2023 Kia Telluride Car Mom Review: Honest & Detailed!

Hey everyone! Today, we're diving deep into the 2023 Kia Telluride, especially through the eyes of a car mom. If you're a parent, you know the struggle of finding the perfect family vehicle – one that’s safe, spacious, practical, and maybe even a little bit stylish. The Telluride has been making waves, and for good reason. Let’s break down what makes this SUV a top contender for families in 2023.

Exterior Design and First Impressions

Okay, let's start with the outside. The 2023 Kia Telluride boasts a bold and boxy design that immediately catches your attention. It's not your typical minivan-esque SUV; it has a confident, almost rugged presence. The front grille is distinctive, and the headlights have a modern, sleek design. What's great for families is that the higher trims come with features like a hands-free power liftgate. Imagine juggling groceries, kids, and keys – that hands-free liftgate becomes a lifesaver!

From a car mom's perspective, the height of the vehicle is also a significant factor. It’s high enough to give you a commanding view of the road, which enhances safety, but not so high that it's a struggle to get kids in and out. The door openings are wide, making it easier to install car seats and buckle up little ones. Plus, the availability of roof rails means you can easily add extra cargo space for those family road trips. The overall aesthetic is a win – it looks good parked in the school drop-off line or heading out on a weekend adventure. Kia really nailed the exterior design, blending functionality with a touch of sophistication.

Interior Space and Comfort

Now, let’s step inside because this is where the 2023 Kia Telluride truly shines, especially for families. Space is king, and the Telluride offers it in abundance. With three rows of seating, it comfortably accommodates up to eight passengers, depending on the configuration. The second row can be configured with either a bench seat or captain's chairs. The captain's chairs are a game-changer if you have older kids who appreciate having their own space, or if you want easier access to the third row.

The third row is surprisingly spacious, even for adults. It’s not just a place to stick the kids; adults can genuinely sit back there without feeling cramped. Legroom and headroom are generous, making long journeys much more bearable. One of the standout features is the easy-to-use folding mechanism for the second-row seats. With the push of a button, the seats slide forward, creating a wide opening for third-row access. This is a huge plus for parents who frequently need to access the back row. Storage is another area where the Telluride excels. There are plenty of cubbies, cupholders, and storage bins throughout the cabin. The center console is large and can easily hold a purse or small bag. The door pockets are also a decent size, perfect for water bottles and snacks. The cargo area behind the third row is respectable, but when you fold down the third row, you get a massive amount of space for luggage, sports equipment, or whatever else your family needs to haul. Comfort-wise, the seats are well-padded and supportive, even on long drives. The higher trims offer features like heated and ventilated front seats, which are a godsend in extreme weather. Tri-zone climate control ensures that everyone can stay comfortable, no matter where they're sitting. Overall, the interior of the Telluride is thoughtfully designed with families in mind, making it a comfortable and practical space for everyday life.

Technology and Features

The 2023 Kia Telluride is packed with technology that makes life easier and more enjoyable for families. The infotainment system is user-friendly, with a large touchscreen display that’s easy to navigate. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, so you can seamlessly integrate your smartphone for navigation, music, and calls. One of the features that car moms will appreciate is the Driver Talk system. This allows you to amplify your voice through the speakers to reach the back rows without having to shout. It’s perfect for keeping the peace on long road trips!

The available rear-seat entertainment system is another great feature, with screens mounted on the back of the front seats. This can keep kids entertained for hours, making those long drives much more peaceful. The Telluride also offers a suite of advanced safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. These features help to keep your family safe on the road. The available surround-view monitor gives you a 360-degree view of the vehicle, making parking and maneuvering in tight spaces much easier. Other notable tech features include a wireless phone charger, a head-up display, and a premium audio system. Kia has truly loaded the Telluride with technology that enhances both safety and convenience, making it a standout in its class. From keeping the kids entertained to providing advanced safety features, the Telluride has everything a modern family needs.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

When it comes to family vehicles, safety is paramount, and the 2023 Kia Telluride doesn't disappoint. It's equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety and driver-assistance features designed to protect you and your loved ones on the road. Standard safety features include automatic emergency braking, which can detect potential collisions and apply the brakes if you don't react in time. Lane departure warning alerts you if you start to drift out of your lane, while lane-keeping assist can gently steer you back into position. Blind-spot monitoring is another crucial feature, especially when changing lanes on the highway. It alerts you to vehicles in your blind spots, helping to prevent accidents.

Adaptive cruise control is a great feature for long drives, maintaining a set distance from the vehicle ahead. It can even bring the car to a complete stop in stop-and-go traffic, making your commute much less stressful. The available Highway Driving Assist combines adaptive cruise control with lane-keeping assist to provide semi-autonomous driving assistance on the highway. Rear cross-traffic alert is a lifesaver when backing out of parking spaces, alerting you to approaching vehicles from the side. The Safe Exit Assist feature is particularly useful for families with young children. It prevents the rear doors from opening if it detects an approaching vehicle, helping to avoid accidents. The Telluride also comes with a comprehensive airbag system, including front, side, and curtain airbags. The strong and sturdy frame of the Telluride provides additional protection in the event of a collision. Overall, Kia has prioritized safety in the Telluride, making it a top choice for families who want peace of mind on the road. With its advanced safety features and robust construction, the Telluride is designed to keep you and your loved ones safe in a variety of driving situations.

Driving Experience and Performance

The 2023 Kia Telluride isn't just about practicality; it also offers a surprisingly enjoyable driving experience. Under the hood, it's powered by a 3.8-liter V6 engine that delivers plenty of power for daily driving and long road trips. The engine produces around 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, providing ample acceleration and confident passing ability. The Telluride feels solid and stable on the road, with a smooth and comfortable ride. The suspension does a good job of absorbing bumps and road imperfections, making for a pleasant driving experience, even on rough roads. The steering is precise and responsive, giving you a good feel for the road.

One of the things that car moms will appreciate is the Telluride's easy maneuverability. Despite its size, it's surprisingly easy to drive and park, thanks to features like the surround-view monitor and parking sensors. The available all-wheel-drive system provides added traction and stability in slippery conditions, making it a great choice for families who live in areas with snow or rain. The Telluride also offers different drive modes, including Comfort, Eco, Sport, and Smart. Each mode adjusts the engine and transmission settings to optimize performance for different driving conditions. The Sport mode provides quicker acceleration and a more engaging driving experience, while the Eco mode prioritizes fuel efficiency. The Telluride's towing capacity is also impressive, allowing you to tow up to 5,000 pounds. This is great for families who like to bring along a boat, camper, or trailer on their adventures. Overall, the Kia Telluride offers a well-rounded driving experience that combines comfort, performance, and practicality. It's a vehicle that's equally at home on city streets and open highways, making it a versatile choice for families with diverse needs.

Trim Levels and Value

The 2023 Kia Telluride is available in several trim levels, each offering a different combination of features and equipment to suit various budgets and needs. The base LX trim is well-equipped with standard features like a 12.3-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a suite of advanced safety features. The S trim adds features like leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a sunroof. The EX trim is a step up, with features like ventilated front seats, a power liftgate, and a wireless phone charger. The SX trim is the top-of-the-line model, with features like a premium audio system, a surround-view monitor, and a head-up display. There are also special editions like the Nightfall Edition and the Prestige Package, which add unique styling elements and premium features.

One of the things that makes the Telluride so appealing is its value. It offers a lot of features and space for the money, making it a great choice for families who are looking for a budget-friendly SUV. Compared to its competitors, the Telluride offers a similar level of features and quality at a lower price point. Kia also offers a generous warranty, which provides added peace of mind. When choosing a trim level, it's important to consider your needs and budget. The base LX trim is a great option for families who are looking for a basic but well-equipped SUV. The EX trim offers a good balance of features and value, while the SX trim is the way to go if you want all the bells and whistles. Overall, the Kia Telluride represents excellent value for money, offering a lot of features and space at a competitive price. With its various trim levels and available options, you can customize the Telluride to fit your specific needs and preferences.

Final Thoughts from a Car Mom

So, what's the final verdict from a car mom? The 2023 Kia Telluride is a top contender in the family SUV market for a reason. It offers a winning combination of space, comfort, technology, safety, and value. It’s a vehicle that can handle the daily grind of school drop-offs, grocery runs, and soccer practices, while also being comfortable and capable enough for long road trips. The Telluride is not without its minor drawbacks. Some may find the fuel economy to be average, and the base trim lacks some of the more desirable features. However, these are minor quibbles in an otherwise excellent package. If you're in the market for a three-row SUV, the Kia Telluride should definitely be on your list. It's a vehicle that's designed with families in mind, and it delivers on its promises. From its spacious interior and user-friendly technology to its advanced safety features and comfortable ride, the Telluride is a great choice for families who want a practical and stylish SUV. So, go ahead and give it a test drive – you might just find that it's the perfect vehicle for your family's needs!