The 2022 Kia Telluride Fails to Fix Its Most Frustrating Problem

Would you just look at the 2022 Kia Telluride? It’s looking pretty fly with the new Kia logo. Now, this award-winning family SUV looks even better. However, the Kia Telluride still has one potential issue to consider.

The 2022 Kia Telluride isn’t the most fun to drive

According to AutoBlog, the 2022 Kia Telluride is merely just OK to drive. The engine is nothing special in terms of fuel economy and acceleration. Wow, this sounds a bit harsh, so let’s dig a little deeper into the Telluride’s dynamics.

It has a 3.8-liter V6 engine with 291 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque. The Telluride can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 7.5 seconds, which is average for its segment. The Kia Telluride doesn’t feel as responsive as rivals do at lower speeds.

Also, the ride is a little on the firm side. Harsh pavement can send bumps through the cabin. It doesn’t exhibit much body roll, and the steering is light. On a positive note, the brakes are smooth, consistent, and confident.

The Telluride gets an EPA-estimated 20 mpg in the city and up to 26 mpg on the highway, which is below average. Perhaps a hybrid powertrain or a more fuel-efficient option will come out soon. Also, just because the Telluride isn’t sporty doesn’t mean it should be avoided.

What’s new for the 2022 Telluride?

Not much is new for the 2022 Kia Telluride. It just came out in 2020, so it’s too early for a mid-cycle refresh. However, the Telluride did get the fancy new Kia logo badges to spice things up.

Lower trims such as the LX and S models now come standard with a 10.25-inch touchscreen, and Highway Driving Assist adaptive cruise control. So, there isn’t much of a reason to go for the 2022 model unless you like the new logo.

You can equip the Telluride with all-wheel drive. Like the outgoing models, it can tow up to 5,000 lbs when properly equipped and carry a payload of up to 1,664 lbs. We wouldn’t recommend off-roading.

The Kia Telluride is on the short side with an 8-inch ground clearance. It has limited approach and departure angles. Plus, it doesn’t have skid plates to protect its underbody. But it does have Snow mode to tackle slippery conditions.

What’s great about the 2022 Telluride?

The 2022 Kia Telluride is still the highest-ranking family SUV. It’s incredibly comfortable with large supportive seats. While the ride can be rough, the cabin is well insulated and provides a sense of quiet luxury.

Your family won’t feel cramped in the Telluride. The second and third rows provide tons of space. There are 21 cubic feet of storage space behind the rear seats, with up to 87 cubes total. Also, child seats are easy to install.

Along with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, standard features include forward-collision warning, automated emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assistance, and blind-spot monitoring.

Just because the 2022 Telluride isn’t the most fun or sporty SUV option to drive doesn’t make it a bad choice. It has plenty of quality features to enjoy.