1 of the Most Popular South Korean SUVs Is Actually Made in America
The midsize SUV segment is competitive thanks to models like the Hyundai Palisade, Toyota Highlander, and many more industry heavyweights. One midsize SUV has stood out among competitors since it first hit the scene. The Kia Telluride has dominated rankings in its segment. Surprisingly, the popular South Korean SUV is actually made in America.
The Kia Telluride is made in America
Hyundai Motor Company is a force to be reckoned with in the industry. The South Korean company produces competitive models across its portfolio of brands. The portfolio includes Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis.
There are too many impactful nameplates across the company’s portfolio to list, but the Telluride has been especially successful. The Kia Telluride and its Hyundai counterpart, the Hyundai Palisade, stand tall atop midsize SUV rankings.
The Kia Telluride has repeatedly beaten out more seasoned midsize SUV nameplates for the best midsize SUV position on ranking lists compiled by some of the most popular automotive publications. Despite being from a South Korean brand, it’s one of the most popular American-made SUVs in the industry today.
Kia’s popular midsize SUV is produced down south in West Point, Georgia, at the Kia West Point Assembly Plant. The Kia plant produces roughly 340,000 models annually and runs around the clock.
Demand for the Kia Telluride is sky-high
The Kia Telluride may be American-made, but getting a new model for its original MSRP is still tough. Demand for the midsize SUV has been extremely high in recent years. In fact, used Tellurides were worth more than new models during the semiconductor chip shortage. Why were drivers paying more for used models? Consumers want their Tellurides, and they want ’em now!
The rising demand for the Telluride is well-documented. The question is, why is America so crazy about this South Korean SUV?
What’s so special about the Kia Telluride?
The Telluride is special because of its value proposition. While it has become much more expensive for 2023, the midsize SUV remains an excellent deal for the money.
The 2023 Kia Telluride starts at $35,890. It uses a 3.8-liter V6 engine to make 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. The SUV achieves 20 miles per gallon in the city and 26 miles per gallon on the highway. Its pricing is affordable compared to rivals, but its performance specs aren’t extraordinary.
According to Kia, the Telluride comes standard with a leather-wrapped steering wheel, SynTex seat trim, and smart cruise control with stop-and-go. It also includes standard rear parking sensors, one-touch sliding and folding second-row seats, and a smart key with push-button start.
The Kia Telluride is special because it comes with impressive standard features. The SUV offers plenty of standard creature comforts, driver assistance, and safety features for a price that doesn’t break the bank. Kia’s midsize SUV is likely to remain on top of rankings, as it hasn’t lost steam despite a steep price increase for 2023. The Telluride is leading a new niche market of three-row midsize family SUVs.
