No doubt. the forthcoming 2021 Kia Telluride will be one of the best new SUVs in the mid-size crossover class. The South Korean automaker offers a solid V6 powertrain and a refined 8-speed automatic transmission. Furthermore, the new Telluride will be a three-row vehicle, with four available trim levels. Also, the cabin of 2021MY will receive treatment, and we expect to see premium features and upgraded technology for the cabin.
Although the base model offers a lot, in terms of performance and equipment, we suggest going for the S version. The higher trims add even more exclusive equipment and come at a fairly reasonable price. At the moment, Kia Telluride records better sales than similar vehicles on the Asian market. Now, the mid-size crossover is ready to face the competition in the US.
2021 Kia Telluride Configurations
So, what trims 2021 Kia Telluride has to offer? Well, we mentioned the entry-level LX. The base model, with a front-wheel-drive
starts around $32,000. However, the AWD version will add $2,000 to the price. The LX offers SOFINO leatherette front and rear seat upholstery, leatherette door panel trim, and seating for eight passengers. Moreover, you’ll find front bucket seats, metal-look door panel insert, leather steering wheel, 4-way passenger seat adjustment, and much more as standard equipment.
Next, we have the S trim. With the FWD setup, the starting price of this model is just above $34,000. Also, AWD adds an extra cost. This model adds heated seats, LED interior lamps, and a new leather-wrapped shift knob. Furthermore, with the Telluride S, you’ll get 20-inch wheels as standard. Also, the exclusive chrome grille inserts will provide a more premium appearance. On top of that, dual exhaust tips, sunroof, rear lip spoiler, black bodyside cladding, and chrome door handles are part of the standard offer.
The roof rack, skid plates, class III trailering with the harness, a trailer hitch, and front/rear mud flaps are optional. The S version offers can accommodate seven passengers. Trim #3 in the lineup is the EX. It comes with a starting price of around $37,000 (FWD version). It includes all of the equipment form the S model, and add a 6-speaker audio system, black rear bumper with metal-look rub strip, Illuminated passenger vanity mirror, 5 USB ports, etc.
On top of that. the range-topping SX adds a dual sunroof, fog lights, and blacked-out features. Inside, you’ll find premium leather and a lot of high-quality materials. The starting price of the Telluride SX is slightly under $42,000.
What Engine Will 2021 Kia Telluride Use?
All trim levels will use the same engine. It is a reliable 3.8-liter V6 mill, which produces 291 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque. The front-wheel-drive will be standard across all trims, while the AWD will add approximately $2,000 to the price. The refined 8-speed automatic transmission os the sole option. 2021 Kia Telluride with FWD returns 23 mpg combined.
On the other hand, the fuel economy rating of the AWD is 21 mpg. The South Korean mid-size crossover SUV provides excellent ride quality and good driving dynamics. Moreover, there will be five driving modes available: Eco, Normal, Sport, Smart, and Snow.
Release Date and Price
As we mentioned above, the starting price of 2021 Kia Telluride LX is around $32,000. The most expensive model will be the SX, with an MSRP of $42,000. We suggest the S version, which starts just above $34,000 and offers a good amount of standard features and exclusive exterior design. The South Korean automaker will release the new Telluride in the second half of 2021.
