comparable features can be found below. We decided on a Honda and a Toyota since they are two enduring leaders in the automotive sector.
Although the engines and capacities of these two vehicles are comparable, the Telluride outperforms the Honda Pilot in a number of crucial respects. First, it boasts greater cargo space behind the third row of seats and more second-row legroom than the Pilot does. Additionally, the Telluride is offered in all trim levels with all-wheel drive. With the Honda, that feature is not available in the base model. The technology bundle in the Telluride is also much more appealing. Its touchscreen sizes range from eight inches on the base model to 10.25 inches on higher trims. Contrarily, the Pilot’s other trims all have eight-inch touchscreens whereas the base model only has a five-inch color LCD screen.
In terms of safety, technology, and performance, the Kia Telluride and Toyota Highlander from 2021 are comparable. It is unquestionably more expensive than the Kia, though, and for some people, this price difference is reason enough to recommend the Telluride. The base model of the Highlander costs a few thousand dollars more than the base Telluride, which should help clarify the costs. The most expensive Highlander models, which Toyota produces in a variety, cost close to $50,000.
The Kia Telluride has swiftly gained popularity among SUV buyers who want three rows of seating for a variety of reasons. It boasts practical features, a dependable and powerful powertrain, and was created with customers in mind. Its technology was implemented to amuse, educate, and maintain the safety of drivers and their passengers.
The Telluride has undergone a few improvements for 2021, increasing its allure. Overall, this SUV offers a lot of value and would be enjoyable and useful to drive.