By its dimensions and classification, the Telluride stands above the Sorento in the model hierarchy. For now, the new model has the status of a concept and may undergo significant changes on its way to the assembly line. The name of the production car is also unclear. However, Kia's design studio notes that the prototype gives an idea of what a full-size seven-seat SUV from KIA might look like.
The interior and exterior of the Kia Telluride are the result of the work of Kia's American Design Center (KDCA), located in California. Compared to the current Kia Sorento, the Telluride concept is 11 cm taller, 12 cm wider, and 24 cm longer. It is built on a modified Sorento chassis with a wheelbase increased by 30 cm (308 cm).
The front of the Telluride features a noticeably enlarged version of Kia's traditional radiator grille, called the "tiger nose." The car's aggressive look is also enhanced by rectangular headlights, expressive horizontal LED turn signals, and a massive polished metal plate under the bumper.
The rear design of the crossover incorporates thin vertical taillights, and the solid appearance of the car is emphasized by dual exhaust tips.
The concept's doors open in opposite directions at 90 degrees, providing convenient access to the cabin.
The spacious interior allows the second-row seatbacks to be reclined almost horizontally, and they also have retractable footrests for greater comfort. The first and second-row seats are equipped with special sensors that collect information about the physiological state of the driver and passengers. These indicators are displayed on screens built into the inner door panels and are also synchronized with the Light Emitted Rejuvenation (LER) system.
The LER system is a large LED panel mounted on the car's headliner that emits therapeutic light to restore biorhythms and improve passenger well-being. Another unique technology of the Telluride concept is the Swipe Command system – a thin touch-sensitive interactive strip on the center console of the second row of seats that allows passengers to quickly select the desired media source with a simple hand gesture. The selected track will play through the seven speakers of the premium Harman Kardon® audio system or through portable Harman Kardon® headphones with wireless charging capability.
A special compartment in the front center console allows for wireless smartphone charging, and 3D-printed components, used for the first time in Kia models, give a bright and modern look to the instrument panel, door cards, and steering wheel.
The innovative hybrid powertrain of the Telluride concept, with the ability to recharge from an external power source, is activated by a button that responds to fingerprints. The 3.5-liter V6 gasoline engine with direct injection works in tandem with a powerful electric motor. They transmit their energy to an advanced all-wheel-drive system.
The total power of the two units is 400 horsepower (270 hp from the V6 gasoline engine and 130 hp from the electric motor), while average fuel consumption on the highway is 7.8 l/100 km. Kia Motors does not yet plan to turn the Telluride into a production model. However, the company's history includes several examples where new car models were very similar to previously shown concepts. Therefore, the appearance of a large premium crossover in Kia's lineup may become a reality in the near future.
