A home run for Kia
The 2020 Kia Telluride officially launched in early 2019, sharing its platform with the Hyundai Palisade. It was Kia’s largest vehicle ever, seating up to eight passengers. Since its debut, the Telluride has been a massive success for the automaker, earning numerous accolades, including the 2020 World Car of the Year, 2020 MotorTrend SUV of the Year, multiple Car and Driver 10Best awards, and the North American Utility Vehicle of the Year for 2020. More than 115,000 units were sold in 2024 alone.
So, when Kia rolls out an all-new design, it’s a big deal for the automaker. How big? I went in person to witness firsthand the changes, and it was enlightening.
What’s new externally
The 2027 Telluride’s exterior is completely redesigned from the ground up, and there’s a touch of Range Rover influence blended with the essence of the original Telluride. That’s not a bad thing. Many journalists at Kia’s presentation in Irvine, California, were impressed by the SUV’s evolved yet familiar look. Like the original 2020 model, the new Telluride maintains a rugged, off-road presence, but now with a more refined edge.
The 2027 model is 2.3 inches longer overall, and visually it appears even more substantial. A nearly three-inch stretch in wheelbase and a one-inch increase in height help accentuate its elongated stance. Smooth body panels, a lengthened hood, and softened surfacing give it a more premium, sculpted feel, invoking comparisons to the modern Range Rover SE.
New paint colors such as Black Jade, Green, and Terrain Brown, available in both glossy and matte finishes, join a broader palette of ten shades. The one particularly unique (and somewhat controversial) design element appears around the wheel arches: a small notch at the upper edge of each opening. Some critics see it as odd or unfinished, while others appreciate its distinctiveness. Regardless, it’s a bold choice that ensures you’ll instantly recognize the new Telluride from the side profile alone.
Interior changes
With its larger footprint, the 2027 Telluride offers improved interior packaging and easier access to the second and third rows. The added height provides slightly more headroom – up to half an inch in models with sunroofs, enhancing comfort without compromising the SUV’s bold proportions.
At the core of the interior design philosophy – its Color, Materials, and Finish (CMF) story, is a single concept: “Grandioso.” That’s Kia-speak for “defined by magnificent yet restrained elegance.” The cabin draws inspiration from the world of luxury interiors with rich hues and tactile materials. Colorways like Deep Navy with Tuscan Umber exude confidence, while an all-new Blackberry (a deep purple tone) paired with Sand Beige creates a striking yet harmonious atmosphere.
For the X models, the interior palette becomes more grounded with all-black, deep khaki, or saddle brown tones designed to feel durable and refined. Texture plays an equally important role; seating surfaces feature embossed lines, diagonal flourishes, and V-shaped motifs that add depth and visual interest.
In the rear, the passenger console transforms into a functional table, while mesh headrests in the first and second rows blend modern aesthetics with everyday comfort. Even the cargo area has evolved: a reconfigurable luggage floor with an integrated folding table, ruler markings, and removable partition makes it more adaptable for family or outdoor adventures – blending form and function in clever ways.
Final thoughts
Keep in mind, this was a design unveiling, not a technical debut. Kia hasn’t yet shared details on the drivetrain, performance, or pricing. That information will come later, and I look forward to testing it when the opportunity arises. The 2027 Kia Telluride goes on sale in 2026, with an official launch date to be announced.
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