The 2024 Kia Telluride represents a significant evolution for Kia’s three-row midsize SUV, solidifying its reputation as a serious contender in a crowded segment. Combining bold design with a surprisingly spacious and refined interior, the Telluride addresses the needs of growing families and adventure seekers alike. This review examines how the 2024 model year builds on its predecessor's success, focusing on its performance, comfort, and value proposition.
Design and Exterior Presence
Kia has moved away from the overly aggressive styling of early Tellurides, adopting a more sophisticated and cohesive design language for 2024. The front fascia features a larger, more defined grille flanked by sharp LED headlights, giving the SUV a more premium and assertive stance. The updated LED taillights, now with a distinctive C-shaped signature, provide excellent recognition at the rear. Subtle tweaks to the bumper and side cladding enhance its rugged yet elegant appearance, making it a standout vehicle on the road.
Refined Interior and Technology
Where the Telluride truly shines is in its cabin, which feels more luxurious and thoughtfully designed than ever. The use of higher-quality soft-touch materials, ambient lighting, and available Nappa leather upholstery creates an atmosphere of sophistication. The 2024 model introduces a new 10.25-inch digital cluster display and an updated 12.3-inch infotainment screen with enhanced graphics and faster processing. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are now standard, and the available head-up display projects critical information onto the windshield, minimizing distractions.
Performance and Driving Dynamics
Under the hood, the 2024 Telluride continues to offer the reliable and capable 3.8-liter Lambda II V6, producing 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain pairs seamlessly with a smooth 8-speed automatic transmission, delivering confident acceleration and effortless passing power. While not a sports car, the Telluride’s steering has been refined to feel more connected, and the suspension strikes an ideal balance between comfort and control. The available Intelligent Variable All-Wheel Drive system provides excellent traction in various conditions, making it a dependable choice for all-weather living.
Spacious and Practical Accommodation
The three-row seating is a key strength, offering ample room for up to eight passengers without feeling cramped. Adults in the second row enjoy generous legroom and headroom, while the third row is genuinely usable for children or shorter adults on longer trips. The cabin is remarkably quiet, thanks to improved sound insulation, and the available panoramic moonroof floods the interior with a sense of openness. With its flexible seating configurations and generous cargo space behind the third row, the Telluride is exceptionally practical for family road trips and daily errands.
Safety and Available Features
Safety is a cornerstone of the Telluride’s design, earning it a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS. The standard Kia Drive Wise suite of advanced driver-assistance technologies includes forward collision avoidance, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane-keeping assist. The available Highway Driving Assist system further enhances safety and convenience by helping to keep the vehicle in its lane and at a set speed on the highway. Convenience features like a 360-degree camera, power liftgate, and heated front and rear seats contribute to a premium ownership experience.
Value and Competitive Positioning
One of the Telluride’s strongest attributes is its value. Competitors in this segment often charge significantly more for similar levels of standard equipment and capability. The 2024 model year offers attractive trim levels, from the well-equipped S to the luxurious SX and the performance-oriented EX, allowing buyers to tailor the SUV to their budget and desires. With its combination of standard features, available technology, and comprehensive warranty, the Telluride delivers compelling return on investment, challenging more expensive rivals.
