Choosing the right Kia Telluride model year can be confusing, especially with several model years available. If you're a McKinney family who needs third-row seating for soccer practice carpools, or if you just want comfort for Dallas day trips, the Telluride may be a great choice. Our team at Huffines Kia McKinney can help you decide.
Why the Kia Telluride Stands Out in the Three-Row SUV Market
The Telluride tops shopping lists by offering more for less. The 2025 model starts at $36,390, cheaper than the base Honda Pilot at $40,200. Its boxy styling breaks away from today's more rounded shapes, while the interior boasts class-leading legroom (especially in row two) and Nappa leather in higher trims.
The Telluride won the 2020 North American Utility Vehicle of the Year award, took J.D. Power's 2025 Residual Value Award for midsize three-row SUVs (fourth consecutive win), and made Car and Driver's 10Best list six years straight. J.D. Power rated the 2025 model 85/100 for dependability, slightly better than the 2023 model year.
Understanding Kia Telluride Model Year Generations and Changes
The history of the Telluride has two chapters: first-generation models (2020-2025) and the totally reworked second generation starting with the 2027 model year (the 2026 model year was skipped). Every first-generation Telluride comes with the same 3.8-liter V-6 engine, rated at 291 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque, matched to an eight-speed automatic. The 2025 lineup offers 10 trims, from the basic LX with front-wheel drive ($36,390) to the loaded SX-Prestige X-Pro with all-wheel drive ($53,685).
Technology has stayed consistent across first-generation models. You'll get a 12.3-inch touch screen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and a Wi-Fi hotspot on the 2025 Telluride, no matter which trim you pick. Recent years have seen the introduction of the X-Line and X-Pro packages, which feature more distinctive looks and enhanced performance. The X-Pro sits higher (8.4 inches of clearance), handles rough terrain better, and can tow 5,500 pounds, 500 pounds more than other trims, making it handy for family camping trips or hauling your boat to Lake Lavon.
Kia Telluride Years To Avoid and Why
Skip the 2020 models if you can. First-year Tellurides racked up 479 National Highway Traffic Safety Administration complaints, more than any other year by far. Owners complained about cracked windshields, transmission hiccups, and glitchy electronics. Like most first-year cars, the 2020 Telluride suffered growing pains.
Recalls have been issued for multiple model years, including one for 2020-2024 Tellurides with faulty power seat motors that could overheat. Dealers installed new brackets and seat knobs to correct the issue. 2024 models had three recalls for seat issues, rollaway problems, and power loss. Check the recall history of any specific Telluride you're considering, and make sure it has been fixed.
Best Kia Telluride Year for Different Buyers
For reliability, choose 2023 or newer models. If you're on a budget, consider certified pre-owned (CPO) 2022 models.
Tellurides hold their value well, keeping 78% after three years. Many owners reach 150,000 miles trouble-free, and some go over 200,000 miles with regular maintenance. Your McKinney family can reap long-term benefits from this durability and peace of mind from Kia's 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. Check out our Telluride selection to find your perfect match.
Kia Telluride Reliability Ratings Across Model Years
J.D. Power ranked the 2025 Telluride first in its class for initial quality. U.S. News went even further, giving it a 9.5/10 overall score, the highest among the 26 midsize SUVs it tested. It also earned it an 85/100 for reliability (fifth among midsize SUVs) and a 9.4/10 for value.
Consumer Reports plays it safer, predicting average reliability for 2025 models based on data from 2022-2024 versions.
Kia Telluride Problems Across All Model Years
Tellurides have typical quirks: paint problems (fading and peeling), finicky climate control, glass defects, electrical malfunctions, touch-screen glitches, exhaust problems, and tow hitch troubles, but these issues rarely ruin ownership. Most warranty fixes happen smoothly. Following the recommended maintenance schedule will likely lead to fewer major problems, making these quirks minor annoyances rather than deal-breakers.
What To Check When Buying a Used Kia Telluride
The 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty drops to five-year/60,000-mile coverage for second owners. Roadside assistance and antiperforation coverage do transfer. CPO Tellurides offer better protection with one year/12,000 miles of Platinum Coverage plus the remaining powertrain warranty. CPO vehicles pass 165-point inspections and include up to 10 years of roadside assistance.
Be sure to check maintenance records carefully. Look for regular oil changes (every 6,000 miles with synthetic oil), tire rotations (every 6,000 miles), brake checks (every 12,000 miles), and coolant replacement at 100,000 miles. Verify recall fixes, especially the seat motor fire risk on 2020-2024 models. Book a test-drive, and we'll help you spot potential problems.
Find Your Perfect Telluride at Huffines Kia McKinney
If you're ready to find your family's next SUV, our team at Huffines Kia McKinney understands what North Texas families need and can help you sort through model years to find your perfect match. Stop by our dealership to browse our Telluride lineup, take a test-drive, or reach out to our staff with questions about specific model years or financing deals. We're here to help you drive home happy.