We put 780 highway-and-backroad miles on a 2024 Kia Telluride SX Prestige X-Line AWD to evaluate long-haul comfort, real-world efficiency, and all-around capability with a full family load and summer gear. Here’s how it handled the miles.
Our test vehicle was a 2024 Telluride SX Prestige X-Line AWD (291 hp, 262 lb-ft) with the 3.8-liter V6 and 8-speed automatic, riding on 20-inch wheels. Curb weight is just over 4,500 lb, and the AWD model is EPA-rated at 18/24/21 mpg. The cabin seats seven with second-row captain’s chairs; cargo space measures 21 cu ft behind row three, 46 behind row two, and 87 max. As tested price: about $54,000.
The loop mixed interstate stints with two-lane mountain sections, including sustained climbs and long descents, plus heat ranging from 45°F predawn to 92°F midafternoon. We carried three adults, two kids, a stroller, and soft bags to the window line. Tires were set to 35 psi cold on 87-octane fuel. Average cruising speeds ranged from 65 to 80 mph, with occasional construction slowdowns.
Seat comfort is a standout. The driver’s 10-way adjustment with power lumbar and thigh support kept fatigue at bay for back-to-back four-hour legs, and the ventilated front seats made a real difference in the 90s. Second-row captain’s chairs draw praise for cushion length and recline; the third row fits adults for an hour or two but sits low. At 70 mph, we logged 68–69 dBA on smooth asphalt (smartphone app), climbing to ~70 dBA on coarse aggregate.
Wind noise is well managed, and the suspension filters most high-frequency chatter despite the 20-inch tires. The V6 is smooth and unobtrusive at a steady cruise (about 1,900 rpm in 8th at 70 mph). Passing on two-lane roads is confident: our 50–70 mph run required 5.2 seconds by phone timer, and highway merges from short ramps never felt strained, even at elevation. The transmission favors tall gearing but downshifts promptly with a decisive throttle.
On long grades, manual mode in 3rd or 4th held speed neatly and eased brake use; we noted no brake odor or fade. Across the 780 miles, the trip computer showed 24.1 mpg, and a pump-to-pump calculation returned 23.6 mpg—respectable for a loaded AWD three-row. With an 18.8-gallon tank, 400–450 miles between stops was easy. Highway Driving Assist 2 reduced workload by keeping the car centered and following traffic smoothly, though it disengages if lane markings degrade and still requires hands-on oversight.
Wired Apple CarPlay ran flawlessly; the dual 12.3-inch screens are crisp and quick. Storage is abundant, charging ports are plentiful (USB-C in all rows), and the 110V outlet kept laptops going. Headlights provide strong, even illumination and confident high-beam reach. As a road-trip tool, the Telluride earns high marks for ride quality, seat comfort, low fatigue, and predictable power delivery.
It’s big for tight urban parking, and opting for the X-Pro’s all-terrain tires would add noise and shave efficiency. If you prioritize long-distance comfort for families, this SX Prestige X-Line should be on your shortlist alongside the Palisade and Pilot; choose the 20-inch touring tires and enjoy the miles.
