The three-row SUV segment is a popular choice among family-oriented consumers. These vehicles offer ample seating, storage, and features that promote safety and connectivity, all of which are highly sought after by families. Competition in the SUV class is fierce, but the 2025 Kia Telluride once again stands out among other vehicles.
A 2025 Kia Telluride for sale could be your family’s best investment in the upcoming year. Today, we’re examining the specifications related to performance, storage, and connectivity to see how Kia outclasses its competitors. Many three-row SUVs are on the road, but there is only one Kia Telluride. The information presented here illustrates how remarkable this SUV is, blending practicality with premium features that appeal to a wide range of drivers.
Exceptional Performance
Much has changed in the SUV class since its inception, but many aspects of the three-row segment have remained consistent. Three-row SUVs require a powertrain to propel them forward with confidence while carrying plenty of cargo and passengers to their destinations on time. The key is finding an ideal balance of power and efficiency that allows for agile performance and sustainable fuel economy.
The 2025 Kia Telluride is equipped with a 3.8L V6 engine that produces 291 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque. The Telluride pairs its V6 with an eight-speed automatic transmission, delivering smooth and responsive performance. Kia’s powertrain provides agile handling, especially with its available self-leveling rear suspension. The V6 outmuscles several prominent SUVs, such as the Honda Pilot (285 hp) and Subaru Ascent (260 hp). This power advantage ensures the Telluride can easily handle demanding tasks, from city commuting to highway cruising.
Despite its robust engine, the Telluride remains relatively fuel-efficient. Testing conducted by the EPA for the 2025 model year showed that the Telluride achieves 20 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway, for 22 MPG combined. This combined fuel economy matches that of the Ascent and Pilot, which the Telluride outperforms in terms of power. Compared to other members of the segment, the Telluride offers competitive efficiency, making it a practical choice for families who need power without sacrificing fuel economy.
Balancing performance and efficiency is a delicate act, but the 2025 Kia Telluride excels. Its ability to outperform rivals while allowing drivers to travel farther between fill-ups makes it a standout in the three-row SUV segment. Whether navigating urban streets or embarking on long road trips, the Telluride delivers a driving experience that is both dynamic and economical, appealing to drivers who value versatility.
Towing and Recreational Activities
Families use three-row SUVs for various purposes, from daily commutes to weekend adventures. The Telluride’s performance makes it ideal for getting around town while maintaining fuel efficiency. However, many SUV owners also use their vehicles for recreational activities, such as towing trailers or exploring off-road trails. The Telluride excels in these scenarios, offering impressive towing capacity and off-road capability.
Most SUVs offer available all-wheel drive (AWD), with some, like the Mazda CX-90 and Subaru Ascent, featuring AWD as standard. The Telluride provides drivers with the choice of front-wheel drive (FWD) or AWD, allowing them to select the drivetrain that best suits their needs. This flexibility is a significant advantage, catering to both urban drivers and those who venture off the beaten path. The Telluride’s AWD system enhances traction on wet roads and loose surfaces, making it a reliable choice for diverse conditions.
When properly equipped, the Telluride can tow up to 5,500 lbs, surpassing competitors like the GMC Acadia, Honda Pilot, Ford Explorer, Mazda CX-90, Toyota Grand Highlander, and Chevrolet Traverse, all of which have a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 lbs. This extra towing capacity is crucial for recreational enthusiasts who need to haul boats, campers, or other equipment. The Telluride’s dedicated Tow Mode, available on higher trims like the X-Line and X-Pro, optimizes performance for towing, ensuring stability and control.
For families who enjoy escaping to the outdoors, the Telluride is well-equipped. Its available factory lift on X-Line and X-Pro trims increases ground clearance, improving approach and departure angles for off-road adventures. High-utility roof rails provide additional storage for gear, making it easy to pack for camping trips or outdoor excursions. The Telluride’s combination of towing power and off-road capability outshines many competitors, ensuring you can take everything you need on your next adventure.
Interior Features
A capable powertrain and robust towing capacity are key attributes for three-row SUV buyers, but the interior is equally important. Families, in particular, prioritize seating, storage, and connectivity. The 2025 Kia Telluride delivers on all fronts, offering a spacious and versatile cabin that caters to modern needs.
The Telluride can seat seven or eight passengers, depending on the configuration. Opting for second-row captain’s chairs, which are standard on the EX X-Line and above, creates a more luxurious interior with enhanced second-row comfort. This flexibility allows families to choose the setup that best fits their lifestyle. The cabin also features separate temperature controls for the driver, front passenger, and rear seats, ensuring everyone stays comfortable regardless of the weather.
When all three rows are occupied, the Telluride offers 21 cu.ft. of cargo space, significantly more than competitors like the Nissan Pathfinder (16.6 cu.ft.), Honda Pilot (18.6 cu.ft.), Ford Explorer (16.3 cu.ft.), and Subaru Ascent (17.6 cu.ft.). This extra space is invaluable for families needing room for groceries, sports equipment, or luggage while carrying a full load of passengers. When maximum storage is required, the Telluride provides 87 cu.ft. with the rear seats folded, again surpassing competitors like the Ford Explorer (85.8 cu.ft.), Mazda CX-90 (75.2 cu.ft.), and Nissan Pathfinder (80.5 cu.ft.).
The Telluride’s interior is not only spacious but also thoughtfully designed. Features like integrated window sunshades (standard on the EX and above) and premium materials, such as Nappa leather and a SynTex suede headliner, elevate the cabin’s appeal. These elements make the Telluride a standout, offering more cargo room and comfort than many rivals, whether all seats are occupied or folded.
Infotainment and Connectivity
In the early days of the SUV boom, powertrains, seating, and storage were the primary draws. Today, modern drivers expect seamless access to technology. The 2025 Kia Telluride meets these expectations with a robust infotainment system that keeps drivers and passengers connected.
All 2025 Telluride trims feature a 12.3-inch touchscreen display compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Smartphone connectivity is a standard feature across most SUVs in this class. However, the Telluride’s screen size stands out, dwarfing the smaller seven-inch and eight-inch screens found in the Honda Pilot and Nissan Pathfinder. This larger display enhances usability, making it easier to navigate menus and access features.
The Telluride’s infotainment system includes navigation and an onboard Wi-Fi hotspot, ensuring connectivity on the go. Available features like wireless phone charging and a premium Harman Kardon audio system with 10 speakers add convenience and entertainment. The Driver Talk feature, which uses a microphone and speakers to communicate with rear passengers, is particularly useful for families. These technologies make the Telluride a tech-savvy choice, offering an intuitive and engaging experience for all occupants.
Compared to competitors, the Telluride’s standard 12.3-inch screen across all trims provides a significant advantage. Many rivals reserve larger screens for higher trims, but Kia ensures every Telluride driver enjoys a premium infotainment experience. This commitment to accessibility and functionality sets the Telluride apart in a crowded market.
Get Behind the Wheel of a 2025 Kia Telluride Today
Choosing the ideal three-row SUV can seem challenging with so many makes and models available. However, the 2025 Kia Telluride makes the decision easier by delivering everything drivers need without unnecessary extras.
Its powerful V6 engine out-tows competitors while maintaining competitive fuel economy, making it ideal for both daily commutes and long trips. The spacious interior offers ample seating and cargo room, whether all seats are occupied or folded, ensuring versatility for families and adventurers alike. The advanced infotainment system keeps you connected, enhancing every drive with modern convenience.
The Telluride’s combination of performance, practicality, and technology makes it a top choice for families and commuters. Its ability to outperform and outlast competitors solidifies its position as a leader in the three-row SUV segment. Whether you’re hauling cargo, towing a trailer, or navigating city streets, the Telluride delivers a remarkable experience.
Visit Parkway Family Kia to test drive the 2025 Kia Telluride today. Experience firsthand why this SUV continues to outshine the competition, offering the perfect blend of style, functionality, and innovation for your driving needs.