Explore the 2026 Kia Telluride price, fresh turbo 2.5L engine, expanded trims and upcoming hybrid model. Find out more and compare today!
Kia has officially revealed the pricing and full specifications for the all‑new 2026 Kia Telluride in the United States. Representing the biggest upgrade since the model’s debut, the latest generation brings a brand‑new powertrain, a broader array of trims and a clear path toward a hybrid future.
Pricing and Trim Levels
The base LX model with front‑wheel drive is priced at $39,190 (about 1.02 billion VND). Kia continues to offer a six‑step trim ladder: LX, S, EX, SX, SX Prestige, plus two new lifestyle‑focused variants – the sporty X‑Line and the lightly off‑road‑ready X‑Pro.
New Turbocharged Powertrain
In a bold move, Kia drops the long‑standing 3.8‑liter V6 in favour of a fresh 2.5‑liter turbocharged gasoline engine. According to Kia, the new unit delivers 68 Nm (≈50 lb‑ft) more torque than the outgoing V6, improving low‑end acceleration, towing capacity and overall drivability. Front‑wheel drive is standard across the lineup, while all‑wheel drive (AWD) is available on most trims.
Expanded Trim Portfolio
The traditional lineup (LX through SX Prestige) remains, but Kia adds two niche variants:
- X‑Line: Emphasises sportier exterior styling cues and interior upgrades.
- X‑Pro: Features a tuned suspension, electronic limited‑slip differential (E‑LSD), 231 mm ground clearance and dedicated drive modes for gravel, mud and slippery surfaces. While not a hardcore off‑roader, the X‑Pro shows Kia’s intent to broaden the Telluride’s use cases.
Tech‑Heavy Interior
Inside, the 2026 Telluride receives a 12.3‑inch central infotainment screen with built‑in navigation, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto wireless connectivity. Remarkably, most advanced driver‑assist features become standard even on the entry‑level LX, bringing the total to 19 active safety systems – a competitive edge in the three‑row SUV segment.
Hybrid Variant on the Horizon
Kia confirmed that a hybrid version will join the range later in 2026. The hybrid will pair the same 2.5‑liter turbo engine with an electric motor, pushing combined output past the 300‑horsepower mark. Pricing and exact release timing have not been disclosed yet, but industry hints suggest a launch in late Q1 or early Q2 of 2026, following a similar rollout strategy used by Hyundai for the new Palisade.
Market Context
Starting under $40,000, the 2026 Telluride offers a compelling mix of a new turbo engine, diverse trims and a soon‑to‑arrive hybrid option. The delayed pricing for the hybrid mirrors a broader industry trend where electrified powertrains add notable cost, prompting manufacturers to debut gasoline models first.
Bottom Line
With a competitive entry price, a modern turbocharged powertrain and a clear roadmap toward electrification, the 2026 Kia Telluride solidifies its position as a top contender in the large‑SUV market. prospective buyers can expect a well‑equipped, tech‑rich vehicle that balances family comfort with a hint of adventure.