Updated Spy Photos Reveal a More Boxy Appearance for the 2026 Kia Telluride
**Upcoming Kia Telluride 2026: Bold Redesign and Hybrid Option Revealed**
Get ready for an exciting update to one of Kia's most popular SUVs – the next-generation Kia Telluride is set to make its debut in late 2025, potentially in the fall[1][3]. This timing aligns with the arrival of the redesigned Hyundai Palisade, its platform twin, which is launching slightly earlier in summer 2025 with its hybrid variants coming in early autumn[2].
The new Telluride is expected to incorporate several features similar to the all-new 2026 Hyundai Palisade, given their shared platform. Here's a closer look at what we can anticipate from the Kia Telluride 2026:
**Design**
The redesigned Telluride will boast a bolder, more angular styling, with larger headlight clusters inspired by Kia's EV9, flat body sides, sharper creases, pop-out door handles, and a boxier rear with refreshed taillights retaining the upside-down L-shape[1][3].
**Powertrain**
Two new engines will power the 2026 Telluride: a standard V-6 with about 287 hp and a hybrid option with a turbocharged 2.5-liter 4-cylinder plus two electric motors generating approximately 329 hp and about 30 mpg highway[1][3][2]. The hybrid system will mirror the Palisade's hybrid powertrain.
**Trim Levels and Off-Road Capability**
It's likely that the new Telluride will continue with LX, S, EX, and SX trims, with a new X-Pro trim featuring enhanced off-road capabilities like chunkier tires, increased ride height, and potentially a low-range 4WD system[3].
**Interior and Technology**
Inspired by recent Kia models, the 2026 Telluride's interior is expected to be modernized, offering upgraded comfort and tech paralleling the Palisade's refined interior and cutting-edge features[1][2].
**Seating and Space**
The new Telluride will continue to offer three-row seating for up to eight passengers, with slightly larger interior space similar to the Palisade's longer wheelbase[2].
**Safety and Convenience**
Updated safety features, including driver-assist technologies available in the Palisade, are likely to be included in the 2026 Telluride[2].
As for the Telluride's hybrid capabilities, the new design is expected to keep pace with its platform twin, the Hyundai Palisade hybrid, which can tow 4,000 pounds[2].
While specific details about the new SUV's features or release date have yet to be provided, prototypes of the next-generation Kia Telluride are undergoing hot-weather durability testing in a location where hot weather is prevalent[1][4]. Readers can report any unusual sightings in the wild to tips@our website. A gallery of prototypes is available for viewing in the article.
The new Telluride is expected to be revealed in metal soon, as 2026 is not far away. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting new SUV!
- In the realm of automotive industry, the upcoming Kia Telluride 2026 promises to redefine lifestyle preferences, featuring a bold redesign and the option for a hybrid powertrain, similar to its platform twin, the Hyundai Palisade.
- As finance matters go, the hybrid variant of the Telluride 2026, equipped with a turbocharged 2.5-liter 4-cylinder and two electric motors, is anticipated to deliver around 329 hp and approximately 30 mpg highway, making it a viable choice for both environmentally conscious consumers and savvy investors.
- The transportation sector will also benefit from the enhanced off-road capabilities of the 2026 Telluride, particularly with the new X-Pro trim, demonstrating Kia's commitment to enriching the driving experience in various aspects of the transportation industry.
