6 Minutes
LA Auto Show debut: a Telluride that asks for a reaction
The 2027 Kia Telluride makes its first big public appearance at the 2025 Los Angeles Auto Show, and it arrives with a clear brief: be larger, be tougher-looking, and be conversation-worthy. This is the second-generation American-built midsize SUV from Kia, launched roughly six years after the original model made its name. While the new Telluride keeps the boxy, upright silhouette that made the first model unmistakable, Kia has pushed the design in a deliberately polarizing direction — part growth, part attitude, part carefully staged ugliness.
Design: intentionally divisive, unmistakably Telluride
Kia describes the 2027 Telluride as an evolution rather than a reinvention, and that choice is reflected in a mix of familiar cues and overtly new details. The long, straight hood and vertical headlamps give the front end a rugged, almost retro personality, while a high-gloss patterned grille and triangular fender creases add modern precision. The rear is deliberately minimalist: two vertical taillights and clean planes emphasize a pure American SUV stance.
On the flanks, new floating wheel cladding and flush door handles echo the automaker’s EV models (think EV6 and EV9), lending a sleeker, more premium look. Kia says the design nods to the Rocky Mountain spirit — rugged, utilitarian and oversized.
Dimensions and presence
The 2027 Telluride rides on a wheelbase that’s 3 inches longer than before, grows 2.3 inches in overall length and has gained 1 inch in height. Those dimension changes may sound modest on paper, but combined with the boxy packaging and refreshed bodywork they noticeably increase road presence and cabin space.
Highlights:
- Wheelbase: +3 inches
- Overall length: +2.3 inches
- Height: +1 inch
These changes are aimed at buyers who prize interior comfort and commanding road presence — two of the core selling points in the midsize SUV segment.
Interior: clean lines, more space
Inside, Kia follows the exterior’s straight-line visual theme but softens it with subtle curves and premium materials. The extra wheelbase translates into more room for second- and third-row occupants, although Kia hasn’t published exact seat-by-seat measurements yet. Expect improvements in legroom and cargo flexibility that will matter to larger families and buyers who use their Telluride for long trips.
Technology and trim details were previewed in released images and press material but full specs are still pending. Expect modern infotainment options, driver-assist features and interior colorways that mirror the new exterior paints.
Powertrain: the big unknowns
Kia has confirmed internal-combustion engines will be part of the lineup, but has not yet revealed the full 2027 powertrain roster. For context, the current (2025 model-year) Telluride uses a single 3.8-liter V6 producing 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque across all ten trims. Whether Kia will expand engine choices, add lighter hybridization or introduce alternative powertrains for the new generation is still to be announced.
Market and positioning
Kia is positioning the 2027 Telluride at the top of its U.S. SUV range. The aim is to maintain the model’s family-friendly, value-driven appeal while pushing into a more premium and rugged aesthetic that competes directly with segment stalwarts. The Telluride’s larger dimensions and bolder styling put it in closer visual and practical competition with rivals such as the Hyundai Palisade, Toyota Highlander and Ford Explorer.
"Kia wanted a Telluride that sparks debate — that was the brief," one industry source said. "You won't buy this for subtlety; you'll buy it for presence and real-world usability."
Trim focus: X-Pro leads the charge
Kia has been teasing models in the new range, including a sporty SXP and a more rugged Telluride X-Pro. The X-Pro appears positioned as the headline trim, adopting a darked-out, go-anywhere personality similar to other X-series Kias. Key X-Pro features include:
- Blacked-out wheel arches, side mirrors and trim
- Mesh-type grille and black front bumper
- Raised roof rails
- All-terrain tires on blacked wheels (available in 18-, 20- and 21-inch sizes)
- Ground clearance of 9.1 inches
- Standard recovery hooks front and rear
- Projected lighting effects: puddle lamps and illuminated logos from mirrors and bumpers
The theatrical lighting — from projections on the ground to illuminated tailgate accents — underlines Kia’s intent to make the Telluride feel premium and showy in equal measure.
Colors and finishes
Kia is expanding the palette with new hues and interior trims to match the rugged-new look. Exterior colors include Black Jade Green and Terrain Brown, while interior options add depth with a revised Deep Navy and Tuscan Umber combination and a new Blackberry tone. These choices emphasize outdoor readiness and upscale cabin character.
Availability and pricing
Kia says the 2027 Telluride will go on sale in the first quarter of 2026. Exact pricing has not been announced; as a reference point, current Telluride models start at $36,390 (MSRP). Expect the new generation — especially the X-Pro and higher trims — to command a price premium reflecting added size, features and perceived capability.
What this means for buyers
For buyers in the market for a family-focused midsize SUV, the 2027 Telluride promises more interior space, a bolder on-road stance and an edgier design that will split opinions. If you prefer tried-and-true conservative styling, the new Telluride may feel brash. But if you value presence, practicality and a premium-feeling package without jumping to luxury brands, Kia’s new flagship could be a compelling option.
Key takeaways:
- The 2027 Telluride is larger and more imposing than its predecessor.
- Design choices are intentionally provocative to generate buzz.
- X-Pro targets off-road-minded buyers with higher clearance and rugged trim.
- Full powertrain details and pricing are still pending; availability is Q1 2026.
Whether you love it or hate it, the new Telluride was designed to be talked about — and to win buyers who want space, capability and a distinct personality in their midsize SUV.
Source: autoevolution
Comments
v8rider
Whoa that front end is…wild. Love the road presence but kinda loud? X-Pro looks ready for mud, cabin looks roomy tho, curious about real mpg and price.
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