The Telluride’s first complete redesign since 2020 brings a hybrid powertrain, more space, and serious upgrades for Nebraska adventures.
For six years, the Kia Telluride has dominated the three-row SUV segment.
It won the 2020 World Car of the Year, earned MotorTrend’s SUV of the Year, and landed on Car and Driver’s 10 Best list every single year since launch.
More than 115,000 sold in 2024 alone. So when Kia announces an all-new, second-generation Telluride for 2027, it’s a big deal.
The 2027 Telluride arriving at H+H Kia in early 2026 isn’t just a refresh—it’s a ground-up redesign with the model’s first-ever hybrid option, a bolder exterior, and meaningful interior upgrades that Omaha families will appreciate.
Whether you’re eyeing the current 2025 model with end-of-year pricing or holding out for the next generation, here’s everything you need to know about what changed.
Table of Contents
- At a Glance: 2025 vs 2027 Telluride
- The Powertrain Shake-Up: V6 Out, Turbo and Hybrid In
- Size Matters: Bigger Where It Counts
- Exterior Design: Range Rover Meets Telluride
- Interior: The “Grandioso” Treatment
- Technology: A Major Step Forward
- Safety: More Airbags, Smarter Systems
- What Stays the Same
- Should You Buy Now or Wait?
- Frequently Asked Questions
- When does the 2027 Kia Telluride come out?
- How much will the 2027 Kia Telluride cost?
- Is the 2027 Telluride bigger than the 2025?
- Does the 2027 Kia Telluride have a hybrid?
- Why did Kia drop the V6 from the Telluride?
- What’s new on the 2027 Telluride X-Pro?
- Can you get the 2027 Telluride with captain’s chairs?
- Does the 2027 Telluride have a third-row?
- What’s the towing capacity of the 2027 Kia Telluride?
- Is the 2027 Telluride made in America?
- Should I buy a 2025 Telluride now or wait for the 2027?
- What warranty does the Kia Telluride have?
- See It at H+H Kia
At a Glance: 2025 vs 2027 Telluride
Before we dive into the details, here’s a quick comparison of the key differences:
| Feature | 2025 Telluride | 2027 Telluride |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 3.8L V6, 291 hp | 2.5L Turbo-4, 274 hp OR Hybrid, 329 hp |
| Torque | 262 lb-ft | 311 lb-ft (turbo) / 339 lb-ft (hybrid) |
| Est. MPG (combined) | ~21 mpg | ~25 mpg (turbo) / ~35 mpg (hybrid) |
| Overall Length | 196.9 inches | 199.2 inches (+2.3″) |
| Wheelbase | 114.2 inches | 117.2 inches (+3″) |
| Height | 70.5 inches | 71.5 inches (+1″) |
| Ground Clearance (X-Pro) | 8.4 inches | 9.1 inches |
| Hybrid Option | No | Yes |
| Standard Airbags | 8 | 10 (includes new center airbag) |
| Built-In Streaming | No | Disney+, Netflix, YouTube |
The numbers tell part of the story, but the real differences go much deeper.
The Powertrain Shake-Up: V6 Out, Turbo and Hybrid In
The most significant change for 2027? Kia retired the 3.8-liter V6 that powered every Telluride since 2020. In its place, you’ll find two new options—and one of them has been on wish lists for years.
The New Standard Engine
The 2027 Telluride’s base powerplant is a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder producing 274 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. Yes, that’s 17 fewer horsepower than the outgoing V6, but here’s the trade-off most drivers will appreciate: you get 49 more lb-ft of torque.
Why does that matter? Torque is what you feel when merging onto I-80, pulling away from a stoplight with a full load of kids, or towing your boat to Branched Oak Lake. The turbo-four delivers that pull earlier in the powerband, making everyday driving feel more responsive despite the lower peak horsepower. Kia estimates 0-60 times around 6.6 to 6.8 seconds—roughly the same as the outgoing model’s 6.9 seconds.
The Game-Changer: Telluride Hybrid
For families who’ve been waiting, the 2027 model finally delivers the Telluride’s first-ever hybrid powertrain. This isn’t a mild hybrid either—it’s a full hybrid system shared with the Hyundai Palisade, pairing the 2.5-liter turbo-four with two electric motors and a 1.65-kWh lithium-ion battery.
The result is 329 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque—more powerful than both the new base engine and the old V6. Kia estimates the hybrid will hit 60 mph in about 5.8 seconds, making it noticeably quicker than any previous Telluride.
But the real headline is efficiency. Kia projects up to 35 mpg combined for the hybrid, compared to roughly 21 mpg on the 2025 model. For Omaha commuters averaging 25 or more miles each way, that translates to $800 to $1,000+ in annual fuel savings at current gas prices.
The hybrid also includes a clever “Stay Mode” feature that lets you run the climate control, stereo, and other accessories for up to 20 minutes on battery power alone—perfect for waiting in the school pickup line without idling. And as a bonus, the hybrid model gets about 1.4 cubic feet of extra cargo space, including a rear underfloor storage compartment with removable dividers that the gas-only model doesn’t have.
Size Matters: Bigger Where It Counts
The 2027 Telluride grew in every dimension that matters to families.
Overall length increased by 2.3 inches, giving the new model more road presence and visual authority. But the real improvement comes from the wheelbase, which stretched nearly 3 inches. That extra length between the wheels does two things: it improves ride quality by smoothing out bumps and road imperfections, and it creates more usable interior space, particularly for second and third-row passengers.
The new Telluride also stands an inch taller than before. That means easier entry and exit for all passengers, better forward visibility, and improved clearance for Nebraska’s gravel roads and occasional flooding. Models equipped with a sunroof gain up to half an inch of additional headroom compared to the outgoing model.
The Cargo Area Gets Smarter
Kia redesigned the cargo area with practical families in mind. The new reconfigurable luggage floor includes a folding table with integrated ruler markings—handy for measuring a catch on a fishing trip or checking dimensions on a quick hardware store run. A removable partition lets you customize the space for different loads, from Costco runs to camping gear.
The takeaway for families: your teenagers will finally have legitimate legroom in the third row, and you’ll stop hearing “stop kicking my seat” on long drives to Grandma’s house.
Exterior Design: Range Rover Meets Telluride
The 2027 Telluride is a complete visual departure from the outgoing model, though it retains the bold, boxy character that made the original so popular. Several automotive journalists have noted Range Rover influences in the new design, and that’s not a bad comparison.
The front end features a broad hood and high-gloss grille framed by vertical headlamps with advanced lighting signatures. The overall effect is more upscale and high-tech than before. Around the side, fluid body contours meet aggressively defined triangular creases in the fenders, and flush door handles—like those on the Kia EV9—create a cleaner, more modern profile.
Kia expanded the color palette to ten shades, including new options like Black Jade, Terrain Brown, and Green. Several colors are available in both glossy and matte finishes—a premium touch typically reserved for luxury brands.
One distinctive design element that’s generating conversation: small notches at the upper edge of each wheel arch. Some critics find them odd; others appreciate the distinctiveness. Either way, you’ll instantly recognize the new Telluride from any angle.
X-Pro Exclusive: Ground Lighting
The off-road-focused X-Pro trim gets an exclusive feature that’s genuinely useful: Ground Lighting. Soft light projects from the rearview mirrors, beneath the rear doors, and from the rear bumper, illuminating the area around the vehicle. Additional lighting from the raised tailgate assists with tasks like tire changes or cargo access in low-light conditions.
For tailgating at Memorial Stadium, loading camping gear after dark, or simply navigating a dark parking lot safely, it’s the kind of thoughtful feature that proves Kia understands how families actually use these vehicles.
Interior: The “Grandioso” Treatment
Step inside the 2027 Telluride and you’ll find Kia’s most ambitious interior yet. The design philosophy they call “Grandioso”—magnificent yet restrained elegance—draws from luxury interiors with rich colors and tactile materials.
Premium Materials Throughout
Seating surfaces feature embossed lines, diagonal flourishes, and V-shaped motifs that add visual depth and interest. First and second-row seats get mesh headrests that blend modern aesthetics with everyday comfort. The rear passenger console transforms into a functional table—another nod to practical family use.
Bold New Color Combinations
The interior color story takes some risks that pay off. Two standout combinations include Deep Navy with Tuscan Umber for a confident, sophisticated look, and Blackberry Purple with Sand Beige—a surprising combination that creates striking contrast without feeling overdone.
For X-Pro models, the palette turns more rugged with Deep Khaki, Saddle Brown, or all-black options designed to feel durable while maintaining refinement.
Seating Flexibility Remains
The new Telluride continues offering either 7-passenger seating with second-row captain’s chairs or 8-passenger seating with a bench. The hybrid model adds available ventilated Relaxation Seats in both the first and second rows, plus heated seats in all three rows—including the wayback. Nebraska winters just got a lot more comfortable for everyone in the family.
Technology: A Major Step Forward
The 2027 Telluride’s technology package represents the biggest leap forward in this redesign, with new features that go well beyond the expected screen size increases.
The Digital Cockpit
Every 2027 Telluride comes standard with a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen. Higher trims add a matching 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster for a combined 24 inches of display real estate. An available 12-inch head-up display projects key information directly into your line of sight.
Kia simplified the button layout compared to the outgoing model, moving more controls to the touchscreen. While the 2025 model earned praise for its large physical buttons, the new approach creates a cleaner dashboard aesthetic.
Built-In Entertainment
Here’s something new: the 2027 Telluride comes with Entertainment and Data Services that support built-in streaming for Disney+, Netflix, and YouTube. No more relying solely on your phone’s connection or portable tablets for backseat entertainment.
Display themes let you personalize the screens with exclusive artwork from Disney’s most iconic brands—perfect for families with young kids. All 30 NBA teams also have dedicated themes available for sports fans.
Smart Home Integration
Kia myQ Connected Garage integration uses geo-fencing to detect your vehicle’s approach and automatically opens or closes your garage door. It’s a small convenience that makes coming home just a little bit easier, especially when you’ve got a car full of groceries or sleeping kids.
The AI Assistant
The 2027 Telluride includes a built-in generative AI voice assistant—not just phone-mirrored voice control, but an integrated system that can understand natural language requests and provide more conversational responses.
Standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto mean you won’t need cables to connect your phone. A 12-speaker stereo comes standard, with an available 14-speaker Meridian premium system for audio enthusiasts. Over-the-air updates keep both the infotainment system and vehicle software current without dealer visits.
Safety: More Airbags, Smarter Systems
Kia has always made safety a priority with the Telluride, and the 2027 model expands those protections significantly.
10 Standard Airbags
The new Telluride comes standard with 10 airbags—up from the previous generation. The most notable addition is a front-row center airbag mounted between the driver and front passenger, designed to reduce side impacts in certain collision types.
Enhanced Driver Assistance
The automatic emergency braking system now includes evasive steering assist, which can help guide the vehicle around an obstacle if braking alone won’t prevent a collision.
Safe Exit Warning and Safe Exit Assist provide alerts to occupants if another vehicle is approaching when you’re opening your door—a valuable feature in busy parking lots or along streets with bike lanes.
Radar-Based Rear Occupant Alert
The new rear occupant detection system uses in-cabin radar to detect the presence of passengers in the second and third rows. When you park and turn off the vehicle, it issues a visual reminder. If that doesn’t get a response, it escalates to an audible and visual alert. Finally, it can send a push notification to your smartphone through the Kia Access app.
In extreme Nebraska summer heat, this system could literally be a lifesaver.
Returning Safety Features
All the advanced features that made the outgoing Telluride an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ return, including the blind-spot view monitor, 360-degree camera, and Highway Driving Assist 2 for semi-autonomous highway driving.
What Stays the Same
Some things you loved about the Telluride haven’t changed:
The 2027 model continues to be built at Kia’s plant in West Point, Georgia—American-made, just like every Telluride before it.
You’ll still have the choice between 7-passenger and 8-passenger configurations. The trim lineup remains comprehensive: LX, S, EX, X-Line, SX, X-Pro, and SX Prestige.
And crucially, Kia’s industry-best warranty continues: 10 years or 100,000 miles on the powertrain, 5 years or 60,000 miles bumper-to-bumper. No other mainstream brand offers coverage this comprehensive.
Should You Buy Now or Wait?
With 2025 models still available and the 2027 arriving in early 2026, timing your purchase matters.
Buy a 2025 Telluride Now If:
You prefer the proven 3.8-liter V6 engine that’s powered Tellurides for six years. Some buyers simply prefer a naturally aspirated V6 over a turbocharged four-cylinder, and that’s valid.
You don’t need the hybrid’s fuel savings. If you’re not driving high miles or gas prices aren’t a major concern, the 2025’s lower purchase price might offset efficiency differences.
You’re comfortable with current technology features. The 2025 Telluride’s infotainment and safety systems are still competitive—they’re just not as cutting-edge as what’s coming.
Wait for the 2027 Telluride If:
The hybrid powertrain appeals to you. If fuel efficiency matters—and at 35 mpg combined versus 21 mpg, the savings add up—the hybrid is worth waiting for.
You want the bolder, more modern design. The 2027’s styling is a significant departure, and for many buyers, it’s a compelling upgrade.
The latest safety technology matters to you. The center airbag, evasive steering assist, and radar-based occupant detection represent meaningful safety improvements.
You need more interior space. The nearly 3-inch wheelbase stretch translates to noticeably better legroom for second and third-row passengers.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the 2027 Kia Telluride come out?
The 2027 Kia Telluride is expected to arrive at dealerships in the first quarter of 2026. Kia unveiled the redesigned model at the 2025 Los Angeles Auto Show in November. Contact H+H Kia for more information and be among the first to know when inventory arrives in Omaha.
How much will the 2027 Kia Telluride cost?
Kia has not yet announced official pricing for the 2027 Telluride. Pricing will be released closer to the on-sale date in early 2026. Given the significant upgrades—including the hybrid option—expect some price increases over the 2025 model, though Kia typically remains competitive within the segment.
Is the 2027 Telluride bigger than the 2025?
Yes. The 2027 Telluride is 2.3 inches longer overall, with a wheelbase stretched nearly 3 inches and height increased by 1 inch. These changes translate to improved second and third-row legroom, up to half an inch more headroom in sunroof-equipped models, and easier entry and exit for all passengers.
Does the 2027 Kia Telluride have a hybrid?
Yes—for the first time ever. The 2027 Telluride offers an available hybrid powertrain combining a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with two electric motors for 329 horsepower and an estimated 35 mpg combined. This is significantly more powerful and efficient than both the outgoing V6 and the new base turbo engine.
Why did Kia drop the V6 from the Telluride?
Kia replaced the 3.8-liter V6 with a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder to improve efficiency while maintaining performance. Though the new base engine has slightly less horsepower (274 vs 291), it produces substantially more torque (311 vs 262 lb-ft), which most drivers will notice as better everyday responsiveness. The hybrid option provides even more power than the old V6 while dramatically improving fuel economy.
What’s new on the 2027 Telluride X-Pro?
The 2027 X-Pro receives significant off-road upgrades including an electronic limited-slip differential, raised suspension with 9.1 inches of ground clearance (up from 8.4), wider all-terrain tires, multi-terrain AWD mode, an off-road status screen showing pitch/roll/steering angle, an external front camera to see under the hood, and exclusive Ground Lighting that illuminates the area around the vehicle.
Can you get the 2027 Telluride with captain’s chairs?
Yes. The 2027 Telluride continues to offer both 7-passenger seating with second-row captain’s chairs and 8-passenger seating with a second-row bench. Captain’s chairs provide easier third-row access and a more premium feel, while the bench maximizes passenger capacity.
Does the 2027 Telluride have a third-row?
Yes. Like all Telluride models, the 2027 features standard third-row seating. The nearly 3-inch wheelbase increase improves third-row legroom compared to the outgoing model. Hybrid models offer available heated third-row seats—a first for the Telluride.
What’s the towing capacity of the 2027 Kia Telluride?
The 2027 Telluride can tow up to 5,000 pounds with the standard gas engine and X-Pro trim. The hybrid model is rated for up to 4,500 pounds of towing capacity. Both figures are competitive with other three-row SUVs in the segment.
Is the 2027 Telluride made in America?
Yes. The 2027 Kia Telluride will be built at Kia’s manufacturing plant in West Point, Georgia—the same facility that has produced every Telluride since the model launched in 2020.
Should I buy a 2025 Telluride now or wait for the 2027?
It depends on your priorities. Buy a 2025 now if you prefer the proven V6 engine, want to take advantage of end-of-model-year pricing, or don’t need the hybrid’s fuel savings. Wait for the 2027 if the hybrid powertrain appeals to you, you want the latest safety technology (including the new center airbag and evasive steering assist), or you prefer the bolder redesigned styling. Both are excellent vehicles—the 2025 just represents the outgoing generation while the 2027 is all-new.
What warranty does the Kia Telluride have?
The Kia Telluride comes with one of the best warranty packages in the industry: 10 years or 100,000 miles powertrain coverage, 5 years or 60,000 miles bumper-to-bumper coverage, and 5 years of roadside assistance. This applies to both the 2025 and 2027 models.
See It at H+H Kia
The 2027 Kia Telluride represents the most significant evolution of one of the most successful SUVs of the past decade. The first-ever hybrid option alone makes this a landmark model for Kia, and the combination of more space, better technology, and enhanced safety features positions it to dominate the three-row segment for another six years.
The 2027 Telluride arrives at H+H Kia in early 2026. Contact our team for more info and be among the first to see—and drive—the next generation. Or if you’d rather take advantage of current opportunities, explore our 2025 Telluride inventory with special pricing available now.
Either way, the Telluride remains the three-row SUV to beat. And for Omaha families, that’s been true since 2020.
H+H Kia serves the greater Omaha area including Bellevue, Papillion, La Vista, Council Bluffs, and surrounding communities. Visit us to experience the Telluride difference.
