Don’t look now!
There’s another mid-size SUV to choose from with the introduction of the 2020 Kia Telluride SX AWD.
Telluride? Are they running out of names? I did the Google and learned Telluride is a ski resort in Colorado.
Telluride is Kia’s largest vehicle ever, seating up to eight adults. Maybe that’s because the South Korean automaker’s behemoth was imagined in America, designed in California and assembled in Georgia.
In America it’s go big or go home.
Telluride is big, bold and boxy and comes with a go-anywhere, do-anything attitude. Powered by a 3.8-liter V6 engine mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission – and available with active on-demand, all-wheel drive – Telluride generates 291 horsepower and 262 lb.-ft. of torque. It can tow any of your favorite toys.
Planning the Telluride interior, Kia designers set out to create an upscale cabin with an abundance of premium materials, attention to detail and an array of convenient features including:
- Available double-stitched, quilted and extra-padded Nappa leather trim upholstery
- Simulated brushed metal and matte-finished wood
- Interior hooks to keep packs and bags off floor and away from feet
- Available heated and ventilated first- and second-row seats
- Ceiling-mounted second-row climate control
- HVAC diffusing ceiling vents provide wider spread of airflow for increased comfort
- Reclining third-row seats
- Leather-wrapped, tilt and telescoping steering wheel
- Available heated steering wheel
In addition, Telluride is brimming with technology and advanced connectivity to make life easier and more enjoyable thanks to a Kia Drive Wise suite of advanced driver-assistance systems and a long list of standard and optional equipment.
Highlights include a 10.25 inch touchscreen with rear-view monitor and parking guidance, 630-watt, 10-speaker Harman/Karson audio system with Quantum Logic surround sound, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, wireless smartphone charging, six USB ports and, of course, multi-Bluetooth wireless connectivity.
The list of safety features is even longer – and more impressive. There are the usual: antilock brakes, vehicle stability management, downhill brake control and hill-start assist. There are the expected: forward collision warning, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, smart cruise control and rear cross-traffic alert.
And then there are the unexpected: Driver Talk uses a microphone to enhance communication with second- and third-row passengers. Quiet Mode cuts audio output in the second and third row so only front-row audio choices are heard. And there’s rear-occupant alert that uses sensors designed to detect child or pet movement in the second and third rows after the doors have been locked, then issue an audible alert to the driver.
Let’s just say the Kia Telluride competes with the best in the category, and still keeps the price under $50k. Not cheap, but considering what you’re getting, it provides value.
Base Price: $44,505
Price As Driven: $46,860
Base price includes destination charge. Vehicles are provided by the manufacturer. List price may vary at local dealerships.
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