2023 Kia Telluride Review: Still a Top Family SUV?

The 2023 Kia Telluride remains one of the best three-row family SUVs on the market thanks to its spacious cabin, premium feel, advanced technology, and exceptional everyday comfort. Since its debut, the Telluride has consistently ranked among the segment’s top choices for families seeking practicality without sacrificing refinement.

For 2023, Kia introduced one of the most significant updates in the Telluride’s short history. The exterior styling was refreshed, the dashboard received a major redesign, new technology features were added, and two rugged-looking trims joined the lineup. These improvements help the Telluride remain competitive in a segment filled with strong rivals such as the Honda Pilot, Hyundai Palisade, and Volkswagen Atlas.

Under the hood, the formula remains familiar. Every Telluride is powered by a naturally aspirated 3.8-liter V6 engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. There are no hybrid, plug-in hybrid, or turbocharged alternatives, but Kia continues to focus on delivering smooth power, proven reliability, and straightforward ownership.

What truly separates the Telluride from many midsize SUVs is its ability to appeal to a wide range of buyers. Families appreciate the spacious third row and generous cargo area, commuters enjoy the quiet cabin and comfortable ride, and road-trip enthusiasts benefit from its impressive long-distance comfort and advanced driver-assistance systems.

The 2023 update also brought new X-Line and X-Pro models aimed at buyers who want a more adventurous appearance. While these versions are not dedicated off-road vehicles, they add increased ground clearance, distinctive styling elements, and improved capability for light outdoor adventures.

Several years after its debut, the Telluride remains one of the benchmarks in the three-row SUV category. The question is no longer whether the Telluride is good. The real question is whether Kia has done enough to keep it ahead of an increasingly competitive field.

Our Take

The 2023 Kia Telluride continues to be one of the easiest SUVs to recommend in its class. It combines nearly everything most family buyers want: a spacious cabin, excellent comfort, intuitive technology, strong safety features, and an upscale feel that often exceeds expectations for its price point.

What impresses us most is the Telluride’s refinement. The cabin remains exceptionally quiet at highway speeds, the seats are supportive for long journeys, and the overall driving experience feels polished and confidence-inspiring. Few mainstream SUVs manage to feel this comfortable without sacrificing practicality.

Its lack of a hybrid powertrain and merely average fuel economy prevent it from being perfect, but these shortcomings are relatively minor when viewed against the vehicle’s long list of strengths. For families shopping for a midsize three-row SUV, the Telluride remains one of the segment’s strongest all-around choices.Buyers looking for a hybrid powertrain or class-leading fuel economy may find better alternatives elsewhere, but few competitors match the Telluride’s overall balance.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Spacious three-row cabin with adult-friendly seating
• Quiet and upscale interior that feels more expensive than expected
• Smooth ride quality and excellent long-distance comfort
• Strong list of standard technology and safety features
• Outstanding overall value compared with many rivals

Cons

• Acceleration is adequate rather than exciting
• No hybrid or turbocharged engine option
• Fuel economy is average for the segment
• Cabin storage for smaller items could be better

What’s New for 2023

The 2023 model year brings the most significant update the Telluride has received since its original launch. Rather than making small cosmetic tweaks, Kia introduced a comprehensive refresh that touches the exterior design, interior technology, convenience features, and trim lineup. These changes help keep the Telluride competitive in one of the most crowded SUV segments on the market.

The biggest news is the arrival of the new X-Line and X-Pro models. Both trims are designed for buyers who want a more adventurous appearance and additional capability. The X-Line adds unique styling elements, increased ground clearance, raised roof rails, and standard all-wheel drive, while the X-Pro goes a step further with all-terrain tires, upgraded towing capability, and additional off-road-focused enhancements. These new versions give the Telluride a broader appeal without changing its family-friendly nature.

Inside, Kia redesigned the dashboard and introduced a more modern technology layout. Higher trims now feature dual 12.3-inch panoramic displays that combine the digital instrument cluster and infotainment screen into a seamless visual presentation. The updated cabin also benefits from revised trim materials, a redesigned steering wheel, and several new convenience features.

The exterior received a noticeable refresh as well. Updated front and rear styling, revised lighting elements, new wheel designs, and additional color choices help give the Telluride a more upscale and rugged appearance. Combined with expanded driver-assistance technology and improved connectivity features, the 2023 Telluride feels more modern without losing the qualities that made it so popular in the first place.

Exterior Design

The Telluride has always stood out because it looks more expensive than its price tag suggests, and the 2023 refresh strengthens that impression. While many midsize SUVs rely on soft curves and conservative styling, the Telluride embraces a bold, upright design that gives it a commanding presence on the road. Its boxy proportions not only create a more confident appearance but also contribute to the SUV’s impressive interior space.

For 2023, Kia revised the front fascia with a more modern grille design, updated lighting signatures, and a cleaner overall look. The new vertical headlamp treatment gives the Telluride a stronger visual identity, while the redesigned bumpers help create a more rugged and upscale appearance. Small details such as the revised wheel designs and updated rear styling make the SUV look fresher without changing its recognizable character.

The new X-Line and X-Pro models introduce even more personality. Exclusive wheels, raised roof rails, body-color exterior trim, and additional ride height help these versions stand apart from the standard Telluride. The result is an SUV that looks ready for outdoor adventures even if most owners spend their time commuting, running errands, and taking family road trips.

What makes the Telluride’s design especially successful is its balance. It feels rugged without looking overly aggressive, upscale without appearing pretentious, and modern without chasing styling trends that may quickly become outdated. Several years after its introduction, the Telluride remains one of the most attractive three-row SUVs in its class.

Unlike many competitors that have moved toward softer crossover styling, the Telluride continues to embrace a more traditional SUV appearance that many buyers still prefer.

Driving Experience

The 2023 Kia Telluride delivers exactly the type of driving experience most family SUV buyers are looking for. Rather than focusing on sporty handling or aggressive performance, Kia prioritizes comfort, stability, and confidence. The result is a vehicle that feels relaxed and composed in nearly every driving situation.

Around town, the Telluride feels smaller than its dimensions suggest. Visibility is excellent, steering effort is light at lower speeds, and the driving position provides a clear view of the road ahead. Parking lots and tight urban environments are easier to navigate than many buyers might expect from a three-row SUV of this size.

On the highway, the Telluride truly shines. The cabin remains remarkably quiet at cruising speeds, helping reduce fatigue during long-distance travel. Wind and road noise are kept well under control, creating a level of refinement that often feels closer to an entry-level luxury SUV than a mainstream family crossover. This quiet and relaxed character is one of the reasons so many owners praise the Telluride as a road-trip vehicle.

The suspension is tuned primarily for comfort, and it handles rough pavement with impressive composure. Large bumps, expansion joints, and uneven surfaces are absorbed effectively without creating excessive body motions. While there is some body roll during aggressive cornering, the Telluride remains predictable and confidence-inspiring rather than cumbersome.

Drivers looking for a performance-oriented SUV may find competitors with sharper handling, but that is not the Telluride’s mission. Its greatest strength is how effortlessly it combines comfort, refinement, and everyday usability. Whether transporting a full family, tackling a long interstate journey, or handling the daily commute, the Telluride consistently feels smooth, relaxed, and easy to drive.

Performance & Acceleration

Every 2023 Kia Telluride is powered by a naturally aspirated 3.8-liter V6 engine producing 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. While some competitors have moved toward smaller turbocharged engines or hybrid powertrains, Kia continues to rely on a traditional V6 that prioritizes smoothness, reliability, and predictable power delivery. The engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and is available with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive depending on trim level.

Acceleration is respectable rather than thrilling, which is perfectly appropriate for the Telluride’s mission as a family-focused SUV. The V6 provides enough power for confident highway merging, passing slower traffic, and carrying a full load of passengers without feeling strained. Most drivers will find its performance more than adequate for daily driving, even if it cannot match the strongest turbocharged competitors in outright acceleration.

The eight-speed automatic transmission generally performs well, delivering smooth shifts during normal driving and helping the engine remain quiet at cruising speeds. Under heavy throttle, shifts can occasionally feel slightly abrupt, but these moments are relatively rare and do little to diminish the Telluride’s overall refinement. The transmission is tuned more for comfort than aggressive performance, which aligns well with the SUV’s character.

Towing capability remains another strength. Properly equipped models can tow up to 5,500 pounds, giving owners enough capacity for small campers, boats, and recreational trailers. While the Telluride may not be the most powerful SUV in the segment, it delivers a well-rounded performance package that emphasizes smoothness, confidence, and everyday usability.

Ride Comfort & Cabin Refinement

Ride comfort has long been one of the Telluride’s greatest strengths, and the 2023 model continues that tradition. Kia has tuned the suspension to absorb bumps and imperfections with impressive composure, creating a smooth and controlled ride that feels more expensive than many mainstream competitors. Whether driving through city streets or covering hundreds of highway miles, the Telluride remains comfortable and relaxed.

The front seats are particularly well suited for long-distance travel. They offer excellent support without feeling overly firm, and higher trims add features such as ventilation, heating, and premium upholstery materials. Even after several hours behind the wheel, the seats remain comfortable, making the Telluride an excellent choice for families who frequently take road trips.

Passengers in the second row benefit from generous legroom, comfortable seating positions, and easy access to climate controls and charging ports. Unlike many three-row SUVs, the Telluride’s third row can comfortably accommodate adults for more than just short trips. This practical third-row usability remains one of the vehicle’s most significant advantages over many rivals.

Cabin quietness is another area where the Telluride excels. Wind noise is minimal at highway speeds, road noise is effectively controlled, and the V6 engine remains refined during normal driving. The result is a serene environment that allows passengers to converse easily without raising their voices, even during extended interstate travel.

The climate-control system is equally impressive. Airflow reaches all three rows effectively, helping maintain consistent temperatures throughout the cabin. Available heated and ventilated seating further enhances comfort for both front and second-row passengers, adding to the Telluride’s premium feel.

What ultimately separates the Telluride from many competitors is how successfully it combines comfort with refinement. Some rivals offer a softer ride but feel less controlled, while others prioritize handling at the expense of passenger comfort. The Telluride strikes an excellent balance between the two, delivering a composed driving experience that consistently feels polished, quiet, and family-friendly.

Interior & Luxury Feel

One of the biggest reasons for the Telluride’s success is its interior. Kia has managed to create a cabin that feels noticeably more upscale than many mainstream competitors without pushing the price into luxury-brand territory. From the materials to the overall design, the Telluride consistently gives the impression of a more expensive vehicle.

The dashboard design received meaningful updates for 2023, resulting in a cleaner and more modern appearance. Higher trims feature dual 12.3-inch displays housed within a single panoramic panel that stretches across the dashboard, creating a sophisticated look that rivals some premium SUVs. The overall layout remains intuitive, with controls positioned logically and within easy reach of the driver.

Material quality is impressive throughout most of the cabin. Soft-touch surfaces cover many of the areas passengers interact with most frequently, while available leather upholstery and premium trim accents further elevate the atmosphere. Even lower trims avoid feeling cheap, which is something that cannot be said about every competitor in this segment.

Space is another major strength. The Telluride comfortably accommodates adults in all three rows, a claim that relatively few midsize SUVs can make. Large windows create an open and airy feeling throughout the cabin, helping passengers avoid the cramped sensation often associated with third-row seating.

Perhaps most impressive is how cohesive the interior feels. Nothing appears overly complicated or designed simply for attention. Instead, Kia has focused on creating a comfortable, attractive, and functional environment that works exceptionally well for daily family use while still feeling premium enough to satisfy buyers seeking a more upscale experience.

Technology & Infotainment

Technology plays a major role in the Telluride’s appeal. Every model comes standard with a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system that is easy to use, quick to respond, and positioned within comfortable reach of the driver. The interface is clean and intuitive, reducing the learning curve for new owners.

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, allowing seamless smartphone integration for navigation, music, and communication. Multiple USB-C charging ports are distributed throughout all three rows, ensuring passengers can keep devices powered during longer journeys. Higher trims add additional convenience features, including a head-up display and an upgraded digital instrument cluster.

The Telluride also offers one of the better driver-assistance technology packages in the segment. Features such as Highway Driving Assist 2, Blind Spot View Monitor, adaptive cruise control, and advanced lane-centering technology work smoothly and naturally without feeling overly intrusive. These systems contribute significantly to reducing driver fatigue during highway travel.

One surprising omission is the lack of wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. In a vehicle that offers such a comprehensive technology package, this remains one of the few areas where some competitors have a clear advantage.

One area where the Telluride trails a few newer competitors is wireless smartphone connectivity, which remains unavailable. Even so, the overall technology package remains highly competitive thanks to its user-friendly design, strong feature content, and excellent execution.

Fuel Economy

Fuel economy remains one of the few areas where the Telluride is merely average rather than class-leading. The 3.8-liter V6 prioritizes smooth power delivery and towing capability over maximum efficiency, resulting in EPA ratings that generally fall in the middle of the midsize SUV segment.

Front-wheel-drive models achieve up to 23 mpg combined, while all-wheel-drive versions are rated at approximately 21 mpg combined. These figures are respectable for a naturally aspirated V6-powered SUV but cannot match the efficiency offered by newer hybrid alternatives.

The good news is that the Telluride runs on regular gasoline and often delivers fuel economy close to its official EPA estimates in real-world driving. Buyers who prioritize comfort, refinement, and performance will likely find the trade-off acceptable, though shoppers focused primarily on fuel savings may prefer one of the growing number of hybrid competitors.

Practicality & Cargo Space

Practicality has always been one of the Telluride’s strongest selling points, and the 2023 model continues to excel in this area. While many three-row SUVs advertise family-friendly accommodations, the Telluride genuinely delivers usable space for passengers and cargo without requiring significant compromises. It was designed with growing families in mind, and that focus becomes obvious the moment you step inside.

Passenger space is excellent throughout all three rows. Adults can sit comfortably in the second row, and unlike many competitors, the third row is large enough to accommodate grown passengers on longer trips. This added usability makes a noticeable difference for families who frequently travel with more than five occupants.

Access to the third row is also straightforward. Available captain’s chairs slide and tilt forward easily, allowing passengers to enter and exit without excessive effort. Large rear doors and wide openings further improve accessibility, which is particularly useful when loading children or helping older passengers climb aboard.

Cargo capacity is equally impressive. Even with all three rows in use, the Telluride offers a generous amount of luggage space behind the third row. Grocery runs, sports equipment, airport pickups, and family vacations can all be handled without immediately needing to fold seats down. This practical cargo area is one of the reasons the Telluride remains so popular among family buyers.

When additional storage is needed, the second and third rows fold flat to create a large and versatile load floor. The resulting cargo area can accommodate furniture, home improvement supplies, bicycles, and other bulky items that would challenge many midsize SUVs. The wide liftgate opening also makes loading larger objects easier than expected.

Families who regularly carry both passengers and cargo will find very little to complain about here. The Telluride successfully combines spacious seating, flexible storage solutions, and impressive cargo capacity into one cohesive package. It remains one of the most practical three-row SUVs available today and continues to set a high benchmark for everyday usability.

Safety & Driver Assistance

Safety remains a major priority for the 2023 Kia Telluride. Kia equips every trim with a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance technologies designed to help drivers avoid potential hazards while reducing stress during daily commuting and long-distance travel.

Standard features include Forward Collision Avoidance Assist, Blind-Spot Collision Warning, Lane Keeping Assist, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Avoidance, Driver Attention Warning, and Adaptive Cruise Control. Unlike some systems that can feel overly sensitive or intrusive, the Telluride’s safety technologies generally operate smoothly and predictably in real-world driving conditions.

Higher trims add several advanced features that further enhance driver confidence. Blind Spot View Monitor displays a live camera feed in the instrument cluster when changing lanes, while Highway Driving Assist 2 combines adaptive cruise control with lane-centering technology to make highway travel significantly less tiring. These systems are among the more polished driver-assistance packages available in the segment.

Beyond its technology features, the Telluride has built a strong reputation for crash protection and occupant safety. Its combination of active safety systems, solid structural engineering, and family-focused design helps explain why it remains one of the most trusted choices among midsize three-row SUVs.

Competitors Worth Considering

The Hyundai Palisade remains the Telluride’s closest competitor. Sharing much of the same engineering underneath, the Palisade offers a slightly more luxurious personality, a distinctive interior design, and similar levels of comfort, technology, and refinement.

The Honda Pilot is another strong alternative. It emphasizes family practicality, impressive interior flexibility, and excellent long-term reputation. Recent redesigns have also improved its technology and overall refinement, making it one of the Telluride’s toughest rivals.

Volkswagen Atlas appeals to buyers who prioritize interior space above all else. Its third row and cargo area are among the largest in the segment, though it generally lacks some of the Telluride’s premium feel and feature content.

The Toyota Grand Highlander offers an attractive combination of efficiency, comfort, and available hybrid powertrains. Buyers seeking better fuel economy without sacrificing passenger space may find it particularly appealing.

Finally, the Chevrolet Traverse remains worth considering for shoppers who want maximum cargo capacity and a spacious third row. While it may not match the Telluride’s upscale atmosphere, it continues to be one of the most practical family SUVs on the market.

Which Trim Does Cardrav Recommend?

The Telluride lineup offers a wide range of trims, but our recommendation is the SX. It strikes the best balance between price, technology, comfort, and premium features without climbing into the territory occupied by the more expensive SX Prestige models.

The SX adds several upgrades that noticeably improve the ownership experience, including the larger 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, Highway Driving Assist 2, Blind Spot View Monitor, premium interior appointments, and additional driver-assistance technology. These features help the Telluride feel more upscale while preserving the excellent value that has made it so popular.

Buyers who frequently travel off the beaten path may want to consider the SX X-Pro for its all-terrain tires and increased towing capacity. For most shoppers, however, the standard SX delivers the sweet spot of the lineup and provides nearly everything a family could want in a modern three-row SUV.

Final Verdict: Should You Buy It?

The 2023 Kia Telluride remains one of the most complete three-row SUVs available today. It combines a spacious and family-friendly interior with a quiet ride, premium-feeling materials, advanced technology, and a long list of standard safety features. Few competitors manage to balance comfort, practicality, and value as effectively.

What makes the Telluride stand out is its consistency. There are no major weaknesses that significantly detract from the ownership experience. While some rivals may offer better fuel economy, sharper handling, or more powerful engines, very few deliver such a well-rounded package across every category that matters to family buyers.

The updates introduced for 2023 help keep the Telluride fresh and competitive. Revised styling, improved technology, and the addition of the X-Line and X-Pro models expand its appeal without changing the qualities that originally made it successful. Kia wisely improved the formula rather than reinventing it.

If your priorities include passenger comfort, interior space, modern technology, strong safety credentials, and excellent overall value, the 2023 Telluride deserves a place near the very top of your shopping list. It continues to set the standard that many other midsize three-row SUVs are still trying to reach.

FAQ

Is the 2023 Kia Telluride worth buying over the Honda Pilot?

For most family buyers, the Telluride offers a more premium cabin, a quieter driving experience, and a richer list of standard features for the money. The Honda Pilot remains an excellent choice thanks to its practicality and reputation for long-term durability, but the Telluride generally feels more upscale and refined. Buyers looking for the best balance of comfort, technology, and value will likely prefer the Kia.

Does the 2023 Kia Telluride feel like a luxury SUV?

In many ways, yes. While it does not carry a luxury badge, the Telluride delivers a surprisingly upscale experience. Higher trims feature premium materials, advanced technology, comfortable seating, and excellent noise isolation. Many buyers cross-shop it with entry-level luxury SUVs and are often surprised by how close the Telluride comes to delivering a near-luxury experience at a significantly lower price.

What are the biggest weaknesses of the 2023 Kia Telluride?

The Telluride has very few major weaknesses, but it is not perfect. Fuel economy is average compared with newer hybrid competitors, there is no electrified powertrain option, and acceleration is merely adequate rather than exciting. Buyers who prioritize maximum efficiency or sporty performance may find stronger alternatives elsewhere.

Which 2023 Kia Telluride trim offers the best value?

The SX trim offers the best overall value for most buyers. It adds several desirable features, including a larger digital instrument cluster, upgraded driver-assistance technologies, premium interior appointments, and enhanced convenience features without reaching the higher prices of the SX Prestige models. For many shoppers, it represents the sweet spot of the lineup.

Is the 2023 Kia Telluride still worth buying compared with newer three-row SUVs?

Yes. Despite increasing competition from newer models, the Telluride remains one of the most well-rounded three-row SUVs available. Its combination of comfort, interior quality, technology, passenger space, safety features, and overall value continues to make it a top recommendation for family buyers.