With the V6 officially retired, the 2027 model year offers two very different driving experiences. Here is the breakdown of the pros and cons for each to help you decide which belongs in your garage.
2.5L Turbocharged Gasoline (Standard)
2.5L Turbo-Hybrid (HEV)
The Bottom Line: Is the Hybrid Worth the Extra Cost?
For many, the decision comes down to the "Payback Period". Based on current Florida gas prices (~$3.30/gal) and an average of 12,000 miles per year, here's how the math shakes out:
2027 Telluride FAQ: Everything You Need to Know
Q: Why did Kia get rid of the V6 engine?
A: The shift to the 2.5L Turbocharged 4 cylinder was driven by fuel economy regulations and the need for higher low-end torque. While we lose the "smoothness" of a V6 (which is also less smooth than the V8s we've lost over the years - think Kia Borrego), the new Turbo engine provides 49 lb-ft more torque than the old 3.8L, which makes the Telluride feel much more responsive when merging or passing.
Q: Does the Hybrid require a plug?
A: No. The 2027 Telluride Hybrid is a traditional "closed" hybrid (HEV). It charges its own battery through regenerative braking and engine power. You just fill it with gas and go - no charging stations required.
Q: Why is the Hybrid towing capacity lower?
A: To protect the 6 speed automatic transmission and the electric motors from excessive heat, Kia has capped the Hybrid at 4,500 lbs. If you frequently tow heavy trailers or campers near the 5,000 lb limit, the Gas 2.5T (especially the X-Pro trim) remains the better choice.
Q: What happened to the 8 speed transmission in the Hybrid?
A: The Hybrid uses a specialized 6 speed automatic because it's better suited to integrating with the electric motor system. The Gas 2.5T continues to use the 8 speed automatic.
Q: Does the new 2027 use Regular or Premium gas?
A: Like most modern turbo engines, Kia recommends 87 octane (Regular) for both models. However, some owners find that using 91+ (Premium) can slightly improve performance and efficiency in extreme heat - perfect for those of us down here in Florida.
Q: Is there a 2026 Telluride?
A: No. Kia skipped the 2026 model year for the Telluride to focus on this major 2027 redesign. If you're shopping today, you’ll be looking at either a leftover 2025 (V6) or the new 2027 (Turbo/Hybrid).
2.5L Turbocharged Gasoline (Standard)
- PRO: Towing Capacity. Maintains the full 5,000 lb rating (5,500 lbs on X-Pro trims).
- PRO: Simplicity. Fewer components than the Hybrid system, which may appeal to long term owners.
- PRO: 8 Speed Transmission. Maintains the familiar shifting logic many preferred in the previous generation.
- CON: Fuel Economy. While it has more torque than the V6, the MPG gains are marginal (~22 MPG combined).
2.5L Turbo-Hybrid (HEV)
- PRO: Incredible Efficiency. A massive jump to an estimated 35 MPG combined.
- PRO: Instant Torque. Electric assist makes it the most powerful Telluride yet (329 hp / 339 lb-ft).
- PRO: Range. Capable of hitting 600+ miles on a single tank.
- CON: The "Hybrid Premium". Expect to pay roughly $4,000 - $5,000 more upfront compared to the gas version.
- CON: Towing Penalty. The Hybrid is capped at 4,500 lbs.
The Bottom Line: Is the Hybrid Worth the Extra Cost?
For many, the decision comes down to the "Payback Period". Based on current Florida gas prices (~$3.30/gal) and an average of 12,000 miles per year, here's how the math shakes out:
| Model | Est. Annual Fuel Cost | Annual Savings | Break-Even Point |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2027 Gas (22 MPG) | ~$1,800 | — | — |
| 2027 Hybrid (35 MPG) | ~$1,130 | $670 | ~6–7 Years |
2027 Telluride FAQ: Everything You Need to Know
Q: Why did Kia get rid of the V6 engine?
A: The shift to the 2.5L Turbocharged 4 cylinder was driven by fuel economy regulations and the need for higher low-end torque. While we lose the "smoothness" of a V6 (which is also less smooth than the V8s we've lost over the years - think Kia Borrego), the new Turbo engine provides 49 lb-ft more torque than the old 3.8L, which makes the Telluride feel much more responsive when merging or passing.
Q: Does the Hybrid require a plug?
A: No. The 2027 Telluride Hybrid is a traditional "closed" hybrid (HEV). It charges its own battery through regenerative braking and engine power. You just fill it with gas and go - no charging stations required.
Q: Why is the Hybrid towing capacity lower?
A: To protect the 6 speed automatic transmission and the electric motors from excessive heat, Kia has capped the Hybrid at 4,500 lbs. If you frequently tow heavy trailers or campers near the 5,000 lb limit, the Gas 2.5T (especially the X-Pro trim) remains the better choice.
Q: What happened to the 8 speed transmission in the Hybrid?
A: The Hybrid uses a specialized 6 speed automatic because it's better suited to integrating with the electric motor system. The Gas 2.5T continues to use the 8 speed automatic.
Q: Does the new 2027 use Regular or Premium gas?
A: Like most modern turbo engines, Kia recommends 87 octane (Regular) for both models. However, some owners find that using 91+ (Premium) can slightly improve performance and efficiency in extreme heat - perfect for those of us down here in Florida.
Q: Is there a 2026 Telluride?
A: No. Kia skipped the 2026 model year for the Telluride to focus on this major 2027 redesign. If you're shopping today, you’ll be looking at either a leftover 2025 (V6) or the new 2027 (Turbo/Hybrid).
