Radically Redesigned 2027 Kia Telluride Debuts As A 35 MPG Hybrid

Kia Telluride sales have improved every year since it was introduced as a 2020 model, but Kia is replacing it anyway.

The 2027 Telluride that debuted at the Los Angeles Auto Show features new styling and powertrain options.

The Georgia-built three-row SUV is trading its trusty V6 for a 274 hp turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder, which will also be offered in a 329 hp hybrid setup good for 35 mpg combined in front-wheel-drive models.

The standard turbo comes with an eight-speed automatic transmission, while the hybrid uses a six-speed. Both will be available in front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive models. Kia didn’t announce the fuel economy for the all-wheel-drive hybrid, but the mechanically similar Hyundai Palisade sees a five mpg drop.

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The Telluride features all-new styling that combines flush surfaces with sharp creases and a large, blunt front end. The visual effect is a step upscale from the outgoing model.

The interior makeover is less of a departure and retains a largely conventional layout, with dual digital displays for the gauge cluster and infotainment system display supported by a few physical buttons below it. The dashboard styling is simple and the center console retains the Telluride’s signature grab handles for the driver and front passenger, who can be treated to heated, ventilated massaging seats with leg rests in top models.

The range of trims LX, S, EX, SX, SX-Prestige, X-Line and rugged X-Pro, with the hybrid option offered on the EX, SX, and SX-Prestige. The X-Pro isn’t available as a hybrid, but has standard all-wheel-drive, black exterior trim, roof rails, recovery hook points, wide all-terrain tires and 9.1 inches of ground clearance. It also gets an electronic locking rear differential, a 360-degree camera system with a virtual view of the ground underneath the vehicle and perimeter lighting to use when its parked.

The turbocharged models are rated to tow up to 5,000 pounds and the hybrids 4,500 pounds. The hybrid also has a Stay Mode that can power the climate control, lights and audio system for up to 20 minutes when the vehicle is stationary without turning on the engine.

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Standard electronic driver aids include automatic emergency brakes, blind spot monitoring and lane centering adaptive cruise control, which can be upgraded to the more robust Highway Driving Assist 2 lane-tracing system in some trims. Pricing for the 2027 Telluride will be announced closer to when deliveries begin in early 2026.

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