Auto NSider | 2021 KIA Telluride SX Nightfall Edition

When I tested my first Telluride two years ago, most of the questions I got were “Hmmm…I like that…What is it”?

Now the questions are usually just “How do you like it and what does it cost”?

Yes, while a few folks still think that the Telluride is a six-figure European import, most of America by now has seen those distinctive rectangular amber driving lights coming toward them and is catching on to the fact that KIA’s Telluride is fast becoming one of KIA’s top selling vehicles.

Why?

All the same reasons that have made KIA’s other models such a growing force in today’s marketplace…solid value for the price.

All Tellurides get a 3.8 liter, 291 HP six cylinder with an 8-speed automatic that has the muscle to tow up to 5,000 lbs.

And all Tellurides have three rows capable of seating 7 or 8.

Plus all Tellurides have USB ports in all three rows, 10.25” touch screens, 1-touch sliding and folding second-row seats, and standard front and rear collision detection and avoidance systems…along with KIA’s “Safe Rear Exit” alert.   It’ll warn you if a rear passenger is opening their door in the path of on-coming traffic.

And all of this is yours for under 34 thousand.

Want more?

Just $2,500 more gets you 20” alloys, a heated power drivers’ seat, wireless charging and roof rails.

Need leather?   You’re still under 40 thousand with heated and ventilated leather, and a power rear lift gate.

Are you beginning to see why KIA’s Telluride is in such high demand?

But not content to simply be in the running for “most popular / most likely to succeed, KIA has upped the ante this year with their new SX “Nightfall Edition”.

It’s a serious-looking level of trim.   20” black alloys, black grille and gloss black trim.

With the Nightfall Edition added to our upscale SX version, there wasn’t much missing.   We enjoyed Nappa leather, heated and ventilated second-row seating, a soft, sound-absorbing premium headliner, heads-up display, second-row captain’s chairs, rain-sensing wipers, a rear fixed sunroof to go with the front retracting roof, surround-view, Harman/Kardon audio, heated steering, and a tow-hitch and self-leveling suspension.

How much?   Just a bag or two of groceries over 50 thousand.

And it’s not just us…others seem to agree that the Telluride is an excellent value for the price.   Check their website for a complete list of awards, but one that stands out is the Telluride’s “Best Family 3-row SUV” accolades from US News and World Report.

Pretty impressive for a vehicle that’s only been on the market for two short years.