What makes a vehicle an SUV instead of a crossover? The automaker, like many others, calls one of its most popular offerings an SUV. Well, is the Kia Telluride an SUV or a crossover? Here’s what makes an SUV and whether or not the Kia Telluride meets the requirements.

Kia calls the Telluride a three-row SUV

While the Kia Telluride does have three rows, it isn’t an SUV. Technically speaking, the Telluride is a crossover with some size. For the most part, if a vehicle is larger than a small crossover like the Ford Mustang Mach-E, automakers tend to call it an SUV, especially when the brand boasts about its three rows and ample space for passengers.

Often, the word crossover immediately says “small” to people. That’s why companies like Kia call their large, three-row offering an SUV, not a three-row crossover. It tends to get the point across that there is lots of room inside, even though that has nothing to do with its classification.

Crossover vs. SUV: What’s the difference?

A crossover uses a unibody frame or a car platform to hold its body and inner workings. On the other hand, a true SUV uses a truck frame. That’s a big reason why SUVs are viewed as larger options. Although, especially in recent years, automakers are making sizeable crossovers. The benefit of crossovers is that they provide more space than a sedan but drive as nicely as one.

That’s exactly what the Kia Telluride does. It’s one of the best three-row options on the market, and it’s a crossover. When a vehicle provides that much space, technology, and a smooth drive, it’s bound to draw attention to itself. Not to mention, the car chassis, among many other things, help to reduce the price and make this Kia offering quite affordable, especially when full-size three-row SUVs like the Chevy Tahoe or Ford Expedition are very expensive.

Kia Telluride: crossover SUV

Despite being called an SUV, the Kia Telluride is a crossover. Most importantly, it’s an excellent crossover option in the market. Not only is it known for being comfortable and stylish, but it also comes with loads of desirable features for an affordable price. The 2022 Kia Telluride LX base model starts at $34,345, and its fully loaded variant, SX, is just $44,245. That’s not bad for a crossover with a front and rear sunroof, second-row captain’s chairs, black 20-inch rims, and a Harman Kardon stereo system.

Multiple reviewers, such as Edmunds, note its spacious and comfortable interior. Since it’s a crossover, that’s even more impressive. If you’re looking for a crossover with lots of passenger and cargo space, look no further.

Is the Kia Telluride a good crossover SUV?

In conclusion, the Kia Telluride is a cozy, luxurious, and affordable model. Although it is often called an SUV, it’s technically a crossover. With three rows and plenty of technology inside, you can’t tell that it’s not a luxury three-row SUV. You can, however, know that it provides immense value with its affordable price and many features.