The 2024 Kia Telluride SX Prestige X‑Line remains a benchmark for three‑row family haulers, blending upscale appointments with genuine off‑road credibility. Even as the 2025 refresh arrives, the 2024 model still populates dealer lots and the used market, offering a compelling mix of space, tech, and towing muscle at a price that undercuts many European rivals. Below is a thorough, up‑to‑date breakdown of what the X‑Line delivers — and where it falls short — so you can decide whether it fits your 2026 buying plans.
Quick Specs at a Glance
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.8 L V6, 291 hp / 262 lb‑ft |
| Transmission | 8‑speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | Standard AWD with torque‑vectoring |
| Seating | 7 (captain’s chairs) or 8 (bench) |
| Cargo (behind 3rd row) | 21 cu ft |
| Max Towing | 5,000 lb (with tow package) |
| EPA Fuel Economy | 20 mpg city / 26 mpg hwy / 22 mpg combined |
| Starting MSRP (2024) | ≈ $48,500 (X‑Line) |
| Warranty | 5 yr/60,000 mi basic, 10 yr/100,000 mi powertrain |
Exterior Design – Rugged Refinement
The X‑Line adds blacked‑out trim, 20‑inch machine‑finished alloys, and a unique front fascia that signals its adventure intent without looking overtly aggressive. Roof rails are standard, and the approach/departure angles improve modestly over the base SX Prestige (≈ 19°/22°). You can also read our guide on what is an suv.
Distinctive black accents and 20‑inch wheels set the X‑Line apart.
Key exterior touches
- LED headlights with dynamic bending light
- Gloss‑black grille surround and mirror caps
- Skid‑plate‑style lower bumper trim
- Dual‑panel panoramic sunroof (standard on X‑Line)
Interior Comfort & Versatility
Step inside and the cabin feels more premium than the price suggests. Nappa leather, genuine wood inlays, and soft‑touch surfaces dominate the first two rows. The third row accommodates adults up to 6 ft on short trips, and the one‑touch fold‑flat mechanism makes cargo swaps painless.
Notable comfort features
- Heated & ventilated front seats with 12‑way power adjustment
- Heated second‑row captain’s chairs (optional bench)
- Three‑zone automatic climate control with rear vents
- 12‑speaker Harman Kardon audio (standard)
- Wireless phone charger + 6 USB ports (2 front, 2 middle, 2 rear)
Infotainment & Connectivity
The 12.3‑inch curved display runs Kia’s latest ccNC software, which is snappy, supports over‑the‑air updates, and integrates wireless Apple CarPlay / Android Auto. Navigation includes real‑time traffic and a built‑in off‑road trail map layer — handy for the X‑Line’s target buyer. You can also read our guide on kia suv hybrid.
Curved dual‑screen layout with off‑road navigation mode.
Tech highlights
- Digital instrument cluster (12.3 in) with configurable off‑road gauges
- Head‑up display (speed, nav, ADAS alerts)
- Kia Connect app for remote start, climate, and vehicle health
- Dual Bluetooth pairing for simultaneous phone/media connections
Performance & Towing – V6 Muscle Meets AWD Smarts
The naturally aspirated 3.8 L V6 delivers linear power; 0‑60 mph arrives in ~7.2 seconds — respectable for a 4,500‑lb SUV. The 8‑speed automatic shifts imperceptibly, and the AWD system can send up to 50 % torque to the rear axle, with a lock mode for low‑traction scenarios.
Towing prep (standard on X‑Line)
- Heavy‑duty radiator & transmission cooler
- 7‑pin wiring harness & hitch receiver
- Trailer sway control integrated into stability system
In practice, the Telluride pulls a 4,500‑lb travel trailer confidently on highway grades, though brake fade can appear on extended descents — consider a supplemental brake controller for heavy loads. You can also read our guide on luxury suv comparisons.
Safety & Driver‑Assist Technologies
Every 2024 Telluride earns a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS and a 5‑star overall rating from NHTSA. The X‑Line includes the full Highway Driving Assist 2 suite: adaptive cruise with stop‑and‑go, lane‑centering, and automated lane changes on approved highways.
Standard active safety
- Forward collision‑avoidance (pedestrian & cyclist detection)
- Blind‑spot collision‑avoidance assist
- Rear cross‑traffic collision‑avoidance assist
- Safe exit assist (warns rear passengers of approaching traffic)
- Driver attention warning & leading vehicle departure alert
For the latest crash‑test details, see the NHTSA safety ratings page for the 2024 Telluride.
Fuel Economy & Real‑World MPG
EPA estimates sit at 20/26/22 mpg (city/hwy/combined). In mixed driving with a full passenger load, most owners report 19–21 mpg combined — roughly on par with the Toyota Highlander V6 and a touch better than the Ford Explorer 3.0 L EcoBoost. The V6’s lack of a hybrid option means fuel costs will be higher than the Highlander Hybrid, but the Telluride’s towing advantage often outweighs the difference for adventure‑focused families. You can also read our guide on invention of suv.
Pricing, Trims & Value Proposition
| Trim | MSRP (2024) | Key Adds Over Previous |
|---|---|---|
| LX | $35,900 | Base V6, FWD, 8‑passenger |
| S | $38,800 | AWD, 20‑in wheels, smart key |
| EX | $42,600 | Leather, sunroof, 12‑spk audio |
| SX | $45,900 | Nappa leather, HUD, ventilated seats |
| SX Prestige X‑Line | $48,500 | Blacked‑out trim, off‑road tires, unique gauges |
Compared with the premium SUV benchmarks like the Palisade Calligraphy or CX‑9 Signature, the X‑Line undercuts by $3–5 k while matching or exceeding feature content. For shoppers cross‑shopping three‑row family haulers, the three‑row family haulers roundup shows where the Telluride sits on value.
How It Stacks Up Against Rivals
| Competitor | Base V6 Power | Max Towing | Starting Price (top trim) | Notable Edge |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 Telluride X‑Line | 291 hp | 5,000 lb | $48.5k | Best standard feature set |
| 2024 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy | 291 hp | 5,000 lb | $50.2k | Slightly quieter cabin |
| 2024 Mazda CX‑9 Signature | 250 hp (turbo) | 3,500 lb | $48.0k | Sportier handling |
| 2024 Toyota Highlander Platinum | 265 hp (hybrid 243 hp) | 5,000 lb | $50.5k | Hybrid efficiency |
| 2024 Ford Explorer Platinum | 300 hp (turbo) | 5,600 lb | $54.0k | Higher tow rating |
The Telluride’s understanding SUV basics — spacious third row, generous standard equipment, and strong warranty — keep it a top pick for families who prioritize comfort over outright performance.
Ownership Costs & Reliability
Kia’s 10‑year/100,000‑mile powertrain warranty remains class‑leading. Maintenance intervals are conventional (oil every 7,500 mi, transmission fluid at 60k). RepairPal rates the 2024 Telluride 4.0/5.0 for reliability, with the most common issues being minor infotainment glitches resolved via OTA updates. Depreciation averages ~45 % after three years — competitive for the segment.
Buying Tips for 2026 Shoppers
- Certified Pre‑Owned (CPO) advantage – A 2024 CPO X‑Line adds a 12‑month/12,000‑mile comprehensive warranty on top of the original powertrain coverage.
- Negotiate the tow package – Some dealers bundle the hitch and wiring at no extra cost if you ask.
- Check tire spec – X‑Line ships with all‑terrain tires; if you rarely leave pavement, swapping to highway‑touring rubber improves ride and fuel economy.
- Verify software version – Ensure the dealer has applied the latest ccNC update (v2.4+) for improved voice recognition and off‑road map data.
- Compare lease vs. finance – With residuals holding near 55 % at 36 months, leasing can be cheaper than a 60‑month loan if you plan to upgrade in 2027.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the towing capacity of the 2024 Telluride X‑Line?
5,000 lb when equipped with the factory tow package (standard on X‑Line).
Does the X‑Line have a third‑row seat?
Yes — standard 7‑passenger captain’s chairs; an 8‑passenger bench is a no‑cost option.
What are the exterior color options?
Snow White Pearl, Ebony Black, Wolf Gray, Deep Sea Blue, and the X‑Line‑exclusive Jungle Green.
Is the Telluride good for families?
Absolutely. It combines top safety scores, ample third‑row room, and a long warranty — key factors for family buyers.
How does it compare to the Hyundai Palisade?
Mechanically identical, but the Telluride X‑Line adds unique styling, off‑road tires, and a slightly lower price point.
Conclusion
The 2024 Kia Telluride SX Prestige X‑Line delivers a rare blend: genuine three‑row practicality, upscale cabin appointments, and enough off‑road hardware to justify the “Adventure” badge — all for under $50 k. While the V6 isn’t the most efficient powerplant, its smooth delivery and robust towing make it a logical choice for families who tow campers, boats, or trailers on weekend getaways. If you’re shopping in 2026, a well‑maintained CPO example or a new‑old‑stock unit still on the lot represents strong value versus newer, pricier rivals. Test‑drive one alongside the Palisade Calligraphy and Highlander Platinum; the Telluride’s feature‑per‑dollar ratio often wins the day.