Kia Telluride 2024: A compelling blend of value, space, and style

The 2024 Kia Telluride has cemented its place as a leader in the crowded three-row SUV segment.  It offers a winning combination of spacious and comfortable accommodations, a plethora of features, strong safety ratings, and a starting price that undercuts many competitors.  But is the Telluride the right choice for you and your family?  Let's delve deeper and explore what this award-winning SUV brings to the table.

Spacious and Stylish: A People-Mover with Panache

The Telluride boasts a bold and handsome design that avoids being overly ostentatious.  The large tiger-nose grille and available LED headlights give it a confident presence on the road.  The Telluride isn't all show though; it offers exceptional passenger and cargo space.  The second-row seats are comfortable for adults, and the available captain's chairs provide additional comfort and convenience.  The third-row seat, while perhaps best suited for children on shorter trips, offers surprising legroom for a mid-size SUV.

With the second and third-row seats folded, the Telluride offers a cavernous 87 cubic feet of cargo space, making it a perfect choice for hauling luggage, sports equipment, or even the occasional piece of furniture.  Higher trim levels elevate the interior with premium materials like leather upholstery and woodgrain accents, creating a luxurious and comfortable environment for all passengers.

Feature-Packed Cabin for Tech-Savvy Families

The Telluride doesn't skimp on technology.  Even the base LX trim comes equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless smartphone integration.  Higher trims offer a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen with a navigation system and a premium sound system.

The Telluride caters to families with features like a rear entertainment system with available sunshades, keeping rear passengers occupied on long journeys.  Wireless phone charging, heated and ventilated seats, and a panoramic sunroof are just some of the additional amenities available on higher trims.

Safety First: Peace of Mind for Every Mile

The Telluride prioritizes safety with a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features.  Automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control all come standard.  Higher trims offer additional features like a surround-view camera system and highway driving assist, further enhancing safety and driver confidence.

The Telluride has earned a five-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), giving families peace of mind on the road.

Powertrain Options: Choose Your Adventure

The Telluride comes equipped with a single powertrain option: a 3.8-liter V6 engine producing 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque.  This engine provides ample power for everyday driving and highway cruising,  even with a full load of passengers and cargo.  The V6 engine is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission and comes standard with all-wheel drive, providing added capability in various weather conditions.

While the Telluride doesn't offer the most exciting driving experience, it prioritizes a comfortable and composed ride.  The suspension effectively absorbs bumps and road imperfections, making long journeys a breeze for passengers.

Fuel Economy: A Respectable, But Not Stellar Performer

The 2024 Telluride achieves an EPA-estimated 20 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway, with a combined rating of 23 mpg.  While not the most fuel-efficient option in the segment, these figures are respectable for a powerful three-row SUV with all-wheel drive.  If fuel efficiency is your top priority, the Kia Sorento Hybrid or Toyota Highlander Hybrid might be better options.

Value Proposition: Where the Telluride Shines

One of the Telluride's strongest selling points is its value proposition.  The base LX trim starts at a competitive price point, offering a comprehensive list of features and amenities for the money.  Higher trims build upon this foundation, offering additional luxury touches and technology features without breaking the bank.  The Telluride's combination of features, space, and strong warranty (10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty) makes it an exceptional value proposition for families seeking a feature-rich and practical SUV.

Who Should Consider the 2024 Kia Telluride?

• Families: The Telluride's spacious interior, comfortable seating for up to eight passengers, and plethora of family-friendly features make it a perfect choice for growing families.

• Value Seekers (continued): Those seeking a feature-rich and spacious three-row SUV without a luxury price tag will find the Telluride to be a compelling option.
• Safety-Conscious Drivers: The Telluride's comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features, excellent safety ratings, and strong build quality provide peace of mind for families on the go.
• Tech Savvy Families: The Telluride's user-friendly infotainment system, available larger touchscreen display, and rear entertainment system cater to families who rely on technology to keep everyone entertained on long journeys.

Telluride Might Not Be Ideal For:

• Driving Enthusiasts: While the Telluride offers a comfortable ride, it prioritizes practicality over sporty handling. Those seeking a more engaging driving experience might want to consider other options.
• Off-Road Adventurers: The Telluride's all-wheel-drive system provides added capability in various weather conditions, but it's not designed for serious off-road adventures. Consider a dedicated off-road SUV for tackling tougher terrain.
• Fuel Economy Champions: While the Telluride's fuel economy is respectable, it might not be the most fuel-efficient option for those who prioritize maximizing every gallon.

The Verdict: A Stellar Choice for Most Families

The 2024 Kia Telluride strikes a remarkable balance between space, features, safety, and value.  It offers a comfortable and stylish interior that can accommodate even large families, with plenty of cargo space for all your gear.  The feature-rich cabin caters to tech-savvy families, while the comprehensive safety features provide peace of mind.  While it might not be the most exciting to drive or the most fuel-efficient option, the Telluride makes up for it in its practicality, value proposition, and strong warranty coverage.