Kia’s Telluride is Getting a Makeover: What to Expect from the Redesigned SUV

Kia Telluride’s Redesigned Model
A groundbreaking front is expected
The possibility of launch in South Korea is also discussed

The large family SUV segment is heating up, with Hyundai preparing to reintroduce the Palisade in a redesigned form at the end of 2024. Expectations are high with its rugged exterior, spacious interior, and the introduction of a hybrid powertrain. But Kia is not far behind, with the North American favorite, the Telluride, getting a major refresh. Once a highly sought-after model during the pandemic—with prices soaring by as much as $7,000 over the new vehicle price—the Telluride is set to return with a redesign. Although exclusive to North America, rumors are swirling that the redesigned Telluride could also debut in South Korea.

EV9 + Mohave + Tasman Feel
Possibility of Horizontal DRL Addition

Prototypes of the redesigned Telluride have been spotted frequently on the road, and on September 23, 2024, rendering expert New York Mammoth shared an anticipated design based on the latest spy shots. With a bold and sculptural silhouette, the new Telluride draws design cues from the EV9, Mohave, and Tasman. The front features thick vertical fins in the large radiator grille, reminiscent of the Tasman’s rugged look.

A front camera is neatly built into the grille’s center fin, while the lidar for the advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) is placed in an open space. The rendering also hints at the possibility of additional daytime running lights (DRLs), like the facelifted Kia K8, adding a futuristic touch to the grille. Vertical air intakes, similar to those on the EV9 GT line, sit on either side of the bumper grille. The curved skid plate below the bumper not only enhances aerodynamics but also adds a three-dimensional feel to the overall design.

Unique Signature Lamp Design
Futuristic Yet Grand

In the redesigned Telluride, Kia has taken lighting design to the next level, surpassing the already striking Starmap Signature Lamp used in its other models. The new Telluride features a more radical look, boldly reimagining its daytime running lights (DRLs). Where the Sorento and Carnival use “ㄱ”-shaped DRLs, the Tasman-inspired Telluride adds an “ㄴ”-shaped design, giving the SUV a distinct and futuristic appearance. The low and high beams are positioned at the headlamp box’s far left and right edges in vertical alignment, enhancing the SUV’s imposing front end.

In the center of the headlamp box, black high-gloss vertical garnishes are incorporated, adding depth and creating a modern, sophisticated look. The geometric design that links the headlamp box to the radiator grille adds a unique aesthetic element. At the same time, the circular wheel arch cladding helps differentiate the Telluride from the similarly bold EV9. Altogether, these design details contribute to a front-end presence expected to rival the grandeur of the Palisade’s upcoming redesign, making the Telluride stand out in the large SUV market.

Could Be Revealed in the Second Half of Next Year
Why is there a rumor of its launch in South Korea?

Though a rear rendering of the redesigned Kia Telluride hasn’t been officially released, prototype sightings provide a good idea of its overall silhouette. The rear design maintains the masculine and bold look from the front, creating a cohesive aesthetic. Much like the headlights, the vertical taillights give the vehicle a unified and futuristic appeal. The outer edges of the taillights are expected to feature the distinctive Starmap signature lamp details, adding further sophistication. From the side, the TTelluride’ssize and proportions look well-suited to meet the demands of a spacious family vehicle, with ample room for passengers and cargo.

Industry insiders suggest the redesigned Telluride will be launched in the second half of 2025 and available for sale in North America by early 2026. Despite being a North American-centric model, there are growing rumors of its potential launch in South Korea. This is partly due to the upcoming discontinuation of the Mohave, the current flagship internal combustion SUV. Suppose the Telluride is introduced in South Korea. In that case, it will provide more options for families looking for a large SUV and could spark competition with Hyundai’s Palisade, which dominates the market. This move would also shift Kia’s strategy for its global SUV offerings.