“Very current vehicle from a technological viewpoint as well as overall appearance and performance”
2020 Kia Telluride: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2020 Kia Telluride is the model’s launch year. It arrives as Kia’s all-new three-row flagship SUV, so this is a full new-generation debut rather than an update to an earlier Telluride.
About the 2020 Kia Telluride
1st generation Telluride, first model year at launch; this is the original pre-refresh version that later received its major update for 2023.
Kia positions the Telluride as a big, bold family SUV that mixes three-row usefulness with a more upscale look and cabin feel than many mainstream rivals. Its main appeal is roomy seating, a genuinely usable third row, strong standard safety technology, smooth V6 power, and useful towing capability. The differentiator is how much premium design, comfort, and family-friendly tech Kia built into a value-focused midsize three-row SUV.
The 2020 Telluride ranges from the practical eight-seat LX to the more comfort-focused S and leather-trimmed EX. The SX is the most fully equipped version, with dual sunroofs, premium audio, a surround-view camera, and seven seats with second-row captain’s chairs.
What changed, by category
Powertrain
Every trim debuts with a 291-hp 3.8-liter V6 and an 8-speed automatic transmission.
Styling
The Telluride launches with a boxy exterior and an upscale cabin. Wheels, lighting, roof rails, and interior materials help distinguish the four trims.
Safety
Every trim has forward collision avoidance, blind-spot collision-avoidance assist, lane keeping and lane following assist, smart cruise control, safe exit assist, and rear occupant alert.
Tech
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard throughout the lineup. EX and SX have a 10.25-inch navigation touchscreen with Driver Talk and Quiet Mode.
Structural
The model debuts with a three-row body structure, independent front and rear suspension, and seating for seven or eight depending on the trim layout.
2020 Kia Telluride specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | V6, GDI, 3.8 Liter | V6, GDI, 3.8 Liter | V6, GDI, 3.8 Liter | V6, GDI, 3.8 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 8-Spd w/Sportmatic | Automatic, 8-Spd w/Sportmatic | Automatic, 8-Spd w/Sportmatic | Automatic, 8-Spd w/Sportmatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD | AWD | FWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 20 mpg | 20 mpg | 20 mpg | 20 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 26 mpg | 26 mpg | 26 mpg | 26 mpg |
| Horsepower | 291 hp | 291 hp | 291 hp | 291 hp |
| Torque | 262 lb-ft | 262 lb-ft | 262 lb-ft | 262 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 5000 lb | 5000 lb | 5000 lb | 5000 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 87 cu-ft | 87 cu-ft | 87 cu-ft | 87 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 31.4 in | 31.4 in | 31.4 in | 31.4 in |
| Seats | 8 | 8 | 8 | 7 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ||||
| Alarm System | ||||
| Automatic High Beams | ||||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||||
| Lane Departure Warning | ||||
| Rain Sensing Windshield Wipers | ||||
| Rear View Camera | ||||
| 360 Camera | ||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||
| Fog Lights | ||||
| LED Tail Lights | ||||
| Power Moonroof | ||||
| Power Folding Exterior Mirrors | ||||
| Power Liftgate/Trunk Release | ||||
| Rear Spoiler | ||||
| Roof Rails | ||||
| Navigation System | ||||
| Premium Audio | ||||
| Smartphone Interface | ||||
| Subwoofer | ||||
| Touch Screen Monitor | ||||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | ||||
| Dual Power Front Seats | ||||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||||
| Heated Front Seats | ||||
| Heated Steering Wheel | ||||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | ||||
| Interior Ambient Lighting | ||||
| Leather Seats | ||||
| Memory Driver's Seat | ||||
| Power Driver Seat | ||||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||||
| Third Row Seat | ||||
| Ventilated Front Seats | ||||
| Wood Interior Trim | ||||
Frequently asked questions
Is 2020 the first year of the Kia Telluride?
Yes. The 2020 Telluride is the model’s first year and the launch of Kia’s three-row flagship SUV.
What engine does the 2020 Kia Telluride have?
Every 2020 Telluride has a 291-hp 3.8-liter V6 paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission.
What safety features are standard on the 2020 Telluride?
Every 2020 Telluride has forward collision avoidance, blind-spot collision-avoidance assist, lane keeping and lane following assist, smart cruise control, safe exit assist, and rear occupant alert.
Does every 2020 Kia Telluride have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?
Yes. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard on every 2020 Telluride trim. LX and S use an 8-inch touchscreen, while EX and SX have a 10.25-inch navigation screen.
Does the 2020 Kia Telluride seat seven or eight people?
The 2020 Telluride has three rows and seats seven or eight, depending on its trim layout. The LX has an eight-seat second-row bench, while the SX has seven seats with second-row captain’s chairs.
2020 Kia Telluride Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2020 Kia Telluride.
4.5
2020 Kia Telluride
(365 reviews)
“Please consider this car. it has so much interior space. the pilot seats are so functional if you need access to the back passengers. the vehicle looks and feels more expensive than it was.”
“Compare it to the competition and see if you don't agree that it is the top choice and it's segment”