Wheel logo

Kia Telluride

Top-Rated Midsize SUV (Great Value)

By Shahzad KhanPublished 6 months ago 3 min read

The Kia Telluride has quickly risen to become one of the most popular midsize SUVs on the market, thanks to its bold styling, spacious interior, advanced technology, and impressive value. Competing against heavyweights like the Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, and Ford Explorer, the Telluride stands out by offering near-luxury features at a mainstream price. Whether you need a family hauler, adventure-ready SUV, or a comfortable daily driver, the Telluride checks all the boxes.

Bold and Striking Exterior Design

The Kia Telluride makes a strong first impression with its boxy, rugged design that exudes confidence. The wide tiger-nose grille, sharp LED headlights, and muscular body lines give it a premium, upscale presence on the road. Unlike some competitors that lean toward a softer look, the Telluride embraces a more aggressive, truck-like stance, which appeals to buyers who want both style and substance.

Available in multiple eye-catching colors, including Everlasting Silver, Wolf Gray, and Sangria, the Telluride also features 20-inch alloy wheels on higher trims, enhancing its commanding road presence.

kia telluride front view

Spacious and Luxurious Interior

Step inside the Telluride, and you’ll immediately notice its high-quality materials and thoughtful layout. The cabin is quiet, well-insulated, and packed with premium touches, making it feel more like a Lexus or Acura than a mainstream SUV.

Seating & Comfort

  • Three rows of seating comfortably accommodate up to eight passengers.
  • First- and second-row seats are spacious, with available Nappa leather upholstery.
  • Heated and ventilated front seats (and even heated second-row seats in higher trims).
  • Dual panoramic sunroof (available) brightens the cabin.

Cargo Space

  • 21 cubic feet behind the third row (great for groceries or luggage).
  • 46 cubic feet with the third row folded.
  • 87 cubic feet with both rear rows down (perfect for large items).
kia telluride interior

Cutting-Edge Technology

The Telluride is packed with user-friendly tech that keeps drivers and passengers connected and entertained.

Infotainment & Connectivity

  • 10.25-inch touchscreen with crisp graphics and intuitive controls.
  • Apple CarPlay & Android Auto (wireless in newer models).
  • 12-speaker Harman Kardon premium sound system (available).
  • Wireless charging pad for compatible smartphones.

Convenience Features

  • Head-up display (shows speed, navigation, and safety alerts).
  • Surround-view camera for easier parking.
  • Smartphone-based digital key (lock, unlock, and start the car with your phone).
kia telluride dashboard

Strong and Efficient Performance

Under the hood, the Telluride is powered by a 3.8L V6 engine producing 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, paired with a smooth 8-speed automatic transmission. While it’s not the most fuel-efficient in its class (20 mpg city / 26 mpg highway), it delivers confident acceleration and refined cruising.

Driving Dynamics

  • Available all-wheel drive (AWD) with terrain modes (Snow, Mud, Sand).
  • 5,000-pound towing capacity (great for small trailers or boats).
  • Comfortable ride quality, with well-tuned suspension for long trips.
kia telluride engine

Top Safety Ratings & Advanced Driver Aids

The Telluride is an IIHS Top Safety Pick+, one of the highest honors in crash safety. It comes loaded with advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), including:

Standard Safety Features

  • Forward Collision Avoidance Assist (FCA) with pedestrian detection.
  • Lane Keeping Assist (LKA) and Lane Following Assist (LFA).
  • Blind-Spot Collision Avoidance Assist (BCA).
  • Rear Occupant Alert (reminds you to check the back seat).

Available Upgrades

  • Highway Driving Assist (HDA) – semi-autonomous driving on highways.
  • 360-degree surround-view monitor for tight parking spots.
  • Rear cross-traffic collision avoidance.
kia telluride safety features

Great Value for Money

One of the biggest selling points of the Telluride is its outstanding value. Compared to rivals like the Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, and Hyundai Palisade, the Telluride offers:

  • More standard features at lower price points.
  • Higher-quality interior materials than many competitors.
  • Strong resale value (holds its value better than most SUVs).

Even the base LX trim comes well-equipped, while the SX-Prestige adds near-luxury amenities without breaking the bank.

kia telluride vs toyota highlander

Final Verdict: Why the Telluride Stands Out

The Kia Telluride is a near-perfect midsize SUV, offering a rare combination of style, space, technology, safety, and affordability. It’s no surprise that it consistently ranks at the top of its class in comparisons.

Who Should Buy It?

  • Families needing three rows of seating.
  • Adventure seekers who want AWD capability.
  • Luxury-minded buyers who don’t want to pay luxury prices.

If you’re shopping for a midsize SUV that does it all, the Kia Telluride should be at the top of your list.

kia telluride family

designindustrymotorsportsproduct reviewracingself drivingtravel

About the Creator

Shahzad Khan

Reader insights

Be the first to share your insights about this piece.

How does it work?

Add your insights

Comments

There are no comments for this story

Be the first to respond and start the conversation.

Sign in to comment

    Find us on social media

    Miscellaneous links

    • Explore
    • Contact
    • Privacy Policy
    • Terms of Use
    • Support

    © 2026 Creatd, Inc. All Rights Reserved.