Overview
The 2023 Kia Telluride is a midsize three-row SUV built for families and drivers who want big-SUV space without jumping into a full-size truck-based model. It sits near the top of the mainstream midsize SUV segment thanks to its roomy cabin, upscale design, and strong standard safety tech. For 2023, the Telluride received a notable refresh with updated styling, new lighting elements, and meaningful tech and trim updates, keeping it highly competitive against rivals like the Hyundai Palisade, Toyota Highlander, and Honda Pilot. It’s ideal for buyers who prioritize comfort, long-road-trip usability, and value-focused features.
Key Features
- 3.8L V6 engine (291 horsepower, 262 lb-ft of torque) paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission; available front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.
- Seating for up to 8 passengers (available 7-passenger layouts with second-row captain’s chairs), plus a spacious cargo area designed for family gear and travel.
- Updated 2023 interior tech, including available dual 12.3-inch displays (instrument cluster and infotainment) on higher trims, along with available premium audio and navigation.
- Strong driver-assistance suite available across the lineup, including forward collision avoidance, lane-keeping aids, blind-spot monitoring, and available 360-degree camera on select trims.
- Trim range that spans from well-equipped daily drivers to more rugged-looking options (such as X-Line/X-Pro packages) with added capability features and distinctive styling.
Common Issues & Reliability
Shoppers searching “2023 Kia Telluride reliability” will generally find this model year viewed as above-average for the class, but no vehicle is perfect. Below are some 2023 Kia Telluride common issues owners most often discuss, along with what to watch for.
- Infotainment and electronics glitches: Some owners report intermittent screen freezing, Bluetooth/Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connection drops, camera system lag, or driver-assist warnings appearing unexpectedly. These issues can show up early in ownership, sometimes within the first few thousand miles, and are often addressed through software updates or module resets.
- Wind noise and weather sealing concerns: A number of complaints center on wind noise at highway speeds, occasional water leaks, or door/window seal fitment issues. Symptoms may be more noticeable within the first year, especially after heavy rain or car washes, and can involve adjusting seals, door alignment, or replacing weatherstripping.
- Brake feel, vibration, or premature wear: Some drivers note brake squeal, pulsation, or vibration during braking that can point to rotor pad material transfer or warping, sometimes reported between roughly 10,000 and 30,000 miles depending on driving conditions. Regular brake inspections and proper bedding-in of pads can help, but some cases require rotor resurfacing or replacement.
- Transmission shifting behavior (occasional): A smaller group of owners mention hesitation, harsher-than-expected shifts, or gear hunting at low speeds. This isn’t universal, but it’s one of the 2023 Kia Telluride problems buyers should test for on a thorough test drive; in many cases, dealer inspections and software calibration updates improve drivability.