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Kia is preparing a full redesign of the Telluride for the 2026 model year, aiming to build on the SUV’s strong sales and upscale appeal. The all-new Telluride is expected to ride on the same platform as the second-generation Hyundai Palisade while adopting a noticeably boxier, more imposing exterior. Early digital renderings and leaked reports suggest Kia is pushing the Telluride upmarket in both looks and materials, positioning it to compete more directly with premium three-row SUVs.
Design and Exterior
The styling for the 2026 Telluride leans toward a rugged, premium aesthetic. Expect squared-off proportions, a flat nose, and strong shoulder lines that give the SUV a muscular stance. Distinctive cues include double-stacked daytime running lights, pronounced black cladding along the lower body, vertical taillights flanking a redesigned tailgate, and thick rear pillars for a robust silhouette. A floating roof treatment will add visual lightness to the profile and emphasize the vehicle’s three-row packaging.
Kia’s designers appear to have taken inspiration from luxury SUVs — some cues recall the Range Rover’s presence — but the execution looks measured and original rather than derivative. The result should read as a premium offering that still retains Kia’s family character and practicality.
Interior and Technology
The cabin reportedly borrows heavily from Kia’s EV9 in layout and technology philosophy. Expect a modern cockpit with a wide center console, a low, clean dash, and a generous sweep of digital displays. Higher trim levels will likely include a new digital instrument cluster and a large infotainment touchscreen with Google-based services, full connectivity, and advanced telematics.
Luxury and comfort will be emphasized with available massaging front seats, second-row captain’s chairs for a true seven-passenger configuration, premium leather upholstery on upper trims, and a focus on soft-touch materials. Features expected to appear across the range include vehicle-to-load (V2L) capability, digital key functionality, and advanced driver-assistance systems. Kia is reserving some of the most luxurious appointments — like high-grade leather and exclusive trim options — for top-level variants.
Performance and Powertrain Options
The new Telluride will share its mechanical architecture with the Palisade, which opens the door to multiple gasoline and electrified powertrains. Reports suggest three main possibilities:
3.8-liter V6 (carryover)
Some sources indicate Kia may continue offering the proven 3.8-liter V6 that powered the outgoing Telluride, delivering reliable V6 performance for buyers prioritizing smooth power and towing capability.
3.5-liter V6
Other reports claim a slightly smaller 3.5-liter V6 will be used instead, with estimated output around 287 horsepower for a balance of efficiency and performance.
2.5-liter turbocharged hybrid & range extender
A turbocharged 2.5-liter hybrid is expected to join the lineup, with forecasts suggesting an output near 329 hp — a strong candidate for those seeking lively acceleration and improved fuel economy. There’s also talk of a 2.5-liter range-extender hybrid configuration, where the gasoline engine acts primarily as a generator while electric motors drive all four wheels, further expanding electrified options for the Telluride.
All-wheel drive will likely be available across multiple powertrains, and Kia may reserve advanced hybrid and e-assist tech for higher trims.
Vehicle Specifications (expected)
- Platform: Shared with 2nd-generation Hyundai Palisade
- Seating: Three rows, up to seven passengers (with available second-row captain’s chairs)
- Infotainment: New touchscreen + Google integration, digital instrument cluster
- Powertrains: 3.8L V6 (possible carryover), 3.5L V6 (~287 hp), 2.5L turbo hybrid (~329 hp), potential 2.5L range-extender hybrid
- Drivetrain: FWD base with AWD available; hybrid AWD via electric motors
- Key tech: V2L, digital key, massaging seats, advanced driver assists
Market Positioning and Competitors
Kia is clearly targeting buyers who want three-row practicality with a more upscale feel. The 2026 Telluride will compete with mid-size and near-luxury SUVs such as the Hyundai Palisade, Toyota Highlander, Ford Explorer, Volkswagen Atlas, and even some premium challengers like the Genesis GV80 in terms of fit-and-finish ambitions. By combining bold exterior design, a tech-forward cabin, and a range of conventional and hybrid powertrains, Kia aims to broaden the Telluride’s appeal to families who want both comfort and prestige.
Reveal Timeline and Final Thoughts
Kia is expected to reveal the all-new Telluride later this year, with deliveries likely beginning early next year. Early CGIs and renderings — like those from Kolesa — appear to reflect the real-world test mules closely, suggesting this design direction is near final. If Kia succeeds in matching the more premium exterior with elevated interior materials and advanced hybrid powertrains, the 2026 Telluride could be one of the most compelling three-row SUVs in its segment.
Do you think the new Telluride is an upgrade visually and technologically compared with the outgoing model? Enthusiasts and prospective buyers will be watching the official debut closely.
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