Kia Telluride (2027)
Roomy, upscale, hybrid-friendly family utility with credible trail ability, though not flawless.
The 2027 Kia Telluride is a family SUV that tackles the usual three-row headaches with near-luxury comfort, genuinely useful space, and road-trip-ready versatility. It suits parents, commuters, and active families who need easier child-seat access, flexible cargo room, and a calmer alternative to bulkier-feeling rivals. Experts especially favor the 329-hp hybrid, which feels smoother and more efficient in practice, supporting Kia’s claims of up to 35 mpg and 637 miles of range, while the gas turbo-four offers stronger 5,000-pound towing but sounds coarse and can lag. The X-Pro’s credible trail ability is a bonus, though it cannot be paired with the hybrid. Strong equipment helps justify the roughly $40,000 to $60,000 price range, but styling, controls, and first-year uncertainty affect its overall recommendation.
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Benefits
Generous seating and cargo space make family trips easier, even with adults aboard.
Second-row tilt access and improved legroom make loading children and passengers less awkward.
The composed ride and hushed cabin make long drives feel calmer and less tiring.
Smooth power, strong acceleration, and over 30 mpg suit commuting and family road trips.
Physical controls, clever storage, child-seat access, and rear amenities simplify everyday family routines.
Trade-Offs
During acceleration, the turbo-four can sound gritty and respond slowly, making traffic feel less polished.
Small touch controls can be hard to read or use while adjusting climate settings.
The raised rearmost seats can feel cramped for adults, making longer family rides uncomfortable.
Waiting for power-folding second-row seats slows drop-off and third-row access when everyone is rushing.
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Publications
9 LEADING PUBLICATION REVIEWS
Car and Driver views the 2027 Telluride as a successful, mostly solid sequel. The redesigned SUV grows roomier, remains comfortable and quiet, and keeps its excellent packaging, composed road manners, intuitive controls, and distinctive styling. Its new turbocharged four-cylinder feels strong in everyday driving and outperforms the new Palisade’s base V-6, though acceleration is slower than the outgoing Telluride and fuel economy is merely average. The hybrid looks especially promising, but it wasn’t tested here. The cabin’s physical controls and available luxuries are welcome, yet the minimalist interior—particularly the test car’s all-black scheme—feels less warm and luxurious than before. Despite a higher price and some added weight, the Telluride remains a compelling family SUV whose core strengths are intact, even if it no longer feels quite as special inside.
By Mike Sutton
James Riswick of J.D. Power is strongly impressed by the 2027 Kia Telluride, especially its hybrid upgrade. The redesigned SUV feels more luxurious and refined, with a comfortable, controlled ride, improved steering, abundant technology, practical cabin storage, and well-executed driver-assistance systems. The hybrid is the standout, combining 329 horsepower with an observed 30.7 mpg over 125 miles, while also feeling smoother and more responsive than the standard turbocharged four-cylinder. Riswick appreciates the easier third-row access, comfortable seating, and more capable X-Pro trim, though he criticizes the reduced usefulness of the cargo area beneath the floor, the slow power-folding second-row seats, and an awkward climate-control display. The Sport mode also clashes with the comfort-focused suspension. Even with those compromises, the review’s tone is clearly enthusiastic: the Telluride is portrayed as a sophisticated, premium-feeling family SUV that improves on an already successful predecessor without a major price penalty.
By James Riswick
MotorTrend’s Scott Evans is highly enthusiastic about the 2027 Kia Telluride, calling it a successful evolution rather than a risky misstep. The larger SUV gains a remarkably quiet, powerful hybrid, strong fuel economy, a satisfying turbocharged gas engine, improved passenger and cargo space, and genuinely impressive X-Pro off-road ability. Evans is especially taken with the hybrid’s seamless operation, family-friendly “Stay” function, thoughtful storage, and comfortable, adult-usable third row. The review isn’t uncritical: the front grille looks confused, the Telluride now feels bulky from behind the wheel, steering is slow, some touchscreen controls are hard to read in sunlight, and the hybrid’s premium is substantial. Still, those complaints feel minor beside the value, refinement, features, and capability on offer. Evans ultimately considers the new Telluride better than an already excellent predecessor and strongly favors the hybrid for most buyers.
By Scott Evans
Kelley Blue Book is highly impressed by the redesigned 2027 Kia Telluride. The larger, roomier cabin, easy third-row access, clever storage, polished technology, and substantially improved X-Pro off-road capability make it a compelling family SUV. The reviewer especially favors the smooth, quiet 329-horsepower hybrid, despite its modest 31-mpg AWD rating, and considers it worth the premium over the base model. The turbo-4 is capable and enables 5,000-pound towing, but its throttle response feels noticeably delayed. KBB also acknowledges that pricing has risen by roughly $3,000, with a top trim approaching $60,000. Even so, strong resale expectations, generous standard features, refined comfort, and impressive real-world versatility support an enthusiastic recommendation, reflected in the publication’s 4.8/5 rating.
By Robert Duffer
U.S. News’ Alex Kwanten is highly impressed, calling the 2027 Kia Telluride the best all-around three-row SUV. The redesign preserves its standout style and family-friendly practicality while adding a smooth, powerful hybrid capable of roughly 27–30 mpg in demanding real-world driving. The cabin feels upscale, comfortable, and easy to use, with more second- and third-row room, though the rearmost seats still suit smaller passengers best. Kwanten is especially enthusiastic about the X-Pro, whose ground clearance, terrain modes, recovery hooks, and improved suspension make it genuinely capable on mud, rocks, slopes, and shallow water—not a rock crawler, but a compelling alternative to a basic 4Runner. The main reservations are higher pricing, some turbo lag and engine noise in the gas model, and limited real-world fuel-economy testing. Overall, the review portrays the Telluride as a thoroughly improved, distinctive, and exceptionally well-rounded family vehicle.
By Alex Kwanten
Cars.com’s Aaron Bragman is strongly impressed by the 2027 Kia Telluride. He considers both the turbocharged four-cylinder and hybrid excellent upgrades over the old V-6, with the hybrid especially memorable for its near-silent electric operation, strong acceleration, and observed 41 mpg over a 140-mile drive. The redesigned SUV is roomier, quieter, more luxurious, and more capable, while the X-Pro handles moderate off-road terrain confidently. Still, Bragman flags frustrating climate controls, nearly invisible touch buttons, extra road noise from the X-Pro’s all-terrain tires, and limited protection for truly serious trail use. Higher pricing—potentially above $60,000—also pushes the Telluride into premium-SUV territory. Even so, the review’s enthusiasm is unmistakable: the improvements substantially outweigh the quirks, making this the best Telluride yet and a likely continued sales success.
By Aaron Bragman
Jalopnik’s Daniel Golson is highly enthusiastic about the 2027 Kia Telluride. He considers it excellent across the board, praising its strikingly unconventional styling, quieter and more composed driving experience, smooth and considerably more efficient hybrid powertrain, upscale interior, expanded passenger and cargo space, and genuinely improved X-Pro off-road capability. The hybrid is his clear favorite, offering strong performance and fuel economy for a modest premium, while the Telluride’s comfort and refinement make much more expensive luxury SUVs look hard to justify. Golson’s criticisms are specific but limited: the hybrid is unavailable in the X-Pro, camera feeds shut off above 6 mph off-road, some displays and climate controls are awkward, and pricing has risen. Kia’s hosted drive is disclosed, but the review remains detailed and candid. Overall, he sees the new Telluride as the segment’s benchmark and enthusiastically expects it to remain a sales success.
By Daniel Golson
Perry Stern of The Truth About Cars is highly impressed by the redesigned 2027 Kia Telluride. He praises its upscale, spacious cabin, smooth and responsive hybrid powertrain, improved fuel economy, quiet ride, and useful technology, calling it a strong daily driver among three-row SUVs. The Telluride X-Pro makes an equally strong impression off pavement, handling water, steep grades, rocks, and uneven terrain with surprising comfort and confidence. Stern’s criticisms are specific but limited: the massage seats and leg rests disappoint, powered second-row access is frustratingly slow, and the third row is tight for three adults. The hybrid also isn’t available on the X-Pro. Even so, the combination of family-friendly practicality, premium features, stronger efficiency, and credible off-road ability leaves him enthusiastically recommending the Telluride as both a polished cruiser and a capable adventure vehicle.
By Perry Stern
Motor1’s Jeff Glucker is highly impressed by the 2027 Kia Telluride, calling it an excellent second-generation flagship. He praises its upscale, exceptionally quiet cabin, generous standard features, comfortable long-distance manners, and strong value, especially with pricing that remains below many luxury competitors. The new hybrid adds appealing efficiency, a claimed 637-mile range, 329 horsepower, and enough towing ability for a small camper, while the X-Pro earns genuine credit for handling mild trails and gravel with useful all-terrain hardware and an impressive 38.6-inch wading depth. Glucker’s reservations are mainly visual and strategic: the front styling feels awkward, black wheels disappear into the fenders, the X-Pro lacks serious underbody protection and a hybrid option, and its off-road ability stops well short of rock crawling. Even so, the enthusiasm is clear: Kia has preserved the Telluride’s strengths while making it more luxurious, capable, and compelling.
By Jeff Glucker
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10 LEADING EXPERT & INFLUENCER REVIEWS
Consumer ReportsMike Quincy is cautiously negative on the redesigned 2027 Kia Telluride, despite appreciating its roomy, comfortable, well-equipped cabin. He praises easy access, generous second-row accommodations, useful storage, simple infotainment, strong turbo-four performance, and a softer ride, while calling out the cramped third row, awkward controls, limited visibility, plasticky trim, and slow door handles. His biggest complaint is the gritty, unpleasant-sounding engine, which delivers mediocre AWD fuel economy and makes the new Telluride feel less polished—and less agile—than the previous V6 model. The upcoming hybrid appears to be the more promising choice.
Auto Buyers Guide | Alex on AutosAlex on Autos is strongly impressed by the 2027 Kia Telluride, especially its roomy, family-friendly cabin and punchy turbo-hybrid powertrain. He considers the hybrid the standout choice, combining quicker acceleration with over 30 mpg and only modest compromises in towing and seating. Instrumented testing supports the strong performance, while the ride earns high marks. The redesigned exterior is his main hesitation: he finds it overly tall, plastic-heavy, and less attractive than the previous Telluride or related Palisade. Still, thoughtful child-seat access, excellent usable space, upscale materials, and competitive pricing make it one of his favorite all-around three-row SUVs.
Redline ReviewsRedline Reviews remains highly enthusiastic about the 2027 Kia Telluride, calling it his favorite three-row midsize SUV. The redesigned model impresses with a refined, spacious cabin, excellent second- and third-row room, comfortable seats, strong technology, upscale materials, and a distinctive Range Rover-inspired design. The turbo four-cylinder feels stronger in everyday driving thanks to its torque, but it sounds coarse, fuel economy is mediocre, acceleration is only average, and the X-Pro rides too softly while costing nearly $60,000. He recommends the hybrid or road-focused X-Line for most buyers, yet still considers the Telluride the segment’s standout overall package.
MotorWeekMotorWeek is enthusiastic about the 2027 Kia Telluride, calling it a compelling second-generation flagship with impressive value. The redesigned SUV gains a smoother, more upscale cabin, greater cargo flexibility, improved off-road hardware in X-Pro trim, and a torque-rich turbo four-cylinder, while the available hybrid promises excellent efficiency. MotorWeek’s testing found the gas model slightly slower than the outgoing V6, with leisurely shifts and noticeable body roll on all-terrain tires, though braking was strong and fuel economy beat its rating. Overall, its generous space, capability, pricing, and polished versatility make it feel like a likely hit.
The_Car_MomKelly is enthusiastic about the redesigned 2027 Kia Telluride, especially its family-focused improvements. She praises the spacious second row, car-seat tilt access, better lower-anchor and tether coverage, useful rear amenities, easy-folding seats, and full-size stroller capacity with the third row up. The exterior looks upscale and cohesive, while the infotainment’s physical controls and secure wireless chargers feel thoughtfully designed. Still, she finds the interior less luxurious than before, dislikes the awkward gear selector, questions rear visibility, and finds the elevated third row less comfortable. Overall, it feels like a meaningful, practical upgrade for families.
Doug DeMuroDoug DeMuro is highly enthusiastic about the 2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid, calling it one of the segment’s leaders. He praises its upscale design, exceptionally comfortable and solid ride, clever family-friendly features, roomy third row, and impressive blend of power and fuel economy. The hybrid’s long range and useful “Stay Mode” stand out, while the practical manual third-row folding is an unexpected favorite. His main criticism is the powertrain’s hesitation and lack of convincing acceleration despite strong specifications, plus some overstyled exterior details and limited screen configurability. Still, he considers it an outstanding value and an easy recommendation for family-SUV shoppers.
Car ConfectionsCar Confections is highly impressed with the 2027 Kia Telluride overall. After a week and 354 miles, they praise its upscale cabin, enormous second-row space, useful cargo area, smooth transmission, strong turbocharged torque, and unexpectedly controlled handling. The redesigned SUV feels like a successful modernization rather than a reinvention. Still, the turbo four-cylinder is less refined than the outgoing V6, fuel economy is only average with AWD, road noise is slightly higher than rivals, and the Palisade offers more features for similar money. It’s a strong, enthusiastically recommended family SUV, though not quite the segment leader in every category.
Micah MuzioMicah Muzio is highly impressed by the 2027 Kia Telluride, calling it a compelling blend of style, comfort, capability, and value. He praises the spacious, premium-feeling cabin, genuinely usable third row, strong ride quality, smooth hybrid powertrain, and confident road manners. The X-Pro also handles rough terrain well, though the test exposed a one-off transmission-temperature warning and the lack of steel skid plates is a real off-road limitation. Minor complaints include awkward armrests, slow power-folding seats, flush handles that may ice up, and hybrid brake feel. Overall, he views the Telluride as a successful successor with broad family appeal.
Raiti's RidesJoe Raiti is positive about the redesigned Telluride, but he would personally choose the Nissan Pathfinder. He praises the Kia’s comfortable, upscale cabin, quiet ride, abundant technology, straightforward controls, and strong amenities for the roughly $50,000 price. The turbocharged four-cylinder provides useful torque and up to 5,000 pounds of towing, but Raiti criticizes its boost lag, noise, and lower towing rating than the Pathfinder’s V6. He also dislikes the gloss-black wheels and cladding, flush door handles, limited plywood practicality, and some interior choices, while preferring the Pathfinder’s styling and layout.
TedwardTedward is genuinely impressed by the 2027 Kia Telluride, calling it a charming, highly capable family SUV and a remarkable value under $60,000. He praises its striking Land Rover-like styling, upscale Alcantara interior, massage seat, excellent cameras, strong driver assistance, quiet ride, thoughtful storage, and surprising 24.9-mpg road-trip result. The Telluride feels luxurious and exceptionally well equipped, even compared with vehicles costing far more. However, the turbo four-cylinder is noisy and slow to respond, making the drivetrain merely adequate rather than exciting. Wireless charging also failed in practice, and the X-Pro’s off-road hardware went untested. Overall, he enthusiastically recommends it for feature-focused families.
Social
1 INFLUENCER REVIEW
EddieXEddiex616 is enthusiastic about the 2027 Kia Telluride, calling it a convincing “half-price Korean Range Rover” despite some meaningful compromises. He dislikes the polarizing front design, the thirsty turbo-four, and the X-Pro’s inability to combine off-road hardware with the hybrid powertrain. Still, the X-Pro’s all-terrain setup, extra ground clearance, frame-mounted tow hooks, and standard all-wheel drive impress him. The interior earns especially strong approval for its luxury features, clever storage, supportive mesh headrests, and heated, ventilated second-row seats. At roughly $60,000, it is less of a bargain, but still feels richly equipped for the money.
Forum Reviews
CUSTOMER REVIEWS FROM 1 FORUM
Redditors are intrigued by the 2027 Telluride but divided, largely because its styling and new powertrain feel risky. Supporters praise the upscale, spacious interior, quiet ride, strong technology, usable third row, hybrid fuel economy, and value versus luxury SUVs. New shoppers often see it as a compelling family vehicle, especially in higher trims. Skeptics dislike the grille, wheels, fender accents, and motorized door handles, while others question long-term reliability, seat comfort, suspension quality, and price increases. Existing owners generally remain enthusiastic, though some prefer the proven V6 and cleaner-looking previous generation.
Many comments
In-Depth Review
Highlights
- •Smooth Hybrid Power329-hp system feels smooth and responsive.
- •Roomy Family SeatingAdult-friendly space simplifies family travel.
- •Quiet Controlled RideIndependent suspension supports calm road manners.
- •Useful Trail CapabilityX-Pro manages moderate trails and shallow water.
Considerations
- •Coarse Gas ResponseTurbo-four can lag and sound gritty.
- •Rising Purchase PriceHigher trims approach premium-SUV pricing.
- •Polarizing Exterior DesignGrille, wheels, and cladding divide buyers.
- •Fussy Touch ControlsClimate controls can be hard to read.
Kia’s Telluride has built a reputation for near-luxury family utility, and the 2027 redesign pushes that formula toward 329-hp hybrid power and greater efficiency. Designed for commuting, road trips, child-seat duty, and light trailer work, it competes with the Hyundai Palisade, Toyota Grand Highlander, and Honda Pilot by pairing up to eight-passenger seating with a quieter, more polished cabin. The gas turbo-four still offers stronger towing, while the hybrid promises smoother response; meanwhile, the X-Pro’s trail hardware gives adventurous families capability beyond ordinary crossovers. We’ll examine how its ride, engine noise, handling, third-row comfort, cargo practicality, and physical cabin controls hold up in real use. Families should focus on the compromises that matter most to them—especially hybrid availability and loading needs—because this Telluride may be a luxury bargain, but it still has a few family-sized asterisks worth exploring.
Ride And Road Manners
The redesigned Telluride generally feels calm and substantial on the road. Its four-wheel independent suspension delivers a controlled, comfortable ride, while reviewers consistently praise the quiet cabin and confident handling. The body stays composed better than expected for such a large SUV, although slow steering and noticeable roll can appear, particularly with X-Pro’s all-terrain tires. Those tires also add road noise, and the turbo-four sounds gritty under acceleration. The hybrid is quieter and more polished, supporting Kia’s premium positioning more convincingly than the gas version.
Space And Third Row
Family usability remains one of the Telluride’s strongest qualities. The up-to-eight-passenger seating and generous second-row room make child seats and adult passengers easier to accommodate, while tilt access improves entry to the back. The third row is more usable than in most midsize SUVs, with 32.1 inches of listed legroom, and reviewers generally found it suitable for adults on shorter trips. Still, its raised floor and limited width can tire larger passengers, while slow power-folding second-row seats make rushed loading less convenient.
Hybrid Versus Turbo Power
The hybrid is the Telluride’s most convincing powertrain. Its 329-horsepower turbo-hybrid system feels smoother and more responsive than the 274-hp turbo-four, with reviewers recording roughly 30.7 mpg in one test and 41 mpg over another 140-mile drive. Kia claims up to 35 mpg combined and 637 miles of range for the EX FWD hybrid, though AWD versions are closer to 31 mpg. The gas model’s 5,000-pound towing capacity remains the better choice for maximum trailer duty, but its coarse sound, turbo lag, and average AWD economy make the hybrid preferable for daily driving.
Cargo And Loading Ease
The Telluride works well as a family hauler, especially when its flexible seating is used deliberately. It offers 22.3 cubic feet behind the third row, enough for a full-size stroller in one review, and expands to 89.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The flat, practical cargo area and easy manual third-row folding are genuine strengths. However, the redesigned underfloor storage is less useful than before, and powered second-row folding can be frustratingly slow when you need quick access or are loading children.
Cabin Quality And Controls
The cabin feels upscale without becoming difficult to understand. Reviewers appreciate retained physical controls, useful storage, secure wireless-charger placement, supportive seats, and available luxuries such as massage functions and heated, ventilated second-row seats. Materials and quietness generally support Kia’s near-luxury claim, although some trims use plasticky accents and minimalist black interiors that feel less warm than the previous model. Small touch climate buttons can be hard to read in sunlight, and the awkward gear selector and limited screen configurability keep the interface from feeling fully polished.
X-Pro Trail Capability
The X-Pro gives the Telluride genuine light-trail credibility rather than just rugged styling. Standard all-wheel drive, terrain modes, increased clearance, all-terrain tires, and frame-mounted recovery hooks helped reviewers manage rocks, slopes, mud, and shallow water confidently. Kia and testing coverage cite a 38.6-inch wading depth, an impressive headline capability, but the vehicle still lacks steel skid plates and serious underbody protection, so it is not a rock crawler. The important trade-off is strategic: X-Pro capability cannot be combined with the smoother, more efficient hybrid.
Conclusion
The 2027 Kia Telluride makes its strongest case as a family SUV that finally pairs 329-hp hybrid power with genuinely useful efficiency, while the gas turbo-four remains the better tow vehicle but sounds coarse and can hesitate. Its quiet, controlled ride and spacious second row create a relaxed road-trip experience, although the third row is best for shorter adult journeys. Cargo flexibility is strong, yet slow power-folding seats and reduced underfloor storage frustrate rushed loading. The X-Pro’s trail hardware adds real light off-road ability, but it cannot be combined with the hybrid and lacks serious underbody protection. Inside, physical controls and clever storage help offset some plasticky trim and fussy touch buttons. This is a smart choice for families prioritizing space, comfort, technology, and hybrid smoothness—not buyers seeking flawless refinement or maximum trail toughness. Its generous capability and premium feel justify a strong recommendation, with price and first-year compromises keeping it short of universal perfection.
Feature Scores
This reflects reviews and ratings from established critics, journalists, and users who have evaluated the item. Their opinions provide a comprehensive assessment.
Performance
Engine Power
4/5
Acceleration
4/5
Towing Capacity
4/5
Fuel Efficiency
4/5
Reliability
3/5
Durability
3/5
Value
Purchase Price
4/5
Operating Cost
4/5
Resale Value
3/5
Design
Interior Space
5/5
Cargo Capacity
4/5
Ergonomics
4/5
Exterior Styling
4/5
Health
Cabin Air Quality
TBD
Interior Material Toxicity
TBD
Safety
Crashworthiness
TBD
Active Driver Assistance
4/5
Braking Performance
4/5
Visibility and Lighting
3/5
Sustainability
Tailpipe Emissions
4/5
Fuel Lifecycle Emissions
3/5
Use of Recycled Materials
TBD
End-of-Life Recyclability
TBD
Experience Style
Infotainment Features
4/5
Ride Comfort Tuning
5/5
Customization Options
4/5
Specifications
This section outlines the product's key facts, covering essential features, details, dimensions, materials, and any unique characteristics that define its functionality and usability.
Performance
Value
Design
Safety
Sustainability
Experience Style
Frequently Asked Questions
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