Controversy alert! Some critics call the new Kia Telluride a loser, which is a pretty strong word. It’s only been out for a few days, and it’s already stirring up strong emotions. However, some people think the 2023 Kia Telluride is a winner. 

2023 Kia Telluride: What’s new? 

The 2023 Kia Telluride just came on stage at the New York Auto Show to flex its brand new look. It now has two vertical headlights that replace the orange-rectangle lighting element, and the hood no longer says Telluride across the front. 

Also, the front and rear bumpers have been tweaked to provide a more confident stance. This is to promote the new X-Pro and X-Line models. At least these trims provide all-wheel drive. That’s a nice perk for those who miss the old style. 

One critic suggests that the Kia Telluride used to look more like a luxury option, but now it looks more like a Kia. They shared that this isn’t exactly a positive note. But why not? Some Kia models look great. 

Another critic shared that they’ve never liked the look of the Telluride, and the refresh doesn’t change things much. The design is described as innocuous, which means not harmful or offensive. But apparently, it’s not attractive either. 

One critic said the new Telluride is a winner because the old design felt too similar to the Ford Explorer. Now it’s unique. 

Can the Telluride X-Pro and X-Line trims go off-roading? 

The 2023 Kia Telluride X-Line and X-Pro trim spices things up with a more rugged style and enhanced off-roading capabilities. But some critics aren’t exactly on board. One shared that they’re growing weary of faux-off-road vehicles. 

The X-Line adds a 0.4-inch ride height, a new Tow mode, upgraded roof rails, redesigned grille, and 20-inch wheels. 

With the Kia Telluride X-Pro, you get 18-inch wheels wrapped in all-terrain tires. Plus, the towing capacity has increased to 5,500 lbs. But the sole engine is still the 3.8-liter V6 engine with 291 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque. 

Another critic from Cars.com shared that these rugged upgrades aren’t enough. But others suggest that the Telluride is impressively tougher, especially because Hill Descent control is standard on all trims. 

Does the new Telluride have better tech? 

The 2023 Kia Telluride has a new 12.3-inch touchscreen that merges with the digital gauge cluster, creating a massive screen. The head-up display is larger and can provide more information than before. 

But some critics aren’t impressed with its look and think it could be more distracting. Thankfully, the layout retains several physical buttons for quick and easy access. 

Plus, the Telluride offers Highway Driving Assist 2 software which is a semi-autonomous adaptive cruise control feature that includes lane-changing functionality. Also, the speed-limit recognition system can adjust the cruise control speed as the speed limit changes. 

The forward collision avoidance system now watches for oncoming traffic to avoid accidents while making left turns and passing people on two-lane roads. It’s hard not to be excited about this innovative tech! 

So, what do you think is the 2023 Kia Telluride a winner or a loser? We can’t wait to see how the new X-Pro and X-Line models compare. We will keep you updated as we learn more.