2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid
For nearly half a decade, the Kia Telluride has been the undisputed heavyweight champion of the three-row SUV arena.
It arrived like a bolt from the blue, offering a blend of near-luxury refinement and rugged handsomeness that left rivals scrambling for answers.
But as the industry pivots toward electrification, even a king must evolve to survive. Enter the 2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid, a vehicle that marks the most significant chapter in this SUV’s storied history.
Skipping the 2026 model year entirely to prepare for this second-generation debut, the 2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid isn’t just a mid-cycle refresh; it is a ground-up reimagining of what a family hauler can be.
With a brand-new hybrid powertrain, a bolder “Opposites United” design language, and a tech-heavy interior that looks plucked from the electric EV9, Kia is making a clear statement: the best just got more efficient.
A Design That Commands Attention
The first thing you’ll notice about the Kia Telluride redesign is its growth spurt. The new model is roughly 2.3 inches longer and an inch taller, with a wheelbase stretched by nearly three inches.
This isn’t just for show—it provides a more commanding road presence and solves the minor packaging gripes of the previous generation.
Visually, the 2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid embraces a more vertical, architectural look. The front fascia features massive vertical LED headlamps and, in a move that will delight purists, the return of the iconic amber daytime running lights.
The sheet metal is chiseled with diamond-like creases on the fenders, giving it a sophisticated, almost Range Rover-esque silhouette.
For those who prefer a cleaner look, the SUV now features flush-mounted, motorized pop-out door handles, a detail borrowed from Kia’s flagship electric models.
The Heart of the Beast: Turbocharged Efficiency
The biggest headline for the 2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid is what lives under the hood. The thirsty 3.8-liter V6 has finally been put out to pasture, replaced by a sophisticated 2.5-liter turbocharged engine paired with a potent electric motor.
This new hybrid powertrain produces a combined 329 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque. That is a significant jump in “grunt” compared to the outgoing V6, especially in low-end torque where it matters most for merging onto the highway or towing.
While the gas-only model utilizes an eight-speed automatic, the hybrid variant sends power through a smooth six-speed automatic transmission designed to maximize the synergy between the turbo-four and the electric motor.
Performance enthusiasts and weekend warriors will appreciate that all-wheel drive remains a core part of the identity. Whether you are navigating a rain-slicked suburban street or a light trail, the system is designed to distribute power with surgical precision.
Fuel Economy and Range: The 600-Mile Club
Efficiency has historically been the Telluride’s only “Achilles’ heel,” but the 2027 model aims to turn that weakness into a primary selling point. Kia is targeting a fuel economy rating of 35 mpg combined for the hybrid model.
When you factor in the fuel tank capacity, the 2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid is expected to offer a staggering total driving range of nearly 600 miles.
For the American family, this means fewer stops at the gas station on the way to the Grand Canyon and more money left in the vacation fund. It positions the Telluride as a formidable challenger to the Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid, which has dominated the “efficient-but-large” conversation until now.
A Cabin Built for the Modern Family
Inside, the 2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid feels less like a Kia and more like a luxury lounge. The dashboard is dominated by a panoramic curved display that houses dual 12.3-inch screens for the instrument cluster and the infotainment system.
Thankfully, Kia hasn’t abandoned ergonomics; there are still physical dials for volume and tuning, along with haptic buttons that make adjustments easy while driving.
The increased wheelbase translates directly into midsize SUV segment-leading interior space.
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Seating: Available in 7- or 8-passenger configurations.
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Comfort: New “Relaxation Seats” for the first and second rows feature power leg rests, and the driver now enjoys an Ergo Motion massage function.
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Cargo: Behind the third row, cargo space has grown to 22.3 cubic feet, expanding to a cavernous 86.9 cubic feet with all seats folded.
Tech-savvy parents will appreciate the “Connected Car Navigation Cockpit” (ccNC), which includes an AI Voice Assistant. Just say “Hey Kia,” and the car can adjust the climate, find the nearest Starbucks, or provide a weather update for your destination.
Off-Road Prowess: The X-Pro Trim
Kia hasn’t forgotten about the “Utility” in SUV. The X-Pro trim returns for 2027, catering to those who actually want to get their tires dirty.
The hybrid version of the X-Pro boasts an impressive 9.1 inches of ground clearance and sits on 18-inch wheels wrapped in all-terrain rubber.
While the gas-only model can tow up to 5,000 pounds, the hybrid isn’t far behind with a respectable 4,500-pound towing capacity. It also features a new “Ground View Monitor” and an electromechanical limited-slip differential (E-LSD), ensuring that even when the pavement ends, the adventure doesn’t have to.
Safety First, Always
Kia has consistently earned Top Safety Pick+ honors, and the 2027 model is designed to continue that streak. The suite of safety features is more comprehensive than ever, including:
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Highway Driving Assist 2: A semi-autonomous system that handles lane changes and maintains distance from other vehicles.
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Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist 2: Now capable of detecting pedestrians and cyclists even during junction turns.
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10 Standard Airbags: Including a new front-row center airbag to prevent occupants from colliding with each other in a side impact.
Pricing, Competition, and Release Date
The Kia Telluride price for the hybrid is expected to start in the mid-$40,000 range for the EX trim, climbing toward $60,000 for the fully-loaded SX-Prestige.
While this is a premium over the base gas model, the savings at the pump and the increase in standard luxury features make a compelling case for the upgrade.
As for the Kia Telluride release date, the first units are expected to hit U.S. showrooms in early 2026 as 2027 models.
It will face stiff competition from the updated Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid and the upcoming Hyundai Palisade Hybrid, but with its bold styling and proven track record, the Telluride is the one to beat.
Below is a detailed breakdown of the primary Kia Telluride trims expected for the 2027 Hybrid lineup.
2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid: Trim-by-Trim Comparison
| Trim Level | Estimated MSRP | Key Highlights & Features | Target Buyer |
|---|---|---|---|
| EX Trim | $47,500 | 18-inch wheels, leather seating, 8-way power passenger seat, heated/ventilated front seats, single sunroof. | The "Value-First" family looking for the best price-to-feature ratio. |
| SX | $51,800 | Dual panoramic 12.3-inch displays, Harmon Kardon Audio, Surround View Monitor, 10-way power driver’s seat with memory. | The "Tech-Savvy" driver who wants maximum safety and screen real estate. |
| SX X-Line | $53,900 | Standard all-wheel drive, 21-inch gloss black wheels, raised roof rails, dark metallic exterior accents, self-leveling rear suspension. | The "Suburban Explorer" who wants a rugged, blacked-out aesthetic. |
| SX-Prestige | $56,500 | Nappa leather upholstery, Head-Up Display (HUD), heated & ventilated 2nd-row seats, Digital Rearview Mirror. | The "Luxury Seeker" who wants a BMW-level interior without the badge price. |
| SX-Prestige X-Pro | $59,500 | 9.1 inches of ground clearance, 18-inch matte black wheels, All-Terrain tires, 4,500-lb towing capacity, 110V cargo power outlet. | The "Adventure Enthusiast" who needs true capability for camping and trails. |
The 2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid is a rare example of a manufacturer listening to exactly what the market wants. It keeps the boxy, rugged soul that made the original a hit while injecting the efficiency and high-tech flair needed for the future.
If you’ve been waiting for a reason to go green without sacrificing the space your family needs, your wait is almost over.
