The Telluride was a resounding success for Kia, and the company hopes to maintain that momentum by launching a facelifted crossover.
The 2023 Telluride, introduced earlier this year, will arrive at dealers later this month with a base price of $35,690. That’s a pretty big jump, considering last year’s crossover started at $33,390.
So what do you get from that extra $2,300? An updated exterior with a revised grille flanked by new headlamps. Designers also gave the model a new front bumper, revised side skirts and updated wheels. They are joined by new taillights, an updated rear end and a revised color palette that now includes Midnight Lake Blue, Dawning Red Jungle and Wood Green.
Also read: 2023 Kia Telluride gets a revamped look and new, tough, off-road finishes
The changes continue in the cabin, as the Telluride 2023 has an updated steering wheel and a new dashboard with slimmer vents. Eyes will also be drawn to the new 12.3-inch infotainment system, which replaces last year’s 10.25-inch display.
That said, the real showstopper is the curved screen in SX and above. It consists of a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and a matching 12.3-inch infotainment system.
While that’s just a brief overview of the updates, the big news is the addition of X-Line and X-Pro variants that come standard with four-wheel drive. The X-Line models have a unique grille, ‘bridge-type’ roof rails, body-coloured door handles, exclusive 20-inch wheels and ‘X-Line’ embossing on the front seats.
X-Line variants, however, stand out more with improved approach and departure angles and an additional 10 mm of ground clearance. Buyers will also find a drag mode and an improved traction control system.
X-Pro variants build on the X-Line, swapping 20-inch wheels for black 18-inchers wrapped in Continental all-terrain tires. Buyers will also find an “X-Pro” embossed on the front seats, a 110-volt outlet in the cargo area and an increased towing capacity of 2,517 kg.
Regardless of the equipment chosen, all Tellurides are equipped with a 3.8-liter V6 engine that develops 291 hp (217 kW/295 hp) and 262 lb-ft (355 Nm) of torque. It is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission, which can be mated to an optional four-wheel drive.
Note: Prices do not include a $1,335 destination fee
