2020 Kia Telluride Review: The New Benchmark for Three-Row SUVs

For years, the midsize three-row crossover segment has been dominated by established players like the Honda Pilot, Ford Explorer, and Toyota Highlander. However, the arrival of the 2020 Kia Telluride has completely disrupted the status quo. Designed specifically for the North American market at Kia's California design studio and built in West Point, Georgia, the Telluride is not just another family hauler. It is a bold, upscale statement that proves a mainstream brand can deliver a luxury-grade experience without the premium price tag.

A Bold, Premium Exterior Design

One of the first things that sets the 2020 Kia Telluride apart from its competitors is its styling. While many modern crossovers opt for soft, rounded, minivan-like lines, Kia took a different approach. The Telluride features a boxy, muscular silhouette that pays homage to classic, rugged SUVs like the Land Rover Defender and GMC Yukon.

At the front, the Telluride sports a wide, distinctive version of Kia's signature "tiger-nose" grille, flanked by unique rectangular headlights with amber LED daytime running light rings (available on higher trims). The long hood features spaced-out "TELLURIDE" lettering, a design cue typically reserved for high-end luxury off-roaders. Clean body sides, pronounced wheel arches, and vertical L-shaped LED taillights at the rear complete a design that looks far more expensive than its actual MSRP.

An Interior That Punches Above Its Weight Class

Step inside the 2020 Kia Telluride, and the luxury theme continues. The cabin design is clean, ergonomic, and constructed with high-quality materials. Even on the lower trim levels, the fit and finish are exemplary. On the top-tier SX trim with the Prestige Package, the Telluride borders on luxury-brand territory, offering double-stitched Nappa leather upholstery, a premium headliner, and simulated brushed metal and matte wood accents.

Comfort is a major selling point for the Telluride. It can seat up to eight passengers with the second-row bench seat, or seven when equipped with the optional second-row captain's chairs. Unlike many rivals where the third row is strictly for small children, the Telluride's third row offers legitimate legroom and headroom for adults, thanks to a sliding and reclining second row.

Cargo space is equally impressive. Behind the third row, the Telluride offers 21 cubic feet of storage. Folding the third row flat expands that to 46 cubic feet, and with both rear rows folded, the Telluride boasts a massive 87 cubic feet of cargo capacity. A dual-level cargo floor adds extra utility for hiding valuables or storing taller items.

Smooth Power: The 3.8-Liter V6 Engine

Under the hood of every 2020 Kia Telluride lies a naturally aspirated 3.8-liter V6 engine utilizing the Atkinson cycle for improved efficiency. This powerplant produces 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, mated to a smooth-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard, while an active on-demand all-wheel-drive system is optional across all trims.

On the road, the V6 engine delivers linear, predictable power. While it may not offer the turbocharged punch of some competitors, it provides more than enough acceleration for highway merging and passing maneuvers. The ride quality is exceptionally refined, absorbing road imperfections with ease while maintaining a composed, quiet cabin. Wind and road noise are kept to an absolute minimum, further enhancing the premium driving experience.

For those looking to haul toys, the Telluride has a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. Drivers can also choose between four standard drive modes—Smart, Eco, Sport, and Comfort—along with Snow and AWD Lock modes on all-wheel-drive models to tailor the driving dynamics to current road conditions.

Advanced Technology and Safety Features

Kia has packed the 2020 Telluride with an impressive array of standard and available technology. Lower trims feature an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, while higher trims upgrade to a gorgeous 10.25-inch display. Both systems support Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. The user interface is highly intuitive, featuring physical buttons for primary climate and audio controls alongside responsive touch menus.

Family-friendly tech highlights include:

• Driver Talk: A system that uses a microphone to project the driver's voice to the rear speakers so you do not have to yell to be heard in the third row.
• Quiet Mode: Mutes the rear speakers so passengers can sleep while the driver continues to listen to music up front.
• Wireless Charging: Available on EX and SX trims to keep devices powered up without messy cables.

Safety is another area where the Telluride shines. Kia's Drive Wise suite of driver assistance features comes standard on all models. This includes Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Following Assist, Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist, and Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go. Higher trims offer a Blind-Spot View Monitor, which projects a live video feed of the vehicle's blind spots directly onto the instrument cluster when the turn signal is activated.

Trims, Pricing, and Value

The 2020 Kia Telluride is available in four trim levels: LX, S, EX, and SX. One of the Telluride's biggest strengths is its value proposition. Even the base LX trim comes generously equipped with keyless entry, push-button start, rear parking sensors, and the full suite of safety features. Moving up the trim ladder unlocks premium amenities like a power sunroof, heated and ventilated seats, a hands-free power liftgate, and a premium 10-speaker Harman Kardon audio system.

The Verdict: Is the 2020 Kia Telluride Worth It?

The 2020 Kia Telluride is a triumph for the South Korean automaker. By combining bold styling, a near-luxury interior, class-leading safety features, and exceptional daily usability at an affordable price point, Kia has created the new benchmark for the three-row midsize SUV class. Whether you are cross-shopping mainstream family haulers or considering stretching your budget for a luxury brand, the Telluride deserves a spot at the very top of your test-drive list.