The Kia Telluride has established itself as one of the most consistently well-reviewed three-row midsize SUVs on the market, and it remains a strong seller as it heads into the 2026 model year. Here's why it continues to resonate with family SUV buyers.
A Genuine Category Standout
Since its 2020 launch, the Telluride has consistently ranked among the top choices in the three-row midsize SUV segment, with reviewers regularly praising its interior quality, third-row usability, and value relative to price - a combination that's kept it competitive against established rivals from Honda, Toyota, and Hyundai's own Palisade sibling.
Sharing DNA With the Hyundai Palisade
The Telluride shares its core platform with the Hyundai Palisade, giving Kia buyers access to much of the same engineering and safety technology while offering distinct styling and trim strategies - a common approach across the Hyundai Motor Group that lets both brands compete in the same segment without directly cannibalizing each other's sales.
Part of a Crowded Three-Row Field
The Telluride continues to compete against an increasingly broad field that spans traditional gas-powered rivals like the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander, alongside newer electric three-row options like the Kia EV9 - meaning Kia now effectively competes against its own EV sibling for family SUV buyers within its own showroom.
Strong Resale Value
The Telluride has consistently posted some of the strongest resale values in its segment, a factor that continues to influence purchase decisions for buyers weighing total cost of ownership rather than just sticker price.
What This Means for Telluride Shoppers
With the model continuing to hold its position as a segment leader on both critical reviews and resale value, the Telluride remains one of the safer bets in the competitive three-row SUV space for buyers prioritizing long-term value alongside genuine family practicality.
Looking Ahead
As Kia continues to balance its traditional gas-powered SUV lineup against its expanding EV offerings like the EV9, the Telluride's continued strong reception suggests there's still substantial demand for a well-executed traditional three-row SUV, even as the broader market shifts toward electrification.
