Report: All-new Kia Telluride concept to hit production

Last 2016, Kia introduced a three-row crossover concept at the Detroit Auto Show. This time, the Telluride will no longer be just a concept, as the Korean marque will finally put it into production.

Set to be the successor of the 2009 Kia Borrego, the Telluride will be the largest crossover in the brand’s lineup. Not only that, it will also be the first model to receive Kia’s new design language for its utility vehicles.

If you fell in love with the 2016 design, Kia confirmed with Motor Trend that the Telluride will closely resemble its concept version. Looking back at the concept, it highlights a quad ice-cubed shaped LED headlamps and horizontal LED indicators. 

At the rear, it comes with slim, vertical taillights and dual exhaust covered in chrome accents.  Will the Korean automaker change a thing or two on its exterior design? That we don’t know yet, but they have given their word that they will keep the Telluride concept’s muscular built.

Moving inside, it is expected that the Telluride would have a luxurious cabin similar to the previous concept. Better sound insulation and possible wood trims are also considered to make the luxury crossover quieter and fancier.

As the future flagship of Kia’s utility vehicles, it should live up to its title, so we can expect more from the Telluride aside from the essentials like cup holders, multi-USB ports, enough compartments, and flexible seating configurations. Now, Nappa leather upholstery and padded surfaces for better comfort would also be great, don’t you think?

The magazine website also mentioned that the Telluride will get a front-drive-based platform with a transverse engine layout similar to the concept.  When it comes to powertrain, it is said that the 3.3L V6 engine could possibly power the three-row crossover and Kia’s 8-speed automatic transmission might be the only gearbox that will fit this production model.

However, there's no exact date yet on when it will roll out. I guess, we just have to stay tuned for more details as Kia teased that they will be revealing more soon.