2021
Kia Telluride

What Is the 2021 Kia Telluride?

The Telluride is a three-row SUV with a boxy exterior design and a long list of standard equipment, including many active-safety features. There’s room for up to eight people — seven with the optional second-row captain’s chairs —  and power comes from a standard 291-horsepower, 3.8-liter V-6 engine that works with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Front- and all-wheel-drive models are available, and the Telluride competes with the Ford Explorer, Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander. 

What’s New on the 2021 Kia Telluride?

Key-fob-based remote start is now standard, and a newly available Nightfall Edition appearance package adds black accents. 

What Features in the 2021 Kia Telluride Are Most Important?

Standard features include:

• 5,000-pound maximum towing capacity
• 18-inch alloy wheels
• 8-inch touchscreen multimedia system
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity
• Satellite radio
• Automatic emergency braking
• Lane keep assist
• Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability

Available features include:

• 20-inch alloy wheels
• Hands-free power liftgate
• Self-leveling rear suspension
• Second-row captain’s chairs
• Leather-trimmed seats
• Heated and ventilated front and middle seats
• Heated steering wheel
• 10.25-inch touchscreen navigation system
• Harman Kardon premium stereo
• Wireless device charging
• 360-degree camera system
• Head-up display

Should I Buy the 2021 Kia Telluride?

Big on value and even bigger on interior space and standard features, the Telluride is definitely worth considering if you’re shopping for a three-row SUV. A high-quality interior and comfortable ride are highlights, and in our recent three-row SUV comparison test, the Telluride earned a strong second-place finish. We weren’t that impressed with the Telluride’s audio systems, however, and thought the standard lane-keeping system was too aggressive.