The 2021 Kia Telluride will be unchanged. The new mid-size three-row SUV brings an interesting vision and we believe the Korean company is capable of competing in this segment. The new model is competitive in all segments. Its engine is powerful and consumes an average fuel for this class. The SUV comes with plenty of options. Some of the interesting innovations are the Quiet Cabin system or Driver Talk.
The 2021 Kia Telluride is a great model for everyday commuting. However, we don’t recommend the SUV for off-road adventures, unless the company launches a package that will boost performance in tough terrain. In first place, we want to see Telluride lifted since eight inches is not enough. Still, the SX trim is pretty attractive with leather seats and premium audio, while its cost is only $41,000. Luxury SUVs with such options will cost at least $50,000.
2021 Kia Telluride Specs
Under the bonnet of the 2021 Kia Telluride is a 3.8-liter V6 engine. It produces 290 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. That is enough for a 0-60 sprint in 7 seconds. For a quarter-mile, 2021 Kia Telluride will need 15.3 seconds. The SUV stops from 70 mph in 177 feet. All these numbers are something we expect from the vehicle in this segment. An eight-speed automatic transmission is a power router, and drive modes available are two- and four-wheel drive.
Could We See Hybrid in 2021?
It is hard to say, but the company is keen on this type of drivetrain in the future. The mid-size three-row class is now offering a few hybrids and more are yet to come. Still, Kia has to make the first move in the compact class and its Sportage, or even Sorento will probably get a hybrid unit first.
2021 Kia Telluride Trim Levels
There will be four trim levels available for the 2021 Kia Telluride. Everything starts with the LX model, which will cost under $32,000. Kia makes 18-inch wheels and heated mirrors standard. There are also automatic headlights. Inside, we will find eight spots and leatherette upholstery. The air conditioning system is manual. The center of the infotainment system is an 8-inch touchscreen display. The rest of the features list is pretty impressive with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, five USB ports, and UVO Link trial.
EX and SX
The S model adds accessories and costs $2,000 higher. This package makes the 2021 Kia Telluride look sportier. Larger wheels, rich exterior details with roof rails and sunroof are added. The driver’s bucket is getting 10-way power adjusting and heating. Captain’s chairs replace bench in the middle row.
The 2021 Kia Telluride EX downsizes the wheels to 18-inchers but adds a unique machined-finish design. A hands-free liftgate is the highlight of this model. The EX offers a quiet cabin thanks to special isolation. For this trim level, designers prepare a package with leather seats, a ventilated front row, automatic climate control, and independent sunshades for occupants in the middle row. The infotainment system comes with a larger screen, wireless charger, Driver Talk, and Quiet Mode for rear seats.
The top of the line model is SX. The SUV with this suite costs over $41,000. But, you are getting Harman Kardon audio system, 360-degree camera, LED headlights, 20-inch wheels, and exclusive colors.
Colors
The new 2021 Kia Telluride will offer ten paintjobs. However, the choice will depend on a trim level. The base model comes with six shades, while the S adds Dark Moss. Other standard colors are Ebony Black, Gravity Grey, Everlasting Silver, and Snow White Pearl. If you pick the SX trim, you will lose Sangria Red paintjob. However, this model adds a Black Copper scheme for the exterior, and three more interior colors. These are Butterscotch, Espresso Brown and Dune Brown. EX trim level uses black and gray leather surfaces, S comes with Gray SOFINO configuration, while for the entry-level model the color is black.
2021 Kia Telluride vs Competition
The 2021 Kia Telluride is everything we expect from a mid-size three-row SUV. Its interior is probably above the average for the class. However, everything else is competitive with other models. The segment leaders are the Toyota Highlander and Ford Explorer. Both models will offer hybrid engines. Soon, Honda Pilot is going to be available with the plug-in system. Kia has a close partnership with Hyundai, whose Palisade could be called Telluride’s twin.
It is still early to talk about the 2021 Kia Telluride as one of the best family SUVs. In the future, this might become one of the best models the market offers. Still, if you need a luxury three-row SUV, our recommendation is to check Lincoln Aviator, Acura MDX, or Lexus RX350L.
