Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the 2023 Kia Telluride, a family SUV that has been making waves. As the Car Mom, I get a lot of questions about this vehicle, so I decided to give you my honest take. We’ll explore everything from its spacious interior and family-friendly features to its performance and overall value. So, buckle up, and let’s get started!

First Impressions: Exterior and Design

Okay, let's kick things off with the exterior. The 2023 Kia Telluride boasts a bold and modern design that immediately catches the eye. Kia has done an excellent job of blending ruggedness with sophistication. The front grille is distinctive, and the overall silhouette is boxy, which translates to ample interior space – a major plus for families. The headlights and taillights feature a unique design, giving the Telluride a premium look. You’ll notice the attention to detail in the chrome accents and the overall fit and finish. It's not just a pretty face; it feels well-built and solid.

From a functional standpoint, the exterior design elements contribute to the vehicle's usability. The large windows provide excellent visibility, and the high driving position gives you a commanding view of the road. The available roof rails add to its versatility, allowing you to easily carry extra cargo for those family road trips. The different trim levels offer varying degrees of style, from the more understated LX to the more luxurious SX. No matter which trim you choose, the Telluride makes a statement without being overly flashy. It’s a design that appeals to a wide range of buyers, and it’s easy to see why it stands out in the crowded SUV market. The color options are also well-curated, offering something for everyone, whether you prefer a classic neutral tone or a more vibrant hue.

Interior and Comfort: A Family-Friendly Haven

Stepping inside the 2023 Kia Telluride, you’re greeted with a spacious and well-appointed cabin. As the Car Mom, interior comfort and practicality are high on my list, and the Telluride doesn't disappoint. The first thing you'll notice is the quality of the materials. Kia has upped its game with soft-touch surfaces and premium finishes throughout the cabin. The seats are comfortable and supportive, making long drives a breeze. The Telluride offers seating for up to eight passengers, depending on the configuration, which is perfect for larger families or those who frequently carpool.

The second-row seats are particularly impressive, with plenty of legroom and headroom for adults. The available captain's chairs add an extra touch of luxury and make it easier to access the third row. Speaking of the third row, it's surprisingly spacious for an SUV in this class. Even adults can sit comfortably in the back for shorter trips. The Telluride also excels in cargo space. With all three rows in use, you still have a decent amount of room for groceries or luggage. Fold down the third row, and you get a cavernous cargo area that can handle just about anything you throw at it. The power liftgate is a convenient feature, especially when your hands are full.

Storage is another area where the Telluride shines. There are plenty of cubbies, cupholders, and pockets throughout the cabin to keep your belongings organized. The center console is large and well-designed, providing ample storage for your everyday essentials. Overall, the interior of the 2023 Kia Telluride is a comfortable and practical space that's perfect for families. It's a place where you can relax and enjoy the ride, no matter how long the journey.

Technology and Features: Staying Connected and Entertained

In today's world, technology is a must-have, and the 2023 Kia Telluride delivers on all fronts. The centerpiece of the dashboard is a large touchscreen display that houses the infotainment system. It's intuitive and easy to use, with crisp graphics and quick response times. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone with the car. The available premium sound system delivers excellent audio quality, making your favorite music sound even better. The Telluride also offers a range of advanced safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. These features help to keep you and your family safe on the road.

One of the standout tech features is the available Driver Talk system, which amplifies the driver's voice through the rear speakers, making it easier to communicate with passengers in the back. This is especially useful when you have kids in the third row. The rear-seat entertainment system is another great addition, keeping your passengers entertained on long trips. The system includes dual screens mounted on the back of the front seats, allowing passengers to watch movies or play games. The Telluride also offers a range of connectivity options, including multiple USB ports and a wireless charging pad. You'll never have to worry about your devices running out of power. Overall, the technology in the 2023 Kia Telluride is user-friendly and well-integrated, enhancing the overall driving experience.

Performance and Handling: Smooth and Confident

Under the hood, the 2023 Kia Telluride is powered by a 3.8-liter V6 engine that produces 291 horsepower. It delivers plenty of power for everyday driving, whether you're commuting to work or hauling a car full of kids. The engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission that shifts smoothly and efficiently. The Telluride offers a comfortable and composed ride, even on rough roads. The suspension does a good job of absorbing bumps and potholes, providing a smooth and stable driving experience. The steering is precise and responsive, giving you confidence behind the wheel.

The Telluride is available with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. The all-wheel-drive system provides added traction and stability in slippery conditions. It's a great option if you live in an area with snow or rain. The Telluride also offers a variety of drive modes, including Comfort, Eco, Sport, and Smart. Each mode adjusts the engine and transmission settings to optimize performance for different driving conditions. While the Telluride is not a sports car, it handles surprisingly well for a large SUV. It's easy to maneuver in tight spaces, and the brakes are strong and responsive. Overall, the performance of the 2023 Kia Telluride is more than adequate for most drivers. It's a smooth, comfortable, and capable SUV that's perfect for families.

Safety Features: Protecting Your Precious Cargo

Safety is paramount, especially when you're driving your family around. The 2023 Kia Telluride comes standard with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features, earning it top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA. These features include:

• Automatic Emergency Braking: Helps prevent or mitigate collisions by automatically applying the brakes if a potential crash is detected.
• Lane Departure Warning: Alerts you if you start to drift out of your lane.
• Lane Keeping Assist: Gently steers the vehicle back into its lane if you start to drift.
• Adaptive Cruise Control: Maintains a set distance from the vehicle ahead, automatically adjusting your speed as needed.
• Blind Spot Monitoring: Alerts you if there's a vehicle in your blind spot.
• Rear Cross-Traffic Alert: Warns you of approaching vehicles when you're backing up.
• Safe Exit Assist: Prevents rear doors from opening if it detects an approaching vehicle, helping to protect passengers exiting the vehicle.

In addition to these features, the Telluride also comes with a rearview camera, parking sensors, and a tire pressure monitoring system. The advanced airbag system provides additional protection in the event of a collision. With its comprehensive suite of safety features, the 2023 Kia Telluride gives you peace of mind knowing that you and your family are well-protected.

Pricing and Value: Getting the Most for Your Money

The 2023 Kia Telluride offers exceptional value for the money. It's priced competitively compared to other SUVs in its class, and it comes loaded with features even in the base trim. The Telluride is available in four trim levels: LX, S, EX, and SX. Each trim level offers a different set of features and amenities. The LX is the base model, but it still comes standard with a lot of desirable features, including a large touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a suite of advanced safety features. The S trim adds features like leather seats, a sunroof, and heated front seats.

The EX trim is the sweet spot for many buyers, offering a great balance of features and value. It includes features like a power liftgate, a larger touchscreen display, and a premium sound system. The SX is the top-of-the-line trim, offering all the bells and whistles, including a surround-view monitor, a head-up display, and Nappa leather seats. No matter which trim you choose, the Telluride offers a lot of value for the money. It's a well-built, well-equipped, and stylish SUV that's perfect for families. When you consider its spacious interior, its long list of features, and its competitive price, the 2023 Kia Telluride is hard to beat. It's a smart choice for anyone looking for a reliable and affordable family SUV.

Final Verdict: The Car Mom's Honest Opinion

Alright, guys, after spending some quality time with the 2023 Kia Telluride, here's my honest opinion as the Car Mom. This SUV is a winner! It checks all the boxes for a family-friendly vehicle: spacious interior, comfortable ride, plenty of technology, and a comprehensive suite of safety features. The Telluride offers exceptional value for the money, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious families. While it's not perfect, its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses. If you're in the market for a three-row SUV, the 2023 Kia Telluride should definitely be on your list. It's a car that you and your family will love for years to come. So, there you have it – the Car Mom's take on the 2023 Kia Telluride. I hope this review has been helpful. Happy car shopping!