2025 Kia Telluride: What Drivers Should Know Before Deciding

How Does the 2025 Telluride Perform on Highways and City Streets?

The 2025 Kia Telluride delivers a well-balanced driving experience that adapts seamlessly between highway cruising and city navigation. Powered by a 3.8-liter V6 engine producing 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, the Telluride offers sufficient power for confident highway passing maneuvers and merging. The eight-speed automatic transmission provides smooth, responsive shifts that contribute to the refined driving experience.

On highways, the Telluride demonstrates remarkable stability and quietness, with enhanced sound insulation reducing road and wind noise to create a serene cabin environment even at higher speeds. The available all-wheel-drive system provides additional confidence during adverse weather conditions and light off-road situations. The SUV’s suspension system effectively absorbs road imperfections, delivering a comfortable ride quality reminiscent of more expensive luxury vehicles.

In urban environments, the Telluride’s size becomes more noticeable, though Kia has equipped it with features to enhance maneuverability. The standard drive mode selector includes a “Sport” setting that tightens steering response for more precise control through city streets. While fuel economy ratings remain average for its class—approximately 20 mpg in city driving and 26 mpg on highways for front-wheel-drive models—the Telluride’s overall performance strikes an impressive balance between power and efficiency for a vehicle of its size.

What Makes the Interior Stand Out for Families and Groups?

The 2025 Telluride’s cabin exemplifies Kia’s evolution toward premium market positioning with thoughtful design and high-quality materials throughout. The three-row configuration accommodates up to eight passengers (seven with second-row captain’s chairs), making it ideal for families and groups requiring substantial passenger capacity.

Interior space utilization deserves special mention, with comfortable seating in all rows—including the third row, which can genuinely accommodate adult passengers without compromise, unlike many competitors. The second row features slide-and-fold functionality for easy third-row access, while available heated and ventilated seats in both first and second rows enhance comfort in varying weather conditions.

Material quality throughout the cabin demonstrates attention to detail, with soft-touch surfaces, available Nappa leather upholstery, and genuine wood-look accents creating an upscale atmosphere. Storage solutions abound, including a generously sized center console, numerous cupholders, USB ports accessible to all passengers, and thoughtfully placed small-item storage compartments. The dual-pane sunroof option floods the cabin with natural light, enhancing the spacious feel. Cargo capacity remains impressive with 21 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to over 87 cubic feet with both rear rows folded—dimensions that facilitate everything from grocery runs to road trip luggage.

Which Technology and Safety Features Could Matter Most?

The 2025 Telluride comes equipped with an array of technology features centered around a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The available dual-screen setup includes a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster that can be configured to display various information based on driver preferences. The infotainment system features improved response times and an intuitive interface compared to previous iterations.

Connectivity options include multiple USB ports throughout all three rows, wireless charging capability, and Kia’s UVO link connected car services that enable remote start, climate control adjustments, and vehicle status monitoring through a smartphone app. The available premium audio system provides immersive sound quality throughout the cabin.

On the safety front, the 2025 Telluride includes Kia’s comprehensive DriveWise suite of advanced driver assistance systems as standard equipment. Notable features include:

• Forward collision-avoidance assist with pedestrian and cyclist detection

• Blind-spot monitoring with collision avoidance

• Lane keeping assist and lane following assist

• Highway driving assist (semi-autonomous driving capability)

• Safe exit assist that warns occupants of approaching traffic when opening doors

• Rear occupant alert to prevent children or pets from being left in the vehicle

The Telluride’s safety technology implementation stands out for its seamless operation that provides protection without being intrusive during normal driving conditions, making it particularly valuable for family-oriented buyers.

How Practical Is the Telluride for Everyday Life?

The 2025 Telluride’s practicality extends beyond its spacious interior to include numerous features that enhance everyday usability. The power liftgate with height adjustment makes accessing the cargo area convenient when hands are full, while the available hands-free smart liftgate opens automatically when the key fob is detected nearby.

Towing capability remains substantial for the segment, with properly equipped Telluride models able to tow up to 5,500 pounds—sufficient for most small to medium trailers, boats, or campers. The available towing package includes a self-leveling rear suspension that maintains optimal ride height regardless of cargo or trailer weight.

The SUV’s ground clearance and available all-wheel drive provide confidence during light off-road excursions or inclement weather without compromising on-road comfort. Thoughtful touches like puddle lights, power-folding mirrors, and an available 360-degree camera system simplify parking and maneuvering in tight spaces. Maintenance considerations remain favorable, with Kia’s 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty providing long-term peace of mind for owners concerned about reliability and ownership costs.

Why Consider the Telluride as a Long-Term SUV Option?

The 2025 Telluride presents a compelling case as a long-term vehicle investment for several reasons. Kia’s reputation for reliability has steadily improved over the past decade, with the Telluride specifically receiving favorable reliability ratings since its introduction. The comprehensive warranty coverage—including the 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty and 5-year/60,000-mile basic warranty—provides significant value and protection against unexpected repair costs.

Resale value projections for the Telluride remain strong, with previous model years demonstrating better-than-average value retention compared to segment competitors. The timeless design approach, avoiding overly trendy styling elements, suggests the Telluride will maintain its visual appeal over an extended ownership period.

Pricing and Model Comparison

The 2025 Kia Telluride is available in multiple trim levels, each offering different features and equipment packages to meet varying buyer needs and budgets.

---

Trim Level	Starting MSRP (Estimated)	Key Features	Drivetrain Options
LX	$36,500	12.3” touchscreen, synthetic leather seats, DriveWise safety suite	FWD/AWD (+$1,900)
S	$39,000	20” alloy wheels, heated front seats, sunroof, power liftgate	FWD/AWD (+$1,900)
EX	$42,500	Leather seats, ventilated front seats, power-folding mirrors, wireless charging	FWD/AWD (+$1,900)
SX	$46,000	12-speaker Harman Kardon audio, 360° camera, dual sunroof, 20” black wheels	FWD/AWD (+$1,900)
SX Prestige	$50,500	Nappa leather, heated/ventilated 2nd row, head-up display, digital rearview mirror	AWD standard

---

Prices, rates, or cost estimates mentioned in this article are based on the latest available information but may change over time. Independent research is advised before making financial decisions.

The 2025 Kia Telluride continues to exemplify how mainstream brands can successfully venture into the luxury SUV territory without the premium price tag of traditional luxury marques. Its combination of refined driving dynamics, spacious and well-appointed interior, comprehensive technology suite, and practical features make it a standout option for buyers seeking a versatile family vehicle. By understanding its performance characteristics, interior advantages, technology offerings, and everyday practicality, potential buyers can determine if the Telluride aligns with their specific needs and preferences before making their final decision.