The 2025 Kia Telluride: A Comprehensive Review of Design, Performance, and Innovation

The 2025 Kia Telluride continues its impressive run as a leading force in the three-row SUV segment, captivating drivers with its blend of rugged sophistication, robust capabilities, and a luxurious interior experience. With available trims like the adventure-ready SX X-Line and the opulent SX-Prestige X-Line, the 2025 Kia Telluride is engineered to elevate every journey, making it a compelling choice for families seeking both style and substance.

Key Highlights of the 2025 Kia Telluride

  • Powerful LAMBDA II 3.8L V-6 engine delivering 291 horsepower for confident performance.
  • Standard ACTIVE ON-DEMAND All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system for superior traction and handling.
  • Impressive 5,000 lbs towing capacity, ideal for weekend getaways and recreational hauling.
  • Advanced driver-assistance systems, including Navigation-based Smart Cruise Control - Curve (NSCC-C) and Highway Driving Assist (HDA).
  • Luxurious cabin features such as available Nappa leather seating, heated and ventilated first and second-row seats, and a massaging driver seat.
  • Dual sunroofs provide an expansive, airy feel throughout the cabin.
  • Cutting-edge technology with Apple CarPlay & Android Auto, integrated navigation, and a premium Harman/kardon speaker system.
  • X-Line exclusive design elements and auto-leveling rear suspension for enhanced capability and comfort.

Driving Performance & Capability

At the heart of the 2025 Kia Telluride is a potent LAMBDA II 3.8L V-6 gasoline direct injection engine, meticulously engineered to produce a commanding 291 horsepower at 6000 RPM. This power is smoothly managed by an 8-speed automatic transmission, ensuring seamless acceleration and responsive shifts across all driving conditions. The Telluride comes equipped with an ACTIVE ON-DEMAND All-Wheel Drive system, providing exceptional grip and stability whether you're navigating city streets or exploring unpaved paths. This robust powertrain also enables a substantial 5,000 lbs towing capacity, making it a versatile companion for any adventure. Furthermore, the X-Line models benefit from an auto-leveling rear suspension, which maintains optimal ride height and comfort, even when the vehicle is fully loaded or towing.

Comfort & Technology Features

The interior of the 2025 Kia Telluride is a sanctuary of comfort and advanced technology. Both the SX X-Line and SX-Prestige X-Line trims offer a wealth of amenities designed to enhance every passenger's experience. Front occupants will enjoy heated and ventilated seats, with the SX-Prestige X-Line extending this luxury to the second-row with heated and ventilated rear seats, upholstered in sumptuous Nappa leather. The driver's seat provides extensive power adjustments, including a massaging function for ultimate relaxation on long journeys. Connectivity is seamless with Apple CarPlay & Android Auto smart device mirroring, an integrated navigation system with voice activation, and mobile hotspot internet access. The cabin is dominated by a primary monitor touchscreen and a full gauge cluster screen, both a generous 12.3 inches, offering a modern and intuitive interface. Audio enthusiasts will appreciate the immersive sound from the Harman/kardon speaker system. Additional conveniences include a heated steering wheel, front wireless smart device charging, and the Digital Key 2.0 system, allowing your smartphone to function as a vehicle key. The SX-Prestige X-Line further elevates the experience with a head-up display, a video-feed rearview mirror, and an available rear entertainment system, ensuring comfort and entertainment for all.

Safety & Reliability

Safety is paramount in the 2025 Kia Telluride, which integrates a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance systems. Key features include Forward Collision Mitigation with left turn assist and pedestrian impact prevention, Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS), and Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Avoidance (RCCA). Highway driving is made more secure with Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go (SCC w/S&G) and Navigation-based Smart Cruise Control - Curve (NSCC-C), which intelligently adjusts speed for upcoming curves. Other crucial safety technologies encompass Driver Attention Warning (DAW), Highway Driving Assist (HDA) with traffic sign recognition, Evasive Steering Assist (ESA), and Front Cross Traffic Mitigation. For confident parking and maneuvering, the Surround View Monitor (SVM) and Blind-Spot View Monitor (BVM) provide invaluable aerial and side views. Equipped with 9 airbags, a Vehicle Stability Management (VSM) electronic stability control system, and an external exit warning system, the Telluride is meticulously engineered to protect its occupants.

Comparison to Rivals

In a highly competitive segment that includes strong contenders like the Hyundai Palisade and Honda Pilot, the 2025 Kia Telluride distinguishes itself with a compelling combination of rugged elegance and premium features. Its upscale interior, robust suite of standard safety technologies, and powerful V6 engine position it as a formidable choice for those seeking a family SUV that excels in both luxury and capability. The Telluride consistently delivers an experience that meets, and often exceeds, expectations for its class, making it a standout option for discerning buyers.

Quick Specifications Summary (2025 Kia Telluride SX-Prestige X-Line)

  • Engine: LAMBDA II 3.8L V-6 (291 HP @ 6000 RPM)
  • Transmission: 8-Speed Automatic
  • Drive Type: All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
  • Towing Capacity: 5,000 lbs
  • Fuel Economy (MPG): 18 City / 23 Highway / 20 Combined
  • Exterior Color: Jungle Green
  • Interior Color: Black (Nappa Leather)
  • Doors: 4
  • Seating Capacity: 7 (with second-row bucket seats)
  • Wheelbase: 114.2 inches
  • Wheels: 20 x 7.5-inch black aluminum

Experience the 2025 Kia Telluride Today

Discover the exceptional design, performance, and advanced features of the 2025 Kia Telluride SX X-Line or SX-Prestige X-Line. Visit Kia of Des Moines in Des Moines, Iowa, to explore our inventory and find the perfect SUV for your family's next adventure. Our dedicated team at 4475 Merle Hay Rd. is ready to assist you. Call us at (515) 270-0706 or stop by today to schedule a test drive and experience the Telluride difference.