If you’ve been shopping for a three-row SUV lately, chances are the Kia Telluride has ended up near the top of your list — and for good reason.
The all-new 2027 Telluride is a ground-up redesign, bringing a sharper exterior, a bigger interior, an all-new turbocharged engine, and — for the first time ever — an available hybrid powertrain.
It’s a serious leap forward for what was already one of the most well-regarded family haulers on the market.
But here’s the thing: with ten-plus configurations spanning multiple trim levels, X-Line styling packages, X-Pro off-road variants, and now a separate hybrid lineup, figuring out which Telluride to actually buy can feel genuinely overwhelming.
This guide breaks down every trim level in plain language, explains what you’re actually getting for your money, and helps you figure out the sweet spot for your family’s needs and budget.
In This Post
- What’s New for 2027?
- The Full Trim Lineup at a Glance
- LX — The No-Nonsense Starting Point
- S — The Step Nobody Talks About
- EX — The Sweet Spot (Seriously)
- X-Line EX — The Rugged-Looking Option
- SX — Where the Technology Really Heats Up
- X-Line SX — Adventure-Ready Technology
- SX Prestige — Luxury Territory
- X-Line SX Prestige — Luxury Meets Dark Aesthetic
- X-Pro SX Prestige — The Off-Road Flagship
- The Hybrid Lineup — Is It Worth It?
- Which Trim Is Right for You? A Quick Decision Guide
- How the 2027 Telluride Stacks Up Against the Competition
- Final Thoughts
- Frequently Asked Questions
- References
What’s New for 2027?
Before we get into trim-by-trim comparisons, it’s worth understanding just how different this generation is from the outgoing model.
The most significant change under the hood: Kia dropped the old naturally aspirated 3.8-liter V6 entirely in favor of a new turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder. Don’t let the smaller displacement fool you — the new engine actually produces more torque (311 lb-ft vs. the V6’s 262 lb-ft), though horsepower sits at 274. For those who want more punch, the hybrid version of the same engine bumps output to 329 hp and 339 lb-ft of torque.
Other notable updates:
- Larger overall footprint with a 2.7-inch longer wheelbase, translating to more legroom and cargo space across all rows
- Refined interior with premium materials, a curved wrap-around dash, and available dual 12.3-inch panoramic digital displays
- Generative AI voice assistant — just say “Hey, Kia” to interact naturally with the vehicle
- Available in-vehicle streaming via Disney+, Netflix, and YouTube on select trims
- Digital Key 2.0 compatible with Apple and Samsung smartphones
- 9.1 inches of ground clearance on the X-Pro (up from 8.4)
- Improved drag coefficient dropping from 0.33 to 0.30 on non-X-Pro models
With that context, let’s look at what each trim actually offers.
The Full Trim Lineup at a Glance
The gas-powered 2027 Telluride is available in the following trims:
| Trim | Starting MSRP* | Drivetrain | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| LX | $39,190 | FWD | Budget-conscious families |
| S | ~$42,000 | FWD/AWD | Value seekers wanting a step up |
| EX | ~$44,500 | FWD/AWD | Most buyers — best value |
| X-Line EX | ~$47,000 | AWD | EX features + adventurous style |
| SX | ~$49,000 | FWD/AWD | Tech enthusiasts |
| X-Line SX | ~$51,500 | AWD | Tech + rugged styling |
| SX Prestige | ~$53,000 | FWD/AWD | Luxury buyers |
| X-Line SX Prestige | ~$55,000 | AWD | Luxury + off-road aesthetics |
| X-Pro SX Prestige | $56,790 | AWD | Serious off-roaders + luxury |
MSRP excludes destination charge of $1,545. Prices approximate where exact figures were not available at press time.
The hybrid lineup starts at $46,490 for the EX FWD and tops out at $57,590 for the X-Line SX Prestige AWD.
LX — The No-Nonsense Starting Point
Starting at $39,190 (before destination)
The LX is the entry point, and honestly, it’s a stronger starting trim than you might expect from a base model. Kia has always loaded the Telluride’s base trim generously, and the 2027 is no exception.
What you get with the LX:
- 2.5L turbocharged engine with 274 hp and 311 lb-ft of torque
- 8-speed automatic transmission
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (standard across all trims)
- Seating for up to 8 passengers with second-row bench
- Advanced driver-assistance suite with forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring
- 7.4 inches of ground clearance
- Smart power liftgate
The LX is front-wheel drive only at the base price, and AWD is a $2,000 upcharge. If you’re in a snowy climate (hello, Midwest and Mountain West), factor that in right away.
Who should buy the LX: Families who want maximum space and solid safety tech but don’t need leather seats, premium audio, or the latest gadgetry. It’s the kind of trim that makes you look like you spent more than you did.
S — The Step Nobody Talks About
Starting at approximately $42,000
The S trim sits between the LX and EX, and it tends to get overlooked in conversations because the EX gets all the attention. That said, the S adds a few quality-of-life upgrades over the base without jumping all the way to EX pricing.
Key additions over LX:
- Upgraded cloth/leatherette seating materials
- Additional comfort and convenience features
- Available AWD
The S is a reasonable choice if the LX feels a little sparse but the EX feels like more than you need. For most buyers though, the EX’s value proposition is hard to pass up.
EX — The Sweet Spot (Seriously)
Starting at approximately $44,500
If you ask any automotive journalist or seasoned Telluride owner which trim they’d recommend, most will land on the EX without hesitation. It’s the trim that brings the features most people actually want — without pushing the price into territory that starts to feel like it belongs in a luxury showroom.
Key additions over S:
- Leather-trimmed seating surfaces
- Heated front seats
- Wireless phone charging pad
- Ventilated front seats
- Upgraded infotainment display
- Available all-wheel drive
Why the EX makes sense for most families:
The features that make daily driving genuinely more enjoyable — heated and ventilated seats, wireless charging, and upgraded upholstery — all show up here. You’re not paying for features you’ll rarely use, but you’re also not stuck without the stuff that matters on a cold January morning.
The EX is also the entry point for the Telluride Hybrid lineup (starting at $46,490), which is worth serious consideration if you do a lot of city driving or highway commuting. The Hybrid EX FWD is EPA-rated at 35 MPG combined — remarkable for a three-row SUV this size.
Who should buy the EX: Families who want genuine comfort and modern convenience without crossing into “do I really need this?” territory. This is also the trim to consider if the hybrid option appeals to you.
X-Line EX — The Rugged-Looking Option
Starting at approximately $47,000
The X-Line package is available on several trims and adds a distinctly bolder aesthetic, along with some genuine capability upgrades. Think of it as the Telluride you’d buy if you want to look like you go off-road, even if your most adventurous terrain is a gravel parking lot at a youth soccer tournament.
What X-Line adds over standard EX:
- Blacked-out wheel arches, side mirrors, beltline trim, and D-pillars
- 21-inch wheels with a unique finish
- Raised bridge-type roof rails ready for cargo
- All-wheel drive standard
- Terrain Mode (Snow, Mud, Sand)
- Matte-textured grille and black Kia/Telluride badges
The X-Line is AWD-only, which makes it a natural choice if you want to combine EX-level features with all-weather confidence and a more aggressive appearance.
Who should buy the X-Line EX: Buyers who want AWD standard, prefer the darker exterior aesthetic, and don’t necessarily need all the technology upgrades that come with jumping to SX.
SX — Where the Technology Really Heats Up
Starting at approximately $49,000
The SX is where the Telluride starts to feel noticeably more high-tech. If you’re a person who gets genuinely excited about gadgets and driver-assistance features, the jump from EX to SX will feel meaningful.
Key additions over EX:
- Dual 12.3-inch panoramic digital displays
- 360-degree surround-view camera system
- Meridian Premium Audio with 14 speakers and a 10-inch subwoofer
- Digital Key 2.0 — use your phone or Apple Watch to unlock and start the vehicle
- Enhanced Highway Driving Assist 2 (HDA2)
- Second-row captain’s chairs (7-passenger seating instead of 8)
- Larger 12-inch head-up display
- Expanded ambient lighting system
A note on the seating change: Moving from the EX bench to the SX’s captain’s chairs is a genuine trade-off. The captain’s chairs are more comfortable for adult second-row passengers, but you lose one seat. If you regularly transport seven or more people, think carefully here.
Who should buy the SX: Tech-forward buyers and families who prioritize driver assistance, premium audio, and a more polished cabin experience. Also a strong choice for frequent road trippers.
X-Line SX — Adventure-Ready Technology
Starting at approximately $51,500
The X-Line SX combines the SX’s technology stack with the X-Line’s blacked-out aesthetic and AWD-standard setup. It’s a natural pairing that works well for families who want both the digital cockpit experience and a more capable, adventure-ready exterior presence.
What you get: Everything in the SX plus all X-Line exterior upgrades, AWD standard, Terrain Mode, and the distinctive 21-inch wheels and darkened trim.
Who should buy the X-Line SX: Buyers who want the full SX technology package but prefer the bolder X-Line look — and want AWD baked in from the start.
SX Prestige — Luxury Territory
Starting at approximately $53,000
The SX Prestige is where the Telluride starts making a case for itself against vehicles that wear luxury badges. The cabin experience at this level is genuinely impressive — the kind of interior that makes passengers pause when they first get in.
Key additions over SX:
- Nappa leather seating throughout the cabin
- Heated and ventilated second-row seats
- Enhanced Full Display Digital Rear View Mirror (a genuine game-changer for rear visibility)
- 12-inch head-up display
- Power-folding outside mirrors with noise-reducing acoustic glass
- Enhanced Auto Emergency Braking with Evasive Steering Assist and Junction Crossing Detection
- Available in-vehicle entertainment streaming (Disney+, Netflix, YouTube)
- Available Ergo Motion driver’s seat with power leg extension and memory settings
The case for SX Prestige:
If you’re cross-shopping the Telluride against vehicles like the Toyota Grand Highlander or Honda Pilot at the top of their lineups, the SX Prestige is the appropriate comparison point — and it often comes in cheaper while offering comparable or better features.
Who should buy the SX Prestige: Buyers who genuinely want a near-luxury driving experience and spend serious time in their vehicle on long commutes or road trips. The rear-seat occupant experience at this level is meaningfully better than lower trims.
X-Line SX Prestige — Luxury Meets Dark Aesthetic
Starting at approximately $55,000
This is the SX Prestige formula with the X-Line’s blacked-out exterior treatment layered on top. All-wheel drive is standard, and you get everything the SX Prestige offers plus the visual drama of the X-Line package.
It’s a popular trim for buyers who want to max out the interior without going full X-Pro off-road, but still want AWD and the distinctive styling.
X-Pro SX Prestige — The Off-Road Flagship
Starting at $56,790 (gas) / $58,335 (with full options)
The X-Pro is the Telluride’s most capable variant, and Kia did not hold back on the upgrades that actually matter for off-road use.
What makes the X-Pro different:
- 9.1 inches of ground clearance (versus 7.4 in standard trims)
- All-terrain tires from the factory
- Electronic rear limited-slip differential (E-LSD) for better off-pavement traction
- X-Pro-specific suspension system tuned for rough terrain
- Ground View Monitor shows what’s directly under the front of the vehicle on a display
- Off-road infotainment display shows pitch, roll, and terrain data
- Factory OEM tow hitch standard (available as an add-on on other trims)
- Up to 5,500 lbs of towing capacity — 500 lbs more than standard gas trims
- Carbon fiber interior trim exclusive to X-Pro
- X-Pro exterior styling with 18-inch alloy wheels (smaller diameter = more sidewall for off-road flex)
The X-Pro is built on the SX Prestige base, so you get all the luxury features in addition to the off-road hardware. This is genuinely rare in the three-row segment — a vehicle that doesn’t force you to choose between comfort and capability.
Who should buy the X-Pro: Overlanders, families who spend time at a cabin or trailhead, buyers who tow boats or trailers regularly, and anyone who simply wants the most capable Telluride available.
The Hybrid Lineup — Is It Worth It?
The 2027 Telluride is the first generation to offer a hybrid powertrain, and Kia has clearly invested serious engineering effort in making it competitive.
| Hybrid Trim | Starting MSRP | Drivetrain | MPG (Combined) |
|---|---|---|---|
| EX FWD | $46,490 | FWD | 35 MPG |
| EX AWD | $48,490 | AWD | 31 MPG |
| SX FWD | ~$52,000 | FWD | 33 MPG |
| X-Line SX AWD | ~$54,000 | AWD | 31 MPG |
| SX Prestige | ~$56,000 | FWD/AWD | 31–33 MPG |
| X-Line SX Prestige AWD | $57,590 | AWD | 31 MPG |
The hybrid powertrain produces 329 hp and 339 lb-ft of torque — noticeably stronger than the gas engine — while delivering dramatically better fuel economy. The estimated range on a full tank for the EX FWD hybrid is approximately 637 miles.
The hybrid makes the most financial sense if:
- You drive more than 15,000 miles per year
- You do significant city or suburban driving (where hybrids shine)
- You’re keeping the vehicle for six or more years
- Fuel prices are elevated in your region
Towing capacity on hybrid models is rated at up to 4,500 lbs — slightly less than the 5,000 lbs available on gas models.
Which Trim Is Right for You? A Quick Decision Guide
| Your Priority | Recommended Trim |
|---|---|
| Lowest price, still want quality | LX |
| Best value overall | EX |
| Best value + AWD + bolder look | X-Line EX |
| Maximum technology | SX or X-Line SX |
| Near-luxury cabin experience | SX Prestige |
| Off-road capability + luxury | X-Pro SX Prestige |
| Best fuel economy | Hybrid EX FWD |
| Hybrid + AWD + adventure look | Hybrid X-Line SX AWD |
How the 2027 Telluride Stacks Up Against the Competition
It’s worth putting the Telluride’s pricing in context. For reference:
- Hyundai Palisade (closely related platform): starts at ~$41,000, top trim at ~$54,560
- Honda Pilot: starts at ~$43,690
- Chevrolet Traverse: starts at ~$42,795
- Toyota Grand Highlander: starts at ~$44,000
- Ford Explorer: starts at ~$40,160
- Mazda CX-90: starts at ~$38,800
The Telluride holds its own on price at the base and competes favorably at the top end of the lineup, particularly given the breadth of features available at the SX and SX Prestige levels.
Final Thoughts
The 2027 Kia Telluride is a genuinely impressive leap forward for the nameplate. The new engine is stronger than the outgoing V6 in torque, the interior has moved meaningfully upmarket, and the hybrid option gives fuel-conscious buyers a legitimate reason to consider Kia over Toyota or Honda.
For most buyers, the EX remains the smartest pick — it threads the needle between price and features better than any other trim in the lineup. Those willing to spend more will find the SX Prestige a genuinely compelling near-luxury experience, and adventure-oriented families should look hard at the X-Pro SX Prestige.
Whatever trim you land on, the 2027 Telluride continues Kia’s tradition of delivering more value than its price tag suggests. That’s a hard thing to fake — and after a generation of Telluride success, Kia clearly knows what they’re doing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What engine does the 2027 Kia Telluride use? A: All 2027 Tellurides use a new 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. The gas-only version produces 274 hp and 311 lb-ft of torque. The hybrid version of the same engine makes 329 hp and 339 lb-ft of torque. Kia dropped the outgoing V6 entirely for this generation.
Q: Does the 2027 Telluride come in AWD? A: Yes, AWD is available on most trims and is standard on all X-Line and X-Pro models. On lower trims (LX and S), AWD is a $2,000 option. The X-Line variants include AWD as a standard feature.
Q: What is the towing capacity of the 2027 Telluride? A: Gas models are rated to tow up to 5,000 lbs when properly equipped, with the X-Pro SX Prestige rated at up to 5,500 lbs thanks to its all-terrain tires and improved powertrain cooling. Hybrid models tow up to 4,500 lbs.
Q: Is the 2027 Telluride Hybrid worth the extra cost? A: It depends on your driving habits. The Hybrid EX FWD is EPA-rated at 35 MPG combined, delivering approximately 637 miles of total range. High-mileage drivers who do significant city or suburban driving will likely recoup the premium over several years of ownership. The hybrid also produces more power (329 hp vs. 274 hp on the gas model).
Q: How many passengers does the 2027 Telluride seat? A: The LX, S, and EX trims seat up to 8 passengers with a second-row bench seat. SX and higher trims switch to second-row captain’s chairs, reducing seating to 7. If you regularly need to carry 8 people, stick with the EX or lower.
Q: What makes the X-Pro different from the X-Line? A: X-Line is primarily a styling and mild-capability package — blacked-out exterior elements, 21-inch wheels, raised roof rails, and standard AWD with Terrain Mode. X-Pro goes further, adding an upgraded off-road suspension, 9.1 inches of ground clearance (vs. 7.4 on standard trims), all-terrain tires, an electronic limited-slip differential, a ground view monitor, and up to 5,500 lbs of towing. X-Pro is only available paired with the SX Prestige trim.
Q: Does the 2027 Telluride have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto? A: Yes, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard on every single 2027 Telluride trim level — including the base LX.
Q: When is the 2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid available? A: The gas-powered Telluride began sales in early 2026. The hybrid was announced to begin arriving at dealerships in March 2026, with pricing starting at $46,490 for the EX FWD trim.
Q: How does the 2027 Telluride compare to the Hyundai Palisade? A: Both share a platform and offer similar feature sets. The base Telluride is slightly less expensive ($39,190 vs. $41,035 for the Palisade). At the top of the lineup, the Palisade’s Calligraphy trim comes in around $54,560 — somewhat less than the Telluride X-Pro SX Prestige at $56,790–$58,335. They are closely matched competitors, and choosing between them often comes down to styling preference and dealer relationships.
Q: What warranty does the 2027 Kia Telluride come with? A: Kia backs the Telluride with its industry-leading 10-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty, along with a 5-year/60,000-mile basic warranty and roadside assistance.
References
- Kia America, Inc. (2026). 2027 Kia Telluride overview and press release. Kia Media. https://www.kiamedia.com/us/en/models/telluride/2027
- Kia America, Inc. (2026). 2027 Kia Telluride specs compare. Kia.com. https://www.kia.com/us/en/telluride/specs-compare
- Kia America, Inc. (2026). 2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid specs compare. Kia.com. https://www.kia.com/us/en/telluride-hybrid/specs-compare
- Autoblog Staff. (January 8, 2026). 2027 Kia Telluride pricing is out, and top trims aren’t cheap. Autoblog. https://www.autoblog.com/news/2027-kia-telluride-pricing
- Motor1 Staff. (January 8, 2026). The 2027 Kia Telluride is still a bargain. Motor1.com. https://www.motor1.com/news/783805/2027-kia-telluride-gas-trims-prices/
- Motor1 Staff. (February 26, 2026). Here’s what the 2027 Kia Telluride will cost you [Hybrid pricing]. Motor1.com. https://www.motor1.com/news/788396/2027-kia-telluride-hybrid-pricing-trim-costs/
- CarBuzz Staff. (January 8, 2026). 2027 Kia Telluride price starts at $39,190, tops out over $56,000. CarBuzz. https://carbuzz.com/2027-kia-telluride-pricing-specs/
- TrueCar. (January 31, 2026). 2027 Kia Telluride trim levels: What you get. TrueCar Blog. https://www.truecar.com/blog/kia-telluride-trim-levels/
- Dean McCrary Kia. (February 25, 2026). X-Pro vs. X-Line: Which 2027 Kia Telluride off-road trim should you buy? https://www.deanmccrarykia.com/blog/2026/february/25/x-pro-vs-x-line-which-2027-kia-telluride-off-road-trim-should-you-buy.htm
- Midtown Kia. (January 30, 2026). 2027 Kia Telluride trim levels, dimensions, colors & MSRP pricing. https://www.midtownkia.com/2027-kia-telluride-trim-levels.htm
Pricing is based on manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) and excludes destination charges, taxes, title, dealer fees, and optional packages. Actual pricing is set by dealers and may vary. All information is accurate as of April 2026 to the best of the author’s knowledge; verify current pricing and availability with your local Kia dealer.
