The debut of the 2021 KIA Telluride is now under a question mark. The mid-size three-row SUV was set to be released this summer, but the COVID-19 pandemic postponed the event. Nevertheless, we already know about the major update on the new vehicle. The Telluride comes blacked-out thanks to the new Nightfall package. The black edition is making the SUV more aggressive from outside, and in the cabin as well. The package is an optional upgrade for selected trim levels.
Further stories are only rumors. The biggest question is about the 2021 KIA Telluride Hybrid. The Korean company is working silently on such drivetrain for Sorento, and the same configuration should power the larger three-row SUV. Still, a lot of official information is missing at this point. A hybrid version might be here in 2022.
The new engine for the big rig received praise. A 3.8-liter V6 provides enough power for a smooth ride. Also, one of the advantages of the 2021 Telluride is its freshness. Most companies already postponed delays of upgrades for the next season. So, Kia’s SUV remains one of the models with the latest styling cues.
2021 KIA Telluride Nightfall Edition Details
The 2021 KIA Telluride Nightfall Edition is coming with upgrades for most available trim levels in the lineup. Unique features will be introduced, such as 20-inch wheels. Like most of the other accessories, rims will be black, as well as grille and badges, roof rails, and door trims. Bezels are darkened on the fog lights, LED lamps, and air intakes. The special color for the Nightfall package is Wolf Grey. The upgrade costs $1,300 and it is available from the EX model and higher trims.
Specs
Under the bonnet of the 2021 KIA Telluride will be a 3.8-liter V6 engine. The outputs are competitive to other mid-size three-row SUVs with 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of twist. An eight-speed automatic transmission forwards power to front wheels. It also features the start/stop system and you can upgrade to an all-wheel drive, with 35 percent of power being routed to the rear axle. The energy could be split evenly if you turn on the Lock mode for light off-road ride. Other modes include Eco, Normal, and Sport, which we see in many other vehicles. Kia adds Smart and Snow configurations as well.
The first driving impressions are excellent. The acceleration is crisp, and drivers can also use paddle shifters. The most efficient models are using an FWD. The SUV will run between 360 and 435 miles between refueling. FWD returns 23 mpg combined, while AWD drops it to 21.
2021 KIA Telluride Hybrid
The gas mileage should be extended with the appearance of the 2021 KIA Telluride Hybrid. The SUV is not confirmed yet, but the Korean company is working on the new system, sources report. The fuel economy can go up to 30 mpg. The new Telluride could also add a four-cylinder unit as the base version. Still, the hybrid is a lot better.
Trim Levels
Don’t let the good price trick you. The base Telluride LX is nicely packed. Highlights are 18-inch wheels, heated side mirrors, and leatherette seats. Air-condition is manual. The center of the infotainment system is an 8-inch touchscreen and the SUV offers leading smartphone integration systems. The S model looks sportier thanks to 20-inch wheels and roof rails. The sunroof is also added, as well as a 10-way power driver seat, captain’s chairs in the middle row, and heated front buckets.
The exclusive offer starts with the 2021 KIA Telluride EX. Downsized 18-inch wheels come with special design and finishes. The cabin is isolated, tri-zone climate control is automatic, and the infotainment screen is larger. You don’t need the SX package for the wireless charging system, but the highest trim level in the lineup will offer Harman Kardon audio, a surround-view camera with blind-spot monitoring, and special interior themes.
2021 KIA Telluride Colors
We already mentioned Wolf Grey paint exclusive for the Nightfall Edition. The rest of the lineup comes with seven different options. The Black Copper is a paintjob you will find only with the SX model. However, this one, and the LX are not offering Dark Moss and Sangria Red. Colors available for all trims are Snow White Pearl, Everlasting Silver, Gravity Grey, and Ebony Black.
When Will 2021 Kia Telluride Be Released?
The company could reschedule the release date of the 2021 KIA Telluride. Initially planned for the end of the summer, the SUV might wait for a better time. The automotive industry is knocked down by the COVID-19 pandemic. The price will be unchanged unless you pick the new edition. The next update that will modify the cost of the Telluride is the hybrid engine. Still, it is not going to happen for the 2021 YM. With all the options and additional features, the MSRP will leap over $50k.