The Second Act: A Deeper Look at the Redesigned 2027 Kia Telluride
There’s a delicate balance when it comes to sequels. Mess up the formula, and you risk tarnishing the legacy of the original. That’s the tightrope Kia walked with the redesigned 2027 Telluride. The outgoing model, a 10Best winner for every model year it was on sale (2020-2025), set a high bar. The question wasn’t whether the Telluride would be good, but whether it would be *great* enough to live up to its predecessor’s reputation.
The answer, after spending time behind the wheel, is a cautious “mostly yes.” The second-generation Telluride is bigger, bolder, and more refined, but it also loses some of the raw charm that made the original such a standout.
Bigger, Better, But Not Necessarily Brighter
The Telluride has grown in every dimension. Its wheelbase has stretched by 2.7 inches, adding crucial legroom for second- and third-row passengers. Cargo space also sees a modest bump, though the difference isn’t as dramatic as the increase in passenger volume. Six-footers will find themselves comfortably accommodated in the middle row, whether opting for captain’s chairs or the three-across bench. The third row is still best suited for kids or occasional adult use, but it’s noticeably more spacious than before.
From the outside, the Telluride retains its boxy silhouette, but with sharper lines and a more aggressive stance. The front end takes inspiration from the Range Rover, while the rear echoes the styling of Kia’s electric EV9 SUV. The overall effect is a bit more generic than the original, though it’s still a handsome and imposing SUV.
Inside, the Telluride adopts a more minimalist design philosophy, similar to the EV9. While the cabin is well-built with generous use of microsuede, the all-black color scheme in our test car felt a bit drab. It’s a shame, because the Telluride’s interior is otherwise quite functional and ergonomically sound. The updated infotainment system is intuitive and responsive, and the new steering wheel-mounted gear selector frees up space for storage and charging pads.
Under the Hood: A Turbocharged Four, but What About the V6?
The biggest change under the hood is the switch to a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. This unit produces 274 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque, a slight decrease in horsepower but a significant increase in torque compared to the outgoing V6. It’s paired with a smooth-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission. While it’s adequate for everyday driving, the turbo four lacks the punch and refinement of the previous V6.
The Telluride also offers a new hybrid powertrain option, which we haven’t had the chance to test yet. However, based on the Palisade hybrid (which shares the same powertrain), we expect it to offer a significant boost in fuel economy and performance.
On the Road: Refined, but Not Thrilling
The Telluride handles with composure and confidence, its suspension effectively soaking up bumps and dips in the road. Steering is precise and well-weighted, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. While it’s not a particularly sporty SUV, the Telluride is more engaging to drive than its size might suggest.
However, the Telluride’s increased weight (up around 300 pounds) is noticeable. Acceleration is a bit sluggish, with a 0-60 mph time of 7.4 seconds, a full second slower than the previous generation. Braking performance is adequate, with a 70-mph to 0-mph stopping distance of 170 feet.
The Verdict: Worthy, But Not Without Compromise
The 2027 Kia Telluride is a solid, well-rounded SUV that offers a compelling blend of space, comfort, and features. It’s a worthy successor to the original, but it doesn’t quite reach the same heights. The loss of the V6 engine, the slightly generic styling, and the somewhat bland interior color scheme are minor blemishes on an otherwise impressive package.
If you’re looking for a spacious, reliable, and stylish three-row SUV, the Telluride is definitely worth considering. Just be aware that it’s not quite the game-changer that its predecessor was.
The Fine Print: Specs and Pricing
The 2027 Kia Telluride starts at $40,735 for the base LX model. Our X-Line SX Prestige AWD test car, with its optional paint and floor mats, came in at $57,435. The hybrid powertrain is available on higher trim levels, starting at $43,435.
- Vehicle Type: front-engine, all-wheel-drive, 7-passenger, 4-door wagon
- Base/As Tested Price: $40,735/$57,435
- Engine: turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 16-valve inline-4, aluminum block and head, port and direct fuel injection
- Displacement: 152 in3, 2497 cm3
- Power: 274 hp @ 5800 rpm
- Torque: 311 lb-ft @ 1700 rpm
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
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