The 2025 Kia Telluride builds on its reputation as a top-tier midsize SUV by delivering premium styling, high-tech features, and outstanding comfort—without the luxury price tag. With small refinements for 2025, this three-row SUV remains one of the most complete packages for families, road-trippers, and anyone who wants serious space with style. Here’s a comprehensive look at what the 2025 Telluride has to offer and what you should know before buying.
Why Consider the 2025 Kia Telluride?
A Quick Snapshot
What It Is: Three-row midsize SUV with seating for 7 or 8
What’s New: Minor updates to tech interface, new color options, slight design refresh
Known Issues: Still a bit bulky in tight city driving, slightly firm suspension on higher trims
Trims Available: LX, S, EX, SX, SX-Prestige, X-Line, X-Pro
DIY Friendly? Yes for basic maintenance; electrical systems may need a technician
2025 Kia Telluride Highlights
Luxurious Design with Subtle Upgrades
The Telluride keeps its bold, upscale appearance with a refreshed grille, updated LED lighting, and available new wheel designs for 2025.
Pros: Road presence that rivals luxury SUVs
Cons: Design evolution is subtle—hard to distinguish from 2024 at a glance
Powerful and Smooth Performance
All trims come equipped with a 3.8L V6 engine producing 291 horsepower paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard; all-wheel drive is optional or standard on upper trims.
Pros: Confident highway power, smooth shifting
Cons: No hybrid or turbo option available yet
Spacious, Well-Designed Cabin
The Telluride remains one of the most spacious SUVs in its class, offering ample room in all three rows and high-quality materials throughout the cabin.
Pros: Genuine comfort for adult passengers in all rows
Cons: Higher trims come with captain’s chairs, which reduce passenger capacity to seven
Upgraded Tech Experience
The 2025 model features a wide panoramic curved display integrating digital gauges and infotainment (standard on most trims). Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto now available on all trims.
Pros: High-res screens, intuitive layout, seamless smartphone connection
Cons: Touchscreen may be sensitive to glare under sunlight
Comprehensive Safety Features
Standard across the lineup is a full suite of advanced driver-assist systems: forward collision warning, lane keeping assist, blind-spot view monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, and highway driving assist.
Pros: Offers peace of mind for families
Cons: Some features like adaptive cruise control feel too conservative at times
Common Issues with the 2025 Kia Telluride
Large Size Can Be a Hassle in Cities
While perfect for long road trips, the Telluride’s size can be unwieldy in tight parking lots or crowded urban areas.
Fix: Use parking sensors, surround-view camera, and park-assist tech to maneuver confidently
Slightly Firm Ride on X-Pro and SX-Prestige
The higher trims with larger wheels or off-road suspension tuning can feel a bit stiff over rough pavement.
Fix: Choose the EX or SX trim with smaller wheels for a smoother everyday ride
Fuel Efficiency Remains Average
With its naturally aspirated V6 engine, the Telluride doesn’t lead the class in fuel economy.
Fix: Use ECO mode, maintain proper tire pressure, and avoid aggressive driving to improve mileage
Cabin Tech Glitches (Rare)
Some early users may notice minor bugs with Bluetooth pairing or slow startup of infotainment.
Fix: Restart the system or perform occasional firmware updates
Third-Row Access Is Tight with Captain’s Chairs
Models with second-row captain’s chairs provide less convenient access to the third row than those with a bench.
Fix: Opt for the 8-passenger setup if third-row access is a priority
Maintenance and Reliability Outlook
Routine Maintenance
- Oil Change: Every 7,500 miles (full synthetic recommended)
- Tire Rotation: Every 6,000–7,500 miles
- Air Filters (Engine & Cabin): Replace every 15,000–20,000 miles
- Brake Inspection: Every 10,000 miles
- Coolant and Transmission Fluid: Check at 30,000-mile intervals
Fuel Economy
- FWD Models: Around 20 mpg city / 26 mpg highway
- AWD Models: Around 19 mpg city / 24 mpg highway
- Total Range: Around 400–500 miles per tank depending on driving style and trim
Reliability
The Telluride has proven to be a highly reliable SUV since its debut. The 2025 model builds on that with refined components, stable tech integration, and high-quality materials that hold up well over time.
Pros and Cons of the 2025 Kia Telluride
Pros:
✔ Roomy and upscale interior for up to eight people
✔ Strong V6 power with smooth acceleration
✔ High-end tech in all trims
✔ Excellent safety features included standard
✔ Refined ride, especially in mid-level trims
Cons:
✘ Large footprint can be challenging in compact cities
✘ No hybrid or performance variant available
✘ Ride can feel firm in off-road-focused trims
✘ Fuel economy trails some competitors
✘ Premium trims get expensive quickly
FAQs
Is the 2025 Kia Telluride worth it?
Yes. It offers a near-luxury experience at a mainstream price, with plenty of room, great features, and a solid track record for reliability.
What’s new in the 2025 Telluride?
Minor design tweaks, expanded standard tech like wireless smartphone features, and additional color and wheel options.
How much does the 2025 Kia Telluride cost?
Expected pricing ranges from $38,000 for the base LX to $53,000+ for the fully loaded SX-Prestige X-Pro AWD.
Is the Kia Telluride good for towing?
Yes. It can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped, making it great for boats, trailers, or campers.
Which Telluride trim is the best value?
The EX offers an ideal balance of luxury features, comfort, and price. For added tech and visual flair, the SX is also a great pick.
The 2025 Kia Telluride stays at the top of its class by doing exactly what drivers need: offering spacious comfort, refined performance, and outstanding safety in a bold, family-friendly package. While some rivals may offer hybrid powertrains or sportier handling, few match the Telluride’s balance of elegance, practicality, and value. If you want a dependable three-row SUV that feels premium without breaking the bank, the 2025 Telluride is a top-tier choice.