2027 Kia Telluride Road Test and Review

2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid SXP ・ Photo by Kia

The 2027 Kia Telluride arrives as a completely redesigned second-generation three-row SUV that seats up to eight passengers depending on whether you choose captain's chairs or the bench seat. Initial launch includes a new 2.5-liter turbocharged gas engine or new hybird. This mid-size family SUV grows larger than before, which brings noticeably more second-row legroom, easier third-row access, and extra cargo room.

Major changes include more torque, bolder modern styling, a more upscale tech-forward interior, and serious off-road upgrades on X-Pro trims. Growing families who need real space for car seats, kids, and weekend gear will find this SUV fits their daily life perfectly.

Sharper, Bolder Exterior

The fresh design gives the Telluride a more confident, upscale appearance with cleaner body lines, a larger signature grille, and slim, wraparound LED headlights. Lower trims keep things elegant and straightforward, while X-Line and X-Pro versions add gloss black roof rails, unique bumpers, and matte black accents that give it real personality.

X-Pro models sit taller with 9.1 inches of ground clearance, all-terrain tires, and front recovery hooks ready for light off-road fun. Acoustic glass throughout quiets wind and road noise nicely and power-folding mirrors with reverse tilt-down make tight parking spots feel much easier no matter the trim.

2027 Kia Telluride X-Pro ・ Photo by Kia

Spacious Upscale Cabin

Second-row legroom now leads the class so adults and growing kids can stretch out comfortably even on longer drives. The one-touch slide and tilt feature makes getting into the third row simple without needing to wrestle seats around. Higher trims upgrade to full SynTex seats, ventilated front seats, heated second-row seats, and suede accents that feel genuinely premium.

Soft-touch materials everywhere and mood lighting with dozens of colors, as well as dual sunroofs on most models, create a warm inviting space perfect for family road trips. Extra acoustic glass keeps the cabin hushed so conversations stay easy and everyone arrives relaxed no matter how many miles you cover.

2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid SXP ・ Photo by Kia

Potent Turbo Power

The 2.5-liter turbo four-cylinder delivers 274 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. That power combined with an eight-speed automatic that shifts smoothly and quickly makes merging onto highways or passing slower traffic feel effortless and confident.

Those looking for a more fuel-efficient option have the hybrid. It delivers 329 horsepower with 339 lb-ft of torque. It gets better fuel economy and it’s more powerful, which is a hard combination to beat. The downside is that it’s not available on the off-road trims found with the gas engine.

2027 Kia Telluride X-Pro ・ Photo by Kia

Composed, Confident Ride

The suspension soaks up bumps nicely while keeping body roll in check, so the ride stays comfortable without feeling floaty. Self-leveling rear dampers on higher trims help maintain a level stance even when the cargo area fills up which makes towing or heavy loads easier to manage.

X-Pro versions add meaningful ground clearance with an electronic limited-slip differential and terrain modes that improve grip on loose surfaces. Steering feels direct and nicely weighted, so the Telluride never feels top-heavy despite being a large SUV.

2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid SXP ・ Photo by Kia

Versatile Cargo Space

Behind the third row you get up to 22.3 cubic-feet which handles groceries, strollers, or weekend bags without issue. Fold the third row flat and space opens up to 48.7 cubic feet, while dropping the second and third rows gives you 89.3 cubic feet for camping gear or furniture. Those numbers dip slightly in the hybrid.

The second row seats slide, fold, and tumble easily, and clever door pockets, center console bins, and under-floor storage keep smaller items tidy and organized. Towing capacity remains strong around 5,000 pounds when properly equipped (4,500 for the hybrid), so weekend boat trips or small trailers remain well within reach.

2027 Kia Telluride X-Pro ・ Photo by Kia

Modern Connected Tech

The standard 12.3-inch touchscreen includes navigation and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto so your phone connects instantly. Higher trims upgrade to dual 12.3-inch displays that flow together for a clean modern cockpit with sharp clear graphics. It’s an intuitive system that doesn’t distract from the drive.

Six USB ports, dual wireless chargers, and an available Meridian surround-sound system with 14 speakers delivers rich audio. Remote start, smart hands-free power liftgate, and drive modes including terrain settings make everyday driving and occasional off-road adventures feel effortless.

2027 Kia Telluride X-Pro ・ Photo by Kia

Extensive Safety Features

Forward collision avoidance with pedestrian cyclist and junction detection, blind-spot warning lane, keeping assist ,and rear cross-traffic avoidance come standard on every Telluride. Highway driving assist, smart cruise control, and safe exit assist add extra confidence in traffic situations.

Upper trims bring highway driving assist 2.0, surround-view cameras, blind-spot view monitor, and a front center airbag for improved side-impact protection. A radar-based rear occupant alert reminds you if someone or something stays in the back seats which brings real peace of mind for busy parents.

2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid SXP ・ Photo by Kia

A Huge Trim Lineup

The 2027 Kia Telluride offers a wide lineup with 12 trims. The base LX with front-wheel drive starts at $39,190 while the top X-Pro SX Prestige with all-wheel drive tops out at $56,790. In between are plenty of choices between basic family hauler and loaded luxury adventurer.

The rugged X-Pro rims add extra capability with higher ground clearance and all-terrain tires starting at $53,690 for the X-Pro SX with all-wheel drive. No matter where you land in the range, the Telluride keeps strong value with generous standard features across the board. The hybrid has a smaller trim range that doesn’t include off-road variants and higher pricing ranging from $46,490 to $57,590.

2027 Kia Telluride X-Pro ・ Photo by Kia

An Efficient Family SUV

The redesigned Telluride brings stronger power, more interior room, and sharper tech, though fuel economy trails some competitors and fully loaded trims add up quickly. A few buyers might wish the hybrid arrived right away, but the turbo gas engine already feels capable enough for most real-world needs.

We recommend the 2027 Telluride because it nails the balance of space, comfort, safety, and a touch of adventure at a price that still feels like a great value. It turns ordinary drives into something enjoyable and makes every family trip feel a little more special.

2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid SXP ・ Photo by Kia