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Kia Telluride

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$23,718
Avg. listing price
Shop the 2021 Kia Telluride
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Available trims

See the differences side-by-side to compare trims.
  • LX FWD
    Avg. price
    $20,142
    MPG
    20 City / 26 Hwy
    Seat capacity
    8
    Engine
    Regular Unleaded V-6
    Drivetrain
    Front Wheel Drive
    Shop this trim See all specs
  • LX AWD
    Avg. price
    $20,142
    MPG
    19 City / 24 Hwy
    Seat capacity
    8
    Engine
    Regular Unleaded V-6
    Drivetrain
    All Wheel Drive
    Shop this trim See all specs
  • S FWD
    Avg. price
    $21,847
    MPG
    20 City / 26 Hwy
    Seat capacity
    7
    Engine
    Regular Unleaded V-6
    Drivetrain
    Front Wheel Drive
    Shop this trim See all specs
  • S AWD
    Avg. price
    $21,847
    MPG
    19 City / 24 Hwy
    Seat capacity
    7
    Engine
    Regular Unleaded V-6
    Drivetrain
    All Wheel Drive
    Shop this trim See all specs
  • EX FWD
    Avg. price
    $23,106
    MPG
    20 City / 26 Hwy
    Seat capacity
    7
    Engine
    Regular Unleaded V-6
    Drivetrain
    Front Wheel Drive
    Shop this trim See all specs
  • EX AWD
    Avg. price
    $23,106
    MPG
    19 City / 24 Hwy
    Seat capacity
    7
    Engine
    Regular Unleaded V-6
    Drivetrain
    All Wheel Drive
    Shop this trim See all specs
  • SX FWD
    Avg. price
    $25,778
    MPG
    20 City / 26 Hwy
    Seat capacity
    7
    Engine
    Regular Unleaded V-6
    Drivetrain
    Front Wheel Drive
    Shop this trim See all specs
  • SX AWD
    Avg. price
    $25,778
    MPG
    19 City / 24 Hwy
    Seat capacity
    7
    Engine
    Regular Unleaded V-6
    Drivetrain
    All Wheel Drive
    Shop this trim See all specs

Notable features

  • Fob-based remote start now standard
  • Three-row SUV
  • 291-hp V-6 engine
  • Eight-speed automatic transmission
  • Front- or all-wheel drive
  • Automatic emergency braking standard

The good & the bad

The good

  • Cavernous interior
  • Comfort in all three rows
  • V-6 power
  • Quiet interior
  • Solid value

The bad

  • Unimpressive audio systems
  • Over-aggressive lane keep assist
  • No power third-row seats
  • No rear entertainment option
  • Optional head-up display disappears with polarized sunglasses

Expert 2021 Kia Telluride review

Our expert's take
By Cars.com Editors
Full article

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. 

2021 Kia Telluride review: Our expert's take

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. 

Safety review

Based on the 2021 Kia Telluride base trim
NHTSA crash test and rollover ratings, scored out of 5.
Overall rating
5 out of 5
Combined side rating front seat
5 out of 5
Combined side rating rear seat
5 out of 5
Frontal barrier crash rating driver
4 out of 5
Frontal barrier crash rating passenger
4 out of 5
Overall frontal barrier crash rating
4 out of 5
Overall side crash rating
5 out of 5
Rollover rating
4 out of 5
Side barrier rating
5 out of 5
Side barrier rating driver
5 out of 5
Side barrier rating passenger rear seat
5 out of 5
Side pole rating driver front seat
5 out of 5
15.5%
Risk of rollover
Side barrier rating driver
5 out of 5
Side barrier rating passenger rear seat
5 out of 5
Side pole rating driver front seat
5 out of 5
15.5%
Risk of rollover

Factory warranties

New car program benefits

Basic
5 years / 60,000 miles
Corrosion
5 years / 100,000 miles
Powertrain
10 years / 100,000 miles
Roadside Assistance
5 years / 60,000 miles

Certified Pre-Owned program benefits

Dealer certification
135 Point Inspection

Compare similar vehicles

Select cars to compare for more detailed info.
  • 2021
    5.0
    Kia Telluride
    Starts at
    $32,190
    MPG
    20 City / 26 Hwy
    Seat capacity
    8
    Engine
    Regular Unleaded V-6
    Drivetrain
    Front-wheel drive
    Compare
  • 2023
    4.8
    Hyundai PALISADE
    Starts at
    $35,900
    MPG
    19 City / 27 Hwy
    Seat capacity
    8
    Engine
    Regular Unleaded V-6
    Drivetrain
    Front-wheel drive
    Compare
  • 2023
    4.1
    Kia Telluride
    Starts at
    $35,890
    MPG
    20 City / 26 Hwy
    Seat capacity
    8
    Engine
    Regular Gasoline V-6
    Drivetrain
    Front-wheel drive
    Compare
  • 2020
    4.6
    Kia Sorento
    Starts at
    $26,990
    MPG
    22 City / 29 Hwy
    Seat capacity
    7
    Engine
    Regular Unleaded V-6
    Drivetrain
    Front-wheel drive
    Compare

Consumer reviews

5.0 out of 5
Based on 92 reviews
Write a review
Comfort
5.0 out of 5
Interior
4.9 out of 5
Performance
4.9 out of 5
Value
4.8 out of 5
Exterior
5.0 out of 5
Reliability
4.9 out of 5

Most recent

  • Excellent Telluride

    Bought this car as a retired couple to travel in. Lots of room for anything you need to carry while traveling or shopping. Also used to do day road trips with two more couples. Easy for us oldies to get in the second and third row seats, or go on outings with up to 7 people. Love the charging ports for everyone in the car. It has been a very dependable vehicle.
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort
    5.0 out of 5
    Interior
    5.0 out of 5
    Performance
    5.0 out of 5
    Value
    4.0 out of 5
    Exterior
    5.0 out of 5
    Reliability
    5.0 out of 5
    6 people out of 6 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • So loverly

    Beautiful car inside an out. Solid ride, comfortable, intuitive, user friendly, passengers love it and very comfortable for everyone. I get compliments all the time. Such a great car.
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort
    5.0 out of 5
    Interior
    5.0 out of 5
    Performance
    5.0 out of 5
    Value
    5.0 out of 5
    Exterior
    5.0 out of 5
    Reliability
    5.0 out of 5
    5 people out of 6 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Great comfort

    Great comfort. Not easy to use interior controls. Too complicated to figure out how things work. User guide not user friendly. Lots of room. Very good safety equipment.
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort
    4.0 out of 5
    Interior
    3.0 out of 5
    Performance
    4.0 out of 5
    Value
    4.0 out of 5
    Exterior
    4.0 out of 5
    Reliability
    4.0 out of 5
    4 people out of 5 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Most exciting car to own and drive

    Cool styling with roomy., quiet cabin. Lots of smart technology, lots of ports to charge phones. Exceptional value for a prestige vehicle. Good gas mileage and great ride. Quality at its best
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort
    5.0 out of 5
    Interior
    5.0 out of 5
    Performance
    5.0 out of 5
    Value
    5.0 out of 5
    Exterior
    5.0 out of 5
    Reliability
    5.0 out of 5
    10 people out of 10 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Love my Kia

    Wanted something bigger with a 3 row seat. Love all the bells whistles that my Telluride came with. Love the color and the interior. I have never had a sunroof snd this one had lne
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort
    5.0 out of 5
    Interior
    5.0 out of 5
    Performance
    5.0 out of 5
    Value
    5.0 out of 5
    Exterior
    5.0 out of 5
    Reliability
    5.0 out of 5
    8 people out of 8 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Great Purchase

    This is my 2nd Telluride so that should say a lot. Bought the 2020 in 2019 then last month traded in for the newest Night Fall Edition AWD. The first one I bought really held its value when trading in also.
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort
    5.0 out of 5
    Interior
    5.0 out of 5
    Performance
    5.0 out of 5
    Value
    5.0 out of 5
    Exterior
    5.0 out of 5
    Reliability
    5.0 out of 5
    17 people out of 17 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Fantastic midsize SUV

    We just downsized to this car and it does not feel like we downsized at all! So much interior room!!! We love how stylish the body is. We have 2 kids in car seats and we still have plenty of room! Totally worth it!!!
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort
    5.0 out of 5
    Interior
    5.0 out of 5
    Performance
    5.0 out of 5
    Value
    4.0 out of 5
    Exterior
    5.0 out of 5
    Reliability
    5.0 out of 5
    2 people out of 2 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Best of the best

    I will take this suv over pilot , atlas, highlander, explorer,ascent, mercedes , audi , bmw..etc I already did . Never been happier! Quality , design and value can not be put together the way was put in a this vehicle.
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort
    5.0 out of 5
    Interior
    5.0 out of 5
    Performance
    5.0 out of 5
    Value
    5.0 out of 5
    Exterior
    5.0 out of 5
    Reliability
    5.0 out of 5
    3 people out of 3 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Kia Telluride- the Best

    I had read about the Telluride but had not rode in one or test drove one. They sell themselves. I drove and I bought. Great car!
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort
    5.0 out of 5
    Interior
    5.0 out of 5
    Performance
    5.0 out of 5
    Value
    5.0 out of 5
    Exterior
    5.0 out of 5
    Reliability
    5.0 out of 5
    3 people out of 3 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Best Car for my larger family (5) ever!

    Just what I was looking for after a Honda Element and then a Town and Country Minivan. Plenty of room everywhere, plenty of tech features for my three kids (12, 11 and 7) plus great amenities!
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort
    5.0 out of 5
    Interior
    5.0 out of 5
    Performance
    5.0 out of 5
    Value
    5.0 out of 5
    Exterior
    5.0 out of 5
    Reliability
    5.0 out of 5
    2 people out of 3 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • In love with my new KIa Telluride!

    This is my first time owning an SUV and I am loving it! I love the space. I love the color. I love sitting up higher.
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort
    5.0 out of 5
    Interior
    5.0 out of 5
    Performance
    5.0 out of 5
    Value
    5.0 out of 5
    Exterior
    5.0 out of 5
    Reliability
    5.0 out of 5
    3 people out of 3 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • I love this SUV!

    The Telluride looks beautiful, I get so many compliments. The ride is really smooth and there is plenty of room to drive around my kids and their friends.
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort
    5.0 out of 5
    Interior
    5.0 out of 5
    Performance
    5.0 out of 5
    Value
    5.0 out of 5
    Exterior
    5.0 out of 5
    Reliability
    5.0 out of 5
    1 person out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No

Latest Telluride stories

See all Kia Telluride articles

Kia dealers near you

FAQ

What trim levels are available for the 2021 Kia Telluride?

The 2021 Kia Telluride is available in 4 trim levels:

  • EX (2 styles)
  • LX (2 styles)
  • S (2 styles)
  • SX (2 styles)

What is the MPG of the 2021 Kia Telluride?

The 2021 Kia Telluride offers up to 20 MPG in city driving and 26 MPG on the highway. These figures are based on EPA mileage ratings and are for comparison purposes only. The actual mileage will vary depending on vehicle options, trim level, driving conditions, driving habits, vehicle maintenance, and other factors.

What are some similar vehicles and competitors of the 2021 Kia Telluride?

The 2021 Kia Telluride compares to and/or competes against the following vehicles:

Is the 2021 Kia Telluride reliable?

The 2021 Kia Telluride has an average reliability rating of 4.9 out of 5 according to cars.com consumers. Find real-world reliability insights within consumer reviews from 2021 Kia Telluride owners.

Is the 2021 Kia Telluride a good SUV?

Below are the cars.com consumers ratings for the 2021 Kia Telluride. 98.9% of drivers recommend this vehicle.

5.0 / 5
Based on 92 reviews
  • Comfort: 5.0
  • Interior: 4.9
  • Performance: 4.9
  • Value: 4.8
  • Exterior: 5.0
  • Reliability: 4.9

Kia Telluride history

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