2027 Kia Telluride SX: Why This 3-Row SUV Is Getting So Much Attention

The Kia Telluride has built a strong reputation as one of the most desirable three-row SUVs on the market. For 2027, it gets a major update that keeps the core formula intact while sharpening nearly every part of the package.

A New Powertrain With a Different Personality

One of the biggest changes is under the hood. Kia has moved away from the old naturally aspirated V6 and replaced it with a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder.

In the SX trim, that setup delivers 274 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. On paper, the horsepower number is lower than before, but the extra torque gives the SUV a stronger and more responsive feel in normal driving.

There is also a hybrid turbo version for buyers who want more output. That model bumps power up to 329 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque, and it reaches 60 mph in just 5.8 seconds.

What Does It Feel Like on the Road?

The short answer: more capable than the numbers might suggest. The Telluride feels quicker off the line, more relaxed during passing moves, and better suited to daily driving than the older setup.

It weighs close to 4,400 pounds, yet it still manages to feel composed and easy to control. Steering is light but accurate, and braking confidence is strong enough for a vehicle this size.

A Broader Trim Range

The 2027 Telluride is offered in 10 trims, giving shoppers a wide spread of choices. Pricing starts in the high $30,000 range and climbs to nearly $57,000 for the most advanced version.

That range matters because it makes the Telluride accessible to buyers who want a well-equipped family SUV without jumping straight into luxury-brand territory. The SX trim sits in one of the most balanced positions in the lineup.

It gives you a premium experience without forcing you into the top-dollar version. For many buyers, that is exactly where the value starts to make sense.

Exterior Changes That Feel More Mature

The new Telluride looks stronger and more upscale than before. The front end has been redesigned, the lighting signature is cleaner, and the overall shape now feels a little more refined and a little more rugged at the same time.

LED lighting details help modernize the SUV without making it look overly flashy. A panoramic sunroof remains available, which adds to the open and airy feel that families tend to love.

The SX trim also brings a distinct wheel design that helps the SUV look more polished from every angle. It is the kind of styling that feels confident rather than loud.

A Cabin Built for Real Life

Inside, the 2027 Telluride feels like a step forward. The dashboard layout is cleaner, the materials appear more premium, and the overall atmosphere is more upscale than before.

A 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster gives the driver a modern view, while the available Meridian audio system adds a more premium sound experience. The tech is impressive, but it never feels like it was added just for show.

Safety and Driver Assistance

The Telluride also packs a strong list of standard driver-assist features:

• Automatic emergency braking.

• Lane-centering and highway driving support.

• A 360-degree camera system with blind-spot views.

• Parking alerts with braking support.

• Blind-spot camera displays in the mirrors.

That kind of equipment gives the SUV a serious edge in day-to-day use. It helps the Telluride feel more complete and more confidence-inspiring for family buyers.

Third Row That Actually Matters

A lot of three-row SUVs claim to be family-friendly, but the third row is often too cramped for anything beyond short trips. The Telluride avoids that problem much better than most.

The rear-most seats are usable for adults, and the space feels more thoughtful than in many rivals. USB-C ports, LED lighting, and dedicated climate control for the back section make the third row feel genuinely functional.

Second-Row Comfort Stands Out

In SX form, the second row uses captain’s chairs, which makes the cabin feel more premium and easier to access. That setup is especially helpful for families with kids or for anyone who wants a more relaxed long-distance ride.

Cargo space also stays competitive even with all three rows in use. Fold the rear seats down, and the Telluride becomes much more flexible for luggage, sports gear, or weekend travel.

Strengths and Weaknesses

Every SUV has tradeoffs, and the Telluride is no exception. The good news is that the strengths are easy to notice almost immediately.

Strengths:

• Strong torque and smooth everyday performance.

• Upscale interior design and materials.

• Excellent family-friendly space.

• Advanced safety tech included.

• Good overall value for the segment.

Weaknesses:

• Horsepower is lower than the outgoing V6.

• Higher trims can get expensive quickly.

• City fuel economy is not its biggest advantage.