The market for SUVs has grown and changed in the past several years as more buyers have begun to see the vehicles as more desirable. In fact, sales of standard cars have been replaced with more SUV options, which have become more practical and luxurious than ever before. The Kia Telluride has been one of the most popular SUV options in its sector since its official arrival on the market, and it’s received plenty of awards and high praise along the way. But, no car is without its faults, and the 2021 Kia Telluride owners have to deal with a few frustrating issues.

Is the 2021 Kia Telluride a good SUV?

The 2021 Kia Telluride is one of the best-rated SUV options on the market, and buyers seem to agree with what the reviewers are saying. Both Consumer Reports and Edmunds rave about the offerings and capabilities of the unexpectedly great Kia SUV. It competes well in a smaller but demanding market of third-row seat SUVs, offering unique and modern styling, space, and plenty of features and driving aids to make drivers and passengers happy.

What problems does the Kia Telluride have?

Buyers looking at new 2021 models likely have a high expectation of reliability, and having a recall for the new 2021 Kia Telluride can make owners and potential buyers a little frustrated. The recall itself only affects a small number of vehicles. Really sits with the source of the recall: the Occupant Classification and Detection System could misread the weight of the front row passenger, and, if it deploys with a younger child in the front seat, could cause injury.

While a new recall can be frustrating, it still shouldn’t make owners second guess their purchase. Kia will be replacing the faulty unit free of charge to the owners. On the downside, it will still cost them time out of their day, and if you don’t live near a dealership, it could become a bit of a hassle.

It’s about as agile as a tortoise

The 2021 Kia Telluride is a full-sized SUV that sits decently high off of the ground. Unlike minivans that sit low to the ground for ease of access, the Telluride sits up high enough to make it rather awkward and clumsy around corners. Most drivers aren’t looking for a nimble driving experience from such a large SUV, but you’ll definitely regret taking a corner too fast. Overall the steering isn’t sporty or responsive, and it handles like the large SUV that it is. Drivers will still appreciate the offerings of the standard drive train and optional changes:

• 3.8-liter V6
• 291 horsepower
• 262 lb-ft of torque
• Eight-speed automatic transmission
• Standard front-wheel drive, optional all-wheel drive
• 5,000 lb towing capacity
• Estimated average fuel consumption of 21 mpg

Regardless of these small and somewhat annoying issues, the 2021 Kia Telluride is still a very well-rounded third-row seat SUV. Because they are newer to the market than some other options, they are still less common, making them a somewhat unique choice for now. But, based on the SUV’s online popularity, it is only a matter of time before buyers are itching to make the switch to the Telluride.