All-New 2027 Kia Telluride: Design, Tech and Practical Upgrades

Explore the 2027 Kia Telluride with updated design, advanced tech, spacious three-row layout and new features. Learn what Kia revealed about the SUV.

The 2027 Kia Telluride is more than a routine update of a successful SUV. Since its debut in 2020, the Telluride has established itself as a dominant force in the midsize three-row segment, largely because of its bold, boxy design that stood apart from more conventional family crossovers.

The new generation preserves that identity. Overall dimensions remain close to the previous model, with a slight increase in length and wheelbase by only a few inches. The proportions feel familiar, yet the stance appears even more confident. The squared-off silhouette and strong vertical lines continue to give the Telluride a commanding road presence.

From the rear three-quarter angle, the SUV makes a particularly strong impression. The vertical taillight design creates a clean and structured look, while the rear wiper is hidden beneath the roof spoiler for a smoother appearance. Even the tow hitch is discreetly integrated, featuring engraved coordinates referencing Telluride, Colorado — the town that inspired the model’s name.

A clever engineering solution involves the federally mandated side reflectors required for vehicles sold in North America. Instead of integrating them into wraparound headlight or taillight units, they are positioned low within the bumper areas. This allows the designers to maintain the desired vertical lighting signature without compromising the overall styling.

Additional exterior lighting elements can be activated through a smartphone app. Integrated into areas such as the side mirrors and near the rear rocker panels, these lights provide practical illumination for camping or nighttime loading.

Inside, the cabin continues the upscale impression. The layout feels logical and thoughtfully arranged, and material quality contributes to a refined atmosphere. Climate functions are controlled via dedicated physical buttons, and a separate climate display is positioned between the digital gauge cluster and the central infotainment screen. Heated and ventilated seats, steering wheel heating, and memory settings are all accessible through tangible switches rather than buried in touchscreen menus.

The infotainment system supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A scheduling feature allows drivers to preset climate control activation times, ensuring the cabin is prepared before departure. Radar-based sensors monitor movement inside the vehicle after it has been locked and can send alerts through the Kia app if a child or pet remains inside.

The digital instrument cluster includes blind-spot camera displays that activate with the turn signal. A larger head-up display projects expanded driving information onto the windshield. Dual wireless smartphone chargers are included as standard equipment.

Several thoughtful touches stand out: a hidden glovebox lock concealed behind a sliding latch, configurable cupholders within the center console storage area, breathable mesh headrests, a pull-style interior door handle design, and a steering-column-mounted gear selector with a twist mechanism that frees up additional console space.

The second row offers generous legroom and headroom, along with USB-C ports, integrated sunshades, and a dedicated rear climate zone controlled from the ceiling panel. Access to the third row is simplified by a tilting second-row seat that maintains its shape, even accommodating an installed child seat. In the third row, passengers benefit from multiple cupholders, USB-C ports, ceiling-mounted air vents, and available heated seats.

The cargo area remains impressively spacious even with the third row in place. Beneath the floor lies a configurable storage compartment with movable partitions. The cargo floor panel can be secured in an upright position for easier access, and its underside features measurement markings in both inches and centimeters. An adjustable light integrated into the tailgate allows changes in brightness and color temperature, enhancing nighttime usability.

Powertrain details have not yet been announced. It has been confirmed, however, that the engines will differ from those used in the Hyundai Palisade despite the shared platform. Kia indicates that the new Telluride aims to deliver stronger acceleration and improved fuel efficiency compared to its predecessor. Sales are scheduled to begin early next year.