By Veeno Dewan
For 2026, the Kia Telluride remains as a large 7 or 8-seater premium SUV. Key changes continue with a new more powerful and efficient 2.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder hybrid (329 hp, 339 lb-ft) joining the lineup. The Telluride Hybrid aversion adds two electric motors to generate 329 horsepower. All-wheel drive is standard for Canada with towing capacity on the hybrid expected around 4,500–5,000 lbs.
The 2027 is bigger than its predecessor, by 2.3 inches in length and wheelbase stretch of nearly 3 inches. This result is a larger interior. Combined, these expanded dimensions promise more interior and cargo space. The boxy Ranger Rover style body is refined and more rounded with flush pop-out door handles and sleek lighting designs front and rear. There is now the adoption of a trendy “floating roof” styling.
The sporty X-Pro trim provides mild off-road capability and a tougher look with its large, black grille, and black wheels. Added is electronic limited-slip differential, a raised suspension with more ground clearance, and an exterior camera system that lets the driver see what’s under the Telluride on terrain approach.
For 2027- The Telluride’s interior is updated with revamped single unit wide-screen digital high-tech dashboard with a dual-screen setup (12.3-inch cluster + 12.3-inch infotainment). Ther is also an updated steering wheel, premium materials. and a more cabin efficient layout. The Telluride will again be available in seven- and eight-passenger configurations, with a choice between captain’s chairs or a bench seat for the second row. Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are standard, as is an AI-powered voice assistant.
The cabin features upscale touches, like accent lighting, twin phone charging mats, and seating surfaces with embossed details. The Kia Telluride continues the company’s tradition of offering more equipment and luxury at a lower price than premium brands. Available content includes the ability to turn your iPhone into a key for unlocking the doors and starting the engine.
The Telluride arrives with standard equipment such as: LED headlights, 20-inch black alloy wheels, dual sunroofs, a heated steering wheel, ventilated second-row seats, rain-sensing wipers, a head-up display, a surround-view camera system, adaptive cruise control with steering assist, Interior trim is composed of very nice, brushed metal and faux matte-open pore finish wood that actually looks real. The seats have a rich premium look and feel comfortably sumptuous. Fully loaded Kia Telluride’s are lavish – with artificial or real full leather interior upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, dual sunroofs, second-row captain’s chairs, and a 360 camera.
The Telluride offers a huge roomy second row and good access to the third row. There are also plenty of storage compartments and well thought out details such as two USB ports per row. Everything looks solid and well built ,with high quality, durable looking materials. A streamlined interior design gives the Telluride’s cabin a modern look. A large center console between the front seats provides plenty of room for small-item storage, A pair of wireless smartphone charging pads is nestled at the front of the center console and is a standard feature on all Tellurides. While a three-across bench seat is standard in the Telluride’s second row, some trims can be outfitted with captain’s chairs. The third row of seats can be had with an optional seat heater. there’s more room here than in Kia’s other three-row SUV. With the third-row seats up, cargo room is decreased. substantially.
Driver Assistance includes Kia’s Drive Wise suite with forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control with Highway Driving Assist.
On the road, The Telluride offers four different modes from which to choose from, depending on road and weather conditions: Smart, Eco, Sport, and Comfort, each using different settings for powertrain, drivetrain, and steering effort mapping.
To sum up, the new Telluride is comfortable, sporty with good driving dynamics, and a feeling of luxury and refinement. It arrives superbly equipped and undercuts comparable SUVS by many thousands of dollars. The Telluride continues to win awards and sells well; hard not to see why. Highly recommended as a best buy.
2027 Kia Telluride. Expected price $53,930 – $57,000. Plus fees taxes Destination and PDE.
More info at www.kia.ca
