The 2027 Kia Telluride Looks Like a Budget Range Rover That's Missing a Face
Kia’s well-loved SUV is getting a new look, though it’s an unusual one. The automaker recently released images of the next-generation Telluride, sparking mixed reactions among enthusiasts.
It’s always a thrill when a manufacturer unveils a model we haven’t seen before, especially from Kia, whose recent designs are known for being bold and expressive. Yet the first glimpse of this new Telluride left me uncertain — even uneasy — about its unusual front end.
The images showcase two trims: the X-Pro and the SXP. Each version leaves a memorable impression, but the X-Pro stands out for its broad expanse of matte black plastic dominating the fascia. This feature stretches from the lower bumper to the edge of the hood, typical for modern SUVs but exaggerated here.
“What really makes it odd, though, is how wide it is.”
This matte section extends into the area where headlights would normally sit. Instead, the headlights are surrounded by amber daytime running LEDs, while the actual projectors are placed in narrow vertical slots beside the inner DRLs, pushed to the edge of the grille — a design move that amplifies the Telluride’s peculiar expression.
Author’s Summary
The redesigned 2027 Kia Telluride surprises with its bold yet unsettling face, blending modern SUV toughness with an unconventional lighting setup.