The 2023 KIA Telluride is a popular mid-size, three-row SUV that first debuted for the 2020 model year, receiving a significant refresh for 2023. It's offered in trims like LX, S, EX, SX, and SX Prestige, with new X-Line and X-Pro variants. Pricing ranges from approximately $35,990 to over $54,000. It stands out for its bold, upscale design, generous standard features, and exceptional value, making it a favorite among families seeking a premium experience without a premium price tag.
The Good
The 2023 KIA Telluride offers a smooth V6 performance, strong reliability, and a remarkably comfortable, spacious, and quiet cabin with an upscale design. Its feature-rich nature delivers outstanding value, appealing to practical buyers. Emotionally, its commanding presence and luxurious feel provide a sense of pride and a premium ownership experience, making every journey enjoyable for the whole family.
The Bad
Known weaknesses for the 2023 KIA Telluride include its fuel economy, which is average for the class but not class-leading. There's also only one engine option. Some adult passengers might find the third row a bit cramped on longer trips, and a modest amount of road noise can be present at highway speeds, though generally well-controlled.
2023 KIA Telluride: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: The 2023 Telluride comes with a single engine option: a 3.8-liter V6 engine.
- Horsepower: This V6 engine produces a robust 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque.
- Fuel Economy (EPA Estimated):
- FWD: 20 MPG city / 26 MPG highway / 23 MPG combined
- AWD: 19 MPG city / 24 MPG highway / 21 MPG combined
- 0-60 Times: The Telluride accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 7.0 seconds, respectable for its class.
- Towing Capacity: The standard towing capacity is 5,000 pounds. Opting for the X-Pro trim increases this to 5,500 pounds, making it capable for many family towing needs.
- Key Trim-Level Features:
- LX: Standard features include a 12.3-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, synthetic leather seating, a comprehensive suite of safety tech (e.g., Forward Collision Warning, Lane Keeping Assist), and 18-inch wheels.
- S: Adds a sunroof, heated front seats, an 8-way power driver's seat, second-row captain's chairs (7-passenger seating), and a wireless phone charger.
- EX: Upgrades to genuine leather seating, ventilated front seats, a power liftgate, larger 20-inch wheels, and a standard power-folding third row.
- SX: Further enhances luxury with dual sunroofs, a premium Harman Kardon® audio system, a memory driver's seat, expanded driver-assistance features like Blind-Spot View Monitor, and a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster.
- SX Prestige: The top-tier trim offers Nappa leather, a head-up display, heated and ventilated second-row seats, a full display rearview mirror, and a 110V inverter.
- X-Line/X-Pro (available on EX, SX, SX Prestige): These packages add rugged styling, increased ground clearance, enhanced AWD capabilities, unique wheels, and the X-Pro boosts towing to 5,500 lbs.
2023 KIA Telluride Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2023 |
| Make | KIA |
| Model | Telluride |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Minivan |
| Category | Standard Sport Utility Vehicle |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | WEST POINT |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 6000 pounds |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | 7 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | GDI Lambda-II |
| Engine Size | 3.8L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | Automatic 8-Speed |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 8-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Four-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | Standard |
| 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
NMVTIS Title
History Check
History Check
Salvage/Rebuilt
Check
Check
Accident
Check
Check
Theft
Check
Check
Open Lien
Check
Check
Past Sale
Listings
Listings
Safety
Recalls
Recalls
Odometer
Check
Check
Market Price
Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2023 KIA Telluride Have?
As a relatively new model year, the 2023 KIA Telluride has not yet accumulated extensive long-term reliability data. However, based on earlier model years (2020-2022) and initial owner reports for 2023, some patterns emerge.
Frequently reported minor problems across the Telluride's lifespan can include occasional glitches with the infotainment system, such as freezing screens or slow responses, though software updates often address these. Some owners have also reported minor interior rattles or trim pieces that don't perfectly align, which is typical for mass-produced vehicles.
A significant recall affecting 2020-2023 Telluride models (and its Hyundai Palisade twin) concerns the tow hitch harness. This recall, issued in August 2022, warns of a potential fire risk due to contamination that can lead to an electrical short in the tow hitch harness module. Owners were advised to park their vehicles outdoors and away from structures until a repair could be performed, which involved inspecting and potentially replacing or removing the module. This is a critical safety recall that potential buyers should verify has been addressed.
Other, less widespread recalls for earlier model years included issues like incorrect fuel pump components or certain trim pieces detaching, but these were typically limited in scope and addressed promptly. For the 2023 model, a smaller recall involved potential loose bolts on the drive axle.
In terms of long-term reliability, the Telluride generally holds a strong reputation. KIA offers a class-leading 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, which instills confidence. Major mechanical issues are not widely reported. Potential long-term concerns, as with any vehicle, could eventually include wear on suspension components or aging electronic systems, but there are no specific widespread systemic failures identified for the Telluride model range to date beyond the noted tow hitch recall.
Frequently reported minor problems across the Telluride's lifespan can include occasional glitches with the infotainment system, such as freezing screens or slow responses, though software updates often address these. Some owners have also reported minor interior rattles or trim pieces that don't perfectly align, which is typical for mass-produced vehicles.
A significant recall affecting 2020-2023 Telluride models (and its Hyundai Palisade twin) concerns the tow hitch harness. This recall, issued in August 2022, warns of a potential fire risk due to contamination that can lead to an electrical short in the tow hitch harness module. Owners were advised to park their vehicles outdoors and away from structures until a repair could be performed, which involved inspecting and potentially replacing or removing the module. This is a critical safety recall that potential buyers should verify has been addressed.
Other, less widespread recalls for earlier model years included issues like incorrect fuel pump components or certain trim pieces detaching, but these were typically limited in scope and addressed promptly. For the 2023 model, a smaller recall involved potential loose bolts on the drive axle.
In terms of long-term reliability, the Telluride generally holds a strong reputation. KIA offers a class-leading 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, which instills confidence. Major mechanical issues are not widely reported. Potential long-term concerns, as with any vehicle, could eventually include wear on suspension components or aging electronic systems, but there are no specific widespread systemic failures identified for the Telluride model range to date beyond the noted tow hitch recall.
How long will the 2023 KIA Telluride last?
With proper maintenance and regular servicing, a 2023 KIA Telluride can reliably achieve an average of 150,000 to 200,000 miles, with many owners reporting well beyond that range. Its 3.8-liter V6 engine and 8-speed automatic transmission are generally considered robust and durable when fluids are changed at recommended intervals. Interior materials, especially in higher trims, tend to hold up well over time, resisting excessive wear and tear.
Long-term durability is a strong point, supported by KIA's excellent warranty coverage. Over time, typical wear items like brakes, tires, and suspension components (shocks, struts) will eventually require replacement, usually around the 100,000-mile mark, depending on driving conditions. While modern electronics can be a long-term concern in any vehicle, there are no widespread reports of critical electrical failures in the Telluride range as they age. Maintaining the vehicle according to KIA's schedule is paramount for maximizing its lifespan and addressing any potential weaknesses before they become major issues.
Long-term durability is a strong point, supported by KIA's excellent warranty coverage. Over time, typical wear items like brakes, tires, and suspension components (shocks, struts) will eventually require replacement, usually around the 100,000-mile mark, depending on driving conditions. While modern electronics can be a long-term concern in any vehicle, there are no widespread reports of critical electrical failures in the Telluride range as they age. Maintaining the vehicle according to KIA's schedule is paramount for maximizing its lifespan and addressing any potential weaknesses before they become major issues.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2023 KIA Telluride is packed with an impressive array of built-in tech, entertainment, and safety features, with a strong emphasis on driver assistance.
Built-in Tech & Entertainment: All 2023 Telluride models come standard with a large 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring navigation, Apple CarPlay®, Android Auto™, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The interface is user-friendly and responsive. Upper trims offer a premium Harman Kardon® 10-speaker audio system, a wireless phone charging pad, multiple USB ports across all three rows, and a full 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster that integrates seamlessly with the infotainment display.
Driver-Assistance Features (Standard on all trims): KIA's "Drive Wise" suite is comprehensive. Key standard features include Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (with pedestrian and cyclist detection), Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Following Assist, Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist, Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go, and Highway Driving Assist. The 2023 refresh also brought enhanced safety technologies like Junction Turning Assist.
Optional Driver-Assistance Features: Higher trims offer more advanced aids such as Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist (Reverse), which can automatically brake to prevent collisions while backing up, a Surround View Monitor providing a 360-degree bird's-eye view, and the Blind-Spot View Monitor, which displays a live feed of your blind spots in the digital gauge cluster when the turn signal is activated.
Safety Features: The Telluride is equipped with 7 airbags (including a driver's knee airbag), Vehicle Stability Management, Electronic Stability Control, and Traction Control. It also features Rear Occupant Alert to remind drivers about passengers in the back seat, and Safe Exit Assist, which warns occupants of approaching traffic before they open their doors.
Crash-Test Ratings: The 2023 KIA Telluride has received excellent safety ratings. It was awarded the prestigious Top Safety Pick+ rating by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) when equipped with specific headlights. It achieved "Good" ratings in all six IIHS crashworthiness tests. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) gave the 2023 Telluride an overall 5-star safety rating, its highest possible score.
Built-in Tech & Entertainment: All 2023 Telluride models come standard with a large 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring navigation, Apple CarPlay®, Android Auto™, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The interface is user-friendly and responsive. Upper trims offer a premium Harman Kardon® 10-speaker audio system, a wireless phone charging pad, multiple USB ports across all three rows, and a full 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster that integrates seamlessly with the infotainment display.
Driver-Assistance Features (Standard on all trims): KIA's "Drive Wise" suite is comprehensive. Key standard features include Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (with pedestrian and cyclist detection), Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Following Assist, Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist, Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go, and Highway Driving Assist. The 2023 refresh also brought enhanced safety technologies like Junction Turning Assist.
Optional Driver-Assistance Features: Higher trims offer more advanced aids such as Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist (Reverse), which can automatically brake to prevent collisions while backing up, a Surround View Monitor providing a 360-degree bird's-eye view, and the Blind-Spot View Monitor, which displays a live feed of your blind spots in the digital gauge cluster when the turn signal is activated.
Safety Features: The Telluride is equipped with 7 airbags (including a driver's knee airbag), Vehicle Stability Management, Electronic Stability Control, and Traction Control. It also features Rear Occupant Alert to remind drivers about passengers in the back seat, and Safe Exit Assist, which warns occupants of approaching traffic before they open their doors.
Crash-Test Ratings: The 2023 KIA Telluride has received excellent safety ratings. It was awarded the prestigious Top Safety Pick+ rating by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) when equipped with specific headlights. It achieved "Good" ratings in all six IIHS crashworthiness tests. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) gave the 2023 Telluride an overall 5-star safety rating, its highest possible score.
What Colors Options are Available?
We’re working on this section!
In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
2023 KIA Telluride Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2023 KIA Telluride spanned a wide price range, starting from approximately $35,990 for the base LX FWD trim and climbing past $54,000 for the top-tier SX Prestige AWD X-Pro, before destination charges and options. The Telluride has consistently demonstrated exceptional resale value. For instance, a well-maintained 2020 model, depending on trim and mileage, can still fetch over $30,000 on the used market.
Depreciation for the Telluride is significantly lower than many competitors in its class, especially during the first few years of ownership. This strong value retention is a key factor in its popularity. Factors positively affecting its resale value include its stylish design, generous feature set, strong reliability reputation, comprehensive warranty, and high consumer demand. Higher trim levels, AWD models, and those with premium packages or the newer X-Line/X-Pro additions also tend to hold their value better. Conversely, high mileage, poor maintenance records, or accident history will naturally diminish its resale value.
Depreciation for the Telluride is significantly lower than many competitors in its class, especially during the first few years of ownership. This strong value retention is a key factor in its popularity. Factors positively affecting its resale value include its stylish design, generous feature set, strong reliability reputation, comprehensive warranty, and high consumer demand. Higher trim levels, AWD models, and those with premium packages or the newer X-Line/X-Pro additions also tend to hold their value better. Conversely, high mileage, poor maintenance records, or accident history will naturally diminish its resale value.
2023 KIA Telluride Cost of Ownership
The 2023 KIA Telluride generally presents moderate ownership costs. Insurance premiums are typically average for a mid-size SUV, potentially offset by its strong safety ratings and extensive driver-assistance features. Fuel costs are moderate, as its V6 engine runs on regular gasoline, with EPA figures for a mid-size SUV. Routine maintenance costs are competitive within its segment, with standard service intervals. Repair costs under KIA's industry-leading 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty are minimal, making out-of-warranty repairs a longer-term consideration, but parts are readily available and reasonably priced. Overall, the 2023 Telluride is considered a moderately economical vehicle to own due to its reliable nature, excellent warranty, and strong resale value, balancing out its average fuel efficiency.
2023 KIA Telluride Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
23 gallons
City Mileage
20 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage
26 miles/gallon
2023 KIA Telluride Safety Rating
NHTSA
2023 KIA Telluride Insurance
Insurance for a 2023 KIA Telluride is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Minivan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2023 KIA Telluride Compare to Other Minivan?
The 2023 KIA Telluride competes fiercely with popular three-row SUVs such as the Hyundai Palisade, Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander, Mazda CX-90, and Volkswagen Atlas.
Performance: The Telluride's 291-hp 3.8L V6 provides smooth, adequate power for daily driving and highway passing. This is comparable to the Honda Pilot's V6, and often feels more robust than the standard engines in the Toyota Highlander. The Mazda CX-90, with its optional turbocharged inline-six, can offer a more potent and refined driving experience. The VW Atlas feels less refined with its base engine.
Features: This is where the Telluride truly shines. It offers an exceptionally upscale interior, packed with premium standard features (like the 12.3-inch touchscreen and comprehensive safety suite) that often cost extra on rivals. It delivers a near-luxury feel at a mainstream price. The Hyundai Palisade, being its mechanical twin, offers a very similar value proposition and feature set, differing mainly in styling. The Pilot and Highlander, while well-equipped, often feel less premium, especially in their lower to mid-trims.
Reliability: The Telluride has built a strong reputation for reliability, often rated highly by owners and critics. Its class-leading 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty provides significant peace of mind, matching or even surpassing the perceived long-term reliability of rivals like the Highlander and Pilot, which are known for their dependability.
Price: The Telluride offers exceptional value for money. When comparing feature-for-feature, it often undercuts rivals like the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander, providing more standard equipment for a similar or lower MSRP. The Hyundai Palisade is its closest competitor in terms of price-to-feature ratio.
Alternatives:
Performance: The Telluride's 291-hp 3.8L V6 provides smooth, adequate power for daily driving and highway passing. This is comparable to the Honda Pilot's V6, and often feels more robust than the standard engines in the Toyota Highlander. The Mazda CX-90, with its optional turbocharged inline-six, can offer a more potent and refined driving experience. The VW Atlas feels less refined with its base engine.
Features: This is where the Telluride truly shines. It offers an exceptionally upscale interior, packed with premium standard features (like the 12.3-inch touchscreen and comprehensive safety suite) that often cost extra on rivals. It delivers a near-luxury feel at a mainstream price. The Hyundai Palisade, being its mechanical twin, offers a very similar value proposition and feature set, differing mainly in styling. The Pilot and Highlander, while well-equipped, often feel less premium, especially in their lower to mid-trims.
Reliability: The Telluride has built a strong reputation for reliability, often rated highly by owners and critics. Its class-leading 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty provides significant peace of mind, matching or even surpassing the perceived long-term reliability of rivals like the Highlander and Pilot, which are known for their dependability.
Price: The Telluride offers exceptional value for money. When comparing feature-for-feature, it often undercuts rivals like the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander, providing more standard equipment for a similar or lower MSRP. The Hyundai Palisade is its closest competitor in terms of price-to-feature ratio.
Alternatives:
- Hyundai Palisade: A very strong alternative, offering virtually identical mechanicals and similar features with a slightly different interior and exterior aesthetic. Choosing between the two often comes down to personal style preference.
- Mazda CX-90: For buyers prioritizing a more engaging driving experience, a potentially more premium feel, and more efficient powertrain options (turbocharged inline-six engines), the CX-90 is a compelling choice, though it might be slightly pricier at higher trims.
- Honda Pilot: A highly practical, reliable, and spacious alternative, especially for those who prefer a more traditional SUV feel, though its interior may not feel as luxurious or tech-forward as the Telluride.
Final Verdict: Is the 2023 KIA Telluride a Good Minivan?
The 2023 KIA Telluride is an ideal vehicle for families or anyone needing a spacious, stylish, and feature-rich three-row SUV that exudes a near-luxury feel without the associated premium brand price tag. It's perfect for buyers who prioritize comfort, advanced technology, comprehensive safety features, and strong value retention.
It is absolutely worth buying. For those seeking the latest styling, full factory warranty, and specific color/trim configurations, buying new is an excellent choice. However, given its strong resale value, finding significant discounts on late-model used Tellurides (e.g., 2020-2022) can be challenging, but still offers good value if available. For optimal balance of features and cost, the EX and SX trims represent the sweet spot. The SX Prestige offers true luxury but comes at a higher premium. Regardless of the choice, the Telluride remains a top contender in its class.
It is absolutely worth buying. For those seeking the latest styling, full factory warranty, and specific color/trim configurations, buying new is an excellent choice. However, given its strong resale value, finding significant discounts on late-model used Tellurides (e.g., 2020-2022) can be challenging, but still offers good value if available. For optimal balance of features and cost, the EX and SX trims represent the sweet spot. The SX Prestige offers true luxury but comes at a higher premium. Regardless of the choice, the Telluride remains a top contender in its class.
Simon A
Simon is a contributor to VinCheck, where he provides articles and reviews on various automotive topics. His work focuses on delivering accurate and up-to-date information about used cars, helping readers make informed decisions.