Inside The 2027 Kia Telluride: Why The Best-Selling SUV Just Became A Hybrid | Cars & Bikes | Forbes

Key Concepts

• 2027 Kia Telluride: Redesigned three-row SUV, blending design elements from the EV9 with a gasoline and hybrid powertrain.
• Hybrid Powertrain Introduction: First-time hybrid option for the Telluride, emphasizing fuel economy and range.
• Design Evolution: Shift towards a more rugged, modern aesthetic incorporating EV-inspired features and architectural details.
• Kia’s Brand Transition: Movement from a budget brand to a more premium, quality-focused manufacturer.
• Sustainable Mobility Plan: Kia’s strategy to offer a range of powertrain options, including hybrids, as part of its sustainability efforts.
• Market Resilience: Positive outlook on the automotive market despite recent disruptions like IRA tax credit changes and tariffs.

Redesign and Key Features of the 2027 Kia Telluride

The 2027 Kia Telluride, unveiled at the 2025 Los Angeles Auto Show, represents a significant evolution of the highly successful Telluride model. Recognizing the original’s popularity – nearly 600,000 units sold – Kia focused on delivering a vehicle that meets evolving customer demands and signals the brand’s future direction. The new Telluride is larger and more modern, incorporating design cues from the all-electric Kia EV9 while remaining a gasoline-powered SUV with seating for seven or eight passengers.

A key change is the engine lineup. The V6 engine has been replaced with a more powerful four-cylinder engine, and a hybrid powertrain has been introduced for the first time. This hybrid option is expected to deliver “great range and great fuel economy,” addressing customer requests for improved efficiency.

Exterior Design Enhancements

The 2027 Telluride boasts a brand-new front grille and waterfall-style headlights, contributing to a more pronounced and rugged aesthetic reminiscent of the EV9. Design elements include multi-layered cladding, architectural detailing, and larger wheels with a geometric gloss black finish. Modern features such as flush door handles (which retract into the body when the car is started or in motion) and ladder-style gloss black roof rails enhance both the vehicle’s appearance and functionality, providing cargo and sports equipment carrying capability.

Interior Redesign and Heritage Details

The interior has undergone a complete redesign. Notable features include a flat-top and bottom steering wheel and a stock-style gear selector. A single pane screen spans the front dash, integrating driver information and multimedia controls. A “grab bar” on the center console, a heritage detail carried over from previous Telluride models, has been retained, emphasizing a connection to the vehicle’s history. Additional storage solutions have been incorporated, including under-console storage and storage within the center armrest.

Kia’s Strategic Shift and Market Outlook

According to representatives at the LA Auto Show, the Telluride was a “pivotal moment” for Kia, changing public perception of the brand. The company is actively transitioning from a budget-focused manufacturer to a more premium brand, emphasizing higher quality and innovative products. This is reflected in the Telluride’s redesign and the introduction of the hybrid powertrain.

“EVs are fantastic. They drive great. They perform well and there's definitely a buyer for them. They're going to be part of our future,” stated a Kia representative, but emphasized the importance of offering customers a range of options. The introduction of the hybrid powertrain is a key component of Kia’s “sustainable mobility plan,” aiming to provide “the best of both worlds” to consumers.

Sales Performance and Market Resilience

Kia has experienced significant growth in recent years, with the company anticipating its eighth consecutive annual retail sales record. Despite recent market disruptions, including changes to IRA tax credits and the introduction of tariffs, Kia remains optimistic about the future. The representative noted that the fundamentals of the car market are “very sound” and that the company expects continued growth and record sales in 2026, citing the enduring need for reliable transportation in a “driving-centric country.” The company has been strategically improving its product lineup and quality over the past eight years, contributing to this positive outlook.