New Fortuner rival spotted again on roads; upon launch it’ll bring full new design, powertrain, features and improved comfort!

The popular Kia Telluride is gearing up for a major update with the upcoming 2026 facelift. Recently spotted testing under heavy camouflage, the SUV will retain its signature profile but bring sharper design elements, advanced tech, and possibly a hybrid powertrain for the first time. Here’s everything we know so far.

Design Updates

The upcoming Kia Telluride facelift has been spotted testing under heavy camouflage. Spy shots confirm that the SUV will retain its familiar silhouette but with key design changes. The front grille shape looks similar to the current model but now features a fresh mesh pattern. One of the most noticeable updates includes new dual vertical LED DRLs, with a matching design for the rear LED tail-lamps—both connected via a sleek LED strip.

Sharper design elements are visible, especially where the A-pillar meets the roofline. The rear section has a more boxy design, moving away from the rounded look of the current Telluride. Side profile changes include newly designed 18-inch alloy wheels, likely borrowed from the mid-spec variants of the Kia Syros.

Interior details haven’t been revealed yet, but the 2026 Telluride is expected to get a massive 30-inch curved panoramic display—similar to the one in the Kia EV9.

Hybrid Powertrain Expected

Currently, the Kia Telluride sold uses a 3.8L V6 engine producing 287 bhp, offered with both FWD and AWD options. For 2026, Kia is planning to introduce a hybrid variant of the Telluride for the first time.

Russell Wager, Vice President of Marketing at Kia America, has confirmed that the company is evaluating between a regular hybrid and a plug-in hybrid (PHEV). However, only one option will be offered—not both. This decision supports Kia’s larger EV and hybrid push to meet growing demand for fuel-efficient SUVs.

Features

Kia offers tons of features with Telluride like dual sunroof, powered front seats, ventilated and heated seats for both front and 2nd row captain seats, dual-zone temperature control, Powered Tailgate, Heads-up Display, Digital Inside Rear View Mirror, and so on.

Will it Launch in India?

At the moment, there are no official plans from Kia to launch the Telluride in India and it’s unlikely we’ll see the SUV in India any time soon.