2027 Kia Telluride: What's New This Year?
Posted at Wed, Jul 29, 2026 5:11 PM
The 2027 Kia Telluride is a complete ground-up redesign — the biggest change in Telluride history. New engine, new hybrid option, bigger body, redesigned interior, and EV9-inspired styling. Here's everything Northland drivers need to know.
View 2027 Telluride Inventory Get Pre-QualifiedThe Kia Telluride has been one of the best three-row SUVs on the market since it launched — a six-time Car and Driver 10Best winner, consistently praised for its combination of interior quality, family practicality, and value. For 2027 Kia didn't just refresh it. They redesigned it from the ground up for the first time since the original launch.
The 2027 Telluride drops the V6 engine, adds a hybrid powertrain for the first time ever, grows in every meaningful dimension, and gets a completely new interior inspired by the Kia EV9. For Northland families who have been watching the Telluride or who own a previous-generation model, this is worth a fresh look. Here's a complete breakdown of every significant change.
The 2027 Telluride was revealed at the Los Angeles Auto Show in November 2025 and began arriving at dealerships in early 2026. If you test-drove a 2025 or 2026 Telluride and want to understand how this generation is different before you visit Oakes Kia, this page gives you the complete picture.
What's New on the 2027 Kia Telluride
New Engine — 2.5L Turbocharged Four-Cylinder Replaces the V6
Powertrain ChangeThe 3.8L naturally aspirated V6 that powered every previous Telluride is gone. In its place is a new 2.5L turbocharged four-cylinder producing 274 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Despite displacing less, the new engine produces more torque than the old V6 — torque being the number that actually matters for family hauling, highway merging, and towing. The turbocharged engine delivers stronger low-end pull that makes everyday driving feel more responsive than the previous generation. For Northland families who regularly drive I-29 or I-35 with a full load of passengers, the difference is noticeable in a positive way.
First-Ever Hybrid Powertrain
Brand New for 2027The most significant addition to the 2027 Telluride lineup is the first-ever Telluride Hybrid. The hybrid system pairs a 2.5L turbocharged engine with electric motors to produce 329 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque — more power than the gas model — while achieving a Kia-estimated 35 mpg combined. That's an extraordinary fuel economy figure for a three-row family SUV of this size. For Northland families who put significant daily miles between Liberty, Gladstone, Kearney, and Kansas City, the Hybrid's fuel savings over a 5-year ownership period are meaningful. The Hybrid is available across multiple trim levels and starts at approximately $46,490 MSRP.
Larger Body — More Room Where It Matters
Size IncreaseThe 2027 Telluride grows to 199.2 inches in overall length — 2.3 inches longer than the outgoing model. The wheelbase stretches 2.7 inches to 116.9 inches, which is where the real interior benefit shows up. Second-row legroom increases to 43 inches — genuinely comfortable for adults and teenagers on longer drives. Ground clearance rises to 9.1 inches on standard configurations, improving the Telluride's capability on uneven Northland terrain and in Kansas City winter conditions. Maximum cargo capacity reaches 89.3 cubic feet with all rows folded.
Completely Redesigned Interior — EV9-Inspired Dashboard
Major Interior UpgradeThe 2027 Telluride's interior is a significant departure from the outgoing model. Taking design cues from the Kia EV9, the new cabin features a wraparound dashboard design with a 29.6-inch panoramic display spanning the gauge cluster and infotainment screen on upper trims. Higher-quality materials appear throughout — more soft-touch surfaces, improved stitching, and a more premium overall execution. New interior features include indirect ambient lighting, hidden door handles inside the cabin, and a power-adjustable steering column. The front seats now offer wider cushions and power-operated legrests on upper trims, and an optional massaging function — previously unavailable on any Telluride configuration — is now available on the driver's seat.
Heated Third-Row Seats — A First for Telluride
Brand New for 2027For the first time in Telluride history, heated third-row seats are available. For Northland families who regularly seat passengers in the third row during Kansas City winters, this is a genuine quality-of-life upgrade. The outgoing Telluride left third-row passengers without heat — the 2027 fixes that. Combined with the longer wheelbase's improved third-row legroom, the 2027 Telluride's third row is a meaningfully more hospitable place to be than any previous generation.
New Exterior Design — Boxier, Bolder, EV9-Influenced
Full Exterior RedesignThe 2027 Telluride wears entirely new sheetmetal. The design moves away from the rounded, flowing lines of the first generation toward a boxier, more upright stance that draws comparison to Range Rover and takes clear inspiration from Kia's own EV9. The larger front grille, more pronounced hood, squared-off roofline, and modern LED lighting signature give the 2027 a stronger road presence than its predecessor. The rear end in particular shows a Range Rover influence with clean, modern taillight treatment that still echoes the original Telluride's signature horizontal light bar. Car and Driver noted the 2027's optional 21-inch wheels look pulled straight from the EV9.
Updated Safety and Driver Assistance Technology
Technology UpgradeThe 2027 Telluride expands its standard driver assistance suite with upgraded Forward Collision Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Driver Attention Warning, and Blind Spot Collision Warning across all trims. Upper trims gain Highway Driving Assist 2 — an advanced semi-autonomous driving system that handles lane centering and speed maintenance on compatible highways. This is a meaningful upgrade over the previous generation's driver assistance capabilities and is particularly useful for Northland families making longer drives across Missouri and Kansas.
Second-Row Captain's Chairs with Power Adjustment
Interior UpgradeThe available second-row captain's chairs on the 2027 Telluride gain power adjustability — a first for the Telluride. The updated second-row bench also now accommodates child safety seats without requiring removal to access the third row, which is a genuine convenience upgrade for families with young children who regularly use the third-row seats. The captain's chair configuration remains a 7-passenger setup while the bench seats 8.
Towing Capacity — Up to 5,000 lbs
Capability IncreaseThe 2027 Telluride's maximum towing capacity reaches 5,000 lbs when properly equipped. For Northland families who tow a boat to Smithville Lake, pull a camper trailer, or need to move equipment on weekends, the 2027's towing capability is a meaningful practical improvement over many competitors in the three-row segment.
The 2027 Telluride Hybrid — Everything You Need to Know
The Telluride Hybrid is the most significant new addition to the 2027 lineup. Here's a complete breakdown of what it offers and why it's worth considering for Northland families who drive significant daily miles.
Power Output
329 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque — more than the standard gas model's 274 hp and 311 lb-ft. The hybrid system's electric motors add immediate low-end torque that makes the Telluride Hybrid feel stronger off the line than the gas model despite the efficiency focus.
Fuel Economy
Kia-estimated 35 mpg combined with FWD — an extraordinary figure for a three-row SUV. AWD Hybrid models see slightly lower numbers. For a Northland family putting 15,000 miles per year on their Telluride, the fuel savings versus the gas model can reach $1,200 to $1,500 annually at current Kansas City gas prices.
Transmission
The Hybrid uses a 6-speed automatic transmission paired with the electric motor system. The gas model uses an 8-speed automatic. Both deliver smooth, competent power delivery in everyday driving around the Northland.
Starting Price
The Telluride Hybrid starts at approximately $46,490 MSRP for the base EX Hybrid — about $7,000 more than the comparable gas EX. For high-mileage Northland drivers, the fuel savings help offset that premium over a full ownership period.
AWD Availability
AWD is available on the Hybrid across most trim levels and is standard on upper Hybrid configurations. For Kansas City Northland drivers who contend with winter weather on roads between Gladstone, Liberty, and Kearney, AWD Hybrid is the most capable and efficient all-season choice in the Telluride lineup.
Hybrid Trim Availability
The Hybrid is available in EX, SX, SX Prestige, and X-Line variants — not just the top tier. This gives Northland buyers a range of price points and feature levels to choose from within the Hybrid lineup rather than being forced to the top trim to get hybrid efficiency.
2027 vs. Previous Generation Telluride — What Actually Changed
| Category | Previous Generation (2020-2026) | 2027 Telluride |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 3.8L V6 - 291 hp | 2.5L Turbo 4-cyl - 274 hp / 311 lb-ft |
| Hybrid Available | No | Yes — 329 hp, est. 35 mpg combined |
| Overall Length | 196.9 inches | 199.2 inches (+2.3 inches) |
| Wheelbase | 114.2 inches | 116.9 inches (+2.7 inches) |
| 2nd Row Legroom | 41.4 inches | 43 inches |
| Ground Clearance | 8.0 inches | 9.1 inches |
| Max Cargo Space | 87 cu ft | 89.3 cu ft |
| Dashboard Display | Separate screens | 29.6-inch panoramic display (upper trims) |
| Heated 3rd Row | Not available | Available |
| Driver Seat Massage | Not available | Available (Ergo Motion) |
| Power Captain's Chair Adjustment | Not available | Available |
| Max Towing | 5,500 lbs | 5,000 lbs |
| Starting MSRP (gas) | ~$36,390 | ~$39,190 |
| Powertrain Warranty | 10 yr / 100,000 mi | 10 yr / 100,000 mi |
Is the 2027 Telluride Worth It Over a Previous Generation?
For buyers considering a leftover 2026 or used earlier-generation Telluride versus the 2027, here's the honest assessment:
The 2027 is worth it if:
- You want the Hybrid — There is no way to get a Telluride Hybrid except on the 2027. If fuel efficiency matters, the 2027 is the only option
- Rear passenger comfort is a priority — The 2027's 43 inches of second-row legroom and available heated third-row seats are a meaningful upgrade for families who regularly seat passengers across all three rows
- Interior technology matters — The 29.6-inch panoramic display and redesigned EV9-inspired dashboard are a substantial step forward from the previous generation's separate screens
- You want the new design — The 2027's boxier, more assertive styling is a significant departure. If you prefer the new look, only the 2027 delivers it
- Ground clearance is a factor — The 2027's 9.1 inches versus the outgoing 8.0 inches makes a real difference for Northland drivers navigating snow-covered roads, gravel, or light off-road terrain
A previous-generation Telluride still makes sense if:
- You need maximum towing — The outgoing Telluride's 5,500 lb tow rating is slightly higher than the 2027's 5,000 lb maximum
- Budget is the primary driver — Remaining 2026 models or certified pre-owned earlier-generation Tellurides represent genuine value at a lower price point with the same fundamental quality
- You prefer the previous styling — The first-generation Telluride's rounder, softer design has its own appeal and the outgoing model remains an excellent vehicle
The 2027 is a meaningful generational step — not a cosmetic update. The engine swap, hybrid addition, interior redesign, and dimensional growth represent genuine engineering investment. For buyers purchasing new, the 2027 is the stronger choice. For buyers open to used, the previous generation remains excellent at a lower price point.
See the 2027 Kia Telluride at Oakes Kia in North Kansas City
We carry the 2027 Telluride lineup — gas and hybrid — at our North Kansas City location. Come experience the redesigned interior, the new panoramic display, and the longer wheelbase in person. It makes more sense once you're sitting in it.
View 2027 Telluride Inventory Get Pre-Qualified2027 Kia Telluride — Frequently Asked Questions
What's new on the 2027 Kia Telluride?
The 2027 Kia Telluride is a complete ground-up redesign. Key changes include a new 2.5L turbocharged four-cylinder engine replacing the old V6, the first-ever Telluride Hybrid powertrain producing 329 hp and an estimated 35 mpg combined, a 2.3-inch longer body with a 2.7-inch longer wheelbase, 43 inches of second-row legroom, available heated third-row seats for the first time, an EV9-inspired interior with available 29.6-inch panoramic display, available driver seat massage function, and 9.1 inches of ground clearance.
Does the 2027 Kia Telluride come in a hybrid?
Yes — for the first time ever. The 2027 Telluride Hybrid uses a 2.5L turbocharged engine paired with electric motors to produce 329 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque while achieving an estimated 35 mpg combined with FWD. The Hybrid is available in EX, SX, SX Prestige, and X-Line configurations starting at approximately $46,490 MSRP. No previous Telluride generation offered a hybrid powertrain.
Did Kia remove the V6 from the Telluride?
Yes. The 2027 Telluride replaces the 3.8L naturally aspirated V6 with a 2.5L turbocharged four-cylinder producing 274 hp and 311 lb-ft of torque. Despite the smaller displacement, the new engine produces more torque than the outgoing V6 — which is more relevant for family hauling and towing than peak horsepower. The turbocharged engine also delivers stronger low-end pull for everyday driving responsiveness.
How much bigger is the 2027 Telluride than the previous generation?
The 2027 Telluride is 2.3 inches longer overall at 199.2 inches and rides on a 116.9-inch wheelbase — 2.7 inches longer than before. The extended wheelbase translates directly into more interior legroom. Second-row legroom grows from 41.4 inches to 43 inches, which is meaningful for families with adult passengers and teenagers who regularly occupy the middle row.
What is the towing capacity of the 2027 Kia Telluride?
The 2027 Kia Telluride is rated to tow up to 5,000 lbs when properly equipped. This is slightly lower than the outgoing generation's 5,500 lb maximum, though still more than enough for most Northland recreational towing needs — boats, trailers, campers, and equipment. Always verify your specific vehicle's tow rating in the owner's manual before towing.
How much does the 2027 Kia Telluride cost?
The 2027 Kia Telluride gas models start at approximately $39,190 MSRP for the base LX and range up to approximately $56,790 for the top X-Pro SX Prestige gas configuration. The Telluride Hybrid starts at approximately $46,490 for the EX Hybrid. Your total out-the-door cost in North Kansas City will include Missouri sales tax, title, and registration fees. Contact our team at Oakes Kia or get pre-qualified online to understand your financing options before your visit.
Can I see the 2027 Kia Telluride in North Kansas City?
Yes. Oakes Kia in North Kansas City carries the 2027 Telluride lineup at our location at 2900 Burlington Street, North Kansas City, MO 64116. We serve buyers from Liberty, Gladstone, Kearney, Smithville, Riverside, Parkville, and across the Kansas City Northland. Browse our current 2027 Telluride inventory online or contact us to confirm availability before your visit.
Shop the 2027 Kia Telluride at Oakes Kia in North Kansas City
Oakes Kia is your Kansas City Northland Kia dealer for the full 2027 Telluride lineup — gas and hybrid, across all trim configurations. Whether you're upgrading from a previous-generation Telluride, cross-shopping against other three-row SUVs, or buying a Telluride for the first time, our team will walk you through every change in this generation and help you find the right trim for your family's needs and budget.
Browse our current 2027 Telluride inventory online, get pre-qualified for financing before your visit, or stop by our North Kansas City location. We serve buyers from Liberty, Gladstone, Kearney, Smithville, Riverside, Parkville, and across the Northland.
