Get ready for a thrilling automotive update! The 2027 Kia Telluride has arrived, but sadly, its twin, the Hyundai Palisade, still remains elusive for Australian car enthusiasts.
In the world of family cars, this news is a bit of a head-scratcher. The Kia Telluride, a spacious seven-seater SUV, has just entered its second generation in the US, but its availability in Australia is still up in the air.
But here's where it gets controversial... Despite the Telluride's close resemblance to the Hyundai Palisade, which recently made its way to Australia, the Kia model is built exclusively in left-hand drive, making it incompatible with our roads. Meanwhile, its Hyundai cousin is manufactured in right-hand drive in South Korea, giving it a clear advantage in the Australian market.
Kia has promised to reveal more details about the 2027 Telluride at the upcoming Los Angeles Motor Show, but for now, we have some exciting insights to share.
The Telluride is Kia's take on the 'Opposites United' design philosophy, a concept that has been successfully implemented across various Kia models, from the compact Picanto to the electric EV9.
And this is the part most people miss... The 2027 Telluride is not just a pretty face; it's also a practical upgrade. With a slight increase in size, the SUV now offers improved interior space and easier access to the second and third rows, making it a dream for families on the go.
Under the hood, the Telluride continues its petrol-powered journey, providing an alternative to Kia's all-electric EV9 SUV, which has had a modest reception in Australia since its launch in 2023.
In terms of dimensions, the 2027 Telluride stretches to approximately 5058mm in length, 1990mm in width, and 1775mm in height, making it a formidable presence on the road.
For a fun comparison, the 2026 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy, a close relative, measures 5065mm long, 1980mm wide, and 1805mm tall, with an identical wheelbase length likely shared by the new Telluride.
The Telluride's interior is a showcase of modern design, featuring dual 12.3-inch displays for infotainment and instrumentation, separated by a dedicated 5.0-inch screen for climate control. It's a sleek and intuitive setup that's sure to impress.
In the US, the Telluride will be offered in three grades: standard, X-Line, and X-Pro. The X-Pro version takes things up a notch with all-terrain tires, recovery hooks, and increased ground clearance, making it a capable off-road companion.
A unique feature of the X-Pro is its Ground Lighting system, inspired by the Ford Ranger's Zone Lighting. This innovative addition uses soft lights from the side mirrors, rear doors, and rear bumper to illuminate the area around the vehicle, enhancing visibility and safety.
Alloy wheels ranging from 19 to 21 inches will be available, with the X-Line and X-Pro models boasting thicker spokes for added durability.
So, there you have it! The 2027 Kia Telluride is a powerful and practical SUV with a unique design language. But the question remains: Will it ever make its way to Australian shores? Let us know your thoughts in the comments! Are you a fan of Kia's design philosophy? Do you think the Telluride has what it takes to be a success in Australia?
