2027 Kia Telluride Ditches the V6, Adds Hybrid Model

Turns out there will be more differentiation between the Telluride and its Hyundai Palisade sibling this generation.

Kia showed off the 2027 Telluride last week, with a dramatic redesign inside and out for its popular three-row SUV. Now the brand has provided more details straight from the LA Auto Show floor, and in addition to the confirmation of a Telluride Hybrid, we now know the Telluride will only come with turbocharged engines.

Yes, unlike its corporate cousin the Hyundai Palisade, the Telluride is bidding annyeong to the V6. In its place is the familiar 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder from the Sorrento, here making 274 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque. That's a measly 13 hp less than the 3.5-liter V6 in the Hyundai but 51 lb-ft more, so it will be interesting to compare the two. The Telluride retains the eight-speed automatic in this format as well, with the choice of front- or all-wheel drive. Towing capacity is set at 5,000 lb when properly equipped.

Then there's the hybrid. This does follow its siblings lead, with an electric motor joining the turbo-four and pulling power from a 1.65-kilowatt-hour battery pack. A six-speed automatic swaps in for cog-swapping duties. System outputs are 329 hp and 339 lb-ft, and Kia is promising a 35 mpg combined rating. Towing capacity takes a slight dip to 4,500 pounds. Based on our first impressions of the Palisade Hybrid, this will be the powertrain to have.

The cabin sees a strong makeover, as we previously detailed. It has a distinct wraparound look, while maintaining elements like the prominent grab handles as call-backs to the original Telluride. Different trims see different looks, with lighter materials and wood trim in the SX-Prestige and a monochrome black look in the rugged X-Pro. The X-Line trim is a softer off-road trim, and available with the hybrid powertrain. It features unique dark green highlights including the SynTex suede seat inserts.

Like the Palisade, the Telluride features a clever multi-level center console that includes a slide-out lower cubby and upper shelf for better access from the second row. The middle row can be had as a bench or with captains chairs, with heating, ventilation, and power adjustability all available. There's also heated seats in the third row—a rarity even in the luxury segment, never mind the mainstream—and a power folding function available from the cargo area. Cargo capacity is a useful 22.3 cubic feet with all seats up; the hybrid sacrifices exactly one 'cube for its electric bits.

In a welcome move, dual wireless chargers are standard across the board. Other niceties include triple-sealed doors, available 14-speaker Meridian sound system, Digital Key 2.0, and Ergo Motion driver's seat.