Which 2020 Kia Telluride Trim Is Right For You?
One of the best SUVs on the market right now is the 2020 Kia Telluride. Winner of the World Car Award and MotorTrend’s SUV of the Year Award, the Telluride has become a segment leader by combining superior style with peak performance. There are four trim levels available, with a starting base price of $31,690.
All the Telluride models have a 3.8-liter V6 engine that is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard, but all-wheel drive is an available option. Each trim level offers different features to accommodate the needs of drivers looking for a good deal on a quality vehicle.
The 2020 Kia Telluride’s LX and S models
Considered to be the entry-level model, the 2020 Kia Telluride LX is filled with standard safety features and technology upgrades. The 8-inch infotainment system is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The push-button remote start, simulated-leather seats, and wrapped steering wheel make this vehicle feel much more luxurious than the low-priced sticker implies. The LX base model has seating to accommodate eight people, with third-row seating and a split folding seat in the second row.
Building off the LX trim, the 2020 Kia Telluride S has upgraded second-row captain’s chairs with seating for seven people. An optional add-on is available for $100 to accommodate eight people comfortably. The S model has a sunroof, heated front seats, upgraded 20-inch alloy wheels, and 10-way adjustable seating for the driver. The MSRP is $33,990 for these additional features.
The EX model
The EX trim has a starting price of $37,090 and comes with features that offer a more comfortable ride for the driver as well as the passengers. The all-leather interior has adjustable seating for eight with ventilated front seats. The passengers in the rear have access to their own temperature controls.
A desirable feature unique to the EX model is the highway driving assist that adjusts the cruising speed to coincide with surrounding vehicles. The system can even help steer into an adjacent lane to avoid a collision. A towing upgrade provides self-leveling rear suspension to help with hauling.
Additional upgrades include a hands-free liftgate, LED taillights, power-folding mirrors, and a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen console. The navigation system, additional USB ports, wireless charging pad, and Driver Talk function adds to the comfort level of this well-reviewed vehicle.
The 2020 Kia Telluride SX
The dual sunroofs, Harman Kardon surround-sound stereo system, and adjustable seating are why MotorTrend suggests you go for this “SX-iest” model. The 2020 Telluride SX top of the line model has a starting MSRP of $41,490. There is seating for seven people, which includes second-row captain’s chairs.
Everything listed above is included in this model, with additional interior ambient lighting, memory functions on the driver’s seat, and an upgraded information display. Advanced safety features include blind-spot monitoring, automatic high beams, and parking sensors and cameras.
The “Prestige” package is available for an additional $4,000, which includes heated and ventilated second-row seating, rain-sensing windshield wipers, a head-up display, a power outlet, and a heated steering wheel. The premium Nappa leather interior is worth the price of the add-on by itself. The cost of luxury never felt so good.
Which model offers the best value?
All of the 2020 Kia Telluride models are a great choice for a reliable and dependable SUV. The well-designed cabin and an abundance of advanced safety features make a bold statement in a crowded market segment. The above-average predicted reliability rating is one of the reasons the Telluride is doing so well among its competitors.
MotorTrend stated that the luxury filled Telluride SX “feels like a Mercedes GLS that you can get for $40K.” But for those looking for the best value, the LX base model offers the best price point with plenty of standard features to make this SUV a solid choice. Those looking for more convenience features and comfort will need to upgrade to get advanced options. Of course, that will come with a higher price tag.