2025 Kia Telluride Expert Review: Drive, Performance & Specs Tested

The 2025 Kia Telluride is still holding strong as a top contender in the midsize three-row SUV category, building on the solid reputation it established back in 2020. It’s impressive, honestly, especially with all the tough competition from rivals that have recently upped their game, like the Toyota Grand Highlander and Honda Pilot. The fact that Telluride continues to lead the pack highlights its core strengths and the smart planning that went into it by Kia.

Right now, Telluride is up against a variety of competitors from different brands. Take the Toyota Highlander, for instance. They’ve switched to a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, but they still bring that Toyota reliability vibe along with a hybrid option that the Telluride doesn’t offer. On the flip side, the Honda Pilot has a similar V6 powertrain and is well-packaged, yet it doesn’t quite give off the same premium feel that you get with the Telluride. Then there’s the Hyundai Palisade, which shares a platform with the Telluride but leans a bit more toward a softer, luxury-like experience.

Let’s not forget the Mazda CX-90. It’s popping up as a premium alternative, offering beefier engine options and a more engaging drive, though it does come at a steeper price. Meanwhile, the Ford Explorer is all about American engineering with its rear-wheel-drive setup and a variety of powertrain choices. The Chevrolet Traverse and GMC Acadia have also jumped on the turbocharged four-cylinder bandwagon, which seems to be the trend nowadays with smaller, forced-induction engines.

In this competitive scene, the Telluride stands out by sticking with a classic naturally aspirated V6 engine. It manages to deliver a near-luxury feel while keeping prices reasonable. It’s interesting to see that Kia has actually had to raise Telluride’s prices since it first launched, but the demand hasn’t wavered—this shows how much value people see in it, even at those higher price points.

Looking ahead to the 2025 model year, there are some neat updates in store. For one, all trim levels now come with standard second-row airbags and the Highway Drive Assist 1.5 feature. If you check out the X-Line and X-Pro models, they’ve added black badges as a standard feature, which is in line with what folks seem to want these days. The EX X-Line trim is also getting a nice boost with the inclusion of a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster as standard—definitely a great value add.

What gives Telluride its competitive edge isn’t just one flashy feature. Nope! It’s the way all these different elements come together. From its striking exterior to a well-designed interior, from smooth driving dynamics to family-friendly features, Telluride hits all the right notes and continues to set the bar high in its class.

For 2025, Kia is keeping the extensive trim lineup intact. They’ve got ten different configurations available, starting with the base LX at about $37,585 and going all the way up to the loaded SX Prestige X-Pro, which tops out at around $54,780. This broad range of prices and features means that most buyers will likely find a Telluride that fits their needs and budget—whether they’re after value, a touch of luxury, or some off-road capability.

The 2025 Telluride really shines when it comes to its powertrain, which is all about that naturally aspirated 3.8-liter V6 engine. You know, in a time when lots of car makers have jumped on the bandwagon of smaller turbocharged engines, Kia’s choice to stick with this powerplant seems pretty smart. We mean, it cranks out 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, and the way it delivers power is just smooth and linear—totally fits the vibe of the vehicle.

This V6 is paired up with an eight-speed automatic transmission that’s been fine-tuned to maximize both performance and efficiency. During tests, the Telluride clocked a 0-60 mph time of 6.8 seconds. That’s competitive for its class and more than enough for day-to-day driving. The way the transmission operates is worth highlighting, too; it does a great job of shifting gears without any unnecessary hunting, especially when you’re just driving around town.

When you compare it to turbocharged rivals, the power delivery is a whole different ballgame. The Telluride gives you this predictable, progressive acceleration that feels reliable. Some of those turbocharged competitors might feel peppy for a quick second, but the Telluride? It’s all about consistent performance, no matter how fast you’re going. This comes in handy, especially when you’re trying to pass on the highway or climbing those long inclines.

The powertrain’s refinement has got a solid thermal management and cooling system that keeps everything running smoothly, even when the conditions get tough. You can really see this when towing; the Telluride holds its own without losing power as some turbocharged models do in hot weather or at higher altitudes.

About fuel efficiency—it’s not the best in the class, but it’s still competitive. You’re looking at EPA ratings of 20 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway for front-wheel-drive models. If you go for all-wheel drive, those numbers drop a bit to 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway. But, here’s the kicker: real-world tests show that these figures are not just numbers on paper; often, they can be surpassed, especially on long highway drives.

The eight-speed automatic transmission? Yeah, it deserves a shout-out for how it contributes to both performance and efficiency. Its closely spaced gear ratios keep the engine operating where it works best, and those higher gears are just right for cruising on the highway. The programming is smart, too, balancing performance with efficiency, so it doesn’t get stuck in the wrong gear.

When it comes to towing, the Telluride holds its own with a standard 5,000-pound capacity. If you opt for the X-Pro models, that goes up to 5,500 pounds, plus they come with extra cooling systems to ensure performance stays strong under load. That naturally aspirated V6 is well-suited for towing, giving you consistent power without the heat issues that can sometimes plague turbocharged engines. So, in a nutshell, the Telluride is definitely worth considering if you want a reliable, powerful SUV.

The braking system in the 2025 Telluride has been engineered to provide confident stopping power while maintaining easy modulation for comfortable daily driving. The front setup features 13.4-inch vented discs, while the rear utilizes 12.0-inch solid discs, providing ample thermal capacity for repeated heavy braking scenarios.

When we tested it out, the Telluride showed some serious stopping prowess, achieving a distance of 175 feet when going from 70 to 0 mph. That’s impressive and puts it right up there with the best in its class. What’s even cooler is that it keeps performing like a champ even after repeated hard stops—talk about good heat management and resistance to fade!

About the brake pedal feel—Kia has put some thought into that too. It’s calibrated so that you get a smooth, progressive response. At first, the bite is pretty moderate, which helps you come to a stop gently in normal driving situations. But when you need to brake hard? No problem, you still get that feedback to let you know what’s happening. This kind of balance is super important for family vehicles, where comfort for everyone on board matters a lot.

Then there’s the electronic brake-force distribution. It works well to keep things stable when you come to a sudden stop—definitely a must-have given the size and weight of the Telluride. The way it manages weight transfer during emergency stops is quite impressive, and it keeps that pedal feel nice and predictable.

You also get some handy features, like an auto-hold function that keeps the brake pressure when you’re stopped, which is a lifesaver in traffic—definitely cuts down on driver fatigue. And the electronic parking brake? It works seamlessly with this system and automatically releases as you start driving away. This just shows how much Kia cares about safety and convenience in their braking design.

The integration with driver assistance features is another level of sophistication. Take the autonomous emergency braking system, for example. It’s smart enough to adjust its response based on the situation—nothing feels overly aggressive during normal driving. This kind of balance between safety measures and a smooth driving experience? That’s a pretty big deal in engineering terms!

The Telluride’s steering setup strikes a nice balance between being easy to use and keeping the driver engaged. You know, the electric power steering is designed to gradually increase weight as you pick up speed. This means it feels stable on the highway, but still light enough for those tight parking situations.

About the suspension—it’s got struts in the front and a multi-link setup in the back. And they’ve tuned it with comfort in mind, but they didn’t forget about handling, either. The way they’ve chosen the spring rates and damping gives a nice cushion over little bumps while still keeping things in check for the bigger stuff.

On the highway, the Telluride shines with its stability; it tends to track straight, requiring just a light touch on the steering wheel to keep it there. The way the suspension is set up? It does a fantastic job of soaking up those little imperfections in the road, all while keeping body motion in check. Seriously, it’s a nice balance of comfort and control.

When you’re driving around town at slower speeds, the suspension shows off its sophistication. It absorbs impacts really well, and any secondary movements are kept nicely under control—no floating feeling that some of the other comfort-focused vehicles in this class struggle with.

For those looking to venture a bit off the beaten path, the X-Line and X-Pro models come with special suspension tuning and a bit more ground clearance. They also have this handy self-leveling rear suspension, which keeps everything even, no matter how many passengers or how much cargo you’re carrying.

If we talk about handling at higher speeds, there’s definitely some thoughtful engineering there. The Telluride rolls less than you’d think for a vehicle that prioritizes comfort, which is nice. Plus, the progressive steering gives you a boost of confidence when cornering. You can feel what the tires are doing without it becoming too stiff. So, all in all, it’s a well-rounded ride!

So, the 2025 Telluride, it’s got a bunch of tire options depending on which trim you choose. The most popular ones? Those would be the 245/50R-20 Michelin Primacy LTX tires that you’ll find on the higher-end models. They’ve picked these tires specifically to match the car’s comfy vibe while still keeping decent handling.

The Michelin Primacy LTX tires demonstrate impressive all-around performance, providing good grip in both dry and wet conditions. Their relatively tall sidewalls contribute to ride comfort, helping to absorb small road imperfections before they reach the suspension.

Road noise from the tires is well controlled, contributing to the Telluride’s impressive overall refinement. The tire compound and tread pattern have been selected to provide a good balance between wear resistance and all-weather capability, important considerations for a family vehicle.

When it comes to winter conditions, the standard all-season tires do alright for most situations. But, if you’re in an area that gets hit hard with snow, you might want to look into dedicated winter tires. And oh, if you’re eyeing the X-Pro models, they come with more rugged all-terrain tires that are built for tougher conditions.

As for durability, the tires that come with the vehicle have shown impressive wear characteristics. Lots of owners have reported that they’re still getting good tread life even after 40,000 miles. That’s a nice bonus that helps justify the higher price tag of those premium-brand tires.

Lastly, the tire pressure monitoring system? It’s pretty spot on. It gives accurate readings and timely alerts, which is a big plus for both safety and efficiency. The way it works with the car’s other systems is really sophisticated, showing how well it manages warnings and suggestions. So, overall, the Telluride seems to have a solid setup when it comes to tires!

The 2025 Telluride’s interior stands out in its class when it comes to design, material quality, and execution. You notice the dashboard layout right away—it has this nice horizontal theme that makes the cabin feel wide and open. Plus, they’ve clearly thought a lot about both how it looks and how comfortable it is to use.

Honestly, the quality of the materials inside is impressive. You’ve got soft-touch surfaces in all the right spots, and some models even feature a convincing wood-like trim that just feels classy. Now, if you go for the SX Prestige trim, it steps things up with Nappa leather upholstery and a high-end headliner. It’s the kind of place you could see yourself sitting in, almost like it belongs in a luxury vehicle.

Then there are those dual 12.3-inch displays—they sort of steal the show-up front. The graphics are super sharp, and you don’t see much glare, which is great. They fit into the dashboard design so seamlessly, not like they were just slapped on. The trim around them and the controls all have that premium vibe too, which matches the high-tech feel of the screens.

The attention to detail extends to elements like the metallic-finish climate controls and those unique grab handles on the center console. They’re not just there for looks; they actually serve a purpose too, which is a nice touch. It shows that the designers put a lot of thought into how everything comes together.

When it comes to lighting, they’ve really nailed it. The ambient lighting on certain trims creates a cozy atmosphere when it gets dark outside. And they’ve optimized how controls and displays are lit up—whether it’s day or night, you can see everything clearly. It’s clear they care about real-world usability.

Storage? Oh, they’ve got that covered too. The cabin features practical solutions like a large center console and door pockets, making it easy to stow away your stuff without losing that upscale feel. Overall, it’s just a well-thought-out space that balances luxury with everyday functionality.

The 2025 Telluride stands out, right? It’s got this amazing design that blends luxury with that rugged vibe, which is kinda hard to pull off. Up front, you’ll notice Kia’s tiger-nose grille—pretty distinctive! And those vertically stacked LED headlights? They give it a unique look, day or night.

Now, for 2025, the X-Line and X-Pro models are getting some cool blacked-out badges. It really amps up their bold look. Plus, there’s this wolf-gray color that’s been super popular. It brings out the strong lines and fancy surfaces of the vehicle. You can totally see the difference with the contrast between the body color and the gloss black trim—definitely gives it a more premium feel compared to others on the market.

When you check out the side profile, you can see they’ve paid a lot of attention to how everything fits together. The long hood and upright greenhouse create that classic SUV shape we all love. There’s even a subtle line that runs from the headlights to the taillights, helping to break up the bulkiness a bit. And depending on the model, there’s either chrome or black trim around the windows that add a nice touch of elegance.

Looking at the wheels, they’ve picked some great designs. You’ve got options from 18 to 20 inches, and those 20-inch wheels on the higher trims? They look sharp with their machined surfaces and black accents. Just the right amount of flair without going overboard. The X-Line and X-Pro models even have unique wheel designs that highlight their adventurous spirit.

Then at the back, the Telluride sports these standout vertical LED taillights that make a strong statement, especially when it’s dark out. The wide stance and sleek tailgate design? They scream stability and sophistication. And let’s not forget about the dual exhaust outlets on the higher trims—they really drive home that powerful presence.

The exterior lighting is something to talk about too. Those LED headlights not only light up the road well but also add to the overall premium look of the vehicle. Plus, the LED daytime running lights make sure the Telluride is easily recognizable from far away.

The Telluride shines when it comes to comfort, and we mean across all three rows. Let’s start with those front seats—they’re super supportive and can be adjusted in so many ways! For example, the SX trim comes with a 14-way power adjustment for the driver, plus a power thigh extension. Trust me, that’s a game-changer for long road trips.

About the climate control—it’s pretty clever. There’s a three-zone system that lets the front and rear passengers set their own temperatures. And the airflow? Just excellent! There are vents all over the place, including ceiling-mounted ones for the second row, and even air outlets for those in the third row. Everyone can stay comfy, no doubt.

Speaking of comfort, the second-row passengers in the SX Prestige models get both heated and ventilated seats, which is kind of rare for this class. It’s a nice touch, especially for families looking for that extra bit of luxury.

If you enjoy natural light, the available dual-panel sunroof in the higher trims is a game changer. It brings in loads of sunshine, and the sunshades do a great job of blocking out that annoying glare. The front panel opens all the way, while the back panel stays fixed, letting your rear passengers soak up some light too.

Now, on to noise control—it’s impressive! At highway speeds, the cabin stays quiet, around 54.4 decibels, which is great for conversations. That quiet comes from some clever engineering: acoustic glass, top-notch insulation, and smart aerodynamic design all work together to create this serene space.

When it comes to storage, Kia has really thought about everyday use. The center console is spacious, and there are USB ports—both USB-A and USB-C—placed just right for everyone to charge their devices. Plus, there’s a wireless charging pad that can hold larger phones securely.

Technologically speaking, the Telluride features dual 12.3-inch displays that are super clear and easy to read. Sure, it might not have the newest Kia interface that you’d find in their latest models, but it’s still quick and user-friendly.

The navigation system? Spot on! It provides clear graphics and timely directions. Plus, it integrates with the digital instrument cluster, allowing turn-by-turn directions right in front of the driver. That’s a nice safety touch, keeping distractions to a minimum.

And if you opt for the head-up display, you can get important info without taking your eyes off the road. It adjusts well to different lighting, so you won’t have to squint in bright sunlight or be blinded at night.

For music lovers, the Harman Kardon premium audio system, which comes standard on the SX models and up, is pretty stellar. It delivers crisp highs and solid bass through a 10-speaker setup that fills the cabin with great sound.

Then there’s the Driver Talk feature, which amplifies the driver’s voice through the rear speakers. This is super handy when you want to chat with those in the third row without yelling. It’s these little thoughtful features that show Kia really gets what families need.

Finally, the 360-degree camera system is a gem for parking. It gives you multiple views, including a handy 3D surround view that’s perfect for those tight spots. The camera quality and screen resolution are among the best in this segment, making it easier than ever to navigate tricky situations.

The 2025 Telluride builds on its already impressive safety credentials with the addition of standard second-row airbags across all trim levels. The comprehensive airbag system now includes front, side, and curtain airbags, plus the new second-row additions that enhance protection for middle-row passengers.

The standard Highway Driving Assist 1.5 system represents a significant advancement in driver assistance technology. This system combines adaptive cruise control with lane centering and navigation-based speed adjustment, providing sophisticated semi-autonomous capability that reduces driver fatigue on longer journeys.

Forward collision avoidance technology has been enhanced to provide better detection of vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists. The system’s intervention feels natural when activated, applying appropriate levels of braking force without feeling overly aggressive in normal operation.

The blind spot monitoring system includes Kia’s innovative Blind-Spot View Monitor on appropriate trim levels, displaying a camera feed of the corresponding blind spot in the digital instrument cluster when turn signals are activated. This feature proves particularly valuable when changing lanes on busy highways.

Lane keeping assistance and lane departure warning systems demonstrate sophisticated calibration, providing gentle corrections when needed without feeling intrusive during normal driving. The system’s ability to recognize and respond to different types of lane markings shows particular refinement.

Safe exit assist and rear occupant alert features add family-friendly safety measures, helping prevent doors from being opened into approaching traffic and reminding drivers to check the rear seats before leaving the vehicle.

Driving the Telluride is a unique experience, really. It strikes this great balance between comfort and control. First off, you sit high up, which gives you amazing visibility all around. Those big windows paired with the thin pillars? They help you feel more confident, especially when you’re navigating city streets, even though it’s a big vehicle.

When you hit the highway, it’s impressive how stable the Telluride feels. It tracks straight and true, even when the wind decides to throw a fit. The steering? It’s got the right weight when you’re speeding along, yet it’s still light enough to make parking a breeze. You can feel the steering effort build up gradually, which just makes it all feel more natural and, honestly, reassuring.

About the ride quality – It’s got this sophisticated damping control that’s remarkable, especially since it comes with a standard passive suspension system. You’ll notice it’s able to soak up those little bumps and even the bigger ones without feeling like you’re floating or bouncing around. It keeps everything in check, even when you’re driving a bit more spiritedly.

As for the powertrain, it really shines during your everyday drives. The naturally aspirated V6? Smooth and linear—that’s the way to go! You won’t deal with that annoying lag you sometimes get with turbo engines. Plus, the eight-speed automatic transmission is smart; it hardly ever finds itself in the wrong gear, which is just great for the driver.

If you’re into a bit of light off-roading, the X-Line and X-Pro models kick it up a notch. They’ve got a bit of extra ground clearance and special traction control tweaks. Sure, they’re not built for hardcore off-roading, but they handle dirt roads and moderate trails pretty well without losing that on-road composure.

Brake pedal feel and modulation demonstrate careful calibration, allowing for smooth stops in normal driving while providing confidence-inspiring responses during more aggressive braking. The integration of various driver assistance systems with the braking system shows particular sophistication.

In the Telluride, the second row is all about comfort, whether you go for the standard bench seat or the optional captain’s chairs. With the bench setup, you can fit up to eight folks, but if you choose captain’s chairs, it drops to seven. But hey, those chairs are super comfy and make getting to the third row a breeze!

Talking about legroom, you’ve got a whopping 42.4 inches back there. So, even if you’ve got tall people up front, adults can still chill comfortably in the back. The seats? They give pretty solid thigh support and the backrest angles are nice, too. Plus, you can slide and recline them – that’s standard, by the way.

Getting to the third row? It’s easier than in a lot of other vehicles, especially with those captain’s chairs that create a nice wide pass-through. And even with the bench seat, the fold-and-slide feature works smoothly and gives you enough room to hop in and out without a fuss.

The third row itself proves more habitable than most in the segment, with adequate headroom and legroom for adult passengers on shorter trips. The nearly flat floor helps improve comfort, while dedicated air vents and USB ports make the space more livable.

Both the second and third rows have great visibility, thanks to the big windows and a higher seating position. And those sunshades for the second-row windows? They’re a lifesaver for keeping the kiddos comfy when it’s sunny out.

As for climate control, it works well all the way to the back. The third zone lets rear passengers set their own temperature, which is pretty nifty. Plus, the ceiling vents do a great job of spreading the airflow throughout the cabin. So, everyone can stay comfortable, no matter where they’re seated!

The Telluride shines when it comes to cargo space. Even with all three rows of seats in use, you’ve got a solid 21 cubic feet behind the third row. Honestly, the squared-off shape and flat load floor make it super easy to fit in several full-size suitcases, even when you’re sticking to the standard setup.

If you decide to fold down the third row, that number jumps to a whopping 46 cubic feet! This opens up a nice flat area, perfect for larger items. Plus, with the 60/40 split-folding seats, you can mix and match how you carry both people and stuff. If you fold down both rear rows, you’re looking at a nice 87 cubic feet of space—impressive, right? That’s enough to compete with some full-size SUVs out there.

Here’s a neat feature: the power liftgate, standard on the EX trims and up, has a hands-free option. It’s a real game-changer, especially when you’re approaching the vehicle with your hands full. You can even adjust how high it opens, which is handy for different garage heights or just personal preference.

Also, there’s a thoughtful little storage area under the rear floor—great for stashing smaller items or emergency supplies. It also houses the spare tire but still leaves enough room for extra storage, which is something not every competitor can boast.

For securing larger items, you’ve got multiple tie-down points and cargo hooks, so nothing goes flying around. The flat sides of the cargo area help maximize the space you can use, and that wide opening? Makes loading and unloading a breeze.

As for the third-row seats, they fold down easily with pull straps you can reach from either the rear door or the cargo area. And the second-row seats? They fold down with just a press of a button in the cargo area, giving you a truly flat load floor for all your hauling needs. It’s all about making life easier, right?

The 2025 Telluride still stands out as a great deal, even with the price bumps since it first hit the market. You know, the base LX trim, which starts at $37,585, offers all the basic features you’d want, plus it has that same smooth powertrain found in pricier versions. It’s really a good pick for those who care mainly about space and functionality.

Now, if you step up to the mid-range EX trim, starting at $43,185, you’re hitting that sweet spot. It adds nice touches like leather seating, ventilated front seats, and a power liftgate—stuff that makes life a bit easier on a day-to-day basis. This trim really holds its own against similar options out there, often feeling a bit more upscale, too.

Then we’ve got the higher trims, especially the SX Prestige at $52,485, which really leans into that luxury vibe. You’ll find features and materials that can easily compete with more expensive luxury brands. Sure, it might feel like a lot for a Kia, but when you compare what you’re getting to those high-end alternatives, it makes sense.

The X-Line and X-Pro versions are also priced higher, but they bring real capability and a unique look. So, if you’re someone who wants to tackle some off-roading now and then while still enjoying everyday comfort, these could be a great fit—way better than those ultra-rugged off-roaders.

When you think about the total cost of ownership, Telluride really shines with its warranty coverage. The 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty and the 5-year/60,000-mile basic warranty offer some serious peace of mind, especially since there’s no complimentary maintenance included.

Looking at resale, estimates say the Telluride should hold onto about 49% of its value after five years, which is pretty much on par with the industry average. It might not beat out some of the Japanese brands, but hey, it’s still a solid showing for Kia and adds to that overall value.

In a nutshell, the Telluride combines refinement, capability, and a bunch of features, making it a fantastic option in its class—especially when you consider how it feels almost luxury-like at a more mainstream price. Sure, some rivals might do better in fuel economy or ruggedness, but it’s tough to find anything that balances all these qualities for the money quite like the Telluride does.