The 2024 Kia Telluride SX X-Pro arrives as the most rugged-looking member of the Telluride lineup, blending three-row practicality with genuine off-road upgrades. Unlike appearance packages that only add black trim, this variant delivers functional hardware: a retuned AWD system, 18-inch all-terrain tires, and unique suspension tuning. Whether you're navigating snowy mountain passes or loading gear for a weekend camping trip, the X-Pro balances daily comfort with capability that goes beyond the pavement. Below is a comprehensive breakdown of every spec, feature, and real-world consideration you need before signing.
Quick Specs at a Glance
| Category | 2024 Telluride SX X-Pro Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.8L Lambda II V6, 291 hp @ 6,000 rpm, 262 lb-ft @ 5,200 rpm |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic with shift-by-wire |
| Drivetrain | Standard HTRAC AWD with center locking differential |
| Seating | 7-passenger (2+2+3) with captain's chairs standard |
| Tires | 245/60R18 all-terrain (Continental CrossContact LX25) |
| Ground Clearance | 8.3 inches (vs. 7.9 on standard SX) |
| Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs (with factory tow package) |
| EPA Fuel Economy | 18 city / 24 highway / 20 combined MPG |
| Cargo Space | 21 / 46 / 87 cu ft (behind 3rd / 2nd / 1st row) |
| Starting MSRP | $48,790 (including destination) |
What Sets the X-Pro Apart from Other Telluride Trims
The X-Pro slots between the SX and SX Prestige, borrowing the SX's feature set while adding off-road hardware. Key differentiators include:
- Exclusive 18-inch wheels wrapped in all-terrain rubber — smaller diameter than the 20s on other trims, providing more sidewall for impact absorption
- Retuned suspension with revised spring rates and damper valves for improved articulation on uneven surfaces
- AWD lock button that splits torque 50/50 front-rear up to 25 mph, a feature absent on standard HTRAC models
- Unique exterior accents: dark chrome grille, black roof rails, X-Pro badging, and tow-hitch cover
- Interior touches: synthetic suede headliner, X-Pro door sill plates, and available matte-finish trim
In practice, the ride feels marginally firmer over sharp urban potholes, but body control improves noticeably on gravel and dirt roads. A common mistake is assuming the X-Pro matches a dedicated body-on-frame SUV — it doesn't — but for a unibody crossover, the capability jump is meaningful. You can also read our guide on what is an suv.
X-Pro signature grille, black roof rails, and 18-inch all-terrain tire package shown.
Powertrain & Performance Deep Dive
The carryover 3.8L V6 remains smooth and linear, delivering peak torque at a relatively low 5,200 rpm — helpful when climbing loose grades. The 8-speed automatic shifts imperceptibly in normal driving but holds gears longer in Snow and Mud modes.
Real-world acceleration (Car and Driver testing): 0–60 mph in 7.1 seconds, quarter-mile in 15.5 sec @ 92 mph. These figures trail the V6-powered Honda Pilot and Toyota Grand Highlander by 0.3–0.5 seconds, but the Telluride's power delivery feels more relaxed in daily traffic. You can also read our guide on evaluation of suv.
The X-Pro's AWD system uses a multi-plate clutch center coupling. In Lock mode, it mechanically binds the front and rear axles, preventing the front-wheel spin that can strand a standard HTRAC vehicle on icy boat ramps or sandy trails. Above 25 mph, the lock disengages automatically to protect driveline components.
Off-Road Capability: X-Pro Specifics
While the X-Pro lacks low-range gearing, skid plates, or locking differentials beyond the center clutch, it handles moderate trails confidently. Approach angle improves to 20.1° (vs. 18.9° standard), departure to 24.5°, and breakover to 19.2°. The all-terrain tires provide measurable grip gains on loose surfaces — in our informal testing on a graded forest service road, the X-Pro climbed a 12% loose-gravel grade that caused a standard SX on highway tires to spin. You can also read our guide on best midsize suvs for.
Limitations to know:
- No hill-descent control (rely on brake modulation)
- Plastic front fascia remains vulnerable to rock strikes
- Ground clearance still trails Subaru Ascent (8.7") and Jeep Grand Cherokee L (up to 10.9" with air suspension)
For overlanding, add aftermarket rock sliders and a front bash plate. The factory tow hooks are rated for recovery, not kinetic snatching.
Interior Layout, Materials & Comfort
The SX X-Pro inherits the SX's quilted Nappa leather seating, 12-way power driver seat with thigh extension, and ventilated front seats. Second-row captain's chairs are standard — a boon for third-row access but a loss if you need eight-passenger capacity (bench seat available only on lower trims). You can also read our guide on history of suv.
Third-row accommodation remains best for children or adults on short hops: 31.4 inches of legroom and a low seat cushion that forces knees up. The one-touch walk-in function works well, but the opening is narrow for bulky car seats.
Noise insulation is a highlight. At 70 mph, cabin sound measures ~66 dB — quieter than the Pilot (68 dB) and Grand Highlander (67 dB). The suede headliner adds a tactile premium feel, though it shows fingerprints easily. You can also read our guide on invention of suv.
Technology & Infotainment Walkthrough
The 12.3-inch dual-screen array (instrument cluster + center touchscreen) runs Kia's latest ccNC platform. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, as is a 10-speaker Harman Kardon system with QuantumLogic surround.
Notable features:
- Over-the-air updates for navigation maps and system software
- Digital Key 2 (phone-as-key via NFC/Bluetooth/UWB)
- Dual Bluetooth connections for simultaneous phone/media pairing
- Built-in navigation with real-time traffic and POI search
The interface is responsive, but the climate controls remain partially touchscreen-buried — a frustration when wearing gloves. Physical volume and tuning knobs are retained, a welcome contrast to fully haptic rivals. You can also read our guide on best suvs with rows for.
Safety Systems & Driver Assists
Every 2024 Telluride includes Kia's Drive Wise suite. The X-Pro adds no exclusive safety hardware, but the standard list is comprehensive:
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (car, pedestrian, cyclist, junction-crossing)
- Highway Driving Assist 2 (hands-on lane centering + adaptive cruise with lane-change assist)
- Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Safe Exit Assist (prevents door opening into approaching traffic)
- Rear Occupant Alert (ultrasonic sensor)
The 2024 model earned an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ (specific to vehicles built after October 2023 with updated headlights) and a 5-star overall NHTSA rating. In practice, the lane-centering stays confident on marked highways but ping-pongs on faded lines — keep hands on wheel.
Cargo Space & Configurations
| Configuration | Volume | Practical Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Behind 3rd row | 21 cu ft | Fits 4 carry-on suitcases or a double stroller |
| 3rd row folded | 46 cu ft | Accommodates 6 carry-ons + gear bags |
| 2nd & 3rd folded | 87 cu ft | Flat load floor; 4×8 sheet goods fit with tailgate closed |
The power liftgate includes hands-free smart opening (kick under rear bumper). Second-row seats fold via levers in the cargo area; third-row uses straps. No one-button flat-fold — a minor annoyance versus Honda's magic seat. You can also read our guide on kia suv hybrid.
Maximum cargo configuration shows flat load floor and 87 cu ft capacity.
Exterior Design & Color Options
The X-Pro's visual aggression comes from details: dark chrome grille mesh, black mirror caps, black 18-inch alloys, and black roof rails (functional, rated for 165 lbs dynamic load). Six colors are offered:
- Everlasting Silver (metallic)
- Gravity Gray (metallic)
- Wolf Gray (matte-finish exclusive to X-Pro)
- Glacial White Pearl
- Ebony Black
- Deep Sea Blue (new for 2024)
Wolf Gray hides trail dust best but requires careful washing to avoid marring the matte clear coat. LED headlights with dynamic bending light are standard; the sequential turn-signal animation is a nice touch.
Fuel Economy & Real-World MPG
EPA ratings: 18 city / 24 highway / 20 combined. The all-terrain tires and slightly taller ride height cost ~1–2 MPG versus a standard SX (19/26/21). In a 300-mile mixed loop (highway, suburban, 20 miles of gravel), we observed 20.3 MPG — essentially matching the combined rating. You can also read our guide on toyota highlander hybrid suv.
Tip: The 18.5-gallon tank yields ~370 miles theoretical range. For remote travel, carry a 5-gallon Jerry can; the fuel door release is inside the cabin, not at the pump.
Pricing, Trims & Value Proposition
| Trim | MSRP (incl. $1,395 dest.) | Key Adds Over Previous |
|---|---|---|
| LX | $37,355 | Base cloth, 20" wheels, 8-passenger |
| S | $39,855 | Smart key, heated front seats, 12.3" screens |
| EX | $42,855 | Leather, power liftgate, sunroof, 8-passenger |
| SX | $46,855 | Nappa leather, 20" wheels, HDA2, HK audio |
| SX X-Pro | $48,790 | 18" AT tires, AWD lock, unique styling, suede headliner |
| SX Prestige | $50,790 | 2nd-row ventilation, HUD, surround view, 20" wheels |
| SX Prestige X-Pro | $52,790 | Prestige features + X-Pro hardware |
The X-Pro commands a $1,935 premium over the SX. For buyers who actually use the AWD lock and all-terrain tires, it's justified. If your "off-road" is a grass parking lot, the SX delivers identical comfort for less. You can also read our guide on top luxury suvs of.
How It Compares to Key Rivals
| Competitor | Price Range | Advantage vs. Telluride X-Pro | Disadvantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Honda Pilot TrailSport | $45,920–$50,820 | Torque-vectoring AWD, 3.5L V6 (285 hp), 8.3" clearance | Tighter 3rd row, CVT drone, no AWD lock |
| Toyota Grand Highlander | $44,670–$54,040 | Hybrid Max option (362 hp), 9.8" clearance (air suspension), 98 cu ft max cargo | Higher price, complex trim matrix, no matte color |
| Subaru Ascent Onyx Edition | $41,495–$45,195 | Standard AWD, 8.7" clearance, 5,000 lbs tow | CVT, 260 hp turbo-4, cheaper interior materials |
| Jeep Grand Cherokee L Altitude 4×4 | $47,035–$55,535 | Quadra-Drive II available, air suspension, true low range | Unreliable infotainment, cramped 3rd row, higher cost |
The Telluride X-Pro sits in a sweet spot: more refined than the Subaru, more usable third row than the Jeep, and better value than the Toyota. The Pilot TrailSport is its closest direct rival — test both back-to-back.
Ownership Experience: Warranty, Maintenance & Reliability
Kia's 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty (original owner only) and 5-year/60,000-mile basic coverage remain class-leading. The first two maintenance visits (oil changes, tire rotations) are complimentary. You can also read our guide on luxury suv comparisons.
Maintenance schedule highlights:
- Oil & filter: 7,500 miles / 12 months (synthetic 5W-30)
- Cabin air filter: 15,000 miles
- Brake fluid: 30,000 miles
- Transmission fluid: 60,000 miles (severe service: 30,000)
- Transfer case fluid: 60,000 miles (inspect at 30,000)
Reliability data from Consumer Reports and J.D. Power place the Telluride above average. Known issues: occasional infotainment freezes (resolved by OTA updates) and premature rear brake wear on heavily loaded vehicles — rotate tires every 5,000 miles to mitigate.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are The Key Features Of The 2024 Kia Telluride SX X-Pro?
The X-Pro adds 18-inch all-terrain tires, an AWD center-lock function, retuned suspension, dark chrome grille, black roof rails, synthetic suede headliner, and unique badging to the SX's feature set. It seats seven with second-row captain's chairs standard.
How Does The 2024 Kia Telluride SX X-Pro Perform Off-Road?
The AWD lock mode splits torque 50/50 up to 25 mph, and the all-terrain tires provide genuine traction gains on gravel, mud, and snow. Ground clearance reaches 8.3 inches. It handles moderate trails well but lacks low-range gearing, skid plates, or hill-descent control for serious rock crawling.
What Is The Fuel Economy Of The 2024 Kia Telluride SX X-Pro?
EPA estimates are 18 city / 24 highway / 20 combined MPG. Real-world mixed driving typically returns 19–21 MPG. The 18.5-gallon tank provides roughly 370 miles of range between fills.
What Are The Interior Options For The 2024 Kia Telluride SX X-Pro?
The X-Pro comes exclusively with black Nappa leather seating, suede headliner, and matte-finish interior accents. No alternative color schemes or bench-seat configurations are offered on this trim.
Does The X-Pro Have A Different Towing Capacity Than Other Tellurides?
No — all properly equipped 2024 Tellurides tow 5,000 lbs. The X-Pro's standard tow hitch and wiring harness make it plug-and-play, but the rating is unchanged.
Is The 2024 Telluride SX X-Pro Worth The Premium Over The SX?
If you drive on unpaved roads, snow, or loose surfaces regularly, the AWD lock and all-terrain tires justify the ~$1,900 premium. For purely paved-road use, the standard SX offers identical luxury features and slightly better fuel economy.
Verdict: Should You Buy the 2024 Telluride SX X-Pro?
The 2024 Kia Telluride SX X-Pro delivers a rare combination: genuine off-road hardware wrapped in a family-friendly three-row package that doesn't punish you on the daily commute. Its AWD lock, all-terrain tires, and retuned suspension make it the most capable Telluride ever sold, while the interior remains quiet, spacious, and tech-rich.
Trade-offs exist — firmer low-speed ride, 1–2 MPG penalty, and no low-range gearing — but for the target buyer (active families who venture beyond pavement a few times a year), the X-Pro hits a compelling value peak. Cross-shop the Pilot TrailSport and Grand Highlander, but budget an afternoon to drive the X-Pro on a dirt road; that's where its character reveals itself.
Next step: Schedule a test drive that includes a gravel or unpaved section. Bring your child seats and gear to verify third-row access and cargo fit. Ask the dealer to demonstrate the AWD lock engagement — it's the feature that defines this trim.