Review: The 2027 Kia Telluride Has Cabin and Cargo Space, but We Aren't Sold on its Four-Cylinder Engine

Consumer Reports bought a new Telluride, the latest version of Kia’s three-row SUV that competes with the Ford Explorer, Honda Pilot, and Toyota Grand Highlander. Our experts found several welcome improvements, but we don’t love all the changes.

Jeff S. Bartlett, Consumer Reports Managing Editor, Autos.

By Jeff S. Bartlett
Managing Editor, Autos

Updated June 12, 2026

2027 Kia Telluride front driving at CR's Auto Test Center — In some ways, the 2027 Kia Telluride reminds us of the Land Rover Range Rover, but that grille may take a bit of getting used to.

The Kia Telluride took the market by storm when it first went on sale for the 2020 model year. Before it arrived, the other established three-row SUVs each excelled in different facets of this family-focused category. Some had interior conveniences, others were fuel efficient, and others were reliable. Rather than find its own niche, the Telluride proved capable in just about every way that mattered to buyers. For several years, it was the most well-rounded midsized SUV. Now, the second-generation Telluride has a tough legacy to live up to, along with fresh competition.

The most notable difference between the 2027 Telluride and the outgoing model is an increase in size. The new version grew 2.3 inches bumper to bumper, giving it a bit more space throughout the vehicle. The exterior looks more premium, too, and the interior gains big-screen pizzazz. For the first time, a hybrid powertrain is available.

In this article

2027 Kia Telluride: Consumer Reports' Take What We Like What We Don't Like What We'll Keep an Eye On Safety and Driver Assistance

The gas-only Telluride is available in LX, S, EX, X-Line EX, SX, X-Line SX, X-Pro SX, SX Prestige, X-Line, X-Line SX Prestige, and X-Pro SX Prestige trims. Pricing starts at $39,190 on the LX and ranges up to $56,790 MSRP. That is about a $3,000 increase over the 2025 Telluride ($36,390 to $53,685).

The hybrid line is slightly simpler: EX, SX, X-Line SX, SX Prestige, and X-Line SX Prestige. Prices span from $46,490 to $57,590. For all versions, the destination charge adds $1,545.

There are so many trims, with oh-so-many Xs, that it can be confusing. Think of the X-Line as the sporty-looking versions with much blackout trim. The X-Pro versions are the more off-road-capable editions, with all-terrain tires, upgraded suspensions, and increased ground clearance.

For our tests, we bought an EX. This is the third trim up in the line, and it packs what most buyers will consider essential features, plus a few niceties like synthetic leather upholstery, an upgraded driver’s seat, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel.

As before, the Telluride is manufactured in the U.S., while Hyundai imports its Palisade sibling from South Korea. That distinction means that Telluride buyers who finance will be eligible to deduct up to $10,000 in loan interest due to new regulations. This deduction is considered to be “above the line,” meaning it’s used in addition to the standard deduction. Bear in mind that this tax deduction will be phased out after 2028, possibly before the loan is paid off.

With all the changes, does the new Telluride live up to the original? Read on to find out.

Once we complete 2,000 break-in miles, we’ll put the Telluride through more than 50 tests at the CR Auto Test Center, including empirical measurements of acceleration, braking, handling, car-seat fit, and usability. CR members will have access to the full road-test results as soon as they’re available.

What we bought: 2027 Kia Telluride EX AWD
Powertrain: 274-hp, 2.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder; 8-speed automatic transmission; all-wheel drive
Price: $45,790
Options: Black jade green paint, $495; carpeted floor mats, $250
Destination fee: $1,545
Total cost: $48,080
Final assembly point: West Point, Ga.

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Jeff S. Bartlett

Jeff S. Bartlett is the managing editor for the autos team at Consumer Reports. He has been with CR since 2005. Previously, Jeff served as the online editorial director of Motor Trend for 11 years. Throughout his career, Jeff has driven thousands of cars, many on racetracks around the globe. Follow him on X: @JeffSBartlett