The Kia Telluride has quickly become one of the most sought-after midsize SUVs, thanks to its spacious interior, upscale features, and impressive reliability. Since its debut in 2020, the Telluride has earned numerous awards and accolades, making it a top contender in the three-row SUV segment. If you’re considering purchasing a used Kia Telluride, this guide will help you navigate the buying process, from model year comparisons to key features and pricing considerations.
Why Buy a Used Kia Telluride?
Purchasing a used Kia Telluride is an excellent way to get a high-quality, feature-rich SUV at a more affordable price. Here are some key benefits:
1. Excellent Resale Value
Despite being relatively new to the market, the Telluride has exceptional resale value, meaning it retains its worth better than many competitors. This makes it a solid investment, even when buying used.
2. High-Quality Features at a Lower Cost
A used Telluride allows buyers to enjoy premium features—like a luxurious interior, advanced technology, and strong safety ratings—at a lower price than buying new.
3. Spacious and Comfortable Cabin
The Telluride is known for its comfortable three-row seating, providing plenty of room for passengers and cargo. Whether you’re commuting or taking road trips, it offers ample legroom, upscale materials, and family-friendly convenience.
4. Strong Performance and Capability
All Kia Telluride models come equipped with a 3.8L V6 engine producing 291 horsepower, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. This ensures a smooth and powerful driving experience, whether you choose a front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD) model.
5. Top Safety Ratings
The Kia Telluride consistently earns high safety ratings, with standard features such as:
✔ Forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking
✔ Blind-spot monitoring
✔ Lane departure warning and lane-keeping assist
✔ Adaptive cruise control
These features make the Telluride one of the safest used SUVs on the market.
Used Kia Telluride Model Year Comparison
Since the Telluride launched in 2020, all used models will be relatively new. However, there are some differences between model years:
2020 Kia Telluride – First Model Year
- Introduced in LX, S, EX, and SX trims
- Standard 291-hp V6 engine
- 8-inch touchscreen (higher trims offer 10.25-inch)
- One of the most award-winning SUVs in its first year
2021 Kia Telluride – Minor Updates
- Larger 10.25-inch touchscreen now standard on all trims except base LX
- Remote engine start added to key fob
- Nightfall Edition package introduced for a sportier, blacked-out design
2022 Kia Telluride – Technology Upgrades
- Navigation and larger infotainment screen became standard across all trims
- Improved highway driving assist for semi-autonomous driving features
- Slightly refreshed Kia badging
2023 Kia Telluride – Mid-Cycle Refresh
- Updated grille and headlights for a modern look
- New X-Line and X-Pro trims added for off-road capabilities
- Enhanced driver assistance features
All model years offer excellent performance, safety, and reliability, but if you want the latest tech and styling, a 2022 or 2023 model might be the best option.
What to Look for When Buying a Used Kia Telluride
1. Mileage and Condition
- The lower the mileage, the better the deal in most cases.
- Check for any signs of excessive wear, accident history, or poor maintenance.
2. Vehicle History Report
- Always request a Carfax or AutoCheck report to verify the SUV’s history.
- Look for red flags like past accidents, multiple owners, or title issues.
3. Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) Options
- A Certified Pre-Owned Kia Telluride offers additional warranty coverage and undergoes a rigorous inspection.
- Buying CPO is often safer than purchasing from a private seller.
4. Trim Level and Features
Each Telluride trim offers different features, so choose one that fits your needs:
- LX (Base Trim) – Cloth seats, 8-inch touchscreen, basic safety features
- S – Upgraded captain’s chairs, sunroof, and roof rails
- EX – Leather seats, power liftgate, ventilated seats
- SX (Top Trim) – Premium audio, 360-degree camera, dual sunroofs
- X-Line/X-Pro (2023 models only) – Enhanced off-road capabilities
Where to Find a Used Kia Telluride for Sale
If you’re looking for a used Kia Telluride, consider the following options:
1. Kia Dealerships
- Best place to find Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) models
- Offers financing options, warranties, and trade-ins
2. Online Car Marketplaces
Websites like CarGurus, Autotrader, Cars.com, and Carvana provide thousands of listings with price comparisons.
3. Private Sellers
- Can be cheaper than dealerships, but requires careful inspection.
- Always request maintenance records and have a mechanic inspect the car.
4. Rental Car Sales and Auctions
- Some rental companies, like Hertz or Enterprise, sell used Tellurides at competitive prices.
- Government or fleet auctions may have well-maintained SUVs at lower prices.
How Much Does a Used Kia Telluride Cost?
Used Kia Telluride prices depend on the model year, trim, mileage, and condition. Here’s a rough price range:
- 2020 Models: $28,000 – $38,000
- 2021 Models: $32,000 – $42,000
- 2022 Models: $35,000 – $48,000
- 2023 Models: $40,000 – $55,000
Higher trims (EX, SX, and X-Line/X-Pro) will cost more than base models.
Tips for Getting the Best Deal on a Used Kia Telluride
✔ Compare Prices – Use Kelley Blue Book (KBB) or Edmunds to ensure you’re paying a fair price.
✔ Check for Dealer Incentives – Some dealerships offer financing specials or discounts on used inventory.
✔ Negotiate the Price – Don’t be afraid to ask for a lower price, especially if the SUV has minor wear and tear.
✔ Consider a CPO Model – May cost a bit more but includes warranty and extra inspections.
✔ Test Drive Before Buying – Make sure the Telluride runs smoothly and meets your expectations.
Final Thoughts
A used Kia Telluride is an excellent investment if you’re looking for a family-friendly, reliable, and feature-packed SUV. With its modern design, strong resale value, and advanced safety features, it’s no surprise that demand remains high.
Whether you’re buying from a dealership, online marketplace, or private seller, doing proper research, inspecting the vehicle, and negotiating smartly will help you get the best deal on a high-quality SUV.
If you find the right used Kia Telluride at a great price, you’ll be driving one of the best midsize SUVs on the road today. 🚙💨
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