Dealers are knocking $3,700 to $5,800 off the sticker on 2025 Kia Telluride models right now. Meanwhile, the redesigned 2027 model just hit showrooms with a new turbo engine, a hybrid option, and a nicer cabin. That’s a real choice, not a theoretical one. It comes down to whether you’d rather save real money today or drive Kia’s biggest three-row upgrade in years.
Kia skipped the 2026 model year entirely for the Telluride. It jumped straight from the outgoing 2025 to a fully redesigned 2027. That means there’s no in-between “refresh” year to muddy the decision. It’s leftover old-generation stock versus brand-new second-generation metal, full stop.
What’s actually different between the 2025 and 2027 Telluride?
The 2027 Telluride swaps the familiar 3.8L V6 for a turbocharged four-cylinder. It also adds a hybrid powertrain for the first time. The cabin grows bigger and picks up dual widescreen displays. The 2025 keeps the naturally aspirated V6 and a more conventional, if slightly dated, interior.
Here’s how the two generations stack up on paper:
| Spec | 2025 Telluride | 2027 Telluride |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 3.8L V6, 291 hp | 2.5L turbo I4, 274 hp / 311 lb-ft |
| Hybrid option | None | 329 hp / 339 lb-ft turbo-hybrid |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | 8-speed (gas) / 6-speed (hybrid) |
| Starting MSRP | $36,390 | ~$39,190 |
| Top trim MSRP | $53,685 | ~$56,790 |
| Combined MPG | ~22 (gas) | ~20-22 (gas), higher for hybrid |
| Seating | Up to 8 | Up to 8 (gas), 7 (hybrid) |
The redesigned SUV grows slightly in overall length and wheelbase. That translates into a bit more passenger and cargo room than the outgoing model. Kia also gave the 2027 an available panoramic dashboard that merges the gauge cluster and infotainment screen into one wide display. Premium materials show up throughout the cabin, too.
Is the leftover 2025 Telluride still a smart buy?
Yes. If you want a proven, comfortable three-row SUV for noticeably less money, the 2025 Telluride is still a smart buy. Dealers are motivated to clear leftover inventory. Discounts of $3,000 to nearly $6,000 off MSRP aren’t hard to find right now.
Kelley Blue Book listings show new 2025 LX trims selling for around $34,855 against an MSRP of $38,555. SX X-Line models are discounted by $5,800 off a $56,010 sticker. CarGurus data pegs the average asking price on 2025 Tellurides at roughly $36,549. Some buyers are saving over $5,400 on individual listings. That’s real money for a vehicle that owners still rate highly — a 4 out of 5 average, with the vast majority of listed vehicles reported accident-free.
The tradeoff is tech. The outgoing V6 doesn’t feel dated on the road, but the interior does lag behind newer competitors in screen size and driver-assist polish. If that doesn’t bother you, the leftover 2025 is the better financial move. That’s the same logic we laid out in our look at leftover model-year deals worth grabbing before redesigns arrive.
Should you wait for the 2027 Telluride’s turbo and hybrid engines?
Wait if fuel economy, tech, and long-term ownership matter more to you than upfront savings. The 2027’s turbo four makes more low-end torque than the old V6. The hybrid adds instant electric torque, too, which makes city driving noticeably smoother.
Kia is already advertising lease deals on the 2027 Telluride Hybrid starting around $499 a month for well-qualified buyers. That softens the higher MSRP if you don’t plan to buy outright. The redesigned SUV also picks up the industry’s now-standard panoramic display setup and improved second-row comfort. Those are genuine upgrades, not just marketing spin.
This is the same tension we saw play out with the redesigned 2027 Hyundai Tucson, another Hyundai-Kia sibling getting a generational leap. It’s newer tech and efficiency versus a fatter discount on the outgoing car.
What about the Telluride’s recall history?
The 2020-2024 Telluride has now been recalled twice for the same seat motor fire risk. Kia’s own filing says even owners who already had the first repair done still need the new fix. That’s a legitimate red flag worth knowing before you shop either used or leftover-new inventory.
The good news is the 2025 model year sits outside that specific fire recall population. It has picked up its own separate recalls, though, for a seat back frame issue and an incorrect spare tire that can affect ABS and traction control. Both are minor by comparison, and both are free dealer fixes. We break down the full timeline and what it means for buyers in our deep dive on the Telluride’s twin fire recalls.
Even the brand-new 2027 isn’t recall-free out of the gate. Kia flagged a third-row seat belt buckle that may not latch properly and is replacing the assembly at no cost. It’s a small, easily fixed issue. Still, it’s a reminder that “brand new” doesn’t automatically mean “problem free.”
So which one should you actually buy?
Want maximum value and don’t need the latest tech? Grab a discounted 2025 Telluride now. The savings are real, and the SUV itself is still excellent. Planning to keep the vehicle for a decade, or want better fuel economy and a more modern cabin? The 2027’s turbo and hybrid options justify the higher price tag.
My own money would go toward the leftover 2025, honestly. The discounts are steep enough that you’re effectively getting a Kia-quality three-row SUV for compact-SUV money. The core driving experience hasn’t meaningfully changed enough to justify a $3,000-plus premium for most families. Check NHTSA’s recall page for your specific VIN before signing anything, on either model year.
FAQ
Is the 2025 Kia Telluride discontinued?
Yes, in the sense that Kia has moved on to the redesigned 2027 model and skipped a 2026 Telluride entirely. Dealers are still selling remaining 2025 inventory at discounted prices while it lasts.
Does the 2027 Kia Telluride come in a hybrid?
Yes. The 2027 Telluride introduces Kia’s first hybrid Telluride powertrain. It pairs a turbocharged 2.5L engine with electric motors for a combined 329 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque.
How much can you save on a leftover 2025 Telluride?
Real-world listings show discounts ranging from roughly $1,800 to nearly $6,000 off MSRP, depending on trim and region. Some dealers are pricing 2025 units well below Kelley Blue Book’s fair purchase price.
Are Telluride fire recalls a dealbreaker?
Not necessarily. The fix is free, and the affected population is limited to 2020-2024 models. Just confirm any leftover or used Telluride you’re considering has had the repair completed correctly before you buy.