2024 and 2025 New SUV Models Redesign, Concept, Changes, Prices and Releases: Read about best SUV models for 2018 and 2019 model year. Here you can find all info about new crossover SUVs.
The new 2021 Kia Telluride will be unchanged since the SUV starts its life as a 2020 YM. We can already see things we will like and hate about the new largest SUV by the Korean company. However, we will have some time to see how Telluride performs on the market. The first update won’t happen before 2023. Meanwhile, Kia will prepare changes for the rest of the lineup. The first one to get a refresh is the flagship Sportage model. Kia Soul came out recently with extended range, while the Sorento expects the hybrid drivetrain.
Everything about Telluride SUV happened pretty fast. The company announced the vehicle, and soon after that, we had the first concepts, while Kia informing the production is starting. The SUV became available for the 2020 season. We have everything about the 2021 Kia Telluride and only minor updates are possible. Maybe a new trim level, or even a diesel engine.
2021 Kia Telluride Competition
The 2021 Kia Telluride is the largest SUV in the lineup. However, it is not a full-size model, although it is close to the magical length of 200 inches. But, 197 inches are enough for three rows of seats. This is one of the hottest segments in the market. It still doesn’t achieve the same numbers of sales as compact crossovers, but vehicles in this class are very popular because of their versatility. Big families love them, since there is a lot of space, and mid-size SUVs are cheaper than big rigs. Still, there is a lot of power under the hood, while some companies are offering off-road or performance-oriented versions. Hybrids are also taking over this class slowly.
Leaders in the mid-size three-row segment are Toyota Highlander and Ford Explorer. Both US and Japanese carmakers are offering hybrid engines with more than 300 hp. Right at the top are Honda Pilot, Chevy Traverse, and Nissan Pathfinder. If you prefer more luxury features, then Lincoln Aviator, Lexus RX, or Acura MDX are the best models you can find in dealerships.
Pros and Cons
Unchanged, the 2021 Kia Telluride will carry over all the positive and negative things from its predecessor. Well, the SUV is still new and we don’t have the full evaluation of the mid-size model. We can still praise the new drivetrain which is about to crunch 290 hp. The first test shows the power of the engine and the comfort in a ride. Well done Kia!
Interior materials are more than decent. The carmakers is trying to make an immediate impact, and the approach with quality upholstery is another wise move. With 21 inches behind the third row, the 2021 Kia Telluride will be one of the most spacious SUVs in this class.
Still, passengers in the rear row will lack some room. Well, that is the price paid for the extra cargo space. Also, the infotainment system is easy to use, but it is also missing some of the features we expected to see. But, the head-up display is a surprise we couldn’t see coming by Kia.
2021 Kia Telluride Specs
A 3.8-liter V6 engine is the only drivetrain available for the 2021 Kia Telluride. It is so good that the SUV doesn’t need an alternative. Well, we could see performance-oriented versions in the future, but it will wait for the first update. An eight-speed automatic transmission is a power router. Front-wheel drive is the base mode, although experts thought Kia will make an RWD configuration. All-wheels can get the SUV move, but only as an optional setup. The engine also adds 262 lb-ft of torque for the combined fuel economy of 23 mpg. Towing capacity is 5,000 pounds and drivers can select suitable drive mode, or AWD Lock function.
Prices and Features
The new 2021 Kia Telluride will come with the price sticker that will make you check out the offer. There are no too many other SUVs with a V6 engine that will be available under $32,000. As always, Kia is generous. This time around, the Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard. Well, the new Telluride can become pricey too. Fully-loaded, the price reaches $45,000. There are four trim levels available to choose from: LX, S, EX, and SX.
The base model is going to offer 18-inch wheels. Interior is pretty loaded with infotainment features, including five USB ports, an infotainment system with an 8-inch display and six-speaker audio. S model adds 20-inch wheels and roof rails outside, while the moonroof makes the interior more elegant. Instead of the bench in the middle row, we will find the captain’s chairs, which cause the seating capacity drop from eight to seven.
Top of the line models will offer hands-free liftgate, leather upholstery, and more USB ports. Larger touchscreen display sits at the center of the control panel. LED lamps for the head- and fog lights are the top offer. Harman Kardon system is reproducing sound from ten speakers, creating surround audio.
