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The Kia Telluride has rapidly become a favorite among consumers in a few short years. The Telluride’s rise to the top of its vehicle segment is well-documented. Now it’s the midsize SUV to beat, and that isn’t always good news for pricing. There are new and used Telluride markups across the country. Here’s why the Telluride is selling for more than its MSRP.

The Kia Telluride is red hot, and so is the market

A blue 2023 Kia Telluride midsize SUV is parked.
The 2023 Kia Telluride | Kia

The Kia Telluride is one of the most desirable SUVs on the market. It’s great for families and engaging enough for most drivers. So, the demand for South Korean automaker Kia’s midsize SUV is high, and supply may not be able to keep up at this rate.

According to Kelley Blue Book, a used 2022 Kia Telluride has a fair purchase price of $35,986. The 2022 Telluride has a starting MSRP of $33,390. The 2021 Kia Telluride has a KBB fair purchase price of $31,551. It had an MSRP of $32,190.

Some used Kia Tellurides are selling for more than their original MSRP through dealers and private sales because the midsize SUV has become so popular. Many consumers are willing to pay over MSRP for the Telluride because it’s getting increasingly harder to buy. The 2023 Kia Telluride is the most expensive iteration thus far, yet demand seems as high as ever.

Why are drivers going crazy over the Kia Telluride?

The 2023 Kia Telluride | Kia

Consumers love the Kia Telluride because of its exceptional value proposition. Telluride models are known to come standard with luxurious creature comforts like SynTex-trimmed seats, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.

The Telluride was once one of the most affordable options in its segment. Its starting price has increased significantly for the 2023 model year, but the nameplate has already left a lasting impression on consumers. The South Korean midsize SUV has become synonymous with value, and that association won’t be forgotten by consumers anytime soon. The Telluride is comfortably seated at the top of several midsize SUV ranking lists from some of the most notable automotive publications. High ratings and a reputation for providing great value make the SUV tough to hate on.

Should you get a 2023 Kia Telluride?

The 2023 Kia Telluride starts at $35,690. It features upgraded styling like a new front bumper, grille, and headlights. The Telluride now comes standard with a huge 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and infotainment system of the same size. This dual screen setup is becoming common in luxury models.

The new Telluride features the same V6 engine as the previous model year. Its fuel economy hasn’t improved. The 2023 Telluride’s refresh is enough to keep the nameplate in the good graces of consumers despite its higher starting price.

If you’re in the market for a new midsize SUV, all the reviews say that the 2023 Kia Telluride is a winner. Car and Driver has given the midsize SUV a perfect overall score. The Telluride’s greatest weaknesses are its fuel economy and headlight issues reported for the 2022 model year. Ultimately, it’s easy to see why some consumers will continue to pay over MSRP for Kia’s popular midsize SUV.