Kia Telluride Review: Unpacking the Features and the Real Cost to Own

Few SUVs in recent memory have made a splash quite like the Kia Telluride. Launched in 2019, it quickly earned critical acclaim and consumer loyalty, thanks to its spacious design, upscale interior, and unbeatable value. But now that the 2025 Kia Telluride has arrived, it’s time to unpack the latest features and explore the real Kia Telluride cost of ownership — including maintenance, fuel economy, insurance, resale value, and more.

In this Kia Telluride review, we’ll go beyond the surface to explore everything that matters to today’s SUV buyers — from Kia Telluride features and safety ratings to long-term costs and potential alternatives.

The 2025 Kia Telluride at a Glance

• Base Price: Starting around $37,000
• Seating Capacity: 7 or 8 (depending on configuration)
• Engine: 3.8L V6 (291 horsepower)
• Fuel Economy: 20 mpg city / 26 mpg highway (FWD)
• Towing Capacity: Up to 5,500 lbs
• Trim Levels: LX, S, EX, SX, SX-Prestige, X-Line, and X-Pro

✅ New for 2025: Subtle design tweaks, upgraded tech, and an even more refined drive.

Telluride Features Breakdown

When it comes to features, the 2025 Kia Telluride leaves little to be desired. Even the base model is generously equipped, making it a standout in a crowded midsize SUV market.

1. Interior & Seating Capacity

The Kia Telluride interior review gets high marks for quality and space. With available 7- and 8-passenger configurations, it’s ideal for growing families, road trippers, or anyone who wants premium comfort without a luxury price tag.

• Upscale Materials: Soft-touch surfaces, available Nappa leather
• Spacious Third Row: Comfortable enough for adults (unlike many rivals)
• Cargo Space: 21 cubic feet behind third row, up to 87 cubic feet with all seats down

“The Telluride offers an interior that rivals premium brands at a mainstream price.” — Car and Driver

2. Infotainment & Technology

This SUV is also packed with smart tech:

• 12.3-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Wi-Fi hotspot and multiple USB-C ports
• Navigation with real-time traffic
• Digital Key 2.0 with smartphone unlock/start
• Premium sound system (available Harman Kardon upgrade)

📱 Kia Telluride infotainment system review: One of the most intuitive and visually appealing systems in the segment.

3. Safety & Driver Assistance

The Kia Telluride safety features review reveals a comprehensive suite of standard and optional tech:

• Standard: Forward Collision Avoidance, Blind-Spot Monitoring, Lane Keeping Assist
• Available: Highway Driving Assist 2, Surround-View Camera, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Avoidance

It’s no surprise the Telluride consistently earns Top Safety Pick+ honors from the IIHS (source).

Kia Telluride Trim Level Comparison

Here’s a quick look at what sets each trim apart:

If you're looking for adventure-ready gear, the Kia Telluride X-Pro is an excellent option.

Kia Telluride Engine Options & Performance

The Kia Telluride engine options remain consistent across trims — a solid 3.8L V6 paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. While it’s not turbocharged, the engine offers:

• 291 horsepower
• 262 lb-ft of torque
• Smooth acceleration and towing capability

All-wheel drive is available on all trims and standard on X-Line and X-Pro variants.

Kia Telluride Towing Capacity & Capability

For drivers who tow trailers, boats, or campers, the Kia Telluride towing capacity of 5,000 lbs (or 5,500 lbs with X-Pro) puts it ahead of most midsize SUVs. With trailer sway control and heavy-duty cooling, it’s ready to work and play.

Telluride Cost of Ownership: What You Really Pay

Let’s dive into the Kia Telluride long term cost of ownership, including fuel, maintenance, insurance, and resale — the factors that matter most to real-world buyers.

1. Fuel Economy

With 20 mpg city / 26 mpg highway (FWD) or 18/24 (AWD), the Telluride is competitive but not class-leading. Expect around:

• Annual fuel cost: ~$2,000 (based on 15,000 miles/year, per fueleconomy.gov)

“The Telluride balances power and efficiency, but fuel economy is average.” — Edmunds (source)

2. Maintenance & Repairs

According to RepairPal, the average Kia Telluride maintenance costs are about $470 per year, which is lower than the segment average.

• 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty
• 5-year/60,000-mile basic warranty
• Optional extended warranty plans add value (see Noble Quote's coverage)

💡 Pro Tip: An extended car warranty from Noble Quote can protect your Telluride beyond the factory plan, helping with surprise repairs down the road.

3. Insurance Costs

Kia Telluride insurance costs average around $1,400–$1,600 per year, depending on location, driving history, and credit.

4. Resale Value

The Kia Telluride resale value is one of the strongest in its class. According to Kelley Blue Book, Telluride holds value better than rivals like the Honda Pilot and Ford Explorer.

• 5-year resale value: Up to 60–65% of original MSRP

Kia Telluride Pros and Cons

✅ Pros:

• Spacious, upscale interior
• Lots of standard features
• Strong resale value
• High safety ratings
• Off-road capability (X-Line, X-Pro)

❌ Cons:

• No hybrid or turbocharged engine
• Fuel economy is average
• Long wait times due to popularity

Used Kia Telluride Review: Still a Great Buy?

A used Kia Telluride — particularly from 2020–2023 — offers fantastic value. Many still carry part of the factory warranty, and resale values remain strong.

• Watch for low-mileage lease returns
• Prioritize trims with full driver assistance and infotainment upgrades

Looking to protect a used Telluride? A used car extended warranty from Noble Quote gives peace of mind with plans that cover engine, transmission, electronics, and more.

Kia Telluride Alternatives

If you’re considering other 3-row SUVs, here are a few popular Kia Telluride alternatives:

Is the Kia Telluride Expensive to Own?

Short answer: No. Despite the high-end feel, the Kia Telluride cost of ownership remains reasonable compared to its competitors — especially when you factor in reliability, warranty coverage, and resale strength.

That said, like any modern SUV, unexpected repairs can be costly out-of-pocket. That’s where a vehicle service contract from Noble Quote can save the day.

Explore Your Extended Warranty Options

Want to protect your Telluride beyond the manufacturer’s warranty? Noble Quote offers flexible extended warranty coverage for both new and used vehicles, including:

• Bumper-to-bumper and powertrain plans
• Rental car reimbursement
• Roadside assistance
• Trip interruption protection

📘 Learn more here: Noble Quote Learning Center

Final Verdict: Is the Kia Telluride Worth It?

Whether you're a growing family, adventure-seeker, or daily commuter, the Kia Telluride delivers serious value across the board. With class-leading features, top-tier safety, and strong long-term reliability, it’s no wonder it continues to top “best SUV” lists every year.

When you factor in a competitive Kia Telluride cost of ownership and available protection from NobleQuote, it’s not just a smart SUV — it’s a wise investment.

Ready to protect your Telluride or compare warranty plans?
Visit Noble Quote’s Learning Center to explore your coverage options today.