Kia’s mid-size SUV has been named the winner in two categories of Kelley Blue Book’s 2020 Best Buy Awards and also took home Car and Driver’s 10 Best Trucks and SUV honors.
The three-row sport utility vehicle built in West Point, Georgia was evaluated for a year by Kelley Blue Book before being awarded the top spot for both Best New Model and 3-Row Midsize SUV segments. Kelley Blue Book evaluated more than 300 new models available for 2020 and analyzed a wide array of vehicle-related data, including vehicle pricing, five-year cost to own data, consumer reviews and vehicle sales information.
“The Telluride impressed everyone on the editorial team with its eye-catching styling, notable driving dynamics, all-inclusive list of standard features, and well-integrated safety technology,” said Michael Harley, executive editor for Kelley Blue Book. “Even more striking is the crossover’s extremely attractive price, which alludes that ‘value’ is the Telluride’s middle name.”
The MSRP on the Telluride begins at $31,690 for the LX edition, $33,990 for the S edition, $37,090 for the EX edition, and $41,490 for the SX edition.
The Telluride’s boxy exterior is complemented by luxurious interior accents, such as Nappa leather-trimmed upholstery and an available heated steering wheel. It can be outfitted with an array of advanced technology and safety systems, including standard Blind Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist Rear, Driver Attention Warning, Lane Keeping Assist, Rear Occupant Alert and more.
Car and Driver selected its 10 Best Trucks and SUVs based on value, driving dynamics and mission fulfillment out of vehicle nominees that were either all new or significantly updated.
“The Telluride is rare in how good it is,” said Sharon Silke Carty, Car and Driver editor-in-chief. “It spoils passengers with features, is quiet, responsive and smooth. It stands out in the crowded three-row SUV market.”
Michael Cole, president of Kia Motors America, said, “With more than 45,000 units sold since the Telluride’s launch earlier this year, our largest SUV ever has been on a winning streak, impressing journalists and consumers alike with its quality and value.”
Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia covers 2,200 acres and manufactures three models, the Telluride CUV, Sorento CUV and the Optima midsize sedan. The plant currently produces 340,000 vehicles a year with three shifts, operating 24 hours a day. It supplies 940 dealerships across the United States and Canada and ships vehicles around the globe.
