TL;DR
The 2027 Kia Telluride X-Pro has been unveiled in the US, featuring a boxier design, rugged X-Pro trim with off-road tyres, and a premium interior. It’s expected to use the same 3.5L V6 and 2.5L turbo-hybrid engines as the 2026 Hyundai Palisade. While not confirmed for Australia, its design direction could influence future Kia SUVs, including local models like the Sorento or Tasman ute.
2027 Kia Telluride X-Pro revealed: more rugged, refined, and ready to challenge luxury rivals
Kia has officially unveiled the 2027 Telluride X-Pro, giving a detailed look at its bold new styling and refined interior ahead of its debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show later this month.
Although not currently sold in Australia, the Telluride’s close relationship with the Hyundai Palisade — which is offered locally — makes it relevant for those following Kia’s SUV lineup. It also signals where Kia’s design and engineering are headed, with lessons likely to flow into the Sorento and upcoming Tasman ute.
Boxier and more premium
The new Telluride leans into the rugged, upright styling that made the original a North American hit. The front end now features a full-width grille with amber vertical daytime running lights at each corner — a striking new Kia signature.
It has grown slightly, adding about 60 mm in overall length and 70 mm in wheelbase, matching the 2026 Palisade. Despite this, it remains well-proportioned, with a clean, squared profile that hides its larger size effectively.
At the rear, the SUV channels a Range Rover-like aesthetic through slim, vertical LED taillights and a smooth tailgate design. The entire rear door lifts as one, despite lines that suggest a split setup.
Off-road-ready X-Pro trim
The X-Pro grade features 18-inch Continental CrossContact all-terrain tyres, front and rear tow hooks, and a raised, tougher stance. Kia showcased its off-road ability in early prototypes — and now it’s confirmed as the real deal.
Engine options are yet to be confirmed, but the Telluride will likely share the 3.5-litre V6 (214 kW) and 2.5-litre turbo-hybrid (245 kW) setups from the Palisade. Both are expected to use an eight-speed automatic with all-wheel drive.
Those outputs would make it one of the more powerful petrol SUVs in its segment, sitting above the Toyota Kluger Hybrid and alongside the Mazda CX-90 for performance.
Premium interior without the gimmicks
The interior design takes a more classic approach than Hyundai’s “balloon” theme, with dual 12.3-inch displays for infotainment and instruments. Key controls remain physical for ease of use — a decision many buyers will appreciate.
Cabin materials are genuinely upmarket, blending engineered wood, real metal highlights, and Forged Carbon trim on the X-Pro’s centre console. Kia’s designers say the goal was a timeless and functional interior rather than one chasing trends.
Launch timing and Australian relevance
The Telluride will launch in North America in early 2026. While it remains left-hand-drive only, Kia Australia could adapt parts of its design language and cabin features for future models. The upcoming Sorento refresh and Kia Tasman ute may benefit directly from this evolution.
Given Australia’s appetite for large, capable SUVs, the Telluride’s X-Pro approach could inspire future trims designed to compete with the Toyota Prado and Isuzu MU-X.
Key takeaways
- Size: Slightly longer and wider, matching the 2026 Palisade.
- Design: Boxier styling with amber vertical DRLs and Range Rover-like rear end.
- Engines (expected): 3.5L V6 or 2.5L turbo-hybrid.
- Interior: Twin 12.3-inch screens, premium materials, functional layout.
- Launch: North America, Q1 2026.
- Relevance: Likely to influence future Kia SUVs and the Tasman ute.
Comparison: 2027 Kia Telluride vs key rivals*
| Model | Engine | Power | Drivetrain | Length (mm) | Est. Price (AUD)* |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kia Telluride X-Pro (2027) | 3.5L V6 / 2.5L turbo-hybrid | 214–245 kW | AWD | ≈ 5,040 | $75,000* |
| Hyundai Palisade (2026) | 3.5L V6 / 2.5L turbo-hybrid | 214–245 kW | AWD | 5,040 | $70,000* |
| Toyota Kluger Hybrid | 2.5L hybrid | 184 kW | AWD | 4,960 | $68,000* |
| Mazda CX-90 | 3.3L turbo mild-hybrid | 254 kW | AWD | 5,120 | $75,800* |
