
The Telluride already had a strong foundation. After all, there are a lot of reasons it has consistently made our list of the Best 3-Row Mid-Size SUVs several years in a row. So, when it came time for a new generation of this SUV, Kia focused on improving what matters.
The 2027 Kia Telluride receives a new engine, a hybrid option, and all the latest technology. And don’t worry, Kia kept everything that’s working – but still managed to add some updates that make it easier to live with.

A new generation of the 2027 Kia Telluride brings a new engine: a 2.5L turbocharged four-cylinder. Replacing the V6, this four-cylinder makes 274 hp and 311 lb-ft of torque. The extra torque – up from 262 lb-ft in the last generation – helps this Telluride feel stronger in daily driving. It pulls harder at low speeds, and passing on the highway takes less effort than before. The SUV also grows by about two inches, which helps it feel more stable and confident at highway speeds.
There’s a hybrid model, pairing the 2.5L engine with a 1.65 kWh lithium-ion battery, also joining the lineup for the first time. It reaches up to 329 hp with an EPA-estimated 34 miles per gallon in the city and 36 on the highway with front-wheel drive. That kind of efficiency stands out in a three-row SUV.
Most 2027 Tellurides – hybrid or not – start with FWD, but AWD is available. It’s standard on the X-Line models, which are also slightly elevated with a few extra inches f ground clearance. Towing capacity reaches up to 5,000 pounds and 4,500 lbs on hybrid models, and the X-Pro comes standard with useful features for those who plan on towing regularly.

The 2027 Telluride’s updates don’t stop with its new shape and vertical LED headlight design outside. They carry inside, where seats, materials, and layout all take a step forward. Higher trims bring upgraded upholstery, softer touch points, and suede-like accents that break up harder surfaces in lower models.
Heated seats are available in all three rows, and front seats can include power-adjustable leg supports for added comfort on longer drives. Buyers can choose a bench for eight or captain’s chairs for seven. The second row now delivers class-leading 43 inches of legroom, giving adults more space to stretch out.
Access to the third row is easier as well, thanks to seats that slide and tilt forward. Once back there, the space is designed for shorter trips, but adults can still make it work when needed. Cargo room measures 22.3 cubic feet behind the third row, which is enough for groceries, sports gear, or weekend bags.
The Telluride keeps its tech easy to use. The 12.3-inch touchscreen sits at the center of the cabin. A new dual wireless charging setup lets both front passengers charge at the same time, as Kia moves forward with wireless integration across the lineup.
Higher trims add a digital instrument display and a 14-speaker Meridian audio system. Some trims also include built-in streaming apps like YouTube and Netflix, which can be viewed on the center touchscreen when the vehicle is in park.

One thing that didn’t change? Physical knobs for volume and climate settings stay in place, so drivers don’t have to rely on the screen for basic adjustments.
Driver assistance features cover the basics and then some. Forward collision warning with automatic braking, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and lane centering are all standard. Kia also added a new front-row center airbag for extra safety.

Starting at $39,190, the LX brings a strong mix of space, safety tech, and standard features to the 2027 lineup. It’s a solid entry point for buyers who want a three-row SUV without stretching the budget. They get the 12.3-inch touchscreen, tri-zone climate control, multiple USB ports across all rows, dual phone chargers, and a full suite of driver assists. Forward collision warning, automatic braking, and lane keeping assist – all included.
At $43,790, the EX stands out as the sweet spot. It adds ventilated front seats, upgraded cabin materials, and second-row sunshades. It has a more complete feel without the big price jump.
The $56,790 X-Pro SX Prestige sits at the top of the line. It leans into capability and comfort, with a 14-speaker audio system, upgraded seating, and towing-focused hardware that makes better use of its 5,000-pound capacity.
Higher in the lineup, the hybrid models have all the features their non-hybrid counterparts do – but the hybrids add better fuel economy and 55 additional horsepower.
Compared to rival SUVs, the Telluride stays competitive on price while delivering more standard features across trims. Kia also backs it with a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty on all models, which remains one of the strongest in the segment.
This SUV stands out as one of the most well-rounded three-row options, with a focus on comfort, space, and ease of use. The revised Telluride may not lead in cargo space like the Toyota Grand Highlander or match the flexibility of the Honda Pilot’s removable second-row seat, but it stays strong across the board. The new turbo engine and available hybrid improve efficiency, while a larger cabin and added features make it easier to live with day to day. That balance keeps it near the top of the segment.