The Kia Telluride success story continues in December 2025 with massive updates. The second-generation Telluride isn’t just an SUV—it’s evolving into a smarter, even more capable ride for today’s families. Notably, the new X Pro trim renders a tougher look, and for the first time, Kia is delivering a hybrid powertrain to take on American roads and beyon.
Big Changes, Big Performance
Bold New Hybrid Capability
The headline here is the all-new hybrid technology in the Telluride. After years of a reliable 3.8L V6, the 2025 Telluride is moving forward with a platform shared with the Hyundai Palisade, featuring a 2.5L turbo engine paired with electric motors. This system aims for up to 300 horsepower, combining all-weather performance with eco-friendly efficiency.
Why the shift? Kia wants to “future-proof” your drive, providing strength and towing, but with better fuel economy for long family trips and daily commutes—all without sacrificing that rugged character Telluride fans love.
Factory-Built in Georgia
The new Telluride will be built at Kia’s advanced Georgia plant beginning mid-2025. This means customers get a meticulously assembled vehicle designed for American families, straight from West Point, Georgia—the same site that’s proven itself with the current Telluride since 2019.
Design and Technology: Made for Every Journey
Rugged X Pro: What’s Different?
Brawny Looks: The X Pro trim instantly stands out with thicker tires, increased ground clearance, strong cladding, and modern lighting — all inspired by real adventures.
Comfort Meets Toughness: Inside, expect spacious seating for 7 or 8 passengers, advanced safety, and options like premium audio and next-generation infotainment.
Sustainability that Matters
Hybrid = Lower Emissions: The 2026 Telluride Hybrid isn’t just about mpg. It means less fuel spent and a cleaner ride, every time you drive.
Smart Energy: Tech like regenerative braking saves and reuses energy, helping you stretch every fill-up and giving you quiet, electric-assist cruising, especially in city traffic.
People-First Features: Why Families Are Excited
Spacious, Advanced, and Ready for Anything
Roomy Three-Row Comfort: Families will appreciate generous legroom, easy third-row access, and flexible cargo space.
Next-Level Tech: Huge touchscreen displays, wireless phone charging, and even vehicle-to-load capability (use your car battery to charge devices or power gadgets at the campsite!).
Safety for All: Kia’s latest driver-assistance features—automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, 360-degree cameras—keep your family protected wherever you go.
Scheme/Data Table
| Feature/Spec | 2nd Gen Kia Telluride (2025/26) |
|---|---|
| Launch Date | December 2025 |
| Production Location | West Point, Georgia, USA |
| Engine (Current/Hybrid) | 3.8L V6 / 2.5L Turbo Hybrid |
| Estimated Power Output | Up to 300 hp |
| Driving Platform | Shared with 2026 Hyundai Palisade |
| X Pro Version | Off-road trims, chunky tires, rugged |
| Fuel Economy (Hybrid) | 30-35 mpg est. |
| Seating Capacity | 7 or 8 |
| Tech Highlights | Large display, V2L, advanced safety |
| Towing (Hybrid, est.) | 3,500–5,000 lbs (to be confirmed) |
FAQs
Q1: When will the new Kia Telluride Hybrid go on sale?
A: Production begins in late 2025, with sales expected in early 2026.
Q2: Will the hybrid Telluride lose towing capability?
A: It may drop slightly from the gas model’s 5,000lbs rating, but will likely still tow 3,500–4,000lbs, which is competitive for a large hybrid SUV.
Q3: Where is the new Telluride made?
A: The Telluride is proudly assembled in West Point, Georgia, USA.
A Smarter, Stronger Family SUV
The upcoming Kia Telluride X Pro and Hybrid are prime examples of how automakers can blend the rugged, practical features families want with future-friendly hybrid tech. Whether your priority is road trips, commuting, or just saving on fuel, Kia’s latest big SUV is putting real drivers and their needs at the center.
