2021 Kia Telluride Review: Is It Still The Best SUV?

by Jhon Lennon 53 views

Hey guys! Let's dive into a comprehensive review of the 2021 Kia Telluride. This SUV has been making waves, and for good reason. We’re going to break down everything you need to know, from its performance and interior to its technology and overall value. So, buckle up and let’s get started!

Overview of the 2021 Kia Telluride

The 2021 Kia Telluride is a mid-size SUV that has quickly become a favorite among families and adventure-seekers alike. Known for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and impressive list of features, the Telluride stands out in a crowded market. But what exactly makes it so special? Let's start with the basics. The 2021 model year didn't bring about massive changes from its debut in 2020, which is a testament to how well-received the original design was. It still boasts that bold, boxy exterior that gives it a rugged yet refined look. Under the hood, you'll typically find a robust V6 engine that provides plenty of power for daily driving and long road trips. Inside, the Telluride offers three rows of seating, making it ideal for larger families or those who frequently carpool. Kia has also packed it with a ton of tech and safety features, ensuring a connected and secure driving experience. One of the most compelling aspects of the Telluride is its value proposition. It offers a lot of features and space for the price, often undercutting competitors in the same segment. This combination of practicality, comfort, and affordability has made it a hit with consumers. Whether you're considering it for daily commutes, weekend getaways, or family adventures, the 2021 Kia Telluride is definitely worth a closer look. We'll delve into each of these aspects in more detail, so you can make an informed decision.

What's New for 2021?

While the 2021 Kia Telluride didn’t undergo a complete overhaul, there were some notable updates worth mentioning. Kia focused on enhancing the features and refining the existing design. One of the key updates for the 2021 model year was the inclusion of more standard features across the trim levels. For example, certain driver-assistance technologies that were previously optional became standard, enhancing the overall safety and value of the vehicle. This means you get more bang for your buck, regardless of the trim you choose. Another update was the revised exterior styling, with subtle tweaks to the front grille and lighting elements. These changes gave the Telluride a slightly refreshed look, maintaining its modern and bold appearance. Inside, Kia made some improvements to the interior materials and design, enhancing the overall comfort and premium feel of the cabin. The infotainment system also received some updates, with improved responsiveness and user interface enhancements. Additionally, Kia introduced new color options for both the exterior and interior, allowing buyers to further customize their Telluride to their liking. These may seem like minor changes, but they collectively contribute to an improved driving and ownership experience. The 2021 Telluride builds upon the success of the previous model year, offering even more value and refinement. If you're comparing model years, these updates might just sway your decision. In summary, the enhancements for 2021 include more standard features, subtle styling updates, interior refinements, and improved technology, all aimed at keeping the Telluride competitive and appealing in the mid-size SUV market.

Performance and Handling

When it comes to performance, the 2021 Kia Telluride doesn't disappoint. It’s powered by a 3.8-liter V6 engine that delivers a healthy 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides ample power for daily driving, whether you're navigating city streets or cruising on the highway. The Telluride's acceleration is smooth and responsive, making it easy to merge onto the freeway or pass other vehicles. The engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, which shifts seamlessly and contributes to the overall refined driving experience. One of the standout features of the Telluride is its comfortable ride quality. The suspension is tuned to absorb bumps and imperfections in the road, providing a smooth and composed ride for both the driver and passengers. This makes it an excellent choice for long road trips. Handling is also surprisingly good for a vehicle of its size. The Telluride feels stable and planted, even when cornering. The steering is well-weighted and provides decent feedback, giving you confidence behind the wheel. For those who need extra traction, the Telluride is available with all-wheel drive (AWD). The AWD system can automatically distribute torque between the front and rear wheels, depending on the driving conditions. This enhances traction and stability in slippery conditions, such as rain or snow. The Telluride also offers different driving modes, including Comfort, Eco, Sport, and Smart. Each mode adjusts the engine, transmission, and steering settings to optimize performance for different driving situations. Overall, the 2021 Kia Telluride offers a well-rounded driving experience. It's powerful, comfortable, and handles well, making it a great choice for families and anyone looking for a capable mid-size SUV.

Interior Comfort and Features

The interior of the 2021 Kia Telluride is where it truly shines. Kia has clearly put a lot of effort into creating a comfortable, spacious, and feature-rich cabin. Let's start with the seating. The Telluride offers three rows of seating, with enough room to comfortably accommodate up to eight passengers. The front seats are supportive and offer plenty of adjustment, ensuring a comfortable driving position for drivers of all sizes. The second-row seats are also spacious, with ample legroom and headroom. Depending on the trim level, you can opt for captain's chairs in the second row, which reduces the seating capacity to seven but provides more individual comfort. The third-row seats are surprisingly usable, even for adults. While it might be a bit tight for long journeys, it's definitely more accommodating than many other SUVs in its class. In terms of materials, the Telluride's interior is well-appointed with soft-touch surfaces and high-quality trim. Even in the lower trim levels, the cabin feels upscale and inviting. As you move up the trim levels, you'll find even more premium materials, such as leather upholstery and woodgrain accents. The Telluride is also packed with features designed to enhance comfort and convenience. Standard features include a touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and multiple USB ports. Available features include a larger touchscreen display, a premium audio system, a panoramic sunroof, and heated and ventilated seats. One of the standout features of the Telluride is its quiet cabin. Kia has done a great job of minimizing road and wind noise, creating a peaceful and relaxing environment for passengers. The climate control system is also excellent, with vents for all three rows of seats, ensuring everyone stays comfortable. Overall, the interior of the 2021 Kia Telluride is one of its strongest selling points. It's spacious, comfortable, and packed with features, making it a great place to spend time, whether you're on a short commute or a long road trip.

Technology and Safety

In today's world, technology and safety are paramount, and the 2021 Kia Telluride doesn't skimp on either. Kia has equipped this SUV with a comprehensive suite of tech features designed to keep you connected and entertained on the road. The centerpiece of the Telluride's tech offerings is its infotainment system. It features a user-friendly touchscreen display that is easy to navigate and responsive to inputs. The system includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone with the car's infotainment system. This allows you to access your favorite apps, make calls, send texts, and stream music directly from the touchscreen display. The Telluride also offers a range of other tech features, such as wireless charging, a head-up display, and a premium audio system. The head-up display projects important information, such as speed and navigation directions, onto the windshield, allowing you to keep your eyes on the road. The premium audio system delivers crisp and clear sound, enhancing the overall listening experience. When it comes to safety, the 2021 Kia Telluride is loaded with advanced safety features designed to protect you and your passengers. Standard safety features include forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and lane keeping assist. These features use sensors and cameras to monitor the road around you and alert you to potential hazards. Available safety features include blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. Blind spot monitoring alerts you when there is a vehicle in your blind spot, while rear cross traffic alert warns you of approaching vehicles when you're backing up. Adaptive cruise control automatically adjusts your speed to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead. The 2021 Kia Telluride has also earned top safety ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), further solidifying its reputation as a safe and reliable vehicle. Overall, the 2021 Kia Telluride excels in both technology and safety. It offers a wide range of tech features to keep you connected and entertained, as well as a comprehensive suite of safety features to protect you and your passengers.

Trim Levels and Pricing

Understanding the trim levels and pricing of the 2021 Kia Telluride is crucial when making a purchase decision. Kia offers the Telluride in four main trim levels: LX, S, EX, and SX. Each trim level offers a different set of features and equipment, catering to a variety of needs and budgets. The base LX trim is well-equipped with standard features such as a V6 engine, an eight-speed automatic transmission, a touchscreen infotainment system, and a suite of driver-assistance technologies. It's a great option for buyers who want the core Telluride experience without breaking the bank. The S trim adds features such as larger wheels, a sunroof, and heated front seats. It offers a good balance of features and value, making it a popular choice among buyers. The EX trim steps up the luxury with leather upholstery, a larger touchscreen display, and a power liftgate. It's a great option for those who want a more premium driving experience. The top-of-the-line SX trim adds features such as a premium audio system, a panoramic sunroof, and a surround-view monitor. It offers the ultimate in luxury and convenience. Pricing for the 2021 Kia Telluride varies depending on the trim level and options. The LX trim starts at around $32,000, while the SX trim can top $48,000 with all the options. It's important to note that these prices are approximate and may vary depending on your location and the specific dealer. When considering which trim level is right for you, it's important to weigh your needs and budget. Consider the features that are most important to you and choose the trim level that offers those features at a price you're comfortable with. It's also a good idea to compare the Telluride with other SUVs in its class to see how it stacks up in terms of features, performance, and price. Overall, the 2021 Kia Telluride offers a compelling value proposition, with a range of trim levels and pricing options to suit a variety of needs and budgets. Whether you're looking for a basic family SUV or a luxurious road-trip machine, there's a Telluride trim level that's right for you.

Pros and Cons

Okay, let's break down the pros and cons of the 2021 Kia Telluride so you can get a clear picture of its strengths and weaknesses. This will help you decide if it's the right SUV for you.

Pros:

  • Spacious Interior: The Telluride offers ample space for passengers and cargo, making it ideal for families.
  • Comfortable Ride: The suspension is tuned to provide a smooth and comfortable ride, even on rough roads.
  • User-Friendly Technology: The infotainment system is easy to use and packed with features.
  • Strong Value: The Telluride offers a lot of features for the price, undercutting many of its competitors.
  • Attractive Design: The Telluride boasts a bold and modern exterior design that stands out from the crowd.

Cons:

  • Fuel Economy: While not terrible, the Telluride's fuel economy isn't the best in its class.
  • Limited Off-Road Capability: The Telluride is primarily designed for on-road use, and its off-road capabilities are limited.
  • Availability: Due to its popularity, the Telluride can be difficult to find at dealerships.

In summary, the 2021 Kia Telluride is a well-rounded SUV with a lot to offer. Its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and user-friendly technology make it a great choice for families. However, its fuel economy and limited off-road capability may be drawbacks for some buyers. Despite these minor flaws, the Telluride's strong value and attractive design make it a top contender in the mid-size SUV market.

Final Verdict: Is the 2021 Kia Telluride Still Worth It?

So, the big question: Is the 2021 Kia Telluride still worth it? Absolutely! The Telluride continues to impress with its blend of practicality, comfort, and value. It's a fantastic choice for families needing space and features without breaking the bank. While it may not be perfect, its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses. If you're in the market for a mid-size SUV, the 2021 Kia Telluride should definitely be on your list. Its combination of spaciousness, comfort, technology, and value make it a standout in its class. Don't just take my word for it, though. Go test drive one and see for yourself! You might just find your next family vehicle. And that's a wrap, folks! Hope this review was helpful. Happy driving!