Now only in its second year, the Kia Telluride has impressed right from the start, with the 3-row midsize crossover winning our Kelly Blue Book Best Buy Award while also being named Best New Model. With a powerful V6, lots of technology, and a high level of standard safety and driver-assist features, the 2021 Kia Telluride even wins on value, starting under $32,000.
Power for the 2021 Telluride comes from a 3.8-liter V6 making nearly 300 horsepower while returning 23 mpg combined with front-wheel drive. All-wheel drive is available on all trims. Ride quality is excellent for long journeys, and the engine makes good power and also has different drive modes. All-wheel drive models add a Snow mode. The Telluride’s chassis is tuned for a good match between control and comfort, and the 8-speed automatic shifts smoothly.
As is relatively common in this segment, the Telluride can be optioned for eight passengers, or seven if the buyer chooses captain’s chairs in the second row instead of a bench. A fairly blocky design makes for a cabin that is nice and roomy, although the third row is a bit tight for anyone above 5-foot-7. Cargo space is also excellent, with 21.0 cubic feet behind the row expanding to 87.0 with the seats folded. Standard features are excellent, including synthetic leather upholstery and an impressive level of standard safety systems.
Four Trim Levels
With just one engine and transmission choice and front-wheel drive (with all-wheel drive available on all models for an extra $2,000), the Telluride continues to keep things basic with only four trim levels. The base LX (starting at $32,190) is well-equipped, with rear air-conditioning, keyless entry with push-button start, sliding and folding second-row seats, and an infotainment system consisting of an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, a 6-speaker audio system, and five USB ports. Standard safety equipment is also impressive, with forward-collision warning with automatic braking, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring with cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. All Kias come with a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, and all prices add a destination fee of $1,225.
The base Telluride comes with plenty of features. But the range between the lowest and highest trims is only $10,00, so it’s worth looking at a better-equipped model. The S, for example ($34,590), adds a 10-way power-adjustable driver seat, a sunroof, and heated front seats, while the next EX adds leather and ventilated front seats. Other than all-wheel drive, a rear-seat entertainment system is also available on all trims, and a towing package is an option on the EX and SX.
Here’s the Complete Rundown on 2021 Kia Telluride Trims and Prices:
2021 Kia Telluride LX: $32,190-$34,190
- 8-inch touchscreen
- Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Adaptive cruise control
2021 Kia Telluride S: $34,590-$36,590
- Power driver seat
- Power sunroof
- 20-inch wheels
- Heated front seats
2021 Kia Telluride EX: $37,590-$39,590
- Leather upholstery and ventilated front seats
- Power-adjustable passenger seat
- 10.25-inch touchscreen
- Smart power tailgate
2021 Kia Telluride SX: $42,490-$44,390
- Dual sunroofs
- 10-speaker premium Harman Kardon audio system
- Blind-spot and surround-view monitors
- LED headlights
Ready to buy a 2021 Kia Telluride? Shop for one on sale now near you.
