2027 Telluride teaser shows revised styling and vertical Star Map LED lighting
Hybrid and V6 powertrains from 2026 Palisade likely to carry over to Telluride
Global debut set for November 20 at Los Angeles Auto Show with livestream access
Kia has released the first teaser images of the second-generation 2027 Telluride ahead of its official unveiling at the Los Angeles Auto Show on November 20.
The images preview a revised exterior design shaped by Kia’s “Opposites United” design philosophy, which emphasizes contrast in natural and human-made forms. The SUV features a square-shouldered silhouette, vertical Star Map LED lighting, and angular creases in the fenders. Kia also highlighted a floating roof effect achieved by darkened D-pillars and a rising beltline that intersects with a forward-raked rear pillar.
2027 Kia Telluride Teaser | Photo: KiaDesign elements suggest a more upright profile, broad hood, and fluid body contours. Inspiration comes from the mountainous terrain of Telluride, Colorado, with angular, chiseled features intended to mirror the surrounding landscape. Large fender surfaces enhance the SUV’s stance, while refined contouring adds dimension to the vehicle’s side profile.
Powertrain and Platform Expectations
Although Kia has not yet disclosed full technical specifications for the 2027 Telluride, updates to the closely related 2026 Hyundai Palisade may offer a preview of what’s to come.
The 2026 Palisade now offers a hybrid powertrain for the first time, pairing a 2.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine with two integrated electric motors. This system delivers a combined estimated output of 329 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque, along with a projected highway range of up to 996 kilometres. A new 3.5-litre V6 internal combustion engine is also available, producing an estimated 287 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, with a towing capacity of up to 2,268 kilograms (5,000 lbs).
Given the Telluride’s shared platform with the Palisade, similar hybrid and V6 options could appear in the 2027 model. The hybrid setup may also include an estimated 1,814-kg (4,000-lb) towing capacity.
Dimensionally, the 2026 Palisade is larger in key areas: overall length increased by 63.5 mm (2.5 inches), and the wheelbase grew by 68.6 mm (2.7 inches). If mirrored in the 2027 Telluride, these changes would likely translate to improved third-row access and additional cargo and passenger space.
Interior Technology and Safety Features
The 2026 Palisade also previewed numerous technology and safety updates that could influence the upcoming Telluride. These include:
- Standard dual 12.3-inch panoramic digital displays
- First- and second-row Relaxation seating with power leg supports
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Digital Key 2.0 smartphone access
- 100-watt USB-C ports in all three rows
- Over-the-air (OTA) software updates
- In-car Wi-Fi with Alexa Built-in
- A factory-installed tow hitch
Advanced safety features in the Palisade include a built-in dual-camera dash cam, ten airbags, third-row seatbelt pre-tensioners, and an updated rear occupant alert system. A digital centre rearview mirror and optional UV-C sterilization compartment are also available.
Kia has not confirmed which of these features will appear in the 2027 Telluride, but platform similarities once again suggest similar upgrades for their SUV.
Debut Timing
The global reveal of the 2027 Telluride is scheduled for 9:00 a.m. Pacific Time on November 20 during Kia’s press event at the Los Angeles Auto Show. A livestream will be available through Kia’s website and social media channels.
Telluride remains one of Kia’s best-selling models in North America. The second-generation SUV is expected to build on that momentum with updated design, additional drivetrain options, and improved cabin technology.
