Kia, one of the oldest automakers in Korea, is well known for its reliable vehicles and innovation in technology. One of the company’s most popular and award-winning models - the Telluride will be available for the 2023 model year and the company has recently announced that the SUV can be had in either the X-Line or X-Pro variant as well.

The X-trims represent the upper levels of Kia’s offerings in regard to off-roading, rugged design, and adventure-ready features. Historically Kia has offered upgrades such as all-wheel-drive, roof racks, better seats, and even better ground clearance on the X-trim variants of various models.

The 2023 Kia Telluride, designed specifically for the market in the United States, is already pretty well-equipped, but according to the maker, the new trim levels will appeal to “drivers who enjoy going off the beaten path” and will enhance the existing upscale performance and feel of the SUV even further.

Let’s take a closer look at how Kia amps up the 2023 Telluride with X-Line and X-Pro variants!

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The 2023 Telluride X-Line Upgrades And Features

2023 Kia Telluride SX Prestige X-Line in exclusive Dawning Red Exterior Color
Kia

After debuting the new and appealing Telluride at the New York Auto Show, Kia revealed that they will be offering the mid-size SUV with both X-Line and X-Pro models just as they did with the Kia Sportage. Both packages spell out better off-road capabilities for the Telluride as well as a few other special additions.

The “X” models offer some similar perks such as a few interior luxuries on top of the Prestige iteration. Both come standard with all-wheel drive with improved capability. They are able to drive off-road in “comfort mode,” which allows for maximum traction and control as well.

The X-Line features a 0.4-inch higher ride, meaning a bit more ground clearance (although not much). It also comes equipped with a new tow mode, bigger roof rails, and a newly stylized grille. The enhanced approach and departure angles and center-locking differential make the SUV better equipped for more rugged terrain as well.

The alloy wheels will also be specific to the trim and boast 20-inch all-terrain tires and unique X-Line styling throughout the SUV. This styling includes X-Line embossed front seats, access to exclusive X-Line interior color choices, and more. Adding to the more rugged appearance are also high-utility roof rails.

The towing capacity on the X-Line upgrade increases, as does the cooling capability. The 3.8-liter V6 engine can pull up to 5,000 pounds on the X-Line. On top of the Prestige package, the SUV also receives an upgrade to a self-leveling suspension and comes with dual sunroofs, smart power tailgate, Nappa leather seat trim, a heated steering wheel, and a host of innovative technology.

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The 2023 Telluride X-Pro Variant Upgrades And Features

2023 Kia Telluride X-Pro
Kia

That same technology is available in the Prestige iteration of the X-Pro as well and includes Kia’s Drive Wise Drive Assist Technology package with automatic emergency braking technology with a pedestrian, cyclist, and junction turning detection, blind spot monitoring, evasive steering assist, rear cross-traffic collision avoidance assist, lane keeping technology, and great monitors that not only allow viewing of blind spots, but also a full surround view.

Other interior technology upgrades include 12.3-inch dual panoramic displays with included navigation, Kia Connect, and Sirius XM connected to a Harman Kardon audio system. A head-up display and digital key are also included along with smart cruise control, power front seats with memory function on the driver’s seat, and heated and ventilated first and second-row seats for ultimate comfort.

There are some unique upgrades beyond the Prestige trim available to the X-Pro as well. The X-Pro comes with its own set of unique alloy wheels, this time in 18-inch, with all-terrain tires. X-Pro styling is also found throughout the vehicle. The X-Pro boasts increased ground clearance, as well as increased approach and departure angles and high-utility roof rails, too.

The tow package comes with tow mode and has an increased capacity to move up to 5,500 lbs. It also comes with a self-leveling rear suspension for added assistance. Kia added a convenient 110-volt power inverter to the rear cargo area as well. The X-Pro variant also offers embossed front seats and exclusive access to X-Pro interior colors.

While the Kia Telluride SX Prestige X-Line will set you back $51,985 and the SX Prestige X-Pro will start at $52,985, the packages are also available on less pricey trim levels starting at the EX with X-Line, which has a starting MSRP of just $45,685. The X-Pro variant is not available on the EX trim, though, and only begins at the SX level, which retails for $49,085 without the Prestige additions. With a more rugged look and set-up better suited for off-roading and taking on more extreme terrains, the cost makes sense for the right buyer.

Overall, the success of the Kia Telluride already proves it to be a worthwhile SUV that is well-equipped and loved by many even at the base level. By following in the path of the Sportage and offering the X-Line and X-Pro upgrades to some trims, though, Kia has taken the Telluride up a notch and made it a better fit for those who wish to travel “off the beaten path.”

Source: Kia