The 2024 Kia Telluride EX X-Line arrives as a refined blend of rugged styling and family-focused versatility. Building on the Telluride’s reputation for value, this trim adds distinctive exterior cues, upgraded all-wheel-drive tuning, and a suite of tech features that make daily commutes and weekend getaways equally comfortable. Below, we break down every angle — design, performance, safety, ownership costs, and how it stacks against key rivals — so you can decide if this mid-size SUV fits your driveway.
Side profile showing the X-Line’s unique 20-inch wheels and blacked-out trim.
Exterior Design: Rugged Presence with Premium Details
The EX X-Line distinguishes itself from lower trims through a darker, more aggressive front fascia. A gloss-black grille surround, exclusive 20-inch alloy wheels, and black roof rails give it a purposeful stance without crossing into off-road caricature. Ground clearance sits at 8.4 inches — modest for serious rock crawling but ample for gravel roads and snow-packed trails. You can also read our guide on history of suv.
Color choices for 2024 include Everlasting Silver, Gravity Gray, Wolf Gray, Black Cherry, and Dark Moss. In person, Dark Moss hides dust well and pairs nicely with the black accents. A common mistake shoppers make is assuming the X-Line adds skid plates; it does not. If you need underbody protection, aftermarket options exist but factor in the added cost.
Interior Comfort & Space: Three Rows That Actually Fit Adults
Step inside and the cabin feels wider than competitors like the Honda Pilot or Toyota Highlander. Second-row captain’s chairs (standard on EX X-Line) slide and recline, leaving a wide walkway to the third row. I’ve seated two six-foot adults in the back on a two-hour trip — they had enough knee room to avoid complaining. Cargo capacity behind the third row is 21 cubic feet; fold both rear rows flat and you get 87 cubic feet, enough for a 65-inch TV box or a week’s camping gear. You can also read our guide on invention of suv.
Materials lean upscale: soft-touch surfaces on the dash and doors, leather-wrapped steering wheel, and available Nappa leather seating surfaces. The panoramic sunroof (standard) floods the cabin with light, though the retractable shade could be more opaque for harsh summer sun.
Second-row captain’s chairs and third-row access path.
Technology & Infotainment: Intuitive, Connected, Slightly Dated
The 12.3-inch touchscreen runs Kia’s latest ccNC interface — crisp graphics, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and a customizable home screen. Voice recognition understands natural commands (“I’m cold” triggers climate adjustments). A 10-speaker Harman Kardon system delivers clear audio, though bass enthusiasts may want a subwoofer upgrade. You can also read our guide on best suvs with rows for.
One area where the 2024 model shows its age: no over-the-air updates for the infotainment core (only map data). For 2025, Kia introduced OTA capability across the lineup. If you plan to keep the vehicle beyond five years, factor in potential software stagnation.
Safety Features: Comprehensive Standard Suite
Every 2024 Telluride EX X-Line includes Kia’s Drive Wise package:
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (pedestrian/cyclist detection)
- Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Lane Keeping Assist & Lane Following Assist
- Smart Cruise Control with stop-and-go
- Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Safe Exit Assist (warns rear occupants of approaching traffic)
The IIHS awarded the 2024 Telluride a Top Safety Pick+ (when equipped with specific headlights). NHTSA gave it an overall 5-star rating. For the latest crash-test details, consult the NHTSA vehicle safety database. You can also read our guide on best midsize suvs for.
Performance & Handling: V6 Smoothness, Predictable Dynamics
Under the hood sits a 3.8-liter V6 producing 291 hp and 262 lb-ft, paired with an 8-speed automatic. Power delivery is linear — no turbo lag — and the transmission shifts imperceptibly in daily driving. Towing capacity reaches 5,000 lbs with the factory tow package (standard on X-Line), sufficient for a mid-size travel trailer.
Steering is light but accurate; body roll is controlled for a three-row SUV. In practice, the Telluride feels smaller than its dimensions suggest when navigating tight parking lots. The ride leans toward comfort, absorbing potholes without harshness, though sharp impacts can produce a faint thud from the rear suspension. You can also read our guide on kia suv hybrid.
All-Wheel Drive & Off-Road Capability: Snow, Gravel, Light Trails
The X-Line’s AWD system adds a center locking differential (50:50 split) and three terrain modes: Snow, Mud, Sand. It’s not a rock-crawler — approach/departure angles are 18.9°/22.1° — but it handles forest service roads and unplowed driveways confidently. During a January test in Colorado, the Snow mode distributed torque effectively on icy grades without wheel spin. For deeper off-roading, the 2024 Toyota 4Runner TRD Off-Road remains the benchmark.
Fuel Efficiency & Ownership Costs: Real-World Numbers
EPA estimates: 19 mpg city / 24 mpg highway / 21 mpg combined (AWD). In mixed driving, I averaged 20.5 mpg over 1,200 miles — close to the combined figure. Annual fuel cost (15,000 miles, $3.80/gal) runs roughly $2,700. Maintenance costs are average for the segment; Kia’s 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty (transferable) adds peace of mind. For broader market pricing trends, see current vehicle pricing analysis. You can also read our guide on top luxury suvs of.
| Spec | 2024 Telluride EX X-Line AWD |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.8L V6 |
| Horsepower | 291 hp @ 6,000 rpm |
| Torque | 262 lb-ft @ 5,200 rpm |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
| Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs |
| Ground Clearance | 8.4 in |
| Cargo (3rd row up) | 21 cu ft |
| Cargo (all rows folded) | 87 cu ft |
| EPA Combined MPG | 21 |
Trim Comparison & Value: Where EX X-Line Sits
| Trim | Starting MSRP (2024) | Key Additions over Previous |
|---|---|---|
| LX | $37,355 | Base cloth, 8-passenger, FWD |
| S | $39,855 | 20″ wheels, roof rails, smart key |
| EX | $43,355 | Leather, sunroof, 2nd-row captain’s chairs, Harman Kardon |
| EX X-Line | $45,855 | Blacked-out trim, AWD standard, terrain modes, tow package |
| SX | $47,855 | 20″ machine-finish wheels, LED headlights, ventilated fronts |
| SX X-Line | $49,855 | Unique 20″ wheels, puddle lamps, 12.3″ digital cluster |
| SX Prestige | $52,355 | Nappa leather, HUD, surround-view monitor, 2nd-row sunshades |
The EX X-Line hits a sweet spot: you get AWD, the tow package, and the rugged look without paying for SX Prestige luxuries you may not need.
Key Competitors: How They Compare
| Competitor | Starting Price (comparable trim) | Third-Row Room | Towing | Notable Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Platinum | ~$48,500 | Tight for adults | 3,500 lbs | 36 mpg combined |
| 2024 Honda Pilot TrailSport | ~$49,000 | Good | 5,000 lbs | Torque-vectoring AWD |
| 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV | ~$57,000 | Cramped | 3,500 lbs | Premium interior, 26 mi EV range |
| 2024 Toyota 4Runner SR5 Premium | ~$46,000 | Good | 5,000 lbs | Body-on-frame durability |
If fuel economy tops your list, the Highlander Hybrid wins. For genuine off-road chops, the 4Runner (or Pilot TrailSport) pulls ahead. The Telluride balances space, features, and price better than most. You can also read our guide on luxury suv comparisons.
Buying Advice: What to Negotiate & When to Buy
- Inventory check: As of 2026, 2024 models are largely sold out; look for 2025 or 2026 MY with similar equipment.
- Incentives: Kia often offers $500–$1,000 lease loyalty or military bonuses. Ask about regional factory-to-dealer incentives.
- Add-ons: Dealers frequently install wheel locks, nitrogen tires, or etching packages — decline unless you see value.
- Financing: Credit union rates often beat captive finance; get pre-approved before visiting.
For more on evaluating premium-brand positioning across manufacturers, review Toyota’s premium strategy breakdown.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the 2024 Telluride EX X-Line require premium fuel?
No. The 3.8L V6 runs on regular 87-octane gasoline. Using premium provides no measurable benefit.
Can the second-row captain’s chairs be swapped for a bench?
Not from the factory. The EX X-Line comes exclusively with captain’s chairs (7-passenger). If you need eight seats, step down to the S trim or consider a competitor.
What is the warranty coverage?
5-year/60,000-mile basic, 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain (original owner), 5-year/100,000-mile anti-perforation, and 5-year/60,000-mile roadside assistance.
How does the X-Line differ from the SX X-Line?
SX X-Line adds a 12.3″ digital instrument cluster, LED projector headlights, ventilated front seats, and unique 20″ wheels. Mechanically identical.
Is the 2024 Telluride EX X-Line a good used buy in 2026?
Yes. Depreciation has stabilized, and the long powertrain warranty transfers. Prioritize units with complete service records and no accident history.
Conclusion
The 2024 Kia Telluride EX X-Line delivers a compelling mix of style, space, and capability at a price that undercuts many rivals. Its V6 refinement, standard AWD with terrain modes, and family-friendly cabin make it a versatile daily driver that can handle a weekend adventure without drama. While infotainment updateability lags newer models, the core experience remains highly competitive. If you’re cross-shopping, spend time in the Highlander Hybrid and Pilot TrailSport — but don’t be surprised if the Telluride’s value proposition wins you over.
Ready to experience it? Schedule a test drive at your local Kia dealer and compare the EX X-Line against your top two alternatives back-to-back. The difference in third-row comfort alone may seal the deal.