The 2022 KIA Telluride is the largest SUV in the family. The Korean company joined Hyundai, which released Palisade. These two models are a kind of twins. Still, Hyundai is a step ahead, since it delivered a premium SUV, Genesis GV80. But, let’s get back to Kia. The Telluride is a replacement for the seven-seat Sorento. Experts believe that manufacturer will cut this version of the older sibling since the new one is available.
For the new edition, we don’t expect big changes. Cosmetically, the 2022 KIA Telluride will be the same. The SUV debuted last year and there is no need for modifications yet. The only new thing we could see is a hybrid engine. Still, this was not confirmed by the carmaker. But, the industry is going forward and soon we will see more three-row SUVs with hybrid configurations. Kia is about to be one of them.
Why Buy 2022 KIA Telluride?
The SUV is still fresh and the resale value is questionable. This will be one of the key reasons to buy the 2022 KIA Telluride or not. Well, all the vehicles by Korean company are covered with a 5-year warranty, which keeps the value as the time passes. Engine coverage is extended to 10 years. The new drivetrain provides enough power. Still, big downsides are related to the engine room. First, the existing powerplant is pretty thirsty. If you are looking for a different configuration, there is no one. And it won’t be available in 2022 unless the rumors come true and a hybrid model shows up.
The cool design is definitely refreshment for the market. Also, the 2022 KIA Telluride can count that the interior will draw more buyers. First, it is spacious, offering comfort for passengers and extra room for cargo. Then, we were surprised by the base offer and the long list of features. Kia keeps enough upgrades for higher trim levels. Safety is getting excellent feedback from institutions. Hi-tech freaks will be surprised by the ease of use of the infotainment system and all the connectivity stuff that includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Engine Specifications
The 2022 KIA Telluride will use a single engine. It is a new 3.8-liter displacement, which engineers developed for this SUV. It is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and sends power to two wheels. All-wheel drive is optional. Total outputs are 291 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque, which is what fans expect from a vehicle of this size. Still, a V6 unit is very thirsty, returning only 23 mpg combined. Kia is trying to improve it by allowing you to select a proper mode of driving. Currently, there are four of these: Normal, Eco, Sport, and Smart. Some off-road upgrade is also possible for the 2022 edition.
As said, a downside of the Telluride is the lack of an optional drivetrain. Kia could make a turbo-four available, although many buyers would skip it. Such an engine is not so popular on large SUVs. Still, it is an offer for these who don’t need too much power.
2022 KIA Telluride Hybrid
We don’t think the company will keep a V6 as the sole option for the SUV. The 2022 KIA Telluride should get reinforcement. A hybrid version of the same unit will improve power outputs and gas mileage. Definitely, the second segment is key. For example, Toyota Highlander can do 35 mpg thanks to the new hybrid system. It lacks a bit of power, but 12 mpg difference is definitely worthy of taking into consideration. Kia can upgrade a V6 system, which could jump to 310-320 hp of power, and at least 26-27 mpg of combined fuel economy. But, the Korean carmaker still owes us the hybrid version of the smaller crossover, Sportage.
2022 KIA Telluride Trim Levels, Prices
As said, the list of features on the base version is pretty long. The carmaker makes the blind-spot monitor standard. The entry-level Telluride also comes with an eight-inch touchscreen as the center of the multimedia system, which also includes leading smartphone connectivity services. The base unit is available as the LX, and the next trim level is S. Highlights of this one are larger wheels, and designers added a sunroof and heated seats. Also, a seven-seat configuration is an option.
Besides heating, the EX comes with ventilation of leather buckets. Voice commands are upgraded and a 10-inch display takes the position at the center of the dashboard. The 2022 KIA Telluride SX offers everything the company has in sleeves. Dual sunroof panels, Harman Kardon audio, and more coverage by several cameras are there as well. Still, this premium package is not offering screens for rear seats. It is not even available through optional packages, and buyers will pay $45,000 for the SX version. The starting MSRP for the 2022 KIA Telluride will be the same – $32,000.