2026 Kia Telluride Looks Chiseled in New Spy Photos

Car and Driver

30-06-2025

We spotted a fleet of next-generation Kia Tellurides while they were out conducting towing tests.
Seen without bulky camouflage, the 2026 Telluride appears considerably more angular than the current model and sports a much more upright look.
The spy photos show two distinct trims, including what looks to be the new X-Pro model.
While having good looks wasn't the leading factor in landing the Kia Telluride on our 10Best list for six consecutive years, it certainly didn't hurt the three-row mid-size SUV's case. Now approaching its seventh model year, the Telluride is gearing up for a redesign, and a fleet of test models just gave us our best look yet at the SUV's new shape.
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Even covered in a camouflage wrap, the redesigned Telluride is clearly more angular and upright than the current generation. The side profile takes on a similar silhouette to the Rolls-Royce Cullinan, albeit with a shorter hood and a less aggressive taper for the rear glass.
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We spotted two distinct trims testing, including what looks to be the next version of the Telluride X-Pro. That model is wearing chunkier tires and comes with raised roof rails. The front bumpers are different, too, with the more rugged model sporting a chunky lattice pattern. The other model's grille wears simple vertical strakes. Both trims take on a more squared-off look, but the off-road model diverges by rocking recovery hooks.
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We also got our first look at some of the next-gen Telluride's more intricate details, with the gas-powered SUV adopting the electric EV9 SUV's flush door handles. The headlights and taillights are also new and take on a more modern look that, again, resembles the EV9. Both the headlights and taillights now incorporate vertical LED elements that further accentuate the redesigned SUV's upright design.
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Assuming the Telluride follows in lockstep with the new Hyundai Palisade, its platform mate, the Kia will gain a slightly longer wheelbase and slightly larger exterior dimensions. Given how close to production the test models look, we don't expect to wait long for the full reveal.
Jack Fitzgerald
Associate News Editor
Jack Fitzgerald's love for cars stems from his as yet unshakable addiction to Formula 1.
After a brief stint as a detailer for a local dealership group in college, he knew he needed a more permanent way to drive all the new cars he couldn't afford and decided to pursue a career in auto writing. By hounding his college professors at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, he was able to travel Wisconsin seeking out stories in the auto world before landing his dream job at Car and Driver. His new goal is to delay the inevitable demise of his 2010 Volkswagen Golf. Read full bio
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