Since its debut with the 2020 model, Kia Telluride has continued to impress many gearheads with its quality ride, although some users reported Powertrain issues with the 2023 model. So when the 2024 iteration hit the showrooms bearing some changes, we hoped it would be the Telluride redemption. As expected, the 2024 Kia Telluride does not just add to the list; it bears significant improvements that earn our approval.
Besides minor style updates, Kia boosted the latest Tellie with performance features that leave many rivals in its trail. With a light steering wheel for smooth handling, a powerful V6 engine, and a bold new look — this carryover has all it takes to lead the three-row SUV class. And very few names, other than the Toyota Highlander, Ford Explorer, and the recent Honda Pilot, stand a chance. Read on to learn what makes the latest Kia Telluride model different.
A Refreshing, Imposing Appearance
The 2024 Tellie blends the beauty of a crossover with the robust build of a hauler. It is almost identical to the revamped 2023 model except for a few exterior changes you may not clock. Kia reintroduced the amber LED daytime running lights (a feature last seen on the 2022 model) and replaced the dark chrome touches on previous models with gloss-black trim accents, but only for X-line and X-Pro trims.
All trims ride on 18- to 20-inch alloy wheels with a gloss finish and all-terrain tires that contribute to the SUV’s imposing look. In front, you’ll find LED projector headlights and Kia’s trademark tiger nose grille, while the rear features similar lights and a powered tailgate remotely operated with a key fob. The side profile echoes the 2022 Chevy Tahoe design, with crisp lines that emphasize its sporty bodywork. Other notable exterior components are power-operated side mirrors and the gloss-finished rails sitting almost unnoticed on the roof.
Under the Hood of the 2024 Telluride
Kia Telluride knows very few limits, thanks to a 3.8-liter V6 engine powerful enough to churn out 291 horsepower and 262 pounds-feet of torque. It is mated to an eight-speed auto transmission system and can soar from 0 to 60 mph in about 6.8 seconds. With a top speed of 132 mph, owners of the 2024 model won’t miss much since very few turbocharged family SUVs can go faster. Besides, why would anyone even need a cop-chase speed on a family ride?
The latest Telluride comes standard with FWD, but AWD is available for an extra $2k. It boasts highly responsive brakes and a well-weighted steering that turns smoothly despite the size of the SUV. With a 19 to 24 mpg rating, the fuel efficiency is a tad below average, but its start-stop feature saves you some gas. What’s more? The Tellie can pull up to 5500 lbs without breaking a sweat. While we would love a tow hitch on this SUV, we appreciate Kia’s self-leveling rear suspension. Plus, there’s a heavy-duty cooling feature that keeps the hauler ready to go.
Here’s How Mahindra XUV700 Revolutionized The Indian Automotive Market
A Refined, Comfortable Interior
The 2024 Telluride’s boxy design makes it spacious enough to fit eight people, with up to 42.4 inches of second-row leg room and 87 cu ft cargo space behind the first row, more than most mid-size SUVs. The higher trims provide more convenience, but all models sport dual panoramic sunroofs; the first two rows are heated and ventilated, and top-quality materials reduce motion impact. Moreover, the interior is enhanced to ensure a noiseless ride.
Other standard features across all trims are a video rearview mirror and a 360-degree camera system. A dual 12.3-inch touchscreen and a heads-up display add a nice modern touch to the cabin. Outside these, the rest of the infotainment system is good old knobs and buttons positioned well for aesthetics and comfort.
Enough Tech for Comfort
The three-row SUV also packs unique tech features such as a digital key, push-button start, and a driver talk feature that amplifies the driver’s voice to the third row like an intercom. Other standard connectivity features include the wireless phone charging tray, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto (wired), and Kia Voice assistants. And there are yet more tech features on the SX Prestige models!
Pricing and Trims: The Choice is Yours
Kia Telluride comes in as many as ten trims to suit various needs and tastes, and they are all within means. LX and S are the base trim levels, starting below $39,000 each. Even trim leaders SX Prestige X-Line and X-Pro, despite the amazing features, peak at $53,385. Considering the prices of other top three-row SUVS, Kia Telluride is cost-effective.
Although the base levels could struggle off-pavement, the experience gets better with each trim update. The LX through SX Pro trims are enough for regular in-city drives and occasional cross-country trips, while the higher trims are more equipped for heavy hauls and off-road duties.
Regardless of the trim, take nothing away from the reliability of the 2024 Telluride SUV. It is one of the best-value family SUVs in the market, which makes it hard for lovers of family-sized SUVs to resist. A few other three-row haulers, including Hyundai Palisade and Subaru Ascent, have better fuel economy; notwithstanding, the Telluride continues to dominate the class with its confident performance and affordability.
