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For a relative newcomer, the Kia Telluride was an instant success for the South Korean car company when it debuted in 2020.
We sang its praises back then and we're ready for another 'hurrah' with the debut of the 2027 Telluride -- a turbo powered three-row hybrid.
The second-generation redesign is longer, wider and taller than its predecessor with a stretched wheelbase to improve handling while providing more interior space.
Power comes from a 2.5-liter, four-cylinder engine paired with two electric motors uniquely merged with the transmission assembly instead of mounted on separate axles. One motor starts the engine, recaptures braking energy while the second motor gives added boost.
Output is 329 horsepower with 339 lb-ft of torque mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. The Telluride is only produced in West Point, GA. It's been a big hit for Kia with sales of 123,281 SUVs sold last year, far surpassing Sorento and Carnival.
Six hybrid trim levels are available in the 2027 lineup - ES FWD, EX AWD, SX FWD, X-Line SX AWD, SX-Prestige AWD and X-Line SX Prestige AWD – base priced from $48,035 to $59,135.
Combined fuel economy is 31 miles per gallon, about average for a mid-size, three row SUV. Rivals' Hyundai Palisade and Toyota Grand Highlander show similar results.
Our top-of-the-line tester achieved good marks, reaching 60 miles-per-hour in 5.6-seconds at our independent test track.
New sheet metal is striking and clearly stands alone however we feel it lacks the character of the first generation's exterior with its rounded edges, tiger nose grille and standard door handles with instant identity compared with the new model.
At 4,600 pounds, the new Telluride delivers a compliant ride, a little on the firm side - a good thing. It handles curvy roadway and cornering under power with little body lean.
Acceleration is instant with its turbo boost, moving away from traffic or handling passing maneuvers with ease. Acoustic glass keeps outside noise to a minimum.
Interior treatment is near luxury with soft materials throughout the cabin, a suede headliner and available massage functions. Quilted Alcantara seating surfaces are a nice touch along with dual 12.3-inch screens for navigation and engine vitals.
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is standard across the lineup and side by side dual wireless phone chargers are a nice touch along with six USB ports.
A heads-up display is standard in the SX-Prestige trim along with a premium Meridian audio system.
Heated and ventilated seating is extended to second row passengers, a nice touch.
Main rivals for the Telluride include the Toyota Grand Highlander hybrid, Honda Pilot, parent company's Hyundai Palisade hybrid, Hyundai Santa Fe hybrid and the Volkswagen Atlas.
Curb appeal is a strong suit for the Telluride with available 21-inch gloss black alloy wheels. Exterior of the Telluride includes darkened trim elements and X-Line design cues.
Driving range for the new hybrid model is an impressive 600 miles per tank with a fuel capacity of 18.2 gallons.
We're expecting the new Telluride to be another big hit for the South Korean carmaker.
(Contact independent automotive columnist Len Ingrassia at lenscarcorner@comcast.net)
2027 Kia Telluride HEV X-Line SX-Prestige AWD
Engine: 2.5-liter, four-cylinder engine paired with two electric motors -- 329 hp
MSRP: $57,590, as tested $61,180.
EPA rated mileage: 30 city, 32 highway, 31 combined.
Assembled: The Kia Telluride is fully assembled at Kia manufacturing facilities at West Point, Georga. U.S./Canadian parts content, 45%; major source of parts content, Korea, 40%. Country of origin, engine -- Korea and transmission -- Mexico.
Crash test ratings: Neither the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety nor the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration had evaluated the 2027 Kia Telluride as of this writing.
Warranty: 5 year/60,000-mile bumper to bumper; 10 year/100,000-mile limited powertrain and battery. No complimentary maintenance.