2023 Kia Telluride: What’s the Best Trim Package? Here’s a Guide to Help You Decide

October 11, 2022 · 8 min read

Kia Telluride luxury interior with tan leather seats and panoramic sunroof

The 2023 Kia Telluride is here with a classy refresh. The popularity of the handsome SUV continues as it delivers an ample package at an affordable price. The standard features the vehicle offers throughout its range and leading trim make this an SUV choice tantamount to SUVs that are double its price. The 2023 Kia Telluride is admirably equipped with a refinement that is the complete package for a car in its class. All this is made better for the driver with customizable trim packages to choose from. But, there is a trim package that best suits your needs. Read our guide to learn more about the 2023 Kia Telluride trim packages.

What’s New for the 2023 Kia Telluride

The Kia Telluride arrived with fervor three years ago as one of the most in-demand and award-winning three-row eight-passenger SUVs in the U.S. The 2023 Kia Telluride is here with considered improvements adding to the success of the already popular vehicle. The new model presented itself with a brawny and at the same time sophisticated look that adds to the favored appearance of its predecessors.

The renewed design features, elaborated technology that makes driving an enjoyable convenience, and a wide array of driver-assist features support the SUVs upscale presence and maintain the vehicle's dependability. The experience offered provides extensive roominess, a 12.3-inch panoramic display with navigation, WiFi Hotspot, and a digital key. The 2023 Kia Telluride grades are LX, S, EX, X-Line, SX, and X-Pro.

2023 Kia Telluride LX (starts at an estimated $35,000)

The introductory 2023 Kia Telluride LX package may be the vehicle starting point but it's loaded to provide many of the best features and an up-level experience at an affordable entry point. Some of the excellent features you’ll find as standard in the entry point option are keyless entry, push-button start, remote start, GPS navigation, and adaptive cruise control.

The LX offers 1-inch alloy wheels, automatic on/off projector LED headlights, LED daytime running lights, and faux leather seating. The dual-zone automatic climate control is standard. There are five USB power ports, three 12-volt power ports, seven airbags, and both hill-start and safe-exit assist.

Yes, we’re still talking entry-level here and the 2023 Kia Telluride continues to deliver with its 12.3-inch touchscreen, 6-speaker audio system, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and satellite radio capability. In addition, navigation is standard.

Kia, a safety-conscious company, outfits the Telluride aptly. Forward collision warning with automotive emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist is installed. Continuing with safety the Telluride also has a lane-following assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert with braking, and rear park assist as well. The adaptive cruise control with full stop and go of the highway drive assists steers, brakes and accelerates the vehicle in certain conditions. The driver-alert warning is standard.

The 2023 Kia Telluride LX includes:

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)

The ACC system is designed to help road vehicles maintain a safe following distance and stay within the speed limit.

Proximity Keyless Entry

Keyless entry allows you to open your vehicle and start it without touching the keyfob itself. The keyfob transmits a code to the car computer when you’re within range.

Highway Driving Assist (HDA)

The Kia’s HDA is an advanced driving assistance system that can accelerate, steer and brake under certain conditions easing the driver burden on limited-access highways.

Pricing and Which One To Buy

Above we shared about the Kia Telluride LX that starts at $35,000 (est) and the standard trim package that offers a lot, but there is a trim package for everyone. The 2023 Kia Telluride is offered in LX, S, EX, X-Line, SX and X-Pro trim packages. The prices range from $35,000 (est) to $49,000 (est).

The Kia Telluride S starts at $37,000 (est) and includes smartphone charging so you can charge your compatible devices without using a cable, a power-adjustable driver's seat with 2-way lumbar support and eight power adjustments and heated seats to keep you cozy when the temperatures drop outside.

The Kia Telluride EX starts at $40,000 (est) adds luxury features but loses the second-row captain chairs and goes back to the standard 18-inch wheels. The luxury upgrades impress with leather upholstery, ventilated front seats, and a hands-free power rear liftgate. Kia has added LED tail lights, power-folding outboard mirrors, auto-dimming rearview, a second-row armrest and even more USB ports.

Choose the EX Premium Package to get those captain chairs back on board, 20-inch alloy wheels and upgraded LED headlights or the towing package will get you adventure-ready with a tow hitch and self-leveling suspension.

The Kia Telluride X-Line starts at $42,000 (est). Kia enters into adventure-ready features with the X-Line package. The additions to what the EX package offers are more on the cosmetic side. It does provide those 20-inch wheels, more ground clearance of nearly half an inch and upgraded roof-rack rails. The aesthetic upgrades are the X-Line badging inside and out, enhanced grille and sleek body-colored door handles.

The Kia Telluride SX starts at $45,000 (est) and takes the EX package to a high-tech luxury level. Features include high-beam assist, dual-pane power sunroof, surround-view camera and more. The SX package adds 20-inch alloy wheels, LED fog lights, automatically reverse-tilting outboard mirrors, aero wiper blades and the 12.3-inch digital gauge and display. The model also includes the HomeLink transceiver as standard.

The SX package includes all the bells and whistles and then some. Upgraded entertainment features such as the 10-speaker Harman Kardon surround sound audio system create an enjoyable and entertaining environment. Kia has safety in mind with the added blind-spot display and front-park assist.

The Kia Telluride X-Pro starts at $49,000 (est) for those who want the rugged off-road look. This line follows the X-Line footsteps but exchanges the X-Lines 20-inch alloy wheels for 18-inch black wheels. The X-Pro includes a 110-volt electric outlet and is made for adventure with a greater maximum towing capacity of 5,500 pounds

Where The Kia 2023 Telluride Ranks

Car and Driver rank the Kia Telluride number one in its class ahead of the Ford Bronco and Hyundai Palisade in similar price points.

The stylish and comfortable family vehicle stands out with its lengthy list of standard features and the top trim packages create an almost luxury experience.

Engine, Transmission and Performance

Take a look under every Telluride hood and see a naturally aspirated V-6 engine with 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. This vehicle is for driving! The engine combines with an eight-speed automatic transmission feeding the front wheels as standard options. An all-wheel drive is an option across all packages.
It’s an inspiring driving experience with the Telluride’s precise steering and excellent brakes. Tons of ground clearance on the standard package offers 8.0 inches with options to get even more. This SUV is made for fun and function with options to tow up to 5,500 pounds. Road adventures await and will be enjoyed both in style and with all the excitement of hauling all the gear with you.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

EPA websiteThe Telluride is offered with a V-6 powertrain. The front-drive version is the most affordable, the EPA rating is 20 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. The all-wheel drive models drop to 19 mpg in the city and 24 on the highway. These numbers are middle ratings when compared with other V-6 powered competitors like the Volkswagen Atlas or the Honda Pilot. You can compare fuel economy on the EPA website.

Interior, Comfort and Cargo

The pleasure of Telluride’s upscale and comfort-focused interior is undeniable. The outside appearance may be rugged with options to be even more rugged, but inside the quality is top-notch and the materials attractive. The SX trim package takes all the good things and adds even more. Like icing on a cake, the luxury is almost palpable. The SX trim will get you the fanciest features such as driver’s seat memory settings, head-up display, heated and ventilated seats in the rear, premium headliner, and nappa leather upholstery. The telluride is spacious even for those way-back seats. The Telluride can fit 8 people with the second-row bench seat or seven with the option of captain chairs. There is a ton of storage space even behind the third row.

Safety and Driver Assist Features

The 2023 Kia Telluride's previous model received the maximum five stars by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. (NHTSA) and was the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety (IIHS) top safety pick for 2022 in the midsize 4-door SUV category.The 2023 Kia Telluride continues to focus on the highest safety standards with a comprehensive suite of driver assistance technology that comes in all Telluride models. There are additional upgraded assists available including automatic high-beams, a 360-degree camera system, and technology to project a camera image of the vehicle's blind spot with Kia’s Blind-Spot View Monitor.

Standard safety features are:

Standard forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking
Standard lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist
Standard blind-spot monitoring

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

Kia offers very comprehensive coverage with a powertrain warranty. The key warranty and maintenance coverage is:

Limited warranty will cover five years or 60,000 miles
Powertrain warranty will cover 10 years or 100,000 miles
Offers no complimentary scheduled maintenance

The 2023 Kia Telluride LX provides great value with incredible standard features. There is a trim package for everyone. The 2023 Kia Telluride trim package guide above highlighted some of what each model features, and options you may add to help you consider the best trim package for you.

Cable Dahmer Kia is the Kia Telluride dealer serving Kansas City, MO. We offer a full range of products and if you’re looking for a Kia Telluride for sale our team located at 400 NE Colbern Road Lees Summit, MO will work with you to show you a range of options to meet your budget and needs.

Aug 21, 2026

What Is EV Battery Pre-Conditioning?

When winter weather hits, freezing temperatures can take a toll on electric vehicle performance. If you drive an EV like the Kia EV6 or Kia EV9, you may notice that public fast charging takes longer on a cold Missouri morning. That's where Kia EV Battery Pre-Conditioning comes in. more Centered Intro Battery pre-conditioning is one of the most effective built-in features for optimizing your EV's performance, reducing charge times at public DC fast chargers, and preserving long-term battery health. Here's a complete guide from our team at Cable Dahmer Kia of Lee's Summit on how it works, why it matters, and how to use it. How Does It Work How Does Battery Pre-Conditioning Work? Battery pre-conditioning is an automated thermal management process that brings your vehicle's high-voltage battery pack to its ideal operating temperature, typically between 60°F and 95°F (15°C to 35°C). Lithium-ion batteries rely on chemical reactions to store and discharge energy, and extreme cold slows those reactions down. When you plug a cold battery into a high-powered DC fast charger, the vehicle automatically throttles the charging speed to protect the internal cell structure from thermal stress and potential damage. By warming up the battery pack while you're en route, pre-conditioning ensures the battery is ready to accept maximum charging kilowatts the moment you plug in. Key Benefits Key Benefits of Pre-Conditioning Your Kia EV Activating battery conditioning mode provides three major advantages for daily winter driving around the Midwest: Significantly Faster DC Fast Charging Bringing the battery to its optimal temperature eliminates cold-weather charging lag, allowing your Kia EV to jump straight to its peak charging speeds (such as the EV6's ultra-fast 800V charging capability). Maximized Driving Range Pre-conditioning while your vehicle is plugged into your home charger draws energy directly from the power grid rather than your battery pack, keeping your full driving range intact for the road. Pre-conditioning en route while unplugged draws power from the battery pack, which temporarily reduces available driving range. Extended Long-Term Battery Health Keeping the high-voltage battery within its target thermal window reduces thermal stress, helping to maintain long-term battery capacity over years of ownership. How to Activate How to Activate Battery Pre-Conditioning in Your Kia Depending on your Kia model and infotainment software version, you can activate battery pre-conditioning through automatic navigation or manual display controls. Method 1: Automatic Activation via Built-In Navigation The primary way to trigger pre-conditioning on models like the Kia EV6 and Niro EV is through the factory navigation system: Go to EV Menu > EV Settings > Battery Conditioning Mode on your center display screen and ensure the feature is checked. Search for a public DC Fast Charger using the native Kia navigation map. Set the DC fast charger as your destination or waypoint. As you approach within 20 to 30 minutes of the charger, your Kia automatically warms the battery. A red heater coil icon or battery heating indicator will illuminate on your instrument cluster display. Method 2: Manual Activation & Kia Access App Newer Kia models equipped with the ccNC infotainment system (such as the Kia EV9) feature direct manual controls and remote access: In-Vehicle Display: On your infotainment touchscreen, navigate to EV > EV Settings > Battery Conditioning Mode and select Activate to manually warm or cool the battery pack prior to your charging stop. Smartphone App: Trigger cabin warming and battery pre-conditioning remotely from your smartphone using the Kia Access app while your vehicle is parked and plugged into your home charger. Two-Column: Which Models Support It + Image Which Kia Models Support Battery Pre-Conditioning? Kia equips its advanced electric vehicle lineup with battery heating elements and thermal management systems engineered for all-weather driving. Models featuring battery pre-conditioning include: Kia EV9: Standard feature across all trims. Kia EV6: Standard on AWD models; available on select RWD models equipped with the optional Cold Weather Package / Battery Heater. Kia Niro EV: Available on models equipped with the optional Cold Weather Package / Battery Heater. Closing / CTA Explore Kia EVs in Lee's Summit Whether you're navigating cold morning commutes on I-470 or planning a winter road trip across Missouri, taking advantage of Kia's battery pre-conditioning helps you spend less time waiting at charging stations and more time enjoying the road. Shop Kia EVs Schedule Service Disclaimers *Kia Connect / Remote Features: Remote features require an active Kia Connect subscription, a compatible smartphone, and cellular signal coverage. Do not use remote climate features if the vehicle is parked in an enclosed or unventilated area. *Charging & Range: Actual charging speeds and range will vary based on charger output capacity, battery temperature, state of charge, ambient outdoor temperature, battery age, and driving habits. Pre-conditioning en route while unplugged draws power from the high-voltage battery.

Jun 22, 2026

Why the 2026 Kia Sportage is Your Road Trip Companion

Discover why the 2026 Kia Sportage is a great option for your next road trip. Learn about convenient storage space and fuel efficient Hybrid and PHEV models. more noteaser Intro There's something magical about planning a classic American road trip. Packing up the family, mapping out a route across historic highways, and watching the landscape shift from rolling hills to towering mountain peaks. But to make that dream trip successful, you need a vehicle that can keep up with the demands of long-distance family travel. Enter the 2026 Kia Sportage. With a fresh look, multiple powertrain options, and space to spare, this compact crossover is built for the open road. Here is a breakdown of why the Kia Sportage deserves a spot at the top of your family's travel wishlist. Interior Cargo Interior Cargo & Clever Storage Anyone who has traveled with children knows that families don't travel light. Fortunately, the 2026 Sportage boasts class-leading cargo space, ensuring you don't have to leave favorite toys or extra coolers behind. Here is how the interior storage breaks down by the numbers across the different models: Interior Dimension / Capability Gas Model Hybrid (HEV) Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) Cargo Space (Seats Upright) 39.6 cu. ft. 39.5 cu. ft. 34.5 cu. ft. Max Cargo Space (Seats Folded) 74.1 cu. ft. 73.7 cu. ft. 65.5 cu. ft. Second-Row Legroom 41.3 inches 41.3 inches 39.5 inches Dual-Level Cargo Floor Standard Standard Not Available 2-Column Cards Designed for Effortless Loading It isn't just about raw volume — it's about how usable that space is. The 2026 Sportage features a wide, square trunk opening and a remarkably low lift-over height, meaning you won't throw out your back heaving heavy luggage or strollers into the rear. Quick-release levers in the cargo area drop the rear seats completely flat in seconds without walking around to the side doors. Saying Goodbye to Backseat Bickering A cramped back seat can break a long road trip faster than a flat tire. The Sportage offers a best-in-class 41.3 inches of rear legroom on gas and hybrid models — more than enough room for full-sized adults or lanky teenagers to stretch out completely, and it makes installing bulky rear-facing child safety seats absolutely trouble-free. Engines and Fuel Economy Engines and Fuel Economy A cross-country trip means facing everything from bumper-to-bumper city traffic to steep mountain passes. The 2026 Sportage ensures you have the right tool for the job with three distinct, highly efficient powertrain choices: Powertrain Accent Cards Standard 2.5L 4-Cylinder Engine Packing 187 horsepower, this base engine is paired with a smooth 8-speed automatic transmission. It offers a highly reliable, classic driving feel with an impressive EPA-estimated 25 mpg city / 33 mpg highway for front-wheel-drive models. 1.6L Turbo Hybrid (HEV) If you want to maximize your travel budget, the hybrid is the sweet spot. It pumps out a robust 232 horsepower for effortless merging and mountain climbing, while achieving an EPA-estimated 42 mpg combined (42 city / 44 highway) on FWD models. Opting for all-wheel drive still yields a fantastic 35 mpg combined. Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) Delivering a powerful 268 horsepower, the PHEV gives you the flexibility of all-electric driving around local stops or campgrounds, turning seamlessly into a traditional hybrid once the battery runs low. Roof Storage and Towing Roof Storage and Trailering Capacities Versatile Roof Rack Engineering Sometimes, your outdoor gear is simply too big to live inside the cabin. Higher trims like the EX, X-Line, and X-Pro come standard with robust roof rails. By adding crossbars, you can easily mount a rooftop cargo box, a pair of kayaks, or a line of bicycles. Standard factory roof rack setups safely support up to 165 pounds of dynamic weight — more than enough for a fully loaded luggage pod. Towing Capabilities by Powertrain If you need to haul a small camper, a couple of jet skis, or a utility trailer, the 2026 Sportage punches well above its weight class: Engine Type Max Towing Capacity (With Trailer Brakes) Standard 2.5L Gas Up to 2,500 lbs Turbo Hybrid (HEV) Up to 2,000 lbs Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) Up to 2,000 lbs FAQ Frequently Asked Questions Which 2026 Kia Sportage powertrain is best for long road trips? For most families focused on long-distance driving, the 1.6L Turbo Hybrid (HEV) hits the sweet spot. It delivers 232 horsepower for confident passing and hill climbing while returning an EPA-estimated 42 mpg combined on front-wheel-drive models — meaning far fewer fuel stops and more money in your pocket by the time you reach your destination. If you frequently drive in areas with limited charging infrastructure, the hybrid's seamless, self-charging operation also removes any range anxiety from the equation. Does the 2026 Kia Sportage have enough cargo space for a family vacation? Absolutely. The gas and hybrid Sportage models offer up to 74.1 cubic feet of maximum cargo space with the rear seats folded — a genuinely class-leading figure in the compact SUV segment. Even with the rear seats upright and all five passengers on board, you still have 39.6 cubic feet behind the second row, which is plenty of room for a full set of family luggage, a stroller, and all the snacks you can pack. The standard dual-level cargo floor on gas and hybrid trims gives you extra organization flexibility as well. Can the 2026 Kia Sportage tow a camper or utility trailer? Yes — the 2026 Sportage is a capable tower for a compact crossover. The standard 2.5L gas engine supports up to 2,500 pounds of towing capacity with trailer brakes, which is enough to pull a lightweight pop-up camper, a pair of personal watercraft, or a small utility trailer loaded with camping gear. The hybrid and plug-in hybrid models support up to 2,000 pounds, which still covers most small recreational trailers. Just be sure to verify trailer weight against your specific trim and configuration before hitching up. CTA Banner Ready to Start Your Next Adventure? The open road is calling, and the perfect family road trip starts right here in our community. Head over to Cable Dahmer Kia of Lee's Summit to find your family's 2026 Kia Sportage. Our team makes stepping into your next vehicle completely stress-free with flexible financing, an incredible selection of new Sportage models, and the peace of mind that comes with Kia's industry-leading warranty program. Stop by for a test drive today! Shop 2026 Kia Sportage Disclaimer Warranties include 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain and 5-year/60,000-mile basic. Warranties are limited, non-transferable, and apply to the original owner only. See Cable Dahmer Kia of Lee's Summit for complete details and copy of limited warranty.

Jul 22, 2026

2026 Kia Sorento vs. 2027 Kia Telluride

Side-by-side vehicle cards 2026 Kia Sorento Shop Kia Sorento 2027 Kia Telluride Shop Kia Telluride Intro paragraph Whether you need the nimble versatility of the 2026 Kia Sorento or the expansive, bold utility of the fully redesigned 2027 Kia Telluride, Kia's SUV lineup is built for family adventures. The Sorento balances daily efficiency with weekend utility, while the Telluride delivers flagship three-row space and striking new style. Understanding the differences will help you choose the right fit for your lifestyle. You can compare both vehicles in person at Cable Dahmer Kia of Lee's Summit and take a test drive to see which is right for you. Shop online and contact us today to get started. Performance and Capability Performance and Capability The 2026 Kia Sorento offers two distinct engine options to suit your driving needs. You can choose from the standard 2.5L four-cylinder or the powerful turbocharged 2.5L engine. The Sorento can tow up to 4,500 lbs. when properly equipped. The fully redesigned 2027 Kia Telluride comes standard with a new 2.5L turbocharged inline-4 engine. The Telluride boasts an impressive maximum towing capacity of 5,000 lbs. New for the 2027 model year, the Telluride offers a Hybrid model with a 2.5L turbo-hybrid engine capable of 329 hp and 339 lb-ft of torque. The 2026 Sorento Hybrid includes a 1.6L turbo-hybrid powertrain capable of 227 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, while the Sorento plug-in hybrid offers 268 hp with 271 lb-ft of torque. Performance Spec 2026 Kia Sorento 2027 Kia Telluride Engine Options 2.5L 4-Cyl, 2.5L Turbo 2.5L Turbo Max Horsepower 281 hp (Turbo) 274 hp Max Torque 311 lb-ft (Turbo) 311 lb-ft Transmission 8-Speed Auto or 8-Speed DCT 8-Speed Auto Standard Drivetrain FWD (AWD Available) FWD (AWD Available) Max Towing Capacity 4,500 lbs. 5,500 lbs. Technology and Infotainment Technology and Infotainment Feature 2026 Kia Sorento 2027 Kia Telluride Apple CarPlay and Android Auto Standard Standard Wireless Phone Charging Available Standard (Dual Chargers on LX) Wi-Fi Hotspot Available Standard Premium Audio System Available Bose Available 14-Speaker System Digital Key Access Available Available Both the Sorento and Telluride feature advanced technology to keep you connected on the road. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard on both models to ensure you have seamless access to navigation and media. The 2027 Telluride takes connectivity a step further by offering standard dual wireless phone chargers and a Wi-Fi hotspot on the entry-level trim. Safety Features Kia Safety Features Both vehicles are equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety technologies to protect you on and off the road. Safety Feature 2026 Kia Sorento 2027 Kia Telluride Blind Spot Monitoring Standard Standard Rear Cross-Traffic Alert Standard Standard Lane Keeping Assist Standard Available Highway Driving Assist Available Available Parking Distance Warning Standard Available Safety is a priority whether you are navigating busy city streets or taking long highway trips. Advanced driver assistance features like Blind Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert are standard on both models to give you extra peace of mind. You can also equip either vehicle with Highway Driving Assist to help manage steering and speed during highway travel. Interior Dimensions Interior Dimensions and Comfort The Sorento offers flexible seating for up to seven passengers, with available second-row captain's chairs that reduce capacity to six for enhanced comfort. The Telluride is exclusively available as a larger SUV with seating for up to eight passengers. Both vehicles provide spacious cabins designed to handle your daily errands or a weekend camping trip. Interior Dimension 2026 Kia Sorento 2027 Kia Telluride Front Seat Headroom 40.3 in. 41.2 in. Front Seat Legroom 41.4 in. 41.4 in. Rear (Second) Seat Headroom 39.1 in. 38.9 in. Rear (Second) Seat Legroom 41.7 in. 43.0 in. Seating Capacity Up to 7 Up to 8 Maximum Cargo Capacity 75.5 cu. ft. 89.3 cu. ft. Closing CTA Banner Find Your Next Kia at Cable Dahmer Kia of Lee's Summit Whether you are drawn to the versatile efficiency of the Sorento or the spacious utility of the Telluride, our team at Cable Dahmer Kia of Lee's Summit is ready to assist you. We can help you compare both models side by side to determine which one meets your needs. Stop in or contact us today to browse our Kia inventory and schedule your test drive. Contact Us Hours & Directions About Us Disclaimer *All specifications, features, and pricing are estimated based on available manufacturer data at the time of publication and are subject to change without notice. Starting MSRP values refer to base models before destination charges, optional equipment, taxes, or dealer-installed accessories. Final vehicle availability, pricing, and finance terms vary by model and individual inventory selection. See Cable Dahmer Kia of Lee's Summit for current inventory details, exact pricing, and official promotional guidelines.