First Look: 2027 Kia Telluride — New, Updated, Redesigned

The 2027 Kia Telluride is shaping up to be a smarter, sharper evolution of the brand’s beloved three-row SUV.

From design tweaks to richer tech and safety, this first look outlines what’s expected, how it differs from earlier models, and what it means for families, road-trippers, and value-focused buyers considering their next big SUV.

What’s new for the 2027 Telluride

Based on Kia’s typical update cadence and industry reporting, the 2027 Kia Telluride is expected to bring a refined exterior, a more connected cabin, and incremental performance and safety enhancements rather than a ground-up redesign. Expect a focus on upscale details that keep Telluride competitive without losing its value edge.

Early indicators point to a crisper front fascia with revised lighting signatures, fresh wheel designs, and subtle aerodynamic tweaks, alongside an interior that leans into larger displays, better voice control, faster infotainment response, and expanded over-the-air (OTA) update capability.

Under the skin, Kia may streamline trims and packages while expanding standard driver-assist features. The result should be a Telluride that feels more premium and tech-forward, with familiar comfort and space that current owners love.

Exterior styling: subtle, premium polish

The current Telluride already looks upscale, so expect the 2027 model to refine rather than reinvent. Look for:

Reworked LED headlights/DRLs with a signature light motif for clearer brand identity
A slightly bolder grille texture and reshaped lower bumper for a stronger stance
New wheel designs (potentially 20-inch options) and an expanded palette of paint and accent finishes
Small aero tweaks aimed at cutting wind noise and improving highway efficiency

Interior and tech: bigger screens, smarter software

Expect the 2027 Telluride to double down on its cabin strengths: space, materials, and usability. Anticipate a wider curved display setup consolidating the gauge cluster and infotainment, quicker processors for snappier menus, and more natural voice recognition. Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto should remain, while OTA updates likely expand to include more driver-assist and feature refinements over time.

Family-friendly touches—extra USB-C ports, improved second-row storage, and upgraded cabin lighting—are likely, with top trims adding quilted leather, ventilated captain’s chairs, and a premium audio upgrade. Expect a calmer, quieter ride thanks to added sound-deadening in key areas.

Powertrains and capability: familiar strength, possible efficiency play

The Telluride’s proven V6 has been a key selling point for smooth daily driving and confident highway passing. For 2027, anticipate a similar power profile with incremental efficiency improvements via software tuning and aero updates. Towing capacity should remain competitive for family campers and boat owners, with trailer stability aids continuing to be available.

Kia’s adventure-oriented X-Line and X-Pro variants are likely to return, offering slightly higher ride height, improved approach/departure angles, and all-terrain tires on X-Pro. These models aim squarely at buyers who split weekends between trailheads and long interstate stretches.

Safety and driver assist: broader standard features

Kia has steadily added standard safety tech to Telluride, and the 2027 model should keep that momentum. Expect more trims to include enhanced forward collision avoidance with junction/intersection assist, upgraded blind-spot monitoring, lane-centering, and improved Highway Driving Assist functionality for better lane changes and smoother adaptive cruise behavior.

Historically, Telluride has scored well in independent crash testing, and Kia will aim to maintain strong results with structural and feature tweaks. Buyers can watch for ratings updates from the IIHS and NHTSA once the 2027 model is tested.

Trim lineup and features

While final trims weren’t announced at the time of writing, a familiar ladder is likely, centered on value and clear equipment steps:

LX/S: Spacious seating for eight, large touchscreen, wireless smartphone integration, and an expanded suite of standard safety aids.
EX: Adds power tailgate, heated/ventilated front seats, upgraded interior materials, and more USB-C ports.
SX: Larger wheels, premium audio, panoramic camera, and advanced driver-assist features.
X-Line/X-Pro: SUV lifestyle upgrades—raised suspension, enhanced cooling, and off-pavement traction aids for weekend getaways.

If Kia streamlines packages, expect clearer bundles (e.g., Technology, Tow, and Premium Appearance) that simplify ordering and dealer inventory.

How it compares to previous Telluride models

Compared with earlier model years, the 2027 Telluride reads as an evolution: more polish outside, a richer interface inside, and safety tech spread more broadly across the lineup. For drivers stepping out of a 2020–2022 model, the 2027 should feel quieter, more connected, and more refined. Against the 2023–2025 refresh, the 2027’s biggest wins should be in software speed, OTA flexibility, and driver-assist smoothness.

Importantly, the formula that made Telluride a hit—roomy third row, adult-friendly second-row comfort, useful cargo space, and high perceived quality—remains intact, which is exactly what many repeat buyers want.

Pricing and release timing: what to expect

Official pricing isn’t out yet, but given inflation and feature creep across the segment, a modest bump over recent MSRPs is likely. Expect a starting price in the low $40,000s, with well-equipped family sweet spots in the high $40,000s to low $50,000s. Fully loaded X-Pro-style builds could approach the upper $50,000s.

Ordering windows typically open ahead of on-sale dates, so keep an eye on the official product page for updates and early reservation opportunities on the Kia Telluride.

Competitors to watch

The 2027 Kia Telluride will continue to battle a deep bench of three-row SUVs. Key rivals include Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Hyundai Palisade, Chevrolet Traverse, and Mazda CX-90. Expect comparisons to spotlight cabin space, third-row comfort, tech polish, and long-trip refinement.

Highlander: Efficiency and reliability leader; hybrid options attract fuel-conscious buyers.
Pilot: Family-friendly ergonomics and strong safety suite; TrailSport brings light off-road flavor.
Palisade: Near-twin to Telluride with a luxury-leaning cabin and value-rich trims.
Traverse: Big cargo and third-row space; redesigned models emphasize tech and power.
CX-90: Premium-feel driving dynamics; plug-in variant appeals to garage charging households.

Who the 2027 Telluride best serves

Families

If you need a comfortable, quiet cabin with real third-row usability, the Telluride stays on your short list. Easy-access LATCH points, thoughtful storage, and abundant USB-C ports keep kids powered and parents sane.

Adventurers and road-trippers

With confident highway manners, available all-wheel drive, and travel-friendly X-Line/X-Pro variants, the Telluride remains a strong choice for weekends in the mountains or weeks on the interstate.

Tech-minded drivers

The 2027 model’s expanded OTA updates and upgraded driver-assist behaviors should appeal to buyers who want their SUV to get better over time without dealer visits.

Early buying tips

Cross-shop timing: If you find a strong deal on a current Telluride with incentives, it may beat waiting—especially if your must-have features won’t change much for 2027.
Reserve popular builds early: If you want an X-Line/X-Pro or top-trim SX with a specific color, consider pre-ordering to avoid markups or long waits.
Think total cost of ownership: Compare insurance, warranty coverage, and maintenance plans. Kia’s warranty remains a value anchor.
Test tech in person: Driver-assist tuning and infotainment responsiveness vary by brand—schedule a thorough test drive on highways and in traffic.
Plan for resale: Popular colors and widely equipped trims can help residual values when it’s time to sell or trade.

Bottom line

The 2027 Kia Telluride looks set to refine a winning formula with smarter tech, broader safety features, and subtle style updates. For shoppers who prize space, comfort, and value, it should remain one of the segment’s most compelling choices. As always, confirm final specs and pricing near launch and compare test drives across rivals to find the right fit for your family, adventures, and budget.