The Kia Telluride has become a standout in the competitive midsize SUV segment, earning accolades for its spacious interior, impressive performance, and advanced features. The 2023 Kia Telluride continues this legacy, offering updates that enhance its appeal for families and adventurers alike. In this comprehensive review, we’ll dive into the key aspects of the 2023 Kia Telluride, including its design, features, performance, and why it remains a top choice in its class.

Exterior Design: Bold and Refined

The 2023 Kia Telluride sports a refreshed exterior design that balances boldness with sophistication. The front fascia features a reworked grille, sleeker LED headlights, and updated bumper designs that give it a modern yet rugged appearance. The new color options, such as Midnight Lake Blue and Dawning Red, add a touch of elegance to the lineup.

The SUV’s robust silhouette is complemented by available 20-inch alloy wheels and roof rails, making it both stylish and practical. With a ground clearance of 8 inches, the Telluride is ready for off-road adventures without compromising its city-friendly aesthetic.

Interior: Spacious and Luxurious

Step inside the 2023 Kia Telluride, and you’ll be greeted by a cabin that redefines comfort and functionality. With seating for up to eight passengers, the Telluride boasts generous legroom and headroom across all three rows, making long drives a breeze for families.

The interior is adorned with high-quality materials, including available Nappa leather upholstery and a woodgrain trim that exudes luxury. The driver-centric dashboard features a redesigned digital instrument cluster and a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, seamlessly integrated with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Additional features include:

• Heated and ventilated seats for front and second-row passengers.
• Tri-zone automatic climate control for personalized comfort.
• Power-folding third-row seats for effortless cargo space expansion.

Performance and Capability

Under the hood, the 2023 Kia Telluride retains its reliable 3.8-liter V6 engine, delivering 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. Paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, the SUV provides a smooth and responsive driving experience.

Available in both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations, the Telluride is equipped to handle diverse road conditions. The AWD models include a selectable driving mode system with Snow Mode and AWD Lock, enhancing traction during inclement weather or off-road excursions.

The Telluride also boasts a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds, making it ideal for hauling trailers, boats, or recreational vehicles.

Technology and Safety Features

Kia has packed the 2023 Telluride with cutting-edge technology and safety features to ensure a connected and secure ride. Key highlights include:

• Infotainment Upgrades: The 12.3-inch touchscreen now includes navigation, voice recognition, and multi-device Bluetooth connectivity. A premium Harman Kardon audio system is also available.
• Driver Assistance Features: Standard features include forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality.
• Highway Driving Assist 2: An advanced system that combines lane-centering technology with adaptive cruise control for semi-autonomous driving on highways.
• Surround-View Monitor: Provides a 360-degree view of the vehicle’s surroundings, simplifying parking and tight maneuvers.

Trims and Pricing

The 2023 Kia Telluride is available in multiple trims: LX, S, EX, SX, and the new X-Line and X-Pro trims, which are geared toward outdoor enthusiasts with enhanced towing capacity and rugged styling elements.

• LX: Starting at around $35,000, it offers excellent value with standard safety and tech features.
• S: Adds features like power sunroof and upgraded upholstery.
• EX: Introduces leather seating and additional convenience features.
• SX: Focuses on luxury with premium interior options and advanced technology.
• X-Line and X-Pro: Starting at approximately $45,000, these trims include off-road enhancements, all-terrain tires, and increased ground clearance.

Fuel Efficiency

The 2023 Telluride delivers competitive fuel economy for its class. EPA ratings stand at:

• 20 mpg city / 26 mpg highway for FWD models.
• 19 mpg city / 24 mpg highway for AWD models.

While not the most fuel-efficient SUV, its performance and utility make it a compelling choice for those who value capability over top-tier mileage.

Verdict: Is the Kia Telluride 2023 the Ultimate Family SUV?

The 2023 Kia Telluride continues to set the standard for midsize SUVs by combining style, comfort, and performance in a single package. With its spacious interior, advanced technology, and versatile trims, it’s an excellent choice for families and adventurers alike.

Whether you’re looking for a reliable daily driver, a road trip companion, or a rugged off-road vehicle, the Kia Telluride delivers on all fronts. Its competitive pricing and impressive feature set ensure it remains a leader in its segment for 2023.

If you’re in the market for a family-friendly SUV that doesn’t compromise on luxury or performance, the 2023 Kia Telluride is a top contender worth considering.