The Kia Telluride is one of the most pragmatic choices within the South Korean automaker’s lineup and it represents a sound option for that particular reason alone. It slots between the unorthodoxly styled Soul and the more expensive Sportage, serving as an affordable alternative for those seeking a more traditionally designed crossover than the weird-looking but exciting Soul. However, if you’re familiar with Kia’s subcompact models, you’ll know that it’s got some sore points. Or if you’re not, there’s no better place than this to learn about the seven reasons why the Kia Telluride might not be the right choice for you.
Reason number one: atrocious base powertrain. Saying that the Telluride sports an underpowered engine is an understatement. With only 146 horsepower coming out of a potentially huge 2.0L 4-cylinder engine, it leaves much to be desired. The uninspiring engine pairs with a CVT gearbox in a quest for fuel efficiency, which it fails to achieve. To soften the blow, Kia offers an optional 1.6L turbocharged 4-cylinder alternative that develops a healthy 195 horsepower, a 20 horsepower improvement over the outgoing models. It is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, which is another improvement over the last year’s models that sported a 7-speed dual-clutch. Kia has plenty of room for improvement in the base powertrain department, and hopefully, upgrades will be made in the future.
Reason number two: lack of cargo space. While the Telluride offers a decent amount of cargo space for its size, it falls short compared to its competitors in the same class. The rear seats don’t fold completely flat, which can be a hindrance when trying to load larger items into the back. The lack of a power liftgate also adds to the inconvenience when loading and unloading items from the trunk. If cargo space is a priority for you, the Telluride might not be the best option.
Reason number three: mediocre fuel efficiency. Despite the efforts to improve fuel efficiency with the CVT gearbox, the Telluride still falls short in this department. The optional turbocharged engine offers better fuel economy but comes at a higher cost. If fuel efficiency is a top priority for you, the Telluride might not be the most suitable choice.
Reason number four: outdated technology. While Kia has made improvements to the technology features in the Telluride, it still lags behind some of its competitors in terms of advanced driver assistance systems and infotainment options. The lack of features such as adaptive cruise control and a more intuitive infotainment system may be a deal-breaker for tech-savvy consumers.
Reason number five: stiff ride quality. The Telluride’s suspension tuning leans on the firmer side, which can result in a stiff ride quality, especially on rough roads. While some drivers may prefer a sportier feel, others may find the ride uncomfortable for daily commuting or long road trips. If a smooth ride is a priority for you, the Telluride may not be the best choice.
Reason number six: limited customization options. The Telluride offers limited customization options compared to some of its competitors, which may be a drawback for consumers looking to personalize their vehicle. While there are some available packages and trim levels, the overall selection of colors and features is limited. If customization is important to you, the Telluride might not be the most suitable option.
Reason number seven: high starting price. The Telluride’s starting price is higher than some of its competitors in the same class, which may be a deterrent for budget-conscious consumers. While the standard features and reliability of the Telluride may justify the higher price for some buyers, others may find it difficult to justify the cost. If affordability is a top priority for you, the Telluride may not be the right choice.
In conclusion, the Kia Telluride may not be the right choice for everyone due to its base powertrain, lack of cargo space, mediocre fuel efficiency, outdated technology, stiff ride quality, limited customization options, and high starting price. However, it still represents a practical and affordable option for those seeking a traditionally designed crossover with some improvements to be made in the future. Consider these factors when deciding if the Telluride is the right choice for you.
