Kia’s three-row SUV gets a hybrid, smarter interior storage, rugged X-Pro upgrades, and a host of style and tech touches for 2027.
The 2027 Kia Telluride arrives with a host of thoughtful upgrades and fresh features that push one of the top three-row family SUVs further into premium territory. From a long-awaited hybrid powertrain and clever interior storage solutions to rugged X-Pro enhancements and bold new color and trim options, this year’s Telluride blends capability, convenience, and style in ways that make it stand out in the segment. Here are 10 of the coolest updates for 2027.
The Hybrid Powertrain
The 2027 Telluride finally adds a hybrid powertrain option, fixing one of the outgoing model’s few real shortcomings. It adopts the mechanically similar Hyundai Palisade’s gas-electric setup, a 2.5-liter turbo-four paired with two motors for a stout 329 hp and 339 lb-ft of torque, far stronger than the new gas-only 274-hp engine and previous 291-hp V-6. We expect the hybrid to hit 60 mph in about 5.8 seconds, and Kia says it can tow up to 4,500 pounds. Efficiency should see an even bigger leap; Kia targets 35 mpg combined and roughly 600 miles of range.
Relocating the Shifter
As in other new Kia and Hyundai models, the shifter moves from the center console to the steering column, freeing up valuable space inside the new interior. In its place, Kia fits standard side-by-side wireless charging pads and a covered compartment with pop-out cupholders ahead of the center bin. There’s also a second storage tier below, making smarter use of the console area.
The Towering X-Pro
This year’s X-Pro models get a useful boost in ride height, jumping from 8.4 inches of ground clearance to 9.1 inches. Kia hasn’t released updated off-road angles yet, but the previous X-Pro offered 17.7 degrees of approach and 23 degrees of departure, so improvements are likely. For reference, the related Palisade XRT Pro delivers a 20.5-degree approach angle and a 22.4-degree departure angle.
Second-Row Pop-Out Shelf
A clever new stowaway table slides out from the rear of the center console for second-row use, and the table’s top retracts to reveal a cubby large enough for a couple of phones or even a light jacket. The only catch: In models with a bench seat, the table sits at shin height for the middle passenger and may be a bit awkward for those in the outboard spots to reach.
Hybrid’s Rear Underfloor Storage
Smart interior packaging lets the hybrid squeeze out more maximum cargo space than the gas model, about 1.4 cubic feet extra, including a rear underfloor compartment the non-hybrid doesn’t get. The added storage area features removable dividers and is large enough for a modest grocery run.
Flush Door Handles
These photos show the door handles extended, but when the Telluride is locked, the releases retract flush with the body for a super-clean profile. They’re standard across the lineup and part of Kia’s efforts to give the Telluride a more upmarket vibe.
That Purple Interior
In the same vein, the Telluride’s new Blackberry Purple with Sand Beige interior is a striking contrast that gives the cabin a more premium feel. It’s a bit outside the box but genuinely appealing. Kia also adds a Deep Navy with Tuscan Umber combo for 2027.
Not Quite a Yardstick
Lift the cargo area floor, and you’ll find a built-in 28-inch (or slightly shorter 70-cm) ruler. What’s it for? Hard to say: measuring a catch on a fishing trip, quick jobsite checks, whatever you dream up. On either end are a couple of shallow cupholders. We’re not sure anyone had the Telluride pegged as a work rig, but the option seems to be there.
NBA and Disney Themes
The new Telluride joins other recent Kia models in letting you bring your fandom into the cabin with customizable infotainment themes. Kia offers motifs for all 30 NBA teams plus Disney properties like Pixar, Star Wars, and more. We’re still waiting on an official MCU Avengers pack. Your move, Kia.
Engineered Carbon X-Pro Accents
That’s the name Kia gives the X-Pro’s standard interior trim, and it’s a convincing take on forged carbon fiber. Beyond the center console, a matching strip runs across the passenger side of the dash.
