This is quite a twist for the wildly popular Kia Telluride. Most critics only have nice things to say and rank it as the best SUV you can buy. However, the 2023 Kia Telluride isn’t perfect. There are two potential drawbacks to consider. 

2023 Kia Telluride cons: Two things could hold it back 

The team at Cars.com recently spent time with the 2023 Kia Telluride and gathered mostly positive things to share. However, there were two things that these critics couldn’t get over. 

The first issue involves an abundance of road noise that enters the cabin. It doesn’t seem to matter if the Telluride is equipped with regular 20-inch or 18-inch tires or the all-terrain options. Either way, the wind is intrusive. 

Our 2022 Kia Telluride didn’t seem to be too loud. Engine noise is noticeable, but it’s not distracting. Also, we never had to raise our voices to carry a conversation. 

Also, Cars.com warns buyers to tread lightly. This is a hot take because they claim that the new Kia Telluride X-Pro and X-Line models shouldn’t be considered real off-roading packages. The lack of proper undercarriage protection and low-range gearing hold them back. 

What comes with the 2023 Telluride X-Pro and X-Line? 

The 2023 Kia Telluride X-Line features a 0.4-inch suspension lift that increases the ground clearance to 8.4 inches, 20-inch wheels wrapped in all-season tires, raised roof rails, and an enhanced traction control system. 

With the Kia Telluride X-Pro, you get 18-inch wheels wrapped in all-terrain tires, off-road-oriented suspension tuning, an increased towing capacity from 5,000 to 5,500 lbs, and a 110-volt outlet in the cargo area. 

Both models have standard all-wheel drive, and hill-descent control is standard across the entire lineup. Plus, the center-locking differential even distributes torque to each wheel to maximize traction. 

It increases drive power on wet roads, in the snow, and on dirt or gravel roads. The Snow Mode will probably come in handy if you live in an area with inclement weather too. 

While skid plates would be helpful, the Telluride is still pretty capable. The enhanced road rails are great for carrying more off-roading gear, rooftop tents, and cargo. The increased tow rating allows families to bring more stuff too. 

The Telluride has a 17.9-degree approach angle and a 23.2-degree departure angle. That could be improved for climbing over obstacles. But the AWD lock is perfect for powering through mud and ruts. 

What do critics like about the 2023 Telluride? 

The 2023 Kia Telluride is praised for its powerful 3.8-liter V6 engine with 291 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque. It can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 7.5 seconds and provides smooth transmission shifts. 

Plus, the 2023 Telluride has tons of passenger space and cargo room in each row. You can access up to 21.0 cubic feet behind the third row and up to 87.0 cubes overall. 

New tech such as the 12.3-inch touchscreen, 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, 360-degree surround-view camera, ventilated seats, and massaging seats only add to its value and comfort. Tons of standard features make the Telluride a great deal. 

But the Telluride isn’t exactly quiet at highway speeds, and it’s not a true off-roader. We don’t think these are drastic drawbacks to consider. The off-roading packages due expand the Telluride’s capabilities for family adventures.