Both are excellent, but Kia dramatically improved on some issues I have with my 2022 modelI rushed to buy a 2022 Kia Telluride when I first laid eyes on one. After driving the 2027, I was seriously considering upgrades, thanks to meaningful additions (and subtractions).As a mom and proud owner of a 2022 Kia Telluride, I already know firsthand the magic this SUV brings to families. It's been the perfect vehicle for my family, handling everything from school runs to road trips with ease. I had seen the all-new redesigned 2027 Kia Telluride in person, but only at auto shows, and it stopped me in my tracks.When I heard I was going to drive one as a press loan, I could hardly wait. When I got behind the wheel of the 2027 Kia Telluride X-Pro SX Prestige, I realized Kia didn't just refresh it; they completely elevated it. I've always loved my Telluride, but the 2027 model brings a level of tech and refinement that makes me seriously consider trading in my current ride.AdvertisementAdvertisementIt's not just a beautiful design upgrade; it's a smarter, more capable, and more functional family SUV.This story is 100% human researched and written based on actual first-person knowledge, extensive experience and expertise on the subject of cars and trucks.I Was Charmed by the 2022's Design, But the 2027 is Truly StrikingThe Telluride's new design is handsome, rugged, and magnetic – Credit: Shannon BassettThe exterior design of the 2027 Kia Telluride strikes that perfect balance between aggressive and elegantly modern. Thanks to its rugged styling and chunky all-terrain tires, Kia's off-road-capable X-Pro trim gives off a distinct "ready to go anywhere" vibe. When you look at the sleek side profile and from the back, it gives off serious Range Rover energy- sleek, luxurious, and class-leading.For the X-Pro trim, Kia swapped out the traditional wood accents on the interior for engineered carbon interior trim, which gives the cabin a modern, sporty edge that worked so well. It feels premium without trying too hard, maintaining that sophistication we expect from the Telluride family.The 2027 Kia Telluride is Still An Incredible Value, With Lots of Trim OptionsKia still packs a powerful price-to-feature ration in the new Telluride – Credit: Shannon BassettAt an as-tested price of $59,580 (with a starting MSRP of $56,790 for the X-Pro), it represents a significant family investment, but one that is completely worth it in my book. You get an incredible suite of technology alongside premium comforts like heated, ventilated, and massaging seats, plus a heated steering wheel.AdvertisementAdvertisementBut if you don't want the trail-ready version, the 2027 Kia Telluride has 9 more trims to choose from. The base model LX starts at a much friendlier $39,190, but doesn't force you to give up your tech-forward interior, and you can seat up to 8. The middle of the line, the X-Line EX or the SX, range between $47,290 and $48,790, for example. And, of course, there are five trims of the hybrid version that share the same hybrid setup as the new Hyundai Palisade hybrid, which ranges from $46,490 to $57,590.When I was shopping for my Kia Telluride EX in 2022, the pricing structure was similar, but there were only four trims available: the LX, S, EX, and SX, and it ranged from $34,014 to $43,915. All-wheel drive was a $2,000 upgrade. I paid a little extra for the Nightfall package, bringing the price closer to $46,000. Compared to what I got in my Telluride back then and the technological, safety, and convenience upgrades you get in the same trim of the new model for almost the same price I paid, I had to physically stop myself from calling my local Kia dealer.Its competitive pricing among mid-size SUVs ensures you can enjoy top-tier amenities on a budget. It is a family-friendly vehicle packed with every comfort and convenience feature imaginable- where is the line I need to sign on? The 2027 Kia Telluride truly bridges the gap between a reliable family workhorse and a high-end luxury vehicle, and for less than $60k is impressive in my book.It's Still a Family-First SUV On the Inside—No Notes HereIt's still as family-friendly as the first generation – Credit: Kristen BrownInside, the 2027 Kia Telluride continues to shine. It seats seven comfortably, and every row feels spacious enough to keep the kids happy. Kiddos sitting in the second-row captain's chairs will love the panoramic sunroof, cup holders, ample door storage, and ceiling vents with climate controls moved from the center console.AdvertisementAdvertisementGetting into the very back is incredibly easy thanks to a car-seat-friendly tilt function, which slides and tilts the seat forward without disrupting any car seat installations. Third-row passengers are well taken care of too, with plenty of legroom, head clearance, USB-C charging, two cup holders, and A/C vents in the ceiling.My favorite detail? If you know me, you know I'm all about cupholders. They flip and fold with the press of a button, so when they're closed, you're left with a flat surface in the massive center console. This makes cleaning up those inevitable juice box spills or snack crumbs so much easier. The storage is equally impressive, with plenty of room in the door pockets and a cargo area that ranges from 21 cubic feet behind the third row to a generous 48.7 cubic feet when the third row is folded flat. With the second row folded, you can use up to 89.3 cubic feet.The cargo space in the 2027 Kia Telluride is one of my favorite things about this SUV. I always have more than enough room for anything I need.Modern Technology Was My First Reason to Consider a Trade-InThe technology and ease of use were one of the first pushes I felt towards a 2027 – Credit: Shannon BassettWhile the redesign is stunning, the real reason I'm tempted to upgrade comes down to two major quality-of-life improvements while driving:AdvertisementAdvertisementWireless Android Auto: Finally! No more digging for cables to get my navigation and music fired up. It connects seamlessly and quickly, keeping my console clean and my life simple.Upgraded 360-Degree Camera Views: This is a game-changer. The camera quality is crystal clear, and it's so convenient to have the views pop up automatically when you're slowing down into a parking spot. Plus, the one-button touch that brings up all the camera angles at once is a lifesaver when you just want to check your park job or navigate a tight driveway. I really wish I had these camera angles in my current mom car.These two changes may not seem like much, but when you're driving the same large SUV every day, making it easier to maneuver and drive means it's less of a burden on the parent behind the wheel. It was one of the first things I noticed that told me Kia's been listening; they maintained the interior functionality, and started changing the features that truly make a difference.The New Engine is Peppy, Capable, and More EfficientA side profile of the 2027 Kia Telluride – Credit: Shannon BassettFrom my own experience, the first-generation Kia Telluride's V6 engine had plenty of get-up-and-go, which was a huge plus for a mid-size SUV. Kia swapped out the old V6 for a 2.5L Turbo 4-cylinder engine that delivers 274 hp and 311 lb-ft of torque—which is less than the V6, which produces 291 horsepower. At first, I worried that downsizing would affect performance for the 2027 Kia Telluride. But after a few drives, I realized I didn't miss the V6 at all. The new powertrain feels lively, punchy, and genuinely fun to drive, completely avoiding the sluggishness that plagues many other three-row SUVs.Despite the power, the efficiency surprised me. While it's estimated at 19 mpg, I managed to get 26 mpg on the highway using Eco mode—a huge win for family road trips. For even more efficiency and fuel savings, opt for the hybrid model of the 2027 Kia Telluride.AdvertisementAdvertisementThe X-Pro trim, which is the top-shelf, off-road-focused model, is specifically built for those who want a bit more capability. In comparison to the "X-Line" trim, the "X-Pro" gives you 9.1 inches of ground clearance (a lift of 1.5 inches), all-terrain tires on glossy 18-inch wheels, a towing capacity of 5,500 lbs, front and rear recovery hooks, and a ground view monitor for when the trail gets a little bumpy.Do I Need to Upgrade? No, But I'm Still Tempted…I still think about her every now and again… – Credit: Shannon BassettThe 2027 Kia Telluride is for the family that needs the space but refuses to sacrifice style, capability, or tech. It competes with the heavy hitters like the Honda Pilot TrailSport and the Toyota Grand Highlander, but it stands out because of its blend of rugged aesthetics and genuinely thoughtful, user-friendly interior features. Would I recommend it? Absolutely. I'm already looking at the math to see how quickly I can trade in my '22. It's that good.
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