The 2021 KIA Telluride is a mid-size, three-row SUV that quickly became a favorite after its debut in the 2020 model year. Key trims include LX, S, EX, and SX. New, the pricing ranged from approximately $32,000 to $48,000. Its combination of spaciousness, upscale features, strong value proposition, and distinctive styling make it exceptionally popular, winning numerous awards.
The Good
The 2021 Telluride boasts a comfortable ride and spacious interior, appealing to practical needs. Its distinctive design and upscale features offer an emotional connection. Performance is adequate for daily driving, and its perceived reliability and strong value make it a smart choice for budget-conscious buyers.
The Bad
Potential weaknesses of the 2021 Telluride include limited off-road capability compared to some rivals. Fuel economy isn't class-leading. Some owners have reported minor infotainment glitches and occasional sensor malfunctions. The high demand for the vehicle can make finding specific trims and colors challenging.
2021 KIA Telluride: Quick Overview
- Engine: 3.8L V6
- Horsepower: 291 hp
- Torque: 262 lb-ft
- Fuel Economy (FWD): 20 mpg city / 26 mpg highway
- Fuel Economy (AWD): 19 mpg city / 24 mpg highway
- 0-60 mph: Approximately 7.0-7.5 seconds
- Towing Capacity: 5,000 lbs
- Trim-Level Features:
- LX: Standard features include a 10.25-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility, lane keeping assist, forward collision warning, and smart cruise control.
- S: Adds features like 20-inch alloy wheels, sunroof, and captain's chairs in the second row.
- EX: Enhances comfort with leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, ventilated front seats, and a hands-free power liftgate.
- SX: Top-of-the-line trim includes a Harman Kardon premium audio system, blind-spot view monitor, surround view monitor, dual sunroofs, and a more aggressive exterior styling.
Each trim builds upon the features of the trim below it, offering increasing levels of luxury and technology. All trims come standard with an 8-speed automatic transmission.
2021 KIA Telluride Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2021 |
| Make | KIA |
| Model | Telluride |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | - |
| Category | - |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | - |
| Manufacturing City | - |
Dimensions
| Doors | - |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | - |
| Engine Size | - |
| Engine Cylinders | - |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | - |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Vehicle
Specifications
Specifications
Ownership
History
History
All History
Events
Events
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Listings
Listings
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Market Price
Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2021 KIA Telluride Have?
The 2021 KIA Telluride has generally been considered a reliable vehicle, but some common issues and recalls have been reported. Some owners have reported issues with the infotainment system, including glitches and slow response times. Sensor malfunctions, particularly related to the advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like lane keeping assist and blind-spot monitoring, have also been mentioned.
Recalls for the Telluride, including the 2021 model year, have addressed potential fire risks due to trailer hitch harness malfunctions and issues with the seat belt pretensioners. It's crucial to check the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) website for the latest recall information specific to the VIN of the vehicle.
Long-term reliability concerns are relatively limited so far, but as the vehicle ages, potential issues related to the transmission and other mechanical components might emerge. Monitoring owner forums and professional reviews for any developing trends is advisable. Regular maintenance and adherence to the recommended service schedule are crucial for mitigating potential problems and ensuring the long-term reliability of the Telluride.
Recalls for the Telluride, including the 2021 model year, have addressed potential fire risks due to trailer hitch harness malfunctions and issues with the seat belt pretensioners. It's crucial to check the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) website for the latest recall information specific to the VIN of the vehicle.
Long-term reliability concerns are relatively limited so far, but as the vehicle ages, potential issues related to the transmission and other mechanical components might emerge. Monitoring owner forums and professional reviews for any developing trends is advisable. Regular maintenance and adherence to the recommended service schedule are crucial for mitigating potential problems and ensuring the long-term reliability of the Telluride.
How long will the 2021 KIA Telluride last?
With proper maintenance, a 2021 KIA Telluride can easily reach 200,000 miles or more. Owners who follow the recommended maintenance schedule, including regular oil changes, fluid checks, and timely repairs, can expect 10-15 years of reliable service.
Potential long-term weaknesses may include wear and tear on suspension components, potential for increased oil consumption as the engine ages, and the gradual degradation of electronic components. Keeping up with preventative maintenance is key to maximizing the vehicle's lifespan.
Potential long-term weaknesses may include wear and tear on suspension components, potential for increased oil consumption as the engine ages, and the gradual degradation of electronic components. Keeping up with preventative maintenance is key to maximizing the vehicle's lifespan.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2021 KIA Telluride boasts a comprehensive suite of tech, entertainment, driver-assistance, and safety features. Standard features include a 10.25-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, multiple USB ports, and a rearview camera. Available upgrades include a Harman Kardon premium audio system, wireless phone charging, and a head-up display.
Standard driver-assistance features comprise forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane keeping assist, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Optional features include blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a surround-view monitor.
The 2021 Telluride earned top safety ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety). The NHTSA awarded it a 5-star overall safety rating. The IIHS named it a Top Safety Pick, indicating excellent performance in crash tests and advanced safety technologies. These high safety ratings contribute significantly to the Telluride's appeal as a family-friendly vehicle.
Standard driver-assistance features comprise forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane keeping assist, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Optional features include blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a surround-view monitor.
The 2021 Telluride earned top safety ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety). The NHTSA awarded it a 5-star overall safety rating. The IIHS named it a Top Safety Pick, indicating excellent performance in crash tests and advanced safety technologies. These high safety ratings contribute significantly to the Telluride's appeal as a family-friendly vehicle.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Everlasting Silver
Dark Moss
Black Copper
Sangria
Ebony Black
Gravity Gray
Glacial White Pearl
Nightfall Edition - Ebony Black
Nightfall Edition - Wolf Gray
Interior Colors
Gray Interior
Black Interior
Espresso Brown Interior
2021 KIA Telluride Prices and Market Value
The 2021 KIA Telluride had a starting MSRP of around $32,000, with higher trims reaching close to $48,000 when new. Due to high demand and limited supply, used Tellurides have held their value remarkably well. Currently, used 2021 models can range from the mid $30,000s to over $40,000, depending on mileage, condition, and trim level.
Factors affecting resale value include the vehicle's condition, mileage, maintenance history, and geographic location. The Telluride's strong reputation for reliability and features has contributed to its low depreciation.
Factors affecting resale value include the vehicle's condition, mileage, maintenance history, and geographic location. The Telluride's strong reputation for reliability and features has contributed to its low depreciation.
2021 KIA Telluride Cost of Ownership
Insurance costs for the 2021 KIA Telluride are generally average for its class. Fuel costs can be moderate, depending on driving habits and whether it's a FWD or AWD model. Maintenance costs are reasonable, especially if routine servicing is followed. Repairs can be more expensive if specialized parts or dealer service is required. Overall, the Telluride offers a good balance of features and reasonable long-term ownership costs, making it a fairly economical choice.
2021 KIA Telluride Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
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Fuel Capacity
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City Mileage
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Highway Mileage
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2021 KIA Telluride Safety Rating
NHTSA
2021 KIA Telluride Recalls & Defects
Power Train:driveline:driveshaft
Recall date
2024-03-20
Recall no.
24v214000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
KIA America, Inc. (Kia) IS Recalling Certain 2020-2024 Telluride Vehicles. THE Intermediate Shaft and Right Front Driveshaft MAY NOT BE Fully Engaged, Which CAN Result IN Vehicle Roll Away While IN Park.
Consequence
A Vehicle Roll Away Increases THE Risk OF A Crash or Injury.
Remedy
Owners ARE Advised TO Manually Engage THE Emergency Parking Brake Prior TO Exiting THE Vehicle Until THE Recall Remedy IS Performed. Dealers Will Update THE Electronic Parking Brake Software and Replace ANY Damaged Intermediate Shafts AS Necessary, Free OF Charge. Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed MAY 15, 2024. Owners MAY Contact KIA Customer Service AT 1-800-333-4542. Kia's Number FOR This Recall IS Sc303.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.nhtsa.gov.
Trailer Hitches
Recall date
2022-08-15
Recall no.
22v626000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
KIA America, Inc. (Kia) IS Recalling Certain 2020-2022 Telluride Vehicles Potentially Equipped With A Genuine KIA 4-Pin TOW Hitch Harness Installed AS Original Equipment, or Purchased AS AN Accessory Through A KIA Dealership. Debris and Moisture Accumulation ON THE TOW Hitch Harness Module Printed Circuit Board (Pcb) MAY Cause AN Electrical Short, Which CAN Result IN A Fire.
Consequence
A Fire While Parked or Driving CAN Increase THE Risk OF Injury.
Remedy
Owners ARE Advised TO Park Outside and Away From Structures Until THE Recall Repair IS Complete. Dealers Will Install A NEW Fuse and A Wiring Harness Extension. Dealers Will Also Inspect and Replace THE TOW Hitch Harness Assembly, AS Necessary. All Repairs Will BE Performed Free OF Charge. Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed April 12, 2023. Owners MAY Contact KIA Customer Service AT 1-800-333-4542. Kia's Number FOR This Recall IS Sc247.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.nhtsa.gov.
AIR Bags: AIR Bag/Restraint Control Module
Recall date
2021-03-11
Recall no.
21v164000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
KIA Motors America (Kia) IS Recalling Certain 2021 Telluride, K5, and Forte Vehicles. THE Occupant Classification and Detection System (Ocs/Ods) Unit MAY NOT Detect THE Presence OF A Child Restraint System IN THE Front Passenger Seat. AS Such, These Vehicles Fail TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (fmvss) Number 208, "occupant Crash Protection."
Consequence
IN THE Event OF A Crash, Deployment OF THE Front Passenger AIR Bag, With A Child IN That Seat, CAN Increase THE Risk OF Injury TO THE Child.
Remedy
KIA Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Ocs/Ods Unit, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began March 18, 2021. Owners MAY Contact KIA Customer Service AT 1-800-333-4542. Kia's Number FOR This Recall IS Sc207.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:sensor:occupant Classification:front Passenger
Recall date
2021-03-11
Recall no.
21v164000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
KIA Motors America (Kia) IS Recalling Certain 2021 Telluride, K5, and Forte Vehicles. THE Occupant Classification and Detection System (Ocs/Ods) Unit MAY NOT Detect THE Presence OF A Child Restraint System IN THE Front Passenger Seat. AS Such, These Vehicles Fail TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (fmvss) Number 208, "occupant Crash Protection."
Consequence
IN THE Event OF A Crash, Deployment OF THE Front Passenger AIR Bag, With A Child IN That Seat, CAN Increase THE Risk OF Injury TO THE Child.
Remedy
KIA Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Ocs/Ods Unit, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began March 18, 2021. Owners MAY Contact KIA Customer Service AT 1-800-333-4542. Kia's Number FOR This Recall IS Sc207.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Seats:front Assembly:power Adjust
Recall date
2024-06-05
Recall no.
24v407000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
KIA America, Inc. (Kia) IS Recalling Certain 2020-2024 Telluride Vehicles. THE Front Power Seat Motor MAY Overheat DUE TO A Stuck Power Seat Slide Knob, Which CAN Result IN A Fire While Parked or Driving.
Consequence
A Fire Increases THE Risk OF Injury.
Remedy
Owners ARE Advised TO Park Outside and Away From Structures Until THE Recall Repair IS Complete. Dealers Will Install A Bracket FOR THE Power Seat Switch Back Covers and Replace THE Seat Slide Knobs, Free OF Charge. Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed July 30, 2024. Owners MAY Contact KIA Customer Service AT 1-800-333-4542. Kia's Number FOR This Recall IS Sc316.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.nhtsa.gov.
2021 KIA Telluride Insurance
Insurance for a 2021 KIA Telluride is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Vehicle with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2021 KIA Telluride Compare to Other Vehicle?
The 2021 KIA Telluride competes with the Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander, Ford Explorer, and Hyundai Palisade. In terms of performance, the Telluride's V6 engine is comparable to most rivals, though some offer more powerful engine options. Feature-wise, the Telluride is competitive, offering a similar range of technology and comfort features. Reliability is generally considered good, on par with the Highlander and Pilot, but potentially slightly behind the Highlander's reputation for bulletproof reliability.
Price is where the Telluride shines, typically offering more features for the money compared to its rivals. The Hyundai Palisade is a very similar alternative, sharing many components with the Telluride and offering a comparable value proposition. The Toyota Highlander is a strong contender due to its reliability, but it can be more expensive. The Ford Explorer offers more performance-oriented options but may not match the Telluride's overall value and perceived reliability. The Honda Pilot is a well-rounded choice, but its styling might not appeal to everyone as much as the Telluride's.
Price is where the Telluride shines, typically offering more features for the money compared to its rivals. The Hyundai Palisade is a very similar alternative, sharing many components with the Telluride and offering a comparable value proposition. The Toyota Highlander is a strong contender due to its reliability, but it can be more expensive. The Ford Explorer offers more performance-oriented options but may not match the Telluride's overall value and perceived reliability. The Honda Pilot is a well-rounded choice, but its styling might not appeal to everyone as much as the Telluride's.
Final Verdict: Is the 2021 KIA Telluride a Good Vehicle?
The 2021 KIA Telluride is an excellent choice for families seeking a spacious, well-equipped, and stylish three-row SUV. It's particularly well-suited for buyers who prioritize value and features over outright performance. Whether it's worth buying depends on the price and condition of the specific vehicle.
A used 2021 Telluride can be a great value if found at a reasonable price, especially if it has been well-maintained. The EX and SX trims offer a good balance of features and value. However, carefully consider mileage, accident history, and any outstanding recalls before purchasing.
A used 2021 Telluride can be a great value if found at a reasonable price, especially if it has been well-maintained. The EX and SX trims offer a good balance of features and value. However, carefully consider mileage, accident history, and any outstanding recalls before purchasing.
Cathleen V
Cathleen is an exceptional freelance writer covering hot topics in the automotive world from a gearhead's perspective. Her articles delve into various aspects of automotive technology and history, offering readers detailed insights into engine performance, reliability, and maintenance. Through her engaging and informative writing, Cathleen provides valuable information to automotive enthusiasts and consumers alike, helping them make informed decisions about vehicle maintenance and purchases.