2024 Kia Telluride: Still the King of Midsize SUVs
In a fiercely competitive midsize SUV market, the 2024 Kia Telluride continues to reign supreme, capturing the hearts and minds of car enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike. Since its debut in 2020, the Telluride has been a flagship model for Kia, and it shows no signs of slowing down. Here’s why the 2024 iteration keeps this SUV at the top of its game.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Starting Price | $36,190 |
| Top Trim Price | $54,770 (SX Prestige X-Line) |
| Engine | 3.8L V6 |
| Horsepower | 291 hp |
| Torque | 262 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive (FWD); All-wheel drive (AWD) optional |
| Fuel Economy | Up to 24 MPG highway (AWD) |
| Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs (standard); 5,500 lbs (X-Pro trim) |
| Cargo Space | 21 cubic feet behind third row; 46 cubic feet behind second row; 87 cubic feet with all seats folded |
| Ground Clearance | 8.4 inches (X-Line); 8 inches (other trims) |
| Seating Capacity | 7-8 passengers |
| Interior Materials | Napa leather (SX Prestige); high-quality materials with some lower-quality wood trim |
| Infotainment System | 12.3-inch curved display; standard navigation |
| Connectivity | USB ports; no wireless Apple CarPlay or Android Auto |
| Safety Features | Rear emergency braking; 360-degree camera system; Highway Drive Assist |
| Unique Features | Amber DRLs, rear air springs (X-Line trim), raised roof rails |
Timeless Design Meets Modern Refinement
The Kia Telluride’s design is a masterclass in balancing classic aesthetics with contemporary flair. For 2024, Kia has opted for subtle yet impactful updates. The return of amber Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) on all trims adds a distinctive touch that sets it apart from the sea of sameness in the SUV market. Gloss black trim replaces the previous dark gray accents, giving the Telluride a sleek and polished look that feels right at home in upscale neighborhoods.
The exterior changes aren’t just about looks. The X-Line trim, with its raised ground clearance of 8.4 inches, not only enhances its rugged appeal but also boosts its off-road capability, making it a versatile choice for both urban and adventure settings.
Luxurious and Practical Interior
Step inside the 2024 Telluride, and you’re greeted with a spacious, well-appointed cabin that can accommodate up to eight passengers. The high-quality Napa leather seats in the SX Prestige trim are exceptionally soft, offering a touch of luxury that’s hard to find in this price range. Despite some interior materials like the wood trim feeling a bit plasticky, the overall build quality and attention to detail are impressive.
Cargo space is another strong suit for the Telluride. With 21 cubic feet behind the third row, 46 cubic feet behind the second, and a generous 87 cubic feet with all seats folded, it leads the segment in practicality. Clever storage solutions, including a compartment beneath the cargo tray for stowing the cargo cover, add to its family-friendly appeal.
Robust Performance and Smooth Ride
Under the hood, the 2024 Telluride is powered by a 3.8L V6 engine delivering 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. While it lacks a hybrid option, the performance is robust and reliable. The all-wheel-drive option enhances traction and control, particularly in adverse weather conditions.
The driving experience is refined, with the latest software updates improving gear shifting for a smoother, more responsive ride. The rear air springs in the X-Line trim level the vehicle when towing, a feature typically reserved for more expensive models, highlighting Kia’s commitment to offering premium features at a competitive price.
Advanced Technology and Safety
Technology and safety are front and center in the 2024 Telluride. The updated 12.3-inch curved display is intuitive, though some may find the lack of wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto a bit outdated. Nevertheless, standard navigation and a suite of safety features, including rear emergency braking and a 360-degree camera system, add significant value.
Highway Drive Assist, available on top trims, makes long drives less stressful by automatically adjusting speed around curves and maintaining lane position. While not as advanced as GM’s Super Cruise, it’s a testament to Kia’s forward-thinking approach to driver assistance technologies.
Final Verdict
Starting at $36,190, the 2024 Kia Telluride offers ten trims to suit a variety of needs and preferences. The SX Prestige X-Line model, priced at $54,770, showcases the best of what the Telluride has to offer. With its blend of style, comfort, performance, and advanced features, the Telluride continues to be a benchmark in the midsize SUV segment.
Competitors like the Toyota Highlander, Nissan Pathfinder, and Ford Explorer bring their own strengths to the table, but the Telluride’s consistent delivery of high quality elevates it above the rest. Whether you’re navigating city streets or heading off the beaten path, the 2024 Kia Telluride remains a top choice for discerning SUV buyers.