Talking Cars 526: Driving the Kia Telluride Hybrid

Main theme: This week, we share our impressions of the 2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid. This is the first time Kia’s popular three-row SUV has been available with a hybrid powertrain, which it shares with the mechanically similar Hyundai Palisade Hybrid that we’ve already tested. As such, the Telluride uses a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with electric drive and a six-speed automatic transmission, with a total system output of 329 hp. 

Our panelists discuss how the hybrid powertrain compares with the turbocharged four-cylinder that’s paired with an eight-speed automatic in the regular Telluride we previously tested. Does it do away with the unpleasant “grumbly” or “gurgly” noises that so many of our testers complained about? Watch the video to find out.

We also discuss the Telluride Hybrid’s ride, handling, seat comfort, and controls, comparing everything to both the regular Telluride and the Palisade Hybrid. At the end of the segment, our experts weigh in on which model they’d buy, and whether the hybrid version is worth the $2,700 premium. 

Audience question: I commute from Connecticut to New Hampshire about 10 times each year for work. Can you help me choose a fuel-efficient three-row SUV with good cargo capacity that’s on the luxury side of the spectrum?