2027 Kia Telluride S Review: A Better Midsize SUV Than Honda Pilot?

Redesigned 2027 Kia Telluride Exterior

• 🚀 The 2027 Kia Telluride receives a total redesign, aiming to offer more for the money in the competitive midsize SUV segment.
• ✨ The S trim features a pearlescent white finish and a familiar vertical lighting design with gloss black and flat black accents.
• 🚗 The front grille maintains Kia's signature tiger-nose design, with a fully functional upper grill in gloss black and skid plate garnish.
• 💡 The bold hood features clear indentations and strong lines, contributing to a more muscular appearance.
• ⚙️ The S trim is equipped with 20-inch machined aluminum wheels, distinct from the LX's 18-inch and EX line's 21-inch options.
• 🌟 The rear boasts nicely shaped tail lights resembling a Range Rover, a body-colored spoiler with a third brake light, and a clean lower bumper area with gray and flat black accents.

Powertrain and Performance

• 💨 Gone is the V6; the 2027 Telluride now features a 2.5L turbocharged inline-4 engine producing 274 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque.
• 🐎 Mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission, it achieves 0-60 mph in approximately 6.7 seconds, with a top speed of 120 mph.
• ⛽ Fuel economy is rated at 20 mpg city and 26 mpg highway, with a towing capacity of 5,000 lbs.
• 🔊 The turbocharged four-cylinder engine can be noisy under acceleration, a notable change from the previous V6.

Interior Features and Comfort (S Trim)

• 💰 The 2027 Kia Telluride S trim is priced at $44,000 as optioned, offering a blend of features compared to competitors.
• 🛋️ Interior materials include a mix of cloth and vinyl, similar to the LX trim, with soft-touch armrests and good-sized door pockets.
• 📱 The infotainment system features a 12.3-inch display with a small AC control touchscreen, though using physical switchgear is recommended to avoid fingerprints.
• 🔌 The center console offers two wireless chargers and three USBC ports, with a bridge-style design enabled by the electric shifter on the steering column.
• 💺 The S trim includes heated seats (three stages) and a sunroof with a manual sunshade, unlike the LX trim.
• 👨‍✈️ The second row features captain's chairs, though the armrests are noted as a drawback.

Driving Experience and Comparison

• 🛣️ The vehicle offers selectable drive modes (Sport, Eco, Preference) that adjust steering feel, throttle sensitivity, and transmission behavior.
• 🌟 Kia's interiors are highlighted as a strong point, with nice materials and features even on non-top trims, rivaling updated competitors like the Honda Pilot.
• 🛠️ The chassis, suspension, and sound deadening are praised for providing a quiet cabin and comfortable ride.
• 🔄 The turning radius is described as very good, and the 8-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly.
• 📏 The Telluride has grown slightly larger, offering ample passenger and cargo space (22.3 cubic feet behind the third row).
• 🤔 The shift from a V6 to a turbocharged four-cylinder engine in the Telluride is questioned, especially when the Hyundai Palisade offers an updated V6.
• ✅ The seats are noted as particularly comfortable and supportive, a significant positive for the driving experience.