The Kia Telluride Is Finally Getting the 1 Family Feature It Was Missing
So far, there haven’t been many complaints about the Kia Telluride. It seems like everyone loves it. Though, we felt that the Telluride lacked in one area. And it looks like Kia felt that way too.
The 2021 Telluride is getting an important feature for kids
Last year I mentioned that the Telluride was missing one family feature, one that commonly appeals to those with young kids. Some said the missing item wasn’t a big deal. But to some families, it could be a dealbreaker, especially for those who make regular road trips.
The all-new-for-2020 Telluride didn’t offer a rear-seat entertainment system. While some carmakers have recently dropped this feature, many still provide it. For example, GM recently unveiled its updated system rear-seat entertainment that includes dual 12.6-inch touchscreens. Ford has a newer one also.
Furthermore, Tesla proves that people still think it’s cool to watch TV in their cars. Tesla Theatre gives drivers access to streaming apps, including Netflix and YouTube. Anyway, Kia finds car TV-watching a fun perk too.
I was building out a new 2021 Telluride on Kia’s website and noticed a new package option, and it’s a rear-seat entertainment system! Kia says the add-on will cost $1,500. This basically makes the Telluride even more like a budget-friendly alternative to the Escalade. Though, Kia hasn’t posted an official availability date for this new item yet. All the website says currently is “coming soon.”
The Telluride already offers tons of other desirable features
Like I mentioned earlier, there aren’t many complaints about the Telluride. This is partly because it offers just about everything a modern car buyer would want. Even the base LX trim is loaded.
Standard Tellurides can seat up to eight and come with simulated leather upholstery. This Kia also comes with active safety equipment that includes driver drowsiness monitoring, blind-spot monitoring, forward-collision warning, and safe exit assist. The Telluride comes with a generous list of infotainment features too. An 8-inch touchscreen, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay are all standard.
The 2021 Telluride begins at $31,990. Since this SUV comes with so much, you might not feel the need to upgrade. But on the other hand, some reviewers like Car and Driver think the Telluride is such a great value that it’s worth going for the top-level SX model. It’s worth it if you want amenities such as Nappa leather, heated and cooled seats, and more tech.
All models get the same engine
Of course, part of the appeal of the Telluride is how it drives. Some might long for more power and a sportier feel, but this SUV delivers overall. All Tellurides are powered by the same 291-hp, 3.8-liter V6 linked to an eight-speed automatic. Front-wheel drive is standard, but all-wheel-drive is available across the board.
The Telluride’s sole engine option makes for a smooth ride with plenty of passing power. This SUV can get up to 23 mpg overall, which is average for a midsize SUV. While Honda and Toyota still lead just about every mainstream vehicle segment, the Telluride shows that Kia is gaining new ground.
