Are you ready to take on the open road in a used Kia Telluride? Before you hit the gas pedal, make sure you know which model years to avoid.
While the Telluride is a top-notch three-row SUV, there are certain years that come with some bumps in the road. Don’t let these issues catch you off guard – arm yourself with knowledge and make an informed purchase.
From reported problems to consumer feedback, we’ve got you covered. Buckle up as we take you on a ride through the Kia Telluride model years to steer clear of and the issues you need to know about. By the end of this article resource, you’ll be a Telluride expert and ready to hit the road with confidence.
Contents
- 1 Kia Telluride Overview
- 2 Three-Row SUV
- 3 First Generation
- 4 Worst Years to Avoid and Common Problems
- 5 Common Issues
- 6 Underlying Problems and Mechanical Issues
- 7 Engine Failure and Class Action Investigation
- 8 Reliability and Safety
- 9 Interior and Comfort
- 10 Cargo Area and Seating
- 11 High-Quality Materials
- 12 Choosing the Best Model Year
- 13 2021 Kia Telluride
- 14 2022 Kia Telluride
- 15 2023 Kia Telluride
- 16 Technology and Connectivity
- 17 Performance and Fuel Economy
- 18 The fuel economy
- 19 Kia Telluride Competition
- 20 Honda Pilot
- 21 Ford Explorer
- 22 Toyota Highlander
- 23 Jeep Grand Cherokee
- 24 Hyundai Palisade
- 25 Share this post:
Kia Telluride Overview
Three-Row SUV
The Kia Telluride is a large SUV designed for drivers like you who need plenty of space for both passengers and cargo.
With three rows of seating, this SUV can comfortably accommodate up to eight people, making it an ideal choice for families or those who need ample room for passengers.
The Telluride comes equipped with high-quality materials, ensuring a comfortable and luxurious ride for you and your passengers.
As you drive the spacious Telluride, you’ll appreciate its long list of features and upscale design elements. The interior quality is excellent, boasting materials that rival those found in more expensive luxury vehicles.
First Generation
The first-generation Kia Telluride has been in production since 2020. This large SUV has received widespread acclaim for its style, performance, and user-friendly technology.
However, while there have been relatively few issues reported, it is important to note that the 2020 model year has had some visibility concerns.
As the first-generation Telluride continues to evolve, improvements have been made in subsequent model years, resulting in even better performance and overall satisfaction.
For instance, the 2021 and 2022 models have received high ratings and have fewer reported problems, making them more appealing options for those seeking a reliable and stylish large SUV.
Worst Years to Avoid and Common Problems
There’s one model year that you should be cautious about: the 2020 Telluride. This was the first year of production, and it came with a few issues that have been resolved in the later models.
The 2020 Kia Telluride had a number of issues, while the 2021 and 2022 models have garnered much better reviews and fewer reported problems.
So, you may want to focus on these more recent years to avoid any lingering issues from the 2020 model.
Common Issues
While the 2020 Kia Telluride may be the year to avoid, there are some common problems you should be aware of when considering any Telluride model:
- Defective high beams: The 2020 Telluride experienced issues with its high beams, resulting in poor illumination and reduced visibility.
- Vehicle vibrations: Some drivers reported vibrations in the 2020 model that led to discomfort and concerns about the vehicle’s overall stability.
- Vehicle noise: Excessive noise has been reported in the 2020 Telluride, which can be distracting and take away from your overall driving experience.
- Visibility problems: The worst of the common issues involves visibility, particularly in the 2020 model. As such, it’s essential to ensure that you can see clearly when driving a Telluride.
It’s important to remember that each car is unique, and not every Telluride owner will experience these problems.
Underlying Problems and Mechanical Issues
While no vehicle is perfect, it’s also important to be aware of any underlying problems or mechanical issues that could arise with your car.
It’s always a good idea to perform regular maintenance checks and discuss any concerns with your mechanic to keep your Telluride running smoothly and safely.
Engine Failure and Class Action Investigation
Currently, there is no widespread concern regarding engine failure in the Kia Telluride. Likewise, there have been no reported class action investigations targeting this vehicle.
Keep in mind that individual cases may differ, and you should always take any potential problems seriously and discuss them with a professional.
Reliability and Safety
It’s also essential to be informed about the reliability and safety features to make the best choice for you and your family.
The 2020 Kia Telluride model had some concerns with visibility, making it the year to avoid. However, both the 2021 and 2022 models rate high in reliability and have very few problems.
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) have given high ratings to the newer Telluride models.
In fact, the 2022 Kia Telluride scored an 85/100 quality and reliability rating from J.D. Power, and NHTSA awarded it a five-star overall rating.
Standard safety features for the Kia Telluride include:
- Forward collision warning
- Automatic emergency braking
- Lane departure warning
- Lane keep assist
- Blind spot monitoring
- Rear cross-traffic alert
- Rearview camera
These features will help you feel secure while navigating the roadways. Moreover, additional advanced safety features such as adaptive cruise control, high beams, and blind-spot view monitor are available in higher trims or as optional add-ons.
The Telluride offers three rows of seating, making it spacious and comfortable for you and your passengers. The seating capacity ranges from 7 to 8 passengers, depending on the chosen trim level and seat configuration.
In conclusion, the years to focus on when considering a Kia Telluride would be the 2021 and 2022 models, as they have received high ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA.
Always consider newer models when in the market for a Telluride, and make sure to review the standard and available safety features to best suit your needs.
Overall, the Kia Telluride has a positive reputation for reliability and features a wealth of safety equipment to protect you and your family on the road.
Interior and Comfort
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Cargo Area and Seating
As a Kia Telluride owner, you’ll enjoy a spacious interior with ample room for both passengers and cargo. The vehicle offers three rows of seats accommodating up to eight passengers, depending on the configuration.
The front seats are comfortable, and the second-row seats provide ample legroom for adult passengers. In the third row, kids will find the rear seats cozy, while adults might feel slightly cramped, particularly during long trips.
When it comes to cargo space, the Telluride impresses with its generous capacity. Behind the third row, you have 21 cubic feet of space, perfect for daily errands or short trips.
Need more room? Simply fold the third row and access up to 46 cubic feet of cargo area. If you require the maximum cargo capacity, folding both the second and third rows of seats gives you an impressive 87 cubic feet.
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High-Quality Materials
The Kia Telluride’s interior boasts high-quality materials that enhance your vehicle experience. Soft-touch materials adorn the cabin, giving the SUV a premium feel, while the available leather upholstery elevates the luxurious ambiance further.
Your Telluride may also feature amenities such as a panoramic sunroof or a head-up display, which projects essential driving information onto the windshield for easy viewing.
Here are some of the interior features you’ll appreciate in your Kia Telluride:
- Front and rear heated seats
- Ventilated front seats
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- Ambient lighting
In summary, the Kia Telluride’s interior offers comfort and practicality through its seating configuration, cargo area, and high-quality materials. While the rear seats may not be ideal for taller adults on long trips, the SUV’s overall spaciousness and convenience make it a great choice for families and adventurous drivers alike.
Choosing the Best Model Year
Let’s now reveal the model year that offers the best features and reliability. To help with your decision, let’s take a look at the best Kia Telluride model years and what makes them stand out.
2021 Kia Telluride
The 2021 Kia Telluride is a great model year to consider. It offers an array of standard features, a roomy cabin, balanced handling, and a potent V6 engine.
Additionally, the 2021 model boasts an impressive cargo hold and high ratings from both owners and critics.
2022 Kia Telluride
Another excellent choice for a new Kia Telluride is the 2022 model. It received a 5-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the highest reliability rating from J.D. Power among all Telluride models.
The starting price for the 2022 Kia Telluride is $36,500, offering excellent value for your money.
2023 Kia Telluride
Although the 2023 model isn’t available yet, the previous years’ success indicates that it is likely to be another fantastic option.
You can expect it to continue offering a comfortable and spacious interior, powerful engine and advanced technology features.
When considering the various trim levels, don’t forget about the Nightfall Edition. It’s a popular option that provides a sleek appearance and enhanced features for an added touch of luxury. Each trim level offers different options and prices, so it’s essential to choose the one that best suits your needs and budget.
Technology and Connectivity
You should be aware of the technology and connectivity features available across different model years. While some years might have slightly better technology offerings, the Telluride generally offers great features.
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto: You’ll find that most Telluride models support Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, ensuring seamless smartphone integration for both iPhone and Android users alike.
With this feature, you can enjoy your favorite apps, music, and messages right on the vehicle’s infotainment screen.
Wi-Fi hotspot: When it comes to a Wi-Fi hotspot, it isn’t mentioned that Telluride explicitly offers this feature, but it does come with Kia Connect connected services in newer models. This allows you to access various functions like remote start and vehicle location, which could come in handy.
A built-in navigation system is also available, providing maps and directions to help you reach your destinations. The 2023 Telluride model, for example, specifically includes this technology to make it more convenient for drivers to find their way.
To make the most of your Telluride’s technology and connectivity features, always take a close look at each model year to ensure you’re getting everything you need.
Keep in mind that features may vary due to trim levels and optional packages, so it’s important to dig a bit deeper when shopping for your perfect Telluride.
Performance and Fuel Economy
When it comes to the performance of your Kia Telluride, you’ll find that it offers a smooth and comfortable ride.
The engine options available for the Telluride are reliable and provide ample power for a satisfying driving experience.
You get a standard 3.8-liter V6 engine that delivers 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, making for seamless gear changes and a responsive drive.
The fuel economy
Your Telluride’s gas mileage depends on the drivetrain you choose. With front-wheel drive, the Telluride achieves an EPA-estimated 20 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway.
If you opt for all-wheel drive, these numbers are slightly lower, at 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway.
Keep in mind that, as with any vehicle, your actual fuel economy may vary depending on driving conditions and how you drive your Telluride. As a general rule, here are some tips to help you improve your gas mileage:
- Maintain a steady speed and avoid sudden accelerations
- Keep your tires properly inflated
- Follow the recommended maintenance schedule for your Telluride
To recap, your Kia Telluride offers solid performance with a V6 engine and 8-speed automatic transmission. You’ll experience a smooth, comfortable ride, while enjoying decent fuel economy for a midsize SUV.
Kia Telluride Competition
When exploring the Kia Telluride’s competition, you’ll come across several popular SUV models that might catch your attention. Let’s take a look at some of these rivals and what they have to offer.
Honda Pilot
The Honda Pilot is a reliable family SUV with a comfortable interior, smooth ride, and advanced safety features.
It can comfortably seat up to eight passengers and offers ample cargo space. It’s ideal if you’re looking for a roomy and fuel-efficient option.
Ford Explorer
As one of the staples in the midsize SUV segment, the Ford Explorer offers a powerful engine lineup and a spacious cabin.
Notably, its driving dynamics are sportier than most family SUVs, and it also provides advanced technology options. If you enjoy a more engaging driving experience, this might be a good fit for you. Here is our complete list of worst Ford Explorer models to avoid!
Toyota Highlander
Known for its reliability and resale value, the Toyota Highlander boasts a comfortable ride, fuel-efficient engine options, and numerous standard advanced safety features.
With seating for up to eight and a reputation for durability, this SUV could meet your long-term needs. Do remember this strong boy has some best and bad models. Go here to get details about the worst Toyota Highlander years to avoid and Highlander SUV specific issues.
Jeep Grand Cherokee
If you’re looking for a more rugged option, the Jeep Grand Cherokee might be the one for you. This SUV offers exceptional off-road capabilities, powerful engine options, and a refined interior.
As a result, it’s suitable for both daily commuting and weekend adventures. Read full Jeep Grand Cherokee years to avoid article here!
Hyundai Palisade
The Hyundai Palisade is a close relative to the Kia Telluride, featuring a premium cabin design, smooth ride, and advanced safety features. The Palisade provides seating for up to eight passengers and earns high marks for comfort and convenience.
Now that you’re aware of the competition, it’s essential to evaluate your needs and preferences in an SUV. Keep these options in mind as you make your decision on which vehicle is best for you.