Skip to main content

Based on how much critics and rivers love the Kia Telluride, it could be hard to believe that it’s not perfect. However, the outgoing model struggled in one crucial area that impacted the driving experience. Now the 2023 Kia Telluride has a solution. 

Updated on 06/12/2023 for freshness.

Is the 2023 Kia Telluride better than the 2022 model? 

The 2023 Kia Telluride X-Line in the desert sand
2023 Kia Telluride X-Line | Kia

Yes, the 2023 Kia Telluride has crucial improvements to brag about. The new face is nice but most importantly, it got a better ride quality thanks to suspension tuning. The outgoing model didn’t exactly feel as athletic as drivers wanted. But it aims for premium comfort and quality

There’s noticeable body roll-around tight curves that could make drivers less confident on twisty mountain roads. Also, the 2022 Telluride is a little top-heavy. You could feel the body lean and heft around turns. 

As a result, drivers may want to slow down, which is disappointing with such a high-rated, sleek SUV. But now, the 2023 Telluride feels confident and stable while cornering with more responsive handling and less body roll. 

Edmunds noted that the new Kia Telluride X-Pro trim is even better on the pavement. It has a slightly raised ride height and a reworked traction control system for more control over rough terrain. 

It rides on 18-inch wheels wrapped in all-terrain tires. It seems to provide an extra layer of insulation over rugged sections of pavement. 

What else is new for the 2023 Telluride? 

Aside from gaining a better ride quality, the 2023 Kia Telluride got a fresh look. The front facias include vertical headlights and a tweaked grille design. The rear bumper and taillights were reworked as well. 

The Telluride doesn’t have any extra power. It still uses the same 3.8-liter V6 engine with 291 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque. It can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 7.5 seconds, which is average for the class. 

You can tow up to 5,500 lbs with the X-Pro trim because it has a better electric fan to enhance engine cooling. Other models still only tow up to 5,000 lbs. It has a 110-volt power inverter in the cargo area too. 

Both the X-Pro and X-Line trims have a 0.4-inch suspension lift with an 8.4-inch ground clearance. We would like to see it eventually reach about 8.7-inches to match rivals like the Subaru Ascent.

Plus, these models have standard all-wheel drive. The X-Line features raised roof rails, and 20-inch wheels wrapped in all-season tires. But the X-Pro is more capable thanks to off-road-oriented suspension tuning. 

Does the 2023 Telluride have better features? 

the 2023 Kia Telluride X-Pro off-roading in dirt
2023 Kia Telluride X-Pro | Kia

Yes, the 2023 Kia Telluride has new tech features. Each model has a standard 12.3-inch infotainment display, and higher trims gained an enhanced 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster. The screens sit side-by-side on the dash and display crucial driver information. 

There is a new intelligent speed warning system that alerts the driver as speed limits change. It can slow the vehicle as necessary. Plus, the forward collision avoidance system works at intersections and can detect oncoming traffic. 

The upgraded Highway Drive Assist system can automatically change lanes for you once you tap the turn signal. We can’t wait to put these features to the test. 

There’s a lot of benefits to consider with the refreshed Kia Telluride. It’s more capable, has updated tech, and it’s safer. But the most exciting part involves the improved ride quality.