The 2024 Kia Telluride Continues Its Excellence

Despite the introduction of the “X-Pro” badge with a price tag of $53,000, opting for the Telluride’s more affordable trims remains the sensible choice.

In a world where many companies prioritize disruption over building something truly exceptional, Kia managed to achieve both in 2019 with the Telluride. This SUV found a unique niche in the luxury market, leaving competitors scrambling to catch up.

The original Telluride posed a crucial question to buyers: What do you truly desire in a luxury SUV? Is it merely a badge on a mediocre crossover, or do you crave a spacious and elegant vehicle with exceptional comfort and unparalleled road manners?

Customers spoke loud and clear with their purchases. The Telluride not only elevated Kia to new heights but also made waves in the Korean auto industry, with Kia dealerships experiencing waitlists for the first time.

As demand normalized, Kia refreshed the Telluride last year to maintain interest. The update included subtle exterior tweaks, a revamped digital instrument panel, and the introduction of more rugged trims like the X-Pro.

The “X-Pro” designation may seem like marketing jargon, borrowing from the likes of Toyota’s TRD Pro and Nissan’s Pro4X branding to signify an off-road variant. However, it’s a step in the right direction.

During a challenging 3,000-mile road trip with a previous Telluride, I found myself stuck in mud, highlighting the limitations of the standard model. The X-Pro, unfortunately, wouldn’t have been a saving grace, lacking crucial off-road features like a locking differential, low-range transfer case, increased ground clearance, and aggressive tires.

Nonetheless, the X-Pro does offer some enhancements over its counterparts. These include a modest increase in towing capacity, slightly more ground clearance, and knobby Continental Traction Plus tires, along with aesthetic upgrades that give it a rugged appearance.

Under the hood, the Telluride retains its 3.8-liter V6 engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. While the power output may not be groundbreaking, the Telluride excels in delivering a refined driving experience.

Kia’s engineers have finely tuned the throttle response, providing smooth acceleration without sacrificing efficiency. The Telluride’s performance may not rival that of luxury SUVs from German brands, but it’s more than adequate for everyday driving.

The interior remains a sanctuary of tranquility, with superior noise insulation compared to its Japanese competitors. Despite its off-road aspirations, the Telluride maintains its composure on the highway, effortlessly swallowing cargo and providing ample space for passengers.

However, there are minor drawbacks, such as slightly less supportive front seats and a lack of significant improvements in off-road capability with the X-Pro trim.

Ultimately, for most buyers, the standard Telluride SX with all-wheel drive offers sufficient capability at a lower cost. Unless you’re specifically drawn to the X-Pro’s aesthetic upgrades, it may not justify the premium.

In summary, the 2024 Kia Telluride continues to set the benchmark for affordable luxury SUVs. While competitors may be closing the gap, Kia’s offering remains unmatched in terms of value, comfort, and overall refinement, reaffirming its status as a trailblazer in the segment.