2027 Kia Telluride Hands-On: What To Know About Kia’s Bold Evolution of a Modern Classic

When Kia introduced the Telluride back in 2020, it didn’t just launch another midsize SUV, it redefined the segment. Suddenly, everyone wanted a piece of that “affordable luxury” pie. With its bold styling, family-friendly space, and unbeatable value, the Telluride quickly became a crowd favorite and a top choice among three-row SUVs.

Now, five years later, Kia is back with an all-new 2027 Telluride, and expectations couldn’t be higher. Especially after the stunning redesign of the 2026 Hyundai Palisade, its corporate cousin, fans and industry watchers alike are eager to see how Kia plans to stay ahead of the pack. We got an up-close, hands-on look at the 2027 model, and there’s a lot to unpack. From its fresh exterior design to a tech-forward cabin and potential hybrid powertrain, this SUV might just be the one to beat in the coming years.

Let’s start with the obvious, Kia didn’t throw out the playbook. The 2027 Telluride remains instantly recognizable. It still carries that boxy, upright stance and vertical headlights that made the original model so distinctive. But this time around, it’s sharper, more sculpted, and unmistakably modern.

The first thing you’ll notice? The return of the amber LED daytime running lights. They were a fan favorite in earlier trims but were swapped for white LEDs during the midcycle refresh. Now they’re back, and honestly, they add a classy glow that instantly distinguishes the Telluride from its rivals.

The taillights have also received a stylish update, sleeker, more sculpted, and with a touch of Range Rover inspiration. Sure, the resemblance is there, but that’s not a bad thing. It’s a clean, refined look that feels both upscale and understated, a rare balance in today’s crowded SUV market. As for the front fascia, the X-Pro trim sports a massive grille that might be a little too bold for some tastes. Thankfully, Kia’s top-tier SX Prestige trim tones it down with vertical slats and what appear to be active grille shutters, a thoughtful touch that hints at aerodynamic efficiency.

More Rugged, More Distinct and Definitely More Grown-Up

Compared to the Palisade, which leans more “luxury lounge,” the new Telluride goes for rugged sophistication. Subtle creases above the fenders give the sheetmetal a pinched, athletic look, though the effect is muted in Kia’s matte brown demo color. Expect it to pop much more in metallic shades.

And yes, it’s got motorized pop-out door handles now, just like Kia’s electric siblings, the EV6 and EV9. It’s a small detail, but it adds a futuristic flair that sets the Telluride apart. The SUV’s dimensions have also stretched slightly, nearly 3 inches longer in wheelbase and 2.3 inches longer overall, giving it a more commanding presence. It’s taller, too, which translates to more headroom and easier access to the third row, although space back there still feels a bit tight for adults.

Inside the Cabin: Where Function Meets Finesse

If the exterior whispers “rugged refinement,” the interior shouts “modern comfort.” The dashboard adopts a horizontal layout that emphasizes width and openness, while chunky grab handles on the center console add a tough, adventure-ready vibe.

Yet, despite the utilitarian cues, the 2027 Telluride doesn’t skimp on luxury. The X-Pro trim we sat in featured a faux-suede headliner, leather seats (heated and ventilated in the first two rows), and those same mesh headrests lifted straight from the EV9, a nice crossover touch.

Kia’s digital interface has also been updated, borrowing heavily from the EV9’s dual-screen setup. The digital instrument cluster and infotainment display are crisp and intuitive, but the center climate display placed between them feels like a misstep, it’s partially obscured by the steering wheel and hard to reach while driving. Thankfully, Kia hasn’t gone full touchscreen. You still get physical buttons and knobs for climate, volume, and navigation, a huge win for those of us tired of endlessly poking screens to adjust basic functions.

Down below, you’ll find three USB-C ports, two wireless charging pads, and a shallower-than-expected center console storage bin. The space efficiency could be improved, but it’s not a dealbreaker. With its longer wheelbase, the new Telluride offers a more stable ride and improved proportions. The second row now slides easily, making access to the third row smoother than before. Still, taller passengers may find the rearmost seats a bit snug, something families will want to test out before buying.

As for interior colors, Kia promises some bold new options, including navy, purple, and even an orange-and-navy two-tone scheme. It’s a refreshing move away from the predictable black-and-beige interiors that dominate this class. Kia hasn’t officially confirmed the powertrains yet, but industry insiders believe the 2027 Telluride will carry over the 3.5-liter V6 producing around 287 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, paired with front- or all-wheel drive.

However, the real buzz surrounds a potential 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder hybrid with a punchy 329 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque. This addition would give the Telluride better fuel economy and a more modern edge against competitors like the Toyota Highlander Hybrid and Honda Pilot. While Kia remains tight-lipped, the hybrid option feels inevitable, especially as global markets continue shifting toward electrification.

Tech, Safety, and What’s Next

We’re expecting Kia to load the 2027 Telluride with its latest ADAS suite (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems), including adaptive cruise control, lane centering, blind-spot cameras, and highway driving assist. The brand’s tech reputation has skyrocketed in recent years, and the Telluride will likely continue that trend.

There’s also speculation about over-the-air (OTA) updates, expanded connected services, and perhaps even a digital key system like the one offered in the EV9. Kia plans to unveil more details, including final specs and pricing, at the Los Angeles Auto Show later this month. The 2027 Kia Telluride doesn’t reinvent the wheel, and that’s precisely why it works. It’s an evolution, not a revolution, and sometimes that’s exactly what a best-seller needs. Kia has polished what was already a near-perfect formula: handsome design, premium comfort, and everyday practicality, all without losing its distinctive charm.

If the rumored hybrid arrives and pricing remains competitive, Kia could easily maintain its crown as one of the most desirable SUVs on the market. For now, the 2027 Telluride stands as proof that Kia isn’t just playing catch-up with the big names anymore, it’s leading the pack with confidence and character.

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