Best Kia Telluride Model Years (Ranked) in 2027

1. 2024 Kia Telluride SX-Prestige

The 2024 SX-Prestige ranks first because it delivers the complete post-refresh package with the newest technology and the most comprehensive standard safety suite. It features the 291-horsepower 3.8L V6, a wide dual-screen dashboard, quilted leather seating, a head-up display, and premium audio. As the newest model year, it also offers the most remaining factory warranty coverage for the original buyer. This is the absolute best Telluride on merit, not on value.

This pick is for buyers who prioritize the latest features and plan to keep the vehicle long-term, using the warranty. It trades away significant money, as it carries the steepest depreciation curve still ahead of it. Compared to the 2023 SX-Prestige below, it is nearly identical mechanically, so its edge is purely the extra year of warranty and model-year freshness. You pay a premium for that marginal advantage.

2. 2023 Kia Telluride SX-Prestige

The 2023 SX-Prestige ranks second because it offers the full post-refresh experience—the dual-screen dashboard, updated driver-assistance suite, and X-Pro availability—at a slightly lower price than the 2024. It shares the identical 291-horsepower V6 and eight-speed automatic, so performance and reliability are unchanged. With one year of depreciation already absorbed, it provides better value than the 2024 while retaining most of the warranty. This is the smartest way to get the newest design language.

This is for buyers who want the latest interior and tech but are willing to sacrifice one year of warranty to save thousands. It trades away the newest model-year badge and a bit of coverage for a meaningful price break. Compared to the 2024 SX-Prestige above, the driving experience is essentially identical, making this the better financial choice for most. The only real loss is the psychological benefit of owning the newest year.

3. 2024 Kia Telluride SX

The 2024 SX ranks third because it delivers the post-refresh styling and dual-screen cabin without the price step of the Prestige trim. It retains the same 291-horsepower V6, larger wheels, upgraded interior materials, and the full driver-assistance package. The SX offers the best balance of new technology and essential luxury content for a lower cost than the Prestige. It is the most rational choice in the newest model year.

This is for families who want the newest design and features but do not need quilted leather or a head-up display. It trades away the Prestige's premium interior touches and premium audio for a more accessible price. Compared to the 2023 SX-Prestige above, it has a newer model year but less luxurious content. If you value the newest screen over leather, this is the better pick; otherwise, the Prestige offers more for similar money.

4. 2023 Kia Telluride SX

The 2023 SX ranks fourth because it is the value sweet spot for the post-refresh generation, combining the new dual-screen dashboard and updated safety tech with a price that has already dropped from its initial premium. It shares the unchanged 291-horsepower V6 and eight-speed automatic, ensuring the same proven reliability. With a year of depreciation absorbed, it undercuts the 2024 SX while offering nearly everything that matters.

This is for buyers who want the refreshed interior and exterior but are price-conscious. It trades away one year of warranty and the newest badge for a substantial saving. Compared to the 2024 SX above, the vehicle is mechanically and cosmetically near-identical, making this the smarter purchase for most. The only meaningful difference is the model year on the title, which does not affect the driving experience.

5. 2022 Kia Telluride SX Nightfall

The 2022 SX with the Nightfall package ranks fifth because it offers the pre-refresh design's most desirable appearance—blacked-out exterior trim—at a significantly lower price than any post-refresh model. It has the same 291-horsepower V6 and robust eight-speed automatic, with the pre-refresh 10.25-inch touchscreen that still supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This trim provides the full SX content, including upgraded materials and complete safety features, without the refresh premium.

This is for buyers who prioritize exterior presence and want to avoid the higher cost of the 2023 refresh. It trades away the dual-screen dashboard and newer driver-assistance software for a substantial price break. Compared to the 2023 SX above, it is mechanically identical but has an older infotainment interface. If you care more about the aggressive styling and saving money than the newest screens, this is the pick.

6. 2021 Kia Telluride EX

The 2021 EX ranks sixth because it is the volume-trim sweet spot for most families, offering heated synthetic leather seats, a power liftgate, and blind-spot monitoring at a price that has already absorbed the sharpest depreciation. It uses the identical 291-horsepower V6 and eight-speed automatic as newer models, so reliability is unchanged. The pre-refresh 10.25-inch touchscreen remains competent for daily use. This is the best value for a well-equipped three-row family SUV.

This is for the typical family that wants comfort and safety without paying for the newest technology. It trades away the refreshed styling and dual-screen dashboard for a significantly lower purchase price. Compared to the 2022 SX Nightfall above, it has less visual flair but offers similar core content for less money. If you prioritize function and budget over appearance, this is the strongest overall value on the list.

7. 2022 Kia Telluride S

The 2022 S ranks seventh because it delivers the same proven powertrain and three-row space as higher trims with essential convenience features like a power driver's seat and available captain's chairs, at a lower price point. It includes the full standard safety suite and a competent 10.25-inch touchscreen. This trim represents the best entry point for buyers who want a well-equipped Telluride without the EX's premium content. It is a pure value play.

This is for budget-focused buyers who need a reliable three-row SUV and are willing to forgo luxury features. It trades away heated seats, a power liftgate, and blind-spot monitoring for a lower upfront cost. Compared to the 2021 EX above, it has a newer model year but less standard content. If you can live without the comfort features, this saves money; if not, the EX is worth the step up.

8. 2021 Kia Telluride S

The 2021 S ranks eighth because it offers the same 291-horsepower V6 and robust build as all other years, with a full standard safety suite, at one of the lowest price points on the used market. It includes a power driver's seat and available second-row captain's chairs, making it a practical family choice. The pre-refresh infotainment is older but still handles smartphone integration well. This is a strong value for those prioritizing budget above all.

This is for buyers who want the Telluride's core strengths—space, reliability, and safety—without paying for any extras. It trades away newer styling, a larger screen, and convenience features like a power liftgate. Compared to the 2022 S above, it is nearly identical mechanically but a year older and slightly cheaper. If you are strictly maximizing value per dollar, this is a top contender; if you want more features, the EX is better.

9. 2020 Kia Telluride EX

The 2020 EX ranks ninth because it is the oldest model year with the longest field record, proving the 3.8L V6's durability, but it now suffers from dated infotainment and a narrower standard driver-assistance set. It still provides the same three-row space, a 10.25-inch touchscreen, and heated front seats, making it a capable family vehicle. Its price is the lowest for an EX, reflecting the most absorbed depreciation.

This is for buyers on a tight budget who want the most Telluride for the least money and are willing to accept older technology. It trades away the newest screens and safety features for the lowest possible entry cost. Compared to the 2021 S above, it has more luxury content but is a year older with less remaining warranty. If condition is excellent, this can be a smart buy; otherwise, a newer S is safer.

10. 2020 Kia Telluride LX

The 2020 LX ranks last because it is the oldest and most basic Telluride, with the smallest standard screen and the fewest driver-assistance features, making it the least desirable despite the same reliable powertrain. It still offers the full three-row seating and the 291-horsepower V6, but the interior feels dated compared to post-refresh models. Its only advantage is the lowest price on the market.

This is for buyers who prioritize the lowest possible purchase price and are unconcerned with technology or luxury. It trades away almost all comfort and convenience features for maximum affordability. Compared to the 2020 EX above, it lacks heated seats, a power liftgate, and blind-spot monitoring. If you can stretch to an EX or a 2021 S, you get significantly more value; this is the last resort.

How we ranked these

We measured powertrain consistency, recall and service-campaign density, feature and platform updates, depreciation position, and condition/documentation variance. Each input was weighted by its impact on long-term ownership cost and satisfaction, with powertrain changes and recall severity carrying the most weight and cosmetic differences the least.

We deliberately ignored subjective styling preferences, brand loyalty, and anecdotal single-owner reports, as these are not repeatable or quantifiable. We also excluded resale value projections beyond five years, because market conditions shift unpredictably. The goal was a ranking based on verifiable data and mechanical facts, not opinions or hype.

What to look for

What actually matters is the trim level, condition, service history, and whether the specific vehicle has the factory tow package and the second-row configuration you need. The 3.8L V6 and eight-speed automatic are identical across all years, so the mechanical risk is flat. Prioritize EX or SX trim for the best feature-per-dollar, and verify all recalls are performed via the VIN.

The mistake most buyers make is over-indexing on the model year and paying a stale premium for the newest example, ignoring that a well-maintained 2021 with records is a better value than a neglected 2023. They also skip the VIN recall check and assume a tow package exists without physical verification, leading to post-purchase regret and unexpected costs.

Related questions

Is the first model year of the Telluride risky to buy?

Less than typical. The 2020 launch year did not produce a systemic mechanical problem, and it now has the longest field record of any Telluride. Its drawbacks are age, older infotainment, and fewer standard driver aids—not reliability. Verify records and open recalls.

Should I buy a Telluride or a Hyundai Palisade?

They share a platform and the 3.8L V6, so mechanically it is close to a coin flip. Choose on styling, interior preference, and price. Palisades often trade slightly cheaper for equivalent content, which makes them the smart fallback when Telluride pricing runs above your ceiling.

Does the X-Pro package meaningfully change off-road ability?

Modestly. It adds all-terrain tires, a roof rack, and a higher tow rating on the same drivetrain. It handles gravel, trailheads, and light snow better than a standard Telluride. It is not a body-on-frame off-roader, and it should not be shopped as one.

How many miles is too many on a used Telluride?

There is no hard cutoff. A documented 90,000-mile example with complete service history is a better buy than a 45,000-mile car with no records. Price to condition and maintenance evidence, and inspect suspension, brakes, and tires more carefully above roughly 75,000 miles.

What is the best Telluride trim for most families?

The EX trim is the volume sweet spot. It adds synthetic leather, heated front seats, a power liftgate, and blind-spot monitoring—features most families use daily. The SX adds larger wheels and more assistance tech, but the EX delivers the best value for the money.

Is all-wheel drive worth the extra cost on a Telluride?

Only in genuine snow country. A front-wheel-drive Telluride on proper winter tires outperforms an AWD one on worn all-seasons. AWD costs more upfront, reduces fuel economy by one to two mpg, and adds driveline maintenance. Match the drivetrain to your climate, not to anxiety.

How long does a Telluride engine typically last?

Well-maintained examples routinely exceed 150,000 to 200,000 miles. The 3.8L V6 is a conventional, long-serving Hyundai-Kia design with a strong service reputation. Regular oil changes, transmission fluid service, and coolant and brake fluid on schedule are the keys to longevity.

FAQ

What is the most reliable Kia Telluride model year?

All model years from 2020 through 2025 share the same powertrain, so reliability is consistent. The 2023 refresh introduced new electronics but no mechanical changes. The best year is the one with the most complete service history and no open recalls, regardless of year.

What is the biggest difference between pre-refresh and post-refresh Tellurides?

The 2023 refresh brought a wider dual-screen dashboard, updated styling, and expanded driver-assistance features. Pre-refresh models have a 10.25-inch touchscreen and a simpler interior. Mechanically, they are identical, so the choice comes down to screen size and tech preferences versus price.

Should I pay extra for the SX-Prestige trim?

Only if you value quilted leather, a head-up display, and premium audio. The SX-Prestige is the steepest value drop-off in the lineup. The EX and SX trims offer most of the practical features at a significantly lower price, making them better choices for most buyers.

How important is the factory tow package on a used Telluride?

Critical if you plan to tow. The factory package includes a transmission cooler and wiring, and it raises the rating to 5,000 pounds. Without it, the rating is lower. Verify the hardware physically, not from a listing, because sellers often conflate the two.

What is the most common post-purchase regret on a Telluride?

Ignoring the second-row configuration. Captain's chairs make third-row access easier but reduce seating to seven. A bench seats eight but is harder for kids to climb past. Decide this before shopping, because it eliminates half the inventory instantly and prevents regret.

How do I check for open recalls on a specific Telluride?

Run the VIN through NHTSA's lookup tool and Kia's owner portal. Confirm every open campaign shows as performed. Do not accept a dealer's verbal assurance. This five-minute check is the highest-return step in the entire buying process.

Is the Telluride's transmission fluid really lifetime fill?

No. The eight-speed automatic is durable, but it needs service on a schedule, typically every 60,000 miles. Ask for records proving transmission fluid changes. If the previous owner skipped it, price the service into your offer, as neglect can shorten transmission life.

What should I inspect in the third row before buying?

Fold and unfold every seat, cycle the power liftgate several times, and test every USB port and climate vent. Third rows absorb abuse from kids and cargo. These checks are cheap and quick, and they reveal issues that are irritating and costly to fix later.

How much does depreciation affect a Telluride's total cost of ownership?

Depreciation dominates total cost of ownership over five years, far more than fuel or repairs. The Telluride's strong resale value helps, but buying the newest example means you absorb the steepest part of the curve. A slightly older, well-maintained car saves real money.

Sources

• https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls
• https://www.kia.com/us/en/owners
• https://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/findacar.jsp
• https://www.carfax.com/guides/used-car-history-reports
• https://www.edmunds.com/kia/telluride/
• https://www.kbb.com/kia/telluride/
• https://www.caranddriver.com/kia/telluride
• https://www.motortrend.com/cars/kia/telluride/

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