2020 Kia Telluride roof tent with Roofnest Falcon. Another feature of the 2020 Kia Telluride, which I evaluated last year, was a roof tent dubbed the Roofnest Falcon. The Falcon can accommodate two persons and is quickly set up. On Amazon, it costs $3,395about 50 times as much as this Coleman tent.
In This Article...
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.
Do the seats of the Kia Telluride recline?
Seating for passengers and integrated styling Rear passengers can also benefit from possible dual sunroofs and standard USB outlets, while reclining dual captain’s seats that glide forward at the press of a button provide access to the third row.
Has the second row of the Kia Telluride bucket seats?
On the 2020 Telluride, you can choose between seats for 7 or 8 passengers. Second row captain’s seats and a seating capacity for seven passengers are standard on the LX and EX grades. Up to 8 passengers can fit in the S and SX, which also has folding benches. It should be noted that the S has an 8-passenger configuration option as well.
Is a Kia Telluride a decent camping vehicle?
In 2020, the Kia Telluride made its debut as a new model and quickly gained popularity. It is quite affordable, has appealing interior design, excellent handling, and a ton of premium equipment.
Additionally, getting all of your belongings to the campsite is simple with the Kia Telluride. The three-row SUV from Kia is so roomy that we didn’t even need to flip down the back seats to have enough of room, according to the automobile tester. It was wonderful not to worry about trying to fit everything in using my Tetris abilities.
Indeed, the Telluride has more cargo room than many of its rivals. According to U.S. News, it has a cargo space behind the third-row seats of 21 cubic feet, which grows to 46 cubic feet with the third row folded down and 87 cubic feet with the second row folded down.
Although a rooftop tent is significantly more expensive than a standard one, it offers a cozy, elevated area to camp for the night and is simple to set up (if not take down). The Kia Telluride is a fantastic platform for sleeping as well as the ideal means to go to the campsite with all of your belongings.
How can an SUV rest peacefully?
Getting ready for a lengthy road trip? Undoubtedly, if you’re a passenger, you’ll want to sleep during the trip.
If you’re fortunate enough not to be the driver, a road trip is a terrific chance to pass out and nap until you get to your destination. But how will you settle in? Do you need a pillow? An eye mask?
For our top ten suggestions on how to snooze in a moving automobile, keep reading. Or perhaps you’re a solitary driver and you need to know how to spend the night sleeping in a car. We’ll provide advice on how to do it safely further down.
Why is it so difficult to locate a Kia Telluride?
It is nearly hard to find a new Kia Telluride due to high demand and a global shortage of semiconductor chips. And if you can find one, you’ll have to pay significantly more than the list price to buy it.
Since there aren’t many new cars available, prospective Telluride buyers have turned to the used car market in the hopes of locating one. However, a recent study claims that this is a horrible idea because used Kia Tellurides are even more expensive than brand-new ones!
Is Telluride still worth something?
Because of the stellar reviews for the midsize SUV, the Kia Telluride, purchasing one would seem like a no-brainer, but what about resale value? The typical new car is retained for 8.4 years. What happens after those years, when you’re ready for a new car?
For determining the fair market value of secondhand cars, turn to Kelley Blue Book. The MSRP for the 2020 Kia Telluride was $31,890. A 2020 Telluride with less than 35,000 miles has a fair market value of $38,155, according to Kelley Blue Book. Surprisingly, in some circumstances, secondhand Telluride models cost more than brand-new Tellurides.
Why is the Telluride so highly regarded? Due to the high demand for the highly-liked car, the midsize SUV maintains its value well. Although it might not necessarily be more dependable than other SUVs, people are interested in it. Prices for used cars can rise due to supply shortages and increases in demand. This also applies to the well-known Toyota Tacoma.
In conclusion, the Telluride appears to have incredible long-term resale value. The nameplate only made its debut in 2019, so it will take some time for us to determine how well it holds its value as it ages. The Telluride is a fantastic choice to purchase as a new vehicle and is not the finest used vehicle option, according to KBB’s fair market value estimate.
Does the Telluride use a lot of gas?
I once heard my mother say that nothing in life is flawless. She did not, however, ever own a Kia Telluride. Due to the lack of any significant disadvantages for the midsize SUV, the Telluride has become one of the most popular SUV models in recent years. It is less expensive than many of its competitors. There are several typical features available. Does the Telluride have any issues?
If there are any complaints at all, one of the main ones is the fuel efficiency. The midsize SUV is not a gas guzzler, but it is also not the most fuel-efficient vehicle in its class. The Kia Telluride achieves 20 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway in 2022. The fuel efficiency for the 2023 model year is probably going to be the same.
The Telluride uses more fuel than some of its competitors do. Although many people are able to get past this, as gas costs climb, gas mileage is more crucial than ever. The Telluride’s flaws are not limited to its poor fuel economy.
The 3.8-liter V6 engine in the Telluride generates 291 horsepower. For certain customers, it might be sufficient horsepower, but it wouldn’t hurt to have another engine option. The Kia Telluride isn’t sluggish, but for customers who want a little more giddyup, it could benefit from several various powertrain combinations. Despite its poor fuel economy and limited engine choices, the Telluride is still one of the most affordable midsize SUVs available.