The 2024 Kia Telluride arrived as a benchmark for three‑row family haulers, blending upscale materials, a composed ride, and a long list of standard safety tech. Even in 2026 it remains a compelling choice on the used market, and its design language still influences the brand’s newest models. This guide breaks down every angle — dimensions, powertrain, trim logic, real‑world efficiency, and how it stacks up against today’s competitors — so you can decide whether a 2024 Telluride fits your household and budget.
What Sets the 2024 Telluride Apart
Kia positioned the Telluride as a “premium” SUV without the premium badge tax. Every trim comes with a 3.8‑liter V6, an eight‑speed automatic, and a standard suite of active safety features that many rivals reserve for higher trims. The cabin uses soft‑touch surfaces on the upper doors and dashboard, and the available second‑row captain’s chairs create a genuine seven‑passenger layout with a pass‑through to the third row. In practice, the Telluride’s widest appeal comes from that balance: it feels substantial on the highway yet remains manageable in parking lots. You can also read our guide on invention of suv.
Exterior Design and Dimensions
The 2024 refresh introduced a wider “tiger‑nose” grille, restyled LED headlights, and new 20‑inch wheel designs on upper trims. The X‑Pro variant adds exclusive 18‑inch all‑terrain tires, blacked‑out trim, and a roof rack for a rugged aesthetic without sacrificing on‑road manners.
| Specification | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Length | 196.9 in |
| Width | 78.3 in |
| Height | 68.9 in |
| Wheelbase | 114.2 in |
| Ground clearance (X‑Pro) | 8.4 in |
The 2024 Telluride’s front fascia signals a more confident stance than the outgoing model.
For historical context on how SUV proportions have evolved, see the timeline of utility‑vehicle design. You can also read our guide on luxury suv comparisons.
Interior Space, Comfort, and Technology
The Telluride’s interior dimensions are class‑leading: 41.4 inches of front legroom, 42.4 inches in the second row, and 31.4 inches in the third row — enough for adults on shorter trips. Cargo space measures 21 cubic feet behind the third row, 46 cubes with it folded, and 87 cubes with both rear rows flat.
Standard tech includes a 12.3‑inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 12.3‑inch digital instrument cluster (on EX and above), and a Harman Kardon 10‑speaker system on SX trims. The infotainment responds quickly, though the climate controls remain partly touch‑based — a common frustration in cold weather when gloves are on. You can also read our guide on best suvs with rows for.
Seven‑seat configuration with second‑row captain’s chairs and available panoramic sunroof.
If you’re new to the segment, our primer on what defines an SUV explains the key categories.
Powertrain, Performance, and Fuel Economy
Every 2024 Telluride uses a naturally aspirated 3.8‑liter V6 producing 291 hp and 262 lb‑ft of torque, paired with an eight‑speed automatic. Front‑wheel drive is standard; all‑wheel drive adds a multi‑plate clutch that can send up to 50 % of torque to the rear axle. The X‑Pro gains a locking center differential for low‑speed traction. You can also read our guide on kia suv hybrid.
EPA estimates: 20 mpg city / 26 mpg highway / 22 mpg combined (FWD); AWD drops 1 mpg across the board. In real‑world mixed driving, expect 21–22 mpg. Towing capacity maxes at 5,000 lb with the factory tow package (includes hitch, wiring, and transmission cooler). The V6 delivers smooth, linear power — no turbo lag — but it’s not quick: 0‑60 mph takes about 7.5 seconds.
For official fuel‑economy data, refer to the EPA’s fueleconomy.gov database.
Safety Ratings and Driver‑Assistance Features
The 2024 Telluride earned a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS and a five‑star overall rating from NHTSA. Standard driver‑assistance suite (Kia Drive Wise) includes:
- Forward collision‑avoidance assist with pedestrian/cyclist detection
- Blind‑spot collision‑avoidance assist
- Lane‑keeping assist and lane‑following assist
- Rear cross‑traffic collision‑avoidance assist
- Safe‑exit assist (warns rear passengers of approaching traffic)
- Highway driving assist (adaptive cruise + lane centering)
Optional on SX/X‑Pro: surround‑view monitor, rear parking sensors with braking, and a head‑up display. The systems are well‑calibrated — false alerts are rare — but the lane‑following assist can ping‑pong on poorly marked roads. You can also read our guide on evaluation of suv.
See the latest crash‑test details at NHTSA.
Trim Walk: LX, S, EX, SX, and X‑Pro
| Trim | Key Additions Over Previous | Starting MSRP (2024) |
|---|---|---|
| LX | 18‑in wheels, cloth seats, 8‑way power driver seat, tri‑zone climate | $35,890 |
| S | 20‑in wheels, synthetic leather, heated front seats, power tailgate, roof rails | $38,690 |
| EX | 12.3‑in cluster, leather, ventilated front seats, 2nd‑row sunshades, wireless charging | $42,690 |
| SX | 20‑in dark wheels, Nappa leather, 10‑speaker Harman Kardon, HUD, rain‑sensing wipers | $46,890 |
| X‑Pro | 18‑in all‑terrain tires, unique fascia, locking center diff, tow package standard | $48,390 |
All‑wheel drive adds $1,900 on LX‑EX, $2,100 on SX/X‑Pro. The X‑Pro’s off‑road gear is unique in the segment — most rivals offer only cosmetic “adventure” packages.
Pricing, Value, and Market Context
When new, the Telluride undercut key rivals by $2,000–$4,000 at comparable equipment levels. In 2026, a well‑maintained 2024 EX with 30,000 miles typically lists around $38,000–$40,000, while an SX AWD with low miles can reach $44,000. Depreciation has been slower than average for the class, partly because Kia’s 10‑year/100,000‑mile powertrain warranty transfers to subsequent owners.
For a broader view of current market trends, check our analysis on whether vehicle prices are softening.
How It Stacks Up Against Rivals
| Competitor | Starting Price (2024) | Standard V6? | Third‑Row Room | Towing Max |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hyundai Palisade | $36,400 | Yes | Similar | 5,000 lb |
| Honda Pilot | $37,580 | Yes (3.5L) | Slightly less | 5,000 lb |
| Toyota Highlander | $37,420 | No (2.4L turbo) | Tighter | 5,000 lb |
| Mazda CX‑90 | $40,970 | No (3.3L turbo I6) | Less | 5,000 lb |
The Telluride’s advantage is standard V6 power across the board and a more upright third row. The Palisade is its corporate twin — same platform, different tuning — so cross‑shop both. For a deeper dive into a rival’s premium trim, see our take on the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid XLE Premium.
Ownership Experience: Reliability, Maintenance, and Resale
Kia’s 5‑year/60,000‑mile basic and 10‑year/100,000‑mile powertrain warranties are among the industry’s best. Routine maintenance (oil changes every 7,500 miles, tire rotations, cabin filter) is straightforward; the V6 uses a timing chain, not a belt. Common early‑build issues — infotainment freezes, occasional harsh 2‑3 shift — were largely addressed by mid‑2024 software updates. Owner forums report few major repairs before 60,000 miles.
Resale values remain strong: three‑year ALG retained value sits near 58 %, above the segment average of 54 %. That makes a certified pre‑owned Telluride a low‑risk purchase if you want warranty coverage.
Buying Guide: New vs. Used in 2026
- New (2025/2026 model year): Minor updates include a standard 12.3‑inch cluster on all trims, new interior colors, and a revised front bumper. Pricing starts around $38,000 for an LX FWD.
- Used 2024: Sweet spot for value. Target an EX or SX with 20k–35k miles; verify the 10‑year powertrain warranty transfer paperwork.
- Certified Pre‑Owned: Adds a 12‑month/12,000‑mile platinum warranty, roadside assistance, and a 164‑point inspection. Expect a $1,500–$2,000 premium over non‑CPO.
Quick tip: Test‑drive both FWD and AWD versions back‑to‑back. The AWD system adds weight and slightly blunts turn‑in, but the peace of mind in snow belts is often worth it.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many passengers does the 2024 Telluride seat?
Seven with second‑row captain’s chairs (standard on EX and above), eight with the bench seat (LX, S).
What is the real‑world fuel economy?
Most drivers see 21–22 mpg combined; highway trips at 70 mph can return 25–26 mpg.
Does the 2024 Telluride have a hybrid option?
No. Kia introduced a hybrid powertrain for the 2025 Sorento, but the Telluride remains V6‑only through 2026.
Is the X‑Pro worth the extra cost?
Only if you regularly drive unpaved roads or need the locking center differential. For pure pavement, the SX offers more luxury for similar money.
What are the key differences between the 2024 and 2025 models?
2025 adds standard digital cluster on all trims, new paint choices, and a restyled steering wheel. Mechanically identical.
Conclusion
The 2024 Kia Telluride delivered on its promise of accessible luxury: a spacious, well‑equipped, and safe three‑row SUV at a price that undercut the competition. Two years later, it ages gracefully — strong residuals, transferable warranty, and a timeless design keep it relevant. Whether you’re buying new, certified pre‑owned, or a well‑kept used example, the Telluride remains a benchmark for family practicality. Ready to explore current listings? Visit our blog for the latest SUV reviews and buying guides.