Kia expands Telluride lineup with hybrid model and updated features

Kia has introduced the second-generation Telluride, marking the first time the three-row SUV will be offered with a hybrid powertrain. The 2027 Telluride Hybrid is scheduled to go on sale in the United States in the first quarter of 2026 and will be assembled at Kia’s manufacturing facility in West Point, Georgia. The latest version retains the general layout and role of the outgoing model but incorporates a new electrified powertrain, expanded interior space, updated technology, and revised safety systems. The changes are designed to modernize the vehicle while keeping it aligned with current industry expectations for fuel efficiency and cabin technology.

The addition of the hybrid system represents the most significant powertrain update since the Telluride launched for the 2020 model year. Kia’s new hybrid setup pairs a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with a 1.65-kWh lithium-ion battery and an electric motor, producing a combined 329 horsepower and 339 pound-feet of torque. This output reflects a notable increase over the previous generation’s naturally aspirated V6, which produced 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. Kia estimates the hybrid will reach up to 35 mpg combined, depending on configuration, and deliver an estimated 600 miles of driving range. Official EPA numbers will be published closer to launch.

Power from the hybrid system is sent through a six-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard, while all-wheel drive is available. Hybrid models include electronic dynamic torque vectoring control, a system that uses both the motor and brakes to help improve stability during cornering or low-traction scenarios. The hybrid also features a function called Stay Mode, which is designed to keep climate, audio, and cabin lighting systems active for up to 20 minutes or until the hybrid battery reaches around 20 percent charge, without starting the gasoline engine. This system is intended for short-duration stationary use where occupants remain inside the vehicle.

Tow ratings differ depending on powertrain, and the hybrid version is rated to tow up to 4,500 pounds when equipped appropriately. The integrated tow hitch, standard on the X-Pro and optional elsewhere, is mounted into the bumper structure and concealed when not in use. Self-leveling rear suspension remains available to maintain ride height while carrying heavy loads or towing.

Kia has also applied styling changes intended to align the Telluride with the rest of its lineup. The body is slightly longer than before, with a 199.2-inch overall length and a 116.9-inch wheelbase. The longer body contributes to increases in second- and third-row legroom, along with added cargo capacity. The hybrid version offers 21.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, 46.3 cubic feet behind the second row, and up to 86.9 cubic feet with both rows folded. The second-row seating has been redesigned to make it easier for passengers to reach the third row without removing compatible child seats, depending on configuration. A new bench seat design allows improved access, and the sliding mechanism has been revised to travel farther than before.

Exterior elements include a more aerodynamic profile that reduces the drag coefficient from 0.33 to 0.30. The front fascia adopts new lighting signatures, vertical headlamps, and a high-gloss grille. Kia has widened the range of trim levels, and the hybrid powertrain will be available on most of them. The off-road-oriented X-Pro trim receives several additional updates, including wider all-terrain tires, revised suspension tuning, 9.1 inches of ground clearance, and an electronic limited-slip differential. Although available with the hybrid powertrain, the X-Pro configuration retains its focus on traction and durability rather than fuel efficiency. The X-Pro also includes Ground Lighting, which illuminates the front, sides, and rear areas of the vehicle, along with a Ground View Monitor that displays a composite underside view at low speeds.

Interior updates emphasize comfort and reduced noise. Kia added more sound-absorbing material, increased glass thickness, and installed triple-sealed doors to reduce wind and road noise. The interior design includes curved displays and hidden door handles integrated into the armrests. Materials include SynTex upholstery with optional SynTex suede inserts. Ambient lighting is available in multiple colors. Front-seat options now include wider relaxation seats with power-operated leg rests and an Ergo Motion driver’s seat with massaging functions. A power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel with memory is also offered. Two wireless phone chargers are now standard for the front row.

Second-row passengers can equip power-operated captain’s chairs with heating and ventilation functions. Heated third-row seats are available, and USB-C ports are located throughout the cabin. Additional storage comes from a two-tier sliding tray in the second row and a folding luggage table behind the third row.

Technology updates center on Kia’s Connected Car Navigation Cockpit (ccNC) operating system, which can span more than half the dashboard through a pair of 12.3-inch displays. The system supports over-the-air software updates for supported functions. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard. A Meridian 14-speaker audio system is available, along with a Full Display Digital Rear View Mirror that uses a camera feed, and a 12-inch head-up display.

Digital Key 2.0 functionality allows compatible Apple or Samsung smartphones and some smartwatches to lock, unlock, and start the vehicle. Digital keys can be shared with up to three people, depending on device compatibility. The Telluride also supports streaming services, including Netflix, YouTube, and Disney+, when parked. Kia’s Display Themes allow drivers to customize the digital interface with artwork licensed from NBA teams or Disney brands. These features require a subscription to Kia Connect and are delivered through the Kia Connect Store.

Safety systems have been revised as well. The Telluride now includes 10 airbags, including a front-row center airbag designed to reduce occupant contact in certain types of collisions. Advanced driver-assistance systems include standard Highway Driving Assist, Lane Following Assist, Forward Collision Avoidance Assist, Blind-Spot Collision Warning, Safe Exit Warning, Intelligent Speed Limit Assist, and Driver Attention Warning. Optional Highway Driving Assist 2 adds automated lane-change assistance in specific conditions. A motion-sensing Rear Occupant Alert System is standard and uses radar to detect movement in the second and third rows. If movement is detected after the driver exits and locks the vehicle, the system escalates warnings from visual alerts to audible alerts and can send a notification to a compatible smartphone with the Kia Access app. Safe Exit Assist can alert occupants when opening a door into approaching traffic.

The 2027 Telluride Hybrid will be offered in a lineup that includes LX, S, EX, SX, SX-Prestige, X-Line, and X-Pro trims. Pricing will be announced closer to the vehicle’s on-sale date. Fuel economy ratings from the EPA will also be released at a later time. Kia notes that the hybrid version is targeted to meet consumer demand for improved efficiency without eliminating towing capability or all-wheel-drive availability. With the addition of the hybrid option, the Telluride enters the next model year with its most significant powertrain diversification to date.