The 2027 Kia Telluride marks a significant change in the evolution of Kia’s flagship SUV, but not without controversy. One of the model’s defining features—a naturally aspirated V6 engine—has been discontinued, replaced by a smaller turbocharged four-cylinder powertrain alongside a newly introduced hybrid option.
Kia defends the decision as a move grounded in performance data and regulatory necessity. Sang Lee, national manager of product planning at Kia America, said in an interview that the outgoing 3.8-liter V6 is now “technically inferior” to the new turbocharged engine based on objective metrics.
The replacement 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder delivers 311 lb-ft of torque at just 1,700 rpm, a notable improvement over the V6’s 262 lb-ft, which peaks much higher at 5,200 rpm. This earlier torque delivery is expected to enhance drivability, particularly in everyday conditions such as city traffic and highway merging.
Emissions regulations also played a decisive role. Lee noted that the previous V6 would not comply with the California Air Resources Board’s Advanced Clean Cars II standards. By contrast, the downsized turbo engine offers both stronger low-end performance and reduced emissions, aligning with increasingly stringent environmental requirements.
The redesign of the Telluride has also resulted in a heavier vehicle, with the new model weighing approximately 265 pounds more than its predecessor. The added torque from the turbocharged engine helps offset this increase, ensuring that performance remains competitive within the segment.
Across the midsize three-row SUV market, Kia’s move reflects a broader industry trend. While a few rivals—including the Honda Pilot, Nissan Pathfinder, and Hyundai Palisade—continue to offer naturally aspirated V6 engines, many automakers are shifting toward smaller turbocharged engines and hybrid systems to balance efficiency and power.
Hyundai, Kia’s corporate sibling, has taken a slightly different approach by retaining a six-cylinder engine in the Palisade, albeit downsized to a 3.5-liter unit. Kia, however, has fully embraced powertrain downsizing with the latest Telluride, signaling a strategic alignment with evolving market and regulatory pressures.
Despite the technical advantages, the departure of the V6 may disappoint enthusiasts who valued the smoothness and character of a naturally aspirated engine. Still, Kia’s latest update positions the Telluride firmly within the industry’s transition toward more efficient, lower-emission powertrains without sacrificing performance.
