EV Rider reviewer Dan Scanlan takes a test drive in a 2026 Kia Telluride HEV X-Line SX-Prestige AWD – the South Korean manufacturer’s more powerful, and more fuel-efficient hybrid electric SUV.
This design is all-new, atop a 2.7-inch longer wheelbase topped with a 2.3-inch longer body. And this second-gen has softened angles that help make it pretty slippery for an SUV. The grill is framed by dual LED stripes with stacked headlight units. The fenders have a faceted shape, which look cool.
Inside, room in front and second rows done in supple, stitched black pleather with woodgrain accents on the dashboard, doors and center console – plus flow-through head restraints. There’s a wide curved dash display incorporating two 12.3-inch screens. Back doors open wide to roomy twin captain’s chairs. And that third-row bench seat offers OK leg room if the second row moves forward. Cargo space is solid.
Under the bonnet, a familiar 2.5-liter inline gas engine with 329 hp and 339 lb-ft of torque, a boost from the regular Telluride’s turbocharged 2.5-liter gas engine with 274 hp. There’s two electric drive motors, one connected to the engine, the other integrated into the 6-speed transmission, with a 1.65-kWh lithium-ion battery. The Telluride HEV easily hits 60 mph in 6.3 seconds in Sport mode – and often averaged 30 mpg.
So read lots more about this – 2026 Kia Telluride HEV Ups Efficiency, Lowers Ride Height – plus more interior and exterior images by EV Rider reviewer Dan Scanlan. And check out lots more views of EV, PHEV and ICE vehicles at EV Rider.