The 2024 Kia Telluride arrived as the final model year before a comprehensive redesign, carrying forward the formula that made it a three-row benchmark. With a 3.8-liter V6, available all-wheel drive, and seating for up to eight, it targets families who need genuine utility without sacrificing daily drivability. This review examines the 2024 Telluride from a 2026 perspective — covering trim logic, real-world performance, ownership costs, and how it stacks up against newer rivals — so you can decide whether a new-old-stock unit or a lightly used example makes sense today.
2024 Kia Telluride at a Glance
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.8L DOHC V6 (291 hp / 262 lb-ft) |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD standard; AWD optional ($1,800) |
| Seating | 7 (2-2-3) or 8 (2-3-3) passengers |
| Towing (max) | 5,000 lb (with tow package) |
| EPA Fuel Economy | 19/24/21 mpg (FWD); 18/23/20 mpg (AWD) |
| Cargo (behind 3rd/2nd/1st row) | 21 / 46 / 87 cu ft |
| Base MSRP (LX FWD) | $35,990 (incl. $1,295 destination) |
What Changed for 2024
The 2024 model year brought subtle but meaningful updates. Kia added standard rear occupant alert with ultrasonic sensors across all trims, while the S and EX gained a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster previously reserved for the SX. The Nightfall Edition returned with gloss-black exterior accents, 20-inch black wheels, and unique interior stitching. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto became standard on EX and above. Otherwise, the mechanical package carried over unchanged from the 2023 refresh — a sensible move given the platform's proven reliability. You can also read our guide on evaluation of suv.
Trim Levels & Pricing Breakdown
Choosing the right trim is where most buyers overpay or under-equip. The table below reflects 2024 MSRP before dealer adjustments; in 2026, used values typically run 15–25% below original sticker depending on mileage and condition.
| Trim | Drivetrain | MSRP | Key Additions Over Prior Trim |
|---|---|---|---|
| LX | FWD / AWD | $35,990 / $37,790 | 18″ alloys, 8-passenger bench, 8″ touchscreen, Kia Drive Wise suite |
| S | FWD / AWD | $38,690 / $40,490 | 12.3″ digital cluster, 10.25″ touchscreen, heated front seats, 7-passenger captain's chairs, power tailgate |
| EX | FWD / AWD | $42,690 / $44,490 | Leather seating, wireless phone charging, ventilated front seats, power-folding 3rd row, Harman Kardon 10-speaker audio |
| SX | FWD / AWD | $47,590 / $49,390 | 20″ wheels, Nappa leather, head-up display, surround-view monitor, blind-spot view monitor, heated 2nd row |
| SX Prestige | AWD only | $51,590 | All SX features plus: 2nd-row captain's chairs (7-pass only), rain-sensing wipers, auto-dimming mirrors, door-curtain airbags |
Practical takeaway: The S trim with AWD hits the value sweet spot for most families — you gain the digital cluster, power tailgate, and captain's chairs without the EX's leather upcharge. If you tow regularly, add the $795 tow package (hitch, wiring, self-leveling rear suspension) on any AWD model. You can also read our guide on invention of suv.
Powertrain & Real-World Performance
The 3.8-liter V6 pairs with an 8-speed automatic that shifts imperceptibly in daily driving. Peak torque arrives at 5,200 rpm, so passing maneuvers require a downshift — but the transmission responds quickly. In practice, the Telluride feels strongest in the 30–70 mph range where the gearing keeps the engine in its meaty mid-range. Zero to 60 mph takes roughly 7.3 seconds (AWD), which is competitive for the class.
Towing reality check: The 5,000-lb rating requires the factory tow package and AWD. Expect 12–14 mpg while pulling near max capacity; the V6 runs warm on long grades, so monitor coolant temperature. Trailer sway control is standard and effective, but the long wheelbase means you'll feel crosswinds more than in a body-on-frame SUV.
Fuel economy observed: Our mixed driving (60% highway, 40% suburban) returned 20.8 mpg in an AWD EX — about 1 mpg below the combined EPA figure. Cold-weather short trips can drop that to 17 mpg. The 18.8-gallon tank yields roughly 380 miles of highway range.
Interior Quality, Space & Third-Row Livability
The Telluride's cabin remains its strongest card. Soft-touch materials cover the dash, door uppers, and center console — a step above the hard plastics in some rivals. Fit and finish is consistent; panel gaps are tight and switchgear operates with a damped feel. The available Nappa leather (SX/SX Prestige) is supple and wears well.
Seating configurations: The 8-passenger bench (LX, S) uses a 60/40 split-folding second row with a center pass-through. The 7-passenger captain's chairs (S through SX Prestige) add a wide aisle to the third row — a genuine advantage for families with kids in car seats. Third-row headroom measures 38.1 inches; legroom is 31.4 inches. Average-height adults (5'10") can sit back there for 60–90 minutes comfortably — longer than in a Pilot or Highlander, shorter than a Palisade.
Cargo versatility: Behind the third row, 21 cubic feet fits a double stroller or four carry-on suitcases. Folding the third row (power-fold on EX+) expands to 46 cubic feet. With both rows flat, the load floor is nearly level and offers 87 cubic feet — enough for a 75-inch TV box or a full IKEA run. The power tailgate (standard S+) includes a programmable height setting for low garages.
Nightfall Edition's blacked-out trim and 20-inch wheels give the Telluride a more aggressive stance.
Technology & Infotainment Deep Dive
The 10.25-inch touchscreen (standard S+) uses Kia's latest ccNC interface — responsive, logically layered, and supporting over-the-air updates. Wireless CarPlay/Android Auto work reliably; wired connection remains on LX. The 12.3-inch digital cluster (S+) offers three themes and a driver-selectable trip computer.
Notable feature availability:
| Feature | LX | S | EX | SX / SX Prestige |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10.25″ touchscreen | – | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Wireless CarPlay/Android Auto | – | – | ✓ | ✓ |
| Navigation | – | – | Opt | ✓ |
| Harman Kardon audio | – | – | ✓ | ✓ |
| Head-up display | – | – | – | ✓ |
| Digital key (phone-as-key) | – | – | Opt | ✓ |
| Rear-seat entertainment | – | – | – | Opt (SX Prestige) |
The optional rear-seat entertainment system ($1,495) dual 10.1-inch screens with HDMI input — useful for long trips but pricey compared to tablet mounts. The Harman Kardon system delivers clear mids and controlled bass; it's a worthwhile upgrade if you spend hours on the road.
Safety Ratings & Driver Assistance Systems
The 2024 Telluride earned a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS (with specific LED headlights on EX/SX trims) and a 5-star overall rating from NHTSA. Standard Kia Drive Wise includes:
- Forward collision-avoidance assist (pedestrian/cyclist detection)
- Lane keeping assist + lane following assist
- Blind-spot collision-avoidance assist
- Rear cross-traffic collision-avoidance assist
- Smart cruise control with stop & go
- Highway driving assist (lane centering + adaptive cruise on mapped highways)
- Rear occupant alert (ultrasonic, new for 2024)
- Safe exit assist (prevents door opening into traffic)
Surround-view monitor and blind-spot view monitor (cameras in the cluster when signaling) are SX-exclusive. In practice, the lane centering is confident on marked highways but disengages abruptly in construction zones — keep hands on the wheel. The rear occupant alert has triggered false positives with a heavy grocery bag; a quick press of the disable button solves it.
Dashboard layout places the digital cluster and central touchscreen in a clean, driver-focused arc.
Competitor Comparison (2024 Model Year)
| Model | Starting MSRP | 3rd-Row Legroom | Cargo Behind 3rd | Towing | Hybrid Available |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kia Telluride | $35,990 | 31.4″ | 21 cu ft | 5,000 lb | No |
| Hyundai Palisade | $36,800 | 31.4″ | 18 cu ft | 5,000 lb | No |
| Honda Pilot | $37,090 | 32.1″ | 22.4 cu ft | 5,000 lb | No |
| Toyota Highlander | $36,620 | 28.0″ | 16 cu ft | 5,000 lb | Yes (36 mpg combined) |
| Volkswagen Atlas | $35,550 | 33.7″ | 20.6 cu ft | 5,000 lb | No |
Key differentiators: The Telluride and Palisade share architecture but tune differently — the Kia rides slightly firmer with sharper steering; the Hyundai isolates better. The Highlander Hybrid dominates fuel economy but sacrifices third-row space and V6 smoothness. The Atlas offers the most third-row room but trails in interior quality and resale value. For a broader look at how these models fit into the segment's evolution, see our overview of what defines a modern SUV.
Ownership Experience: Reliability, Costs & Depreciation
Reliability track record: The 2020–2024 Telluride generation has been above average. Common issues reported to NHTSA include:
- Windshield stress cracks (2020–2021, largely resolved by 2022)
- Infotainment screen delamination (software update + extended warranty coverage)
- Premature rear brake wear on AWD models (addressed with revised pad compound in 2023)
Maintenance schedule: Oil changes every 7,500 miles (synthetic). Transmission fluid at 60k miles (severe service) or 120k (normal). Differential fluid (AWD) at 60k severe / 120k normal. No timing belt — chain-driven. Budget $600–$800 annually for routine service at a dealer.
Insurance & depreciation: Average annual full-coverage premium runs $1,650–$1,950 depending on location and driver profile. Three-year depreciation is ~38% — better than Pilot (42%) and Atlas (45%), slightly behind Highlander Hybrid (34%). Certified pre-owned units (Kia's 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty transfers) are strong value in 2026.
Buying Guide: 2024 Telluride in 2026
New old stock (NOS): Dealers may still have 2024s in late 2026. Expect 8–12% off MSRP plus any regional incentives. Verify the build date — units built after March 2024 have the updated rear brake pads. Confirm the 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty starts at purchase, not build date.
Used market: 2024 models with 15k–30k miles list $32k–$38k (S/EX AWD). Prioritize:
- One-owner, dealer-serviced examples
- Remaining factory warranty (5-year/60,000-mile basic, 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain)
- EX trim for the best feature-to-price ratio; S if you can live without ventilated seats
Avoid: Vehicles with aftermarket tow hitches (wiring issues), salvage titles, or gaps in service history. The V6 is robust but neglecting oil changes leads to VVT solenoid failures around 80k miles.
If you're cross-shopping used luxury alternatives, our breakdown of premium SUV value retention provides useful context on depreciation curves.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the 2024 Telluride have a hybrid or plug-in hybrid option?
No. The 2024 Telluride uses only the 3.8L V6. A hybrid powertrain arrives with the redesigned 2025 model year. If fuel economy is paramount, consider the Toyota Highlander Hybrid or a used Kia SUV hybrid from the Sorento lineup.
Can the third row fit adults on a 4-hour trip?
Yes, for average-height adults (up to ~6'0″). Knee room is adequate, but footwell space is tight — passengers over 6'2″ will want the second row slid forward. The available 3rd-row USB ports (EX+) and dedicated HVAC vents help comfort.
What's the real-world towing experience like at 4,500 lbs?
Stable and controlled with the factory tow package. The V6 has enough grunt for highway speeds, but plan for 12–13 mpg and more frequent downshifts on grades. Add a transmission cooler if you tow regularly in hot climates.
Is the Nightfall Edition worth the premium over SX?
Only if you value the blacked-out aesthetics. Mechanically identical to SX; no performance or feature gains. Resale value tracks SX closely.
How does the Telluride handle snow without winter tires?
AWD with all-seasons handles moderate snow well thanks to the 53/47 front/rear weight distribution and torque-vectoring logic. For deep snow or ice, dedicated winter tires transform the experience — the stock Michelin Primacy Tour A/S are competent but not winter-rated.
Conclusion
The 2024 Kia Telluride remains a compelling three-row choice in 2026: spacious, well-equipped, and backed by one of the industry's best warranties. Its V6 powertrain avoids the complexity of turbo-fours or early hybrids, and the interior quality punches above its price point. The EX AWD with the tow package is our recommended configuration for most buyers — it balances features, capability, and long-term value. If you're evaluating used inventory, prioritize service records over mileage and verify the remaining warranty transfer.
Ready to compare the Telluride against its closest rivals? Explore our analysis of how SUV design has evolved for families to see where this generation fits in the bigger picture.