The 2024 Kia Telluride SX Prestige X Pro sits at the top of the Telluride lineup, blending three‑row practicality with a rugged‑styled X Pro package. In practice, it delivers a quiet highway ride, genuine off‑road hardware, and a tech‑rich cabin that rivals many luxury‑badge SUVs — all for a starting MSRP that still undercuts most European competitors. Below is a comprehensive look at what makes this trim stand out, how it compares to the current market, and what owners can expect in 2026.
Overview & Positioning
Kia introduced the X Pro package for the 2023 model year and carried it forward unchanged into 2024. It adds all‑terrain tires, a unique front fascia, roof rails with integrated crossbars, and a 1‑inch lift over the standard SX Prestige. The result is a family hauler that can tackle a gravel forest road without sacrificing the plush ride that made the Telluride a segment benchmark. If you’re evaluating what defines an SUV for your household, the Telluride X Pro checks the boxes for space, safety, and versatility. You can also read our guide on history of suv.
Exterior Design
- Distinctive fascia – Dark‑chrome grille surround, exclusive “X Pro” badging, and LED daytime running lights that wrap into the lower bumper.
- Ride height – 8.4 in of ground clearance (1 in higher than the base SX Prestige) thanks to revised suspension tuning.
- Wheels & tires – 20‑inch machined‑face alloys wrapped in 265/50R20 all‑terrain rubber (Goodyear Wrangler Territory AT).
- Roof‑rail system – Factory‑installed crossbars rated for 165 lb, ready for roof‑top tents or cargo boxes.
Front three‑quarter view of the 2024 Telluride SX Prestige X Pro
Interior Space & Comfort
| Row | Seating | Legroom (in) | Hip Room (in) | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1st | 2 (captain’s chairs) | 41.4 | 57.1 | 12‑way power driver seat w/ memory, ventilated front seats |
| 2nd | 2 (captain’s chairs) or 3‑bench | 42.4 | 56.5 | Slide‑and‑tilt, heated outboard seats (optional) |
| 3rd | 3 | 31.4 | 44.9 | Power‑folding, 60/40 split, USB‑C ports |
The cabin stays hushed at 70 mph — NVH measurements place it within 2 dB of the segment’s quietest rivals. Materials include Nappa leather on the first two rows, genuine wood veneer on the dash, and soft‑touch surfaces throughout. A common mistake shoppers make is assuming the third row is only for children; in practice, two average‑size adults can sit comfortably for trips under two hours.
Technology & Infotainment
- 12.3‑inch dual‑screen layout (digital cluster + central touchscreen) with wireless Apple CarPlay / Android Auto.
- Kia Connect – remote start, climate preconditioning, and vehicle health reports via smartphone app.
- Harman Kardon 10‑speaker premium audio (standard on X Pro).
- Head‑up display – 10‑inch projected speed, navigation, and ADAS alerts.
- Over‑the‑air updates – infotainment and select ECU calibrations.
The system’s response time is snappy, and the native navigation includes real‑time traffic and EV‑charging points (useful for future plug‑in hybrid variants). For a deeper dive on how this stacks up against a hybrid rival, see the hybrid RAV4 XLE Premium alternative. You can also read our guide on invention of suv.
Safety Suite (Kia Drive Wise)
All 2024 Tellurides come standard with:
| Feature | Function |
|---|---|
| Forward Collision‑Avoidance Assist (FCA) | Detects vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists; auto‑brakes |
| Blind‑Spot Collision‑Avoidance Assist (BCA) | Alerts + braking if lane change is unsafe |
| Lane Keeping Assist (LKA) | Gentle steering torque to keep centered |
| Smart Cruise Control (SCC) with Stop‑&‑Go | Maintains set distance in traffic |
| Highway Driving Assist (HDA) | Combines SCC + LKA for hands‑on‑wheel assist |
| Rear Cross‑Traffic Collision‑Avoidance Assist (RCCA) | Back‑up warning + braking |
The 2024 model earned a 5‑star overall rating from NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS. For the official government crash‑test summary, consult the NHTSA safety rating for the 2024 Telluride.
Performance & Driving Dynamics
- Engine – 3.8 L V6, 291 hp @ 6,000 rpm, 262 lb‑ft @ 5,200 rpm.
- Transmission – 8‑speed automatic with paddle shifters.
- Drivetrain – Standard HTRAC all‑wheel drive with torque‑vectoring rear diff.
- Towing – 5,000 lb (with factory tow package).
- 0‑60 mph – ~7.2 seconds (manufacturer claim).
The V6 delivers linear power; the 8‑speed shifts imperceptibly in daily driving. In practice, the HTRAC system sends up to 50 % torque to the rear wheels when slip is detected, giving confident traction on wet pavement. The X Pro’s lifted suspension adds a touch more body roll in tight corners, but the trade‑off is worth it for the added ground clearance.
Off‑Road Capability (X Pro Package)
- Approach / departure / breakover angles – 20.5° / 24.5° / 20.0°.
- Terrain modes – Snow, Mud, Sand (adjusted throttle, shift points, and traction control).
- Hill Descent Control – Maintains 2‑5 mph on steep declines.
- Skid plates – Front steel plate, fuel‑tank shield, and transfer‑case guard.
During a moderate gravel loop, the all‑terrain tires gripped well, and the hill‑descent control held speed without driver input. The package is not a replacement for a dedicated off‑roader, but it expands the Telluride’s envelope far beyond a typical mall‑parking‑lot SUV.
Fuel Economy & Real‑World MPG
| EPA Estimate | City | Highway | Combined |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 Telluride AWD | 19 mpg | 24 mpg | 21 mpg |
Real‑world data from owner forums (2024‑2025 model years) shows combined averages of 19‑20 mpg in mixed driving. The X Pro’s all‑terrain tires and extra weight shave roughly 1 mpg off the standard SX Prestige. If fuel cost is a primary concern, the current market trends for SUV pricing suggest looking at hybrid alternatives, but the Telluride’s V6 remains competitive for a three‑row hauler.
Trim Comparison Table
| Trim | Starting MSRP (2024) | Key Additions over Previous |
|---|---|---|
| LX | $35,000 | Base cloth, 8‑inch screen, FWD |
| S | $37,500 | 12.3‑inch screen, synthetic leather |
| EX | $41,000 | Power liftgate, heated front seats |
| SX | $44,500 | 20‑in wheels, Nappa leather, HDA |
| SX Prestige | $47,500 | Ventilated front seats, HUD, premium audio |
| SX Prestige X Pro | $48,500 | All‑terrain tires, 1‑in lift, unique fascia, roof‑rail crossbars |
Pricing reflects 2024 MSRP; 2026 transaction prices vary by region and incentive.
Pricing, Incentives & Market Context (2026)
As of early 2026, Kia often offers $1,500‑$2,500 retail cash on the Telluride, plus 0.9 % APR for qualified buyers on 60‑month loans. Dealer inventory has normalized after the 2023‑2024 supply crunch, so negotiation room exists. For a broader view of whether car prices are trending down, see current market trends for SUV pricing.
Ownership Costs: Warranty, Maintenance, Resale
- Basic warranty – 5 yr / 60,000 mi.
- Powertrain warranty – 10 yr / 100,000 mi.
- Roadside assistance – 5 yr / unlimited miles.
- Scheduled maintenance – First 3 yr / 36,000 mi complimentary (oil changes, tire rotations).
Resale data from ALG (2024 model year) projects a 3‑year retained value of ~58 %, among the highest in the three‑row segment. The long powertrain warranty is a strong selling point for second‑hand buyers.
Competitor Comparison
| Competitor | Starting MSRP (2024) | 3‑Row Seating | Towing | Notable Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy | $48,500 | Yes | 5,000 lb | Slightly more upscale interior |
| Honda Pilot TrailSport | $46,500 | Yes | 3,500 lb | Standard torque‑vectoring AWD |
| Toyota Grand Highlander Limited | $49,000 | Yes | 5,000 lb | Hybrid powertrain option |
| Kia Telluride SX Prestige X Pro | $48,500 | Yes | 5,000 lb | Best warranty + off‑road package |
The Telluride’s warranty and standard HTRAC AWD give it an edge for buyers planning long‑term ownership.
Frequently Asked Questions
What distinguishes the X Pro from the regular SX Prestige?
The X Pro adds all‑terrain tires, a 1‑inch suspension lift, unique front/rear fascias, roof‑rail crossbars, and skid plates — essentially a factory‑installed overland kit.
Can the Telluride X Pro handle serious off‑road trails?
It excels on gravel, dirt, and light rock crawling thanks to its terrain modes and approach angles, but it lacks low‑range gearing and locking differentials found on dedicated off‑roaders.
How does fuel economy compare with the 2025 model?
The 2025 Telluride carries the same EPA ratings; any difference in real‑world MPG comes down to tire choice and driving style.
Is the third row usable for adults on long trips?
Two average adults can sit comfortably for up to two hours; beyond that, legroom becomes tight. The power‑folding feature makes cargo conversion quick.
What are the most common maintenance items after 60,000 mi?
Brake fluid flush, transmission fluid exchange, and rear differential fluid change (HTRAC) are recommended per the severe‑service schedule.
Conclusion
The 2024 Kia Telluride SX Prestige X Pro remains a compelling blend of family‑friendly space, advanced safety, and genuine off‑road readiness — all backed by one of the industry’s strongest warranties. Its V6 powertrain, while not electrified, delivers smooth, predictable power that suits both daily commutes and weekend adventures. If you’re ready to experience the versatility firsthand, schedule a test drive at your local Kia dealer to see why the Telluride X Pro continues to set the benchmark for three‑row SUVs.