The Kia Telluride has long been a favorite for drivers who need three rows, plenty of space and everyday versatility. But for 2027, Telluride shoppers have an important new decision to make: gas or hybrid?
The redesigned 2027 Kia Telluride is available with two turbocharged powertrains. The traditional gas Telluride offers strong capability and up to 5,000 pounds of towing capacity, while the first-ever 2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid adds more horsepower, improved fuel economy and up to 637 miles of total driving range.
So, which 2027 Telluride makes more sense for your lifestyle? Let’s compare.
2027 Kia Telluride Gas vs. Hybrid at a Glance
| 2027 Telluride Gas | 2027 Telluride Hybrid | |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5L Turbocharged 4-Cylinder | 2.5L Turbocharged Hybrid |
| Horsepower | 274 hp | 329 hp |
| Torque | 311 lb.-ft. | 339 lb.-ft. |
| Transmission | 8-Speed Automatic | 6-Speed Automatic |
| Best EPA-Estimated MPG | 22 MPG Combined | 35 MPG Combined |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs. | 4,500 lbs. |
| AWD Available | Yes | Yes |
| Passenger Capacity | Up to 8 | Up to 7 |
While these two SUVs share the Telluride name, their powertrains give drivers some important differences to consider.
Performance: Both Tellurides Are Turbocharged
Here’s something shoppers may not realize: both versions of the 2027 Kia Telluride have turbocharged engines.
The gas-powered Telluride uses a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 274 horsepower and 311 lb.-ft. of torque.
The Telluride Hybrid starts with a 2.5-liter turbocharged engine and adds its hybrid system, bringing total output to 329 horsepower and 339 lb.-ft. of torque.
That means choosing the Hybrid doesn’t mean sacrificing power. In fact, the Hybrid produces 55 more horsepower and 28 more lb.-ft. of torque than the gas model.
For drivers who want strong acceleration along with hybrid efficiency, that’s a pretty compelling combination.
Fuel Economy: The Hybrid Has the Advantage
This is where the biggest difference between the 2027 Telluride gas and Hybrid becomes clear.
The front-wheel-drive gas Telluride is EPA-estimated at 20 MPG city, 26 MPG highway and 22 MPG combined.
The Telluride Hybrid EX FWD is EPA-estimated at 34 MPG city, 36 MPG highway and 35 MPG combined.
Kia also estimates up to 637 miles of total driving range with the Telluride Hybrid EX FWD.
For drivers who spend a lot of time commuting, running errands around Omaha or taking family road trips, the Hybrid’s fuel economy could mean fewer stops at the gas station.
Actual mileage and driving range will vary based on trim, drivetrain, driving conditions, habits and other factors.
Do You Have to Plug In the Telluride Hybrid?
No.
The 2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid is not a plug-in hybrid. You fill it with gas just like the traditional Telluride.
The hybrid system uses energy captured through regenerative braking to help recharge its battery while you drive. There’s no charging cable to connect when you get home and no need to install a home charger.
For someone interested in better fuel economy but not ready to make the jump to a plug-in vehicle or EV, the Telluride Hybrid keeps things simple.
Towing: The Gas Telluride Has the Edge
If towing is one of your biggest priorities, the gas Telluride has an advantage.
When properly equipped, the 2027 gas Telluride can tow up to 5,000 pounds.
The 2027 Telluride Hybrid can tow up to 4,500 pounds when properly equipped.
That’s only a 500-pound difference, but it could matter depending on what you plan to tow.
If you’re regularly pulling a trailer, boat or recreational equipment and need every bit of available towing capacity, the gas Telluride may better fit those needs.
If 4,500 pounds is enough for what you plan to tow, the Hybrid still provides plenty of capability while adding significantly better fuel economy.
Seating: Seven or Eight Passengers?
Another difference families should know about is passenger capacity.
The gas-powered 2027 Telluride can seat up to eight passengers when equipped with a second-row bench seat. Other configurations offer seven-passenger seating with second-row captain’s chairs.
The 2027 Telluride Hybrid offers seating for up to seven passengers.
For larger families that regularly need that eighth seat, this could make the gas Telluride the better fit. If seven seats are plenty, the Hybrid still provides three rows of family-friendly space.
What About Nebraska Winters?
Both Telluride powertrains offer options for drivers who want additional capability when Nebraska weather doesn’t cooperate.
All-wheel drive is available on both the gas and Hybrid Telluride, and certain configurations include Terrain Mode with settings for Snow, Mud and Sand.
That makes either powertrain worth considering for Omaha-area drivers who want the additional confidence of available AWD during snowy and icy months.
The Hybrid Has a Few Unique Tricks
Choosing the Telluride Hybrid isn’t only about MPG.
The Hybrid includes some technology specifically designed around its electrified powertrain.
One example is Stay Mode, which allows the air conditioning and touchscreen systems to operate while the vehicle is parked using the hybrid battery instead of running the gas engine.
The Hybrid also features Electrification-Vehicle Motion Control, or e-VMC, technology designed to enhance stability and ride comfort through electric motor torque control.
They’re small examples of how Kia has used the hybrid system for more than simply improving fuel economy.
Which 2027 Kia Telluride Fits Your Lifestyle?
There isn’t one answer that works for every driver. It comes down to what you need from your SUV.
Consider the 2027 Telluride Gas if you:
- Need seating for up to eight passengers
- Want the maximum 5,000-pound towing capacity
- Prefer a traditional gas powertrain
- Want access to the broader Telluride trim lineup, including the adventure-focused X-Pro
Consider the 2027 Telluride Hybrid if you:
- Drive frequently and prioritize fuel economy
- Want up to an EPA-estimated 35 MPG combined
- Want more horsepower and torque
- Like the idea of fewer fuel stops on longer trips
- Want a hybrid without having to plug it in
- Only need seating for up to seven
- Still want up to 4,500 pounds of available towing capacity
Find Your 2027 Kia Telluride in Omaha
Gas or Hybrid, the redesigned 2027 Kia Telluride gives Omaha drivers two very different ways to enjoy the space, technology and versatility of a three-row SUV.
The gas Telluride offers seating for up to eight and a little more towing capability. The first-ever Telluride Hybrid offers more horsepower and torque while delivering significantly better fuel economy.
The best way to decide? Experience the Telluride for yourself.
Explore the 2027 Kia Telluride and 2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid at H+H Kia in Omaha, Nebraska, and find the powertrain, trim and features that fit the way you drive.
