If you’ve ever squeezed a family of eight into a three-row SUV and wished for just a little more room, fresh air, and maybe a few less trips to the gas station, Kia just answered your prayers. At the 2025 Los Angeles Auto Show, Kia pulled the covers off the completely redesigned 2027 Telluride, and it’s safe to say this is no mild refresh; it’s an all-new second generation of America’s favorite big Kia.
Looks That Stop Traffic (Whether You Like It or Not)
Kia has never been shy about design, and the new Telluride turns the volume up even higher. The overall shape is still instantly recognizable as a Telluride; boxy, upright, and proud, but every line is sharper, the stance is wider, and the lighting signatures front and rear look like they were sketched by someone who really loves sci-fi movies.
Up front, the now-massive grille is framed by vertical LED headlights that give the SUV a face only a mother (or a very loyal Kia fan) could love. Honestly? From certain angles it reminds me of those giant 1980s boom boxes with the chrome speakers and equalizer lights. It’s bold, it’s in-your-face, and it’s definitely going to spark some debates in supermarket parking lots. Kia calls it “Opposites United” design language. I call it “love it or hate it, you won’t ignore it.” Kia also takes risks with its color choices as you can see from the beige option below. Not a fan . . .
Way More Space and Tech Inside
Slide inside and the upgrades are immediately obvious. The whole cabin has been stretched; Kia says every row gets more legroom and headroom, and the third row is finally somewhere adults can survive longer than a quick trip to soccer practice. Cargo space behind the third row grows too, which means you might actually fit the stroller AND the groceries.The dashboard is now dominated by a huge curved display that combines the gauge cluster and infotainment screen into one seamless panel. Wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, over-the-air updates, and a new highway-driving assistant that can handle lane changes for you are all standard on higher trims. It feels properly luxurious; think near-luxury levels without the luxury price tag.
The Big News: Hybrid Power (and a Crazy Off-Road Demo)
For the first time ever, you’ll be able to order a Telluride with a hybrid powertrain. The gas-electric setup delivers 329 horsepower, better fuel economy (Kia says around 35 mpg combined), and, impressively, the same 5,000-pound towing rating as the regular V6 versions. That’s a win for families who want to save at the pump but still haul a camper on weekends.Kia also brought back the rugged X-Pro trim for anyone who likes to pretend they’re an overlander on weekends. It gets all-terrain tires, extra underbody protection, and a slightly higher ride height. To prove the point, Kia parked one on stage hooked to an absolutely massive tree trunk, just to show it can tow heavy stuff over rough ground without breaking a sweat.
The Best Part: It’s Still a Bargain
Here’s what hasn’t changed: incredible value. Even loaded up with the hybrid powertrain, panoramic roof, captain’s chairs, and every tech toy Kia offers, the 2027 Telluride should start in the high-$30,000 to low-$50,000 range depending on trim. That’s thousands less than a comparable Toyota Grand Highlander, Honda Pilot, or Mazda CX-90; all while looking flashier and offering more standard equipment.
Final Take
The 2027 Kia Telluride is bigger, smarter, more efficient, and more adventurous than ever. The styling is polarizing, but there’s no denying Kia has once again raised the bar for what a family SUV can be; without making you take out a second mortgage.
If you’ve been waiting for the “perfect” three-row SUV, your wait might be over if you like the styling. The all-new Telluride arrives at dealerships in mid-2026.
