Large three-row SUVs are the minivan of today and the Kia Telluride has been a hit for the company since its release. Now, Kia broadens its appeal with an off-road friendly X-Pro version for 2023.
With space for the whole family, the Telluride has been a huge seller for Kia. The Telluride SX trim level I drove brings the luxury. Its cushy heated and ventilated Nappa leather seats make it an easy cruiser. The second-row captain’s chairs offer plenty of comfort. Just recline and live in luxury while someone else drives! The third row can seat two adults or three children.
Cargo space is also an advantage. There is space for a couple of bags with the third row in use, or make room for serious hauling with the rear seats folded down. The dash gets a flashy makeover for 2023 and moves the large screen a bit closer to the driver for an easier reach.
The Kia Telluride is also a handsome vehicle with high-dollar style. A new front end for 2023 gives the Telluride a modern look with a revamped grill. Kia gives the top-of-the-line Telluride SX models enchanting LED headlights and fog lights that make a statement. Choosing the X-Pro trim package adds a dose of ruggedness to the ride. Added ground clearance and special 18-inch wheels with all-terrain tires combine for a macho-looking SUV.
The V6 engine hauls this large vehicle capably, allowing it to keep the pace with traffic. It can even be equipped to tow up to 5,500 pounds when you choose the X-Pro version. If you’re coming from a smaller vehicle, it will take a few minutes to get used to the wider and longer Telluride. You will notice the higher center of gravity thanks to added ground clearance and weight when you push the Telluride on curvy roads. The Kia Telluride provides a hushed and comfortable vehicle that doesn’t really drive like a big SUV.
Cost: $52,785; as tested $55,120
MPG: 18 MPG City; and 24 MPG Highway. I managed 19.9 in 226 miles of mixed driving.
Options: $495 Midnight Lake Blue paint, $210 carpeted floor mats, $295 Terracotta interior color package.
Safety: Blind spot collision avoidance assist-pedestrian; rear cross traffic collision-avoidance assist; forward collision avoidance-assist, cyclist & junction turning; vehicle stability management; safe exit assist with power child lock; smart cruise with stop-go; parking collision avoidance-rear, parking distance warning
Things to know: The Kia Telluride has been a hit since its release and now it broadens its appeal with a more off-road ready version with tough looks and more capability in a family-friendly package.
Pros:
- Impressive interior space and high-quality materials
- Handsome looks make high-dollar statement without costing big money
Cons:
- V6 engine and AWD combined with its large size = not so good MPG
- Prices increased, making it not the bargain it once was in higher trim levels
