Kia Takes Telluride to the Next Level: Increased Size, Different Style, and Ditching the V6

Kia is preparing a major redesign of its most popular three-row SUV, and the new Telluride will be one of the most notable debuts of early 2026. The company showcased the car even before its official debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show, revealing key changes in both appearance and technology.

The second-generation Telluride is a much more muscular, straightforward, and confident SUV that visually resembles the electric EV9, but remains an independent model with its own character. The photos show the standard version and the X-Pro, aimed at off-road driving: the latter received a more aggressive front end, exposed tow hooks, and thicker roof rails.

The dimensions have grown noticeably. An increase in length by 58 mm, height by 25 mm, and wheelbase by 75 mm makes the Telluride much more spacious in all three rows. The additional millimeters went into real changes in the body architecture, not decorative overlays: wider doors, larger openings, and increased storage areas in the rear. All this has improved the convenience of boarding, and the list of auxiliary systems now includes new parking assistance scenarios and enhanced all-round visibility.

Inside, the Telluride has also undergone a major overhaul. The interior concept now focuses on the EV9, while maintaining its own style. The panel with two 12.3-inch displays has become flat, strict, and visually lighter. The steering wheel has been replaced with a compact unit with a practical architecture, and the massive automatic transmission selector has disappeared – it has been moved to the column, freeing up space on the center console. The interior has become more spacious not only due to the external dimensions, but also thanks to the redesigned ergonomics: thinner front seats, improved geometry of the second row, and adjustments of the third row create the feeling of a cabin designed for families or relaxed long trips.

The main technical revolution is the abandonment of the naturally aspirated V6. In the previous generation, the 291-horsepower six-cylinder engine was the only option, but now Kia is betting on more modern power plants. The lineup includes two versions: Turbo and Turbo Hybrid. The gasoline modification received a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 274 hp and 450 N·m. Despite the decrease in maximum power, the torque has become noticeably higher, which will improve dynamics in urban mode and when towing. The gearbox is an eight-speed automatic. Drive is front or all-wheel drive.

The all-wheel drive X-Pro modification is equipped with an electronic limited-slip differential (E-LSD). The system analyzes traction on each axle and redistributes torque depending on the road surface. If necessary, forced locking is provided with equal distribution of traction between the front and rear axles. This makes the Telluride X-Pro a more serious player in the class of family SUVs focused on off-road travel.

The Turbo Hybrid is the key new feature of the series. The power plant is built around a 2.5-liter turbo engine in combination with a 1.65 kWh battery and electric motors. The total power reaches 329 hp, and the torque is 480 N·m, which is significantly higher than the previous V6. Thanks to its high efficiency, the hybrid should consume about 6.7 l/100 km, and the range, according to Kia's estimates, will be about 965 km. The transmission is a six-speed automatic. All-wheel drive is available, and in the standard configuration, the hybrid will receive a proprietary E-DTVC system that can flexibly control torque depending on the angle of rotation and wheel grip.

There are also additional functions for everyday use. Stay Mode will allow the Telluride Hybrid to power the climate control, lights, and multimedia for about 20 minutes without starting the internal combustion engine. This is useful, for example, in a parking lot in winter or on a long trip. The hybrid will be able to tow up to 2000 kg, the gasoline turbo version – up to 2200 kg. An additional self-leveling suspension helps maintain body stability under load.

Externally, the new Telluride has become noticeably more "boxy". The angles have become sharper, the wings have been widened, and the lines have been simplified to give the car a more monolithic look. The vertical front and rear optics retained the connection with the old model, but the radiator grille causes much more heated discussions: the complex structure and large vertical sections visually weigh down the front end. In the X-Pro configuration, the grille is even more massive, emphasizing the character of the off-road version.

The interior trim has become richer. Kia used new materials, improved sound insulation, and redesigned multimedia and climate controls. Expanded acoustics and additional USB connectors are expected in all rows, and in the higher trim levels, a head-up display system and a more advanced driver assistance system will appear.

Deliveries of the updated Telluride will begin in the first quarter of 2026. The company will present all the characteristics and option packages at the Los Angeles Auto Show.