2027 Kia Telluride Redesign: UAE Hybrid Specs & Price

Starting at 150,000 AED (est.)

The 2027 Kia Telluride steps into its second generation with a fresh platform, hybrid power, and tougher X-Pro hardware. If you are in the UAE and debating whether to grab current clearance deals or wait for the hybrid, this guide walks you through the specs, real-world running costs, and what actually matters for desert use and family life.

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Overview

Second-Generation Redesign vs. 2026 Telluride

The 2027 Telluride skips a simple 2026 facelift and jumps straight to a full redesign on a new platform. The old 3.8L V6 with 291 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque gives way to a 2.5L turbocharged inline-four with 274 hp and 311 lb-ft. That is a +49 lb-ft bump in torque, which you will feel most when pulling away loaded or climbing an incline.

On top of that, there is a new turbo-hybrid setup with a combined 329 hp and 339 lb-ft. That hybrid is the one to watch for UAE buyers who rack up Dubai–Abu Dhabi mileage.

Dimensions grow slightly:

• Overall length up by 2.3 inches, to about 199.2 inches
• Wheelbase stretched by 3 inches
• Height increased by 1 inch

Those numbers do not sound dramatic, but they translate into a little more third-row space and a more planted highway feel without losing the three-row family focus.

Outside, the look is squarer and more rugged, with vertical LED lighting and flush door handles that echo the EV9. Inside, you get panoramic screens, upgraded materials, and available relaxation seats. Kia is clearly treating this as its flagship gas SUV, but now with hybrid-level efficiency for buyers who do not want to go full EV yet. You can learn more about the brand at the official Kia website.

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Key Dimensions and Platform Changes

The new platform aims to feel more solid and refined. Kia uses triple door seals, thicker glass, and extra sound-deadening to cut wind and road noise, which makes a difference on coarse GCC highways.

Key numbers:

• Wheelbase: +3 inches
• Length: 199.2 inches
• Height: +1 inch
• Ground clearance: up to 9.1 inches on X-Pro (previously as low as 8.4 inches)

Cargo capacity:

• 22.3 cu ft behind the third row
• 46.3 cu ft with the third row folded
• 86.9 cu ft maximum

That puts it slightly ahead of the 2026 model in usable space, especially for third-row passengers and luggage for a full-family weekend away.

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UAE/GCC Buyer Relevance: Desert Suitability & Family Practicality

The spec sheet is one thing. How it fits UAE life is another.

For light dune work and wadi trips, the X-Pro trim with 9.1-inch ground clearance, all-terrain tires, and e-LSD is the one that actually makes sense. It is not a hardcore rock crawler, but it will comfortably handle the kind of off-road spots most families actually visit.

Fuel costs are where the hybrid starts to shine. With an estimated 35 MPG combined (Kia’s figure) and petrol at AED 3+ per liter, long runs between Dubai and Abu Dhabi become far less painful. Over 20,000 km a year, those savings add up quickly.

Cooling is another UAE-specific concern. The Telluride seats 7 to 8 passengers, and the availability of ventilated seats in multiple rows helps when the mercury hits 45°C and above. Stay Mode can keep the AC running for around 20 minutes while parked, drawing from the hybrid battery, which is a genuinely useful feature if you are waiting for kids at school or doing a quick shop.

Resale is solid too. Market data in the UAE shows the Telluride rated around 3.5/5 for resale strength, with low-kilometer 2022 GT-Line examples typically retaining about 65–72% of their value, often listing between AED 135,000 and AED 165,000. Kia’s popularity among regional families supports that trend.

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What’s New for the 2027 Kia Telluride?

Exterior Updates: Boxier Styling, LED Lights, Flush Handles

The redesign is immediately visible. The front wears a broader hood and vertical LED headlights and taillights, with amber DRLs returning for a more distinctive signature at night. The X-Pro gets a more aggressive grille and unique trim.

Flush, EV9-style door handles tidy up the side profile, and the notched fenders give it a slightly more muscular stance. New colors such as Black Jade Green and Terrain Brown help it stand out from the usual white and silver sea in UAE car parks. The X-Pro also offers ground lighting that is surprisingly handy at campsites or in unlit desert spots.

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Interior Upgrades: Panoramic Displays, Relaxation Seats, Cargo Innovations

Inside, the dashboard is simplified around dual 12.3-inch screens, one for the digital cluster and one for infotainment. There is a separate climate display so you are not digging through menus just to adjust the fan, and you still get physical or haptic controls for key functions.

Features include:

• Wireless Apple CarPlay / Android Auto
• Built-in Netflix and YouTube support in certain markets
• An AI voice assistant that can handle navigation, climate, and media

Higher trims add relaxation seats in the first and second rows, heating and ventilation in all rows (third-row outboard seats heated), acoustic glass, and configurable ambient lighting. The cabin feels more spacious thanks to the small gains in headroom and legroom.

Stay Mode lets you keep the AC running while parked without idling the engine, which is especially relevant for UAE summers.

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Hybrid Introduction and Tech Enhancements

This is the first Telluride to offer a turbo-hybrid. The setup combines a 2.5L turbo engine with an electric motor for a total of 329 hp and 339 lb-ft, paired with a 6-speed automatic and available FWD or AWD.

Kia estimates:

• 35 MPG combined
• 600+ mile total range on a full tank in typical conditions

There is also an optional Meridian 14-speaker audio system and upgraded driver-assistance tech, including Highway Drive Assist 2.0 for more confident lane centering and adaptive cruise on long motorway stretches.

Also read: 2027 Kia Seltos Revealed Specs Hybrid Efficiency For Gcc Drivers

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Engine, Transmission, and Performance

2.5L Turbo Gas Engine Specs (274 hp, 311 lb-ft)

The standard 2.5L turbo gas engine produces 274 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque, linked to an 8-speed automatic. Front-wheel drive is standard, with all-wheel drive available. Expect a 0–60 mph time in roughly 7 seconds, which is more than adequate for overtaking between Abu Dhabi and Al Ain with a full load.

The key advantage over the old 3.8L V6 is that extra 49 lb-ft of torque arriving earlier, so the engine does not have to work as hard when loaded with passengers and luggage.

Turbo-Hybrid Powertrain (329 hp, 339 lb-ft, 35 MPG est.)

The turbo-hybrid setup delivers a combined 329 hp and 339 lb-ft through a 6-speed automatic with FWD or AWD. Kia’s internal estimate is 35 MPG combined for an EX FWD configuration and up to around 637 miles of range in ideal conditions.

Kia suggests a 0–60 mph time of about 5.8 seconds, which is properly quick for a three-row SUV. In hot GCC climates, the electric assist helps fill in torque without the engine constantly revving high, easing the load on cooling systems.

Fuel Economy, Range, and UAE Real-World Costs

For the non-hybrid gas model, expect combined figures in the 22–25 MPG range once official numbers arrive.

Hybrid estimates:

• 35 MPG combined
• Around 600-mile real-world range

In the UAE, running 95 octane at around AED 3.2 per liter, a driver covering 20,000 km per year could realistically save roughly AED 5,000 annually in fuel with the hybrid compared with a similarly sized non-hybrid SUV. WLTP figures are still to come, but the trend is clear: high-mileage drivers benefit the most.

0–60 mph, Towing Capacity (5,000 lbs Gas / 4,500 lbs Hybrid)

Performance and towing estimates:

• Gas: about 7 seconds 0–60 mph, 5,000 lbs towing capacity
• Hybrid: about 6.6 seconds 0–60 mph, 4,500 lbs towing capacity

The X-Pro includes a factory hitch, which is convenient if you plan to tow jet skis, small boats, or trailers to Fujairah or the desert.

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Off-Road Capability: X-Line and X-Pro Trims

X-Pro Upgrades: 9.1" Clearance, e-LSD, Terrain Modes

For buyers who frequently head off the tarmac, the X-Pro is the standout. It brings:

• 9.1-inch ground clearance
• Wider all-terrain tires
• Model-specific suspension tuning
• e-LSD and a center locking function
• Terrain Mode calibration for mud and snow
• Front and rear recovery points
• Integrated tow hitch

This package will not turn it into a Land Cruiser, but it does make weekend dune or camping trips less stressful.

Ground View Monitor and Desert Driving Insights

To help when the trail turns tricky, the Telluride offers:

• An underbody camera that operates below roughly 6 mph
• An off-road status display showing angles and wheel slip
• Ground lighting around the vehicle for low-visibility situations

In the UAE, the Telluride can handle soft sand if you approach it with some care. Dropping tire pressures into the 18–22 psi range for dunes, combined with AWD and e-LSD, makes a noticeable difference. It is still a three-row family SUV, so driving it like a dedicated dune buggy is asking for trouble, but for moderate off-road use it is more capable than it looks.

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Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

Seating: 7–8 Passengers, Heated/Ventilated Rows, Stay Mode

Depending on configuration, the Telluride seats up to 8 with a second-row bench, or 7 with captain’s chairs. First- and second-row seats are available with both heating and ventilation, and third-row outboard seats can be heated as well.

Relaxation seats with extended recline and footrests are available in higher trims, which feel more business class than typical family SUV.

Space Gains: Legroom, Cargo Volumes vs. 2026

The cabin grows slightly in all directions. Headroom and legroom figures come in around:

• 41.4 inches (front)
• 43.0 inches (second row)
• 32.1 inches (third row, selected measurement)

Cargo volumes:

• 22.3 cu ft behind the third row
• 46.3 cu ft with the third row folded
• 86.9 cu ft maximum capacity

Compared with the 2026 model, third-row comfort and luggage flexibility improve just enough to notice on a long family road trip.

Infotainment: Dual 12.3" Screens, Wireless CarPlay, AI Assistant

The Telluride’s tech suite centers on:

• Dual 12.3-inch displays
• Built-in navigation
• Wireless Apple CarPlay / Android Auto
• AI voice control for media, navigation, and climate
• Optional Meridian 14-speaker audio system

The system is designed so you can leave your phone in your pocket, but still stream music, run maps, and take calls with minimal fuss.

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Pricing and Which Trim to Buy in UAE

US MSRP Breakdown: LX to X-Pro ($39,000–$58,000)

Indicative US pricing:

• LX: $39,190
• EX: around $45,000
• SX: around $50,000
• SX-Prestige: $55,000+
• X-Pro: roughly $58,000

Final figures will vary slightly with options and destination charges.

Estimated AED Prices and GCC Trim Availability

For the UAE market, estimated starting prices are:

• LX: AED 150,000
• EX: AED 170,000
• SX: AED 190,000
• X-Pro: AED 220,000+

These include VAT and typical import costs and line up with current models that usually sit between around AED 123,000 and AED 175,000.

GCC markets are expected to get a similar trim walk, with hybrids arriving toward late 2026. Final pricing and exact specs will need to be confirmed with local Kia dealers.

Best Trims for UAE Families, Off-Roaders, Executives

Different buyers will gravitate to different versions:

• For families: the EX Hybrid looks like the sweet spot, balancing space, comfort, and running-cost savings. Stay Mode and ventilated seating make hot-school-run life calmer.
• For off-roaders: the X-Pro is the obvious pick, thanks to 9.1-inch clearance, all-terrain tires, and additional off-road hardware.
• For executives and frequent highway travelers: SX-Prestige with relaxation seats and top-tier audio delivers a near-luxury experience without a luxury badge price tag.

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Release Timeline and Availability

US On-Sale: Early 2026; GCC/UAE Expectations

Kia plans to launch the 2027 Telluride in the US around Q1 2026. Historically, the UAE and wider GCC region trail US availability by about 6–12 months, so mid to late 2026 is a sensible expectation for first local deliveries. Hybrid launch timing and pricing will firm up closer to that date.

Buy Now vs. Wait: 2026 Discounts vs. New Features

If you need a vehicle immediately, the 2026 Telluride will likely be available with 10–15% discounts, with some trims landing around AED 130,000+ depending on stock and offer campaigns. It is a known quantity with established reliability.

On the other hand, waiting for the 2027 hybrid can bring roughly AED 5,000 yearly fuel savings if you drive around 20,000 km per year, along with the newer interior, tech upgrades, and improved off-road capability. High-mileage, efficiency-focused buyers will benefit more from waiting than short-distance urban drivers.

Ordering and Waitlist Guidance for UAE Dealers

Expect pre-order books to open not long after the global reveal. In the UAE, you would typically work through Al Majid Motors in Dubai or Abu Dhabi. Given current demand for three-row SUVs, plan for a 3–6 month wait from order to delivery, especially for high-spec hybrids and X-Pro trims.

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Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

Standard ADAS: AEB, Lane-Keep, Adaptive Cruise

Even base models are well stocked with active safety features, including:

• Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB)
• Lane-keep assist
• Blind-spot monitoring
• Adaptive cruise control

Higher trims add stronger lane-centering support, Highway Drive Assist 2.0, and a 360-degree camera system that helps with tight parking spots and off-road maneuvering.

Warranty and Maintenance in GCC Conditions

In the GCC, Kia typically offers a 5-year / 150,000 km basic warranty, which covers hybrid components as long as you keep to scheduled maintenance at authorized service centers. Intervals are usually around every 10,000 km.

The hybrid components are engineered to handle heat, but air filters, fluids, and tires will still wear faster in dusty, hot conditions, so budgeting for slightly tighter maintenance discipline makes sense.

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Conclusion

The 2027 Kia Telluride arrives bigger, more refined, and crucially more efficient, especially in hybrid form. For UAE buyers, the combination of lower running costs, improved off-road hardware in the X-Pro, and a more comfortable, tech-rich cabin makes it an appealing upgrade over the outgoing model. If your current SUV can last another year or so, waiting for the hybrid is likely to pay off.

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Summary Table

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People Also Ask

Is the 2027 Kia Telluride a full redesign or facelift?

Yes, it is a full second-generation redesign, with a new platform, engines, dimensions, and technology features, compared with the 2026 model that saw only lighter updates.

What engines and hybrid options are offered for the 2027 Kia Telluride?

You get a gas 2.5L turbo with 274 hp / 311 lb-ft, and a 2.5L turbo-hybrid with 329 hp / 339 lb-ft and an estimated 35 MPG combined.

2027 Kia Telluride price and UAE AED estimates?

US pricing is expected around $39,000–$58,000. In the UAE, estimates run from roughly AED 150,000 to AED 220,000+, depending on trim and options.

When is the 2027 Kia Telluride release in UAE/GCC?

US sales begin in early 2026, with UAE and wider GCC deliveries expected to follow around mid 2026, depending on allocation and logistics.

How does the 2027 Kia Telluride compare to rivals like the Hyundai Palisade?

It offers higher ground clearance, a hybrid powertrain option versus the Palisade’s V6-only setup, similar interior space, and typically sharper value and warranty coverage for the price.

Where can I find certified pre-owned luxury SUVs in UAE?

Alba Cars provides certified pre-owned luxury SUVs with verified histories in the UAE.