When the Kia Telluride first rolled up on auto-show floors last year, it was an instant hit. Its disciplined lines and sophisticated detailing gave it presence, and its Chevy- and Volkswagen-shaming interior proved that Kia was a force to be reckoned with in the three-row SUV class.

Kia hasn’t made any 88-98 chevy truck roll bar changes to the Telluride for 2024, but it did give X-Line and X-Pro trims some new exterior highlights to set them apart. Inside, a revamped 12.3-inch touchscreen now organizes climate controls into clearly labeled pods instead of burying them in menus like the old design did. And a pair of USB-C ports sprouting in place of the regular ones in the backs of the front seats should make it easier to charge devices while the kids are in back.

Turbocharging Your Kia Telluride: All About Turbo Kit Options

The big Telluride’s Achilles heel remains its 291-hp, naturally aspirated V-6. It’s smooth and refined, but it can feel a bit lethargic when you want to accelerate quickly, and its fuel economy isn’t the best in the segment. A lack of hybrid or electric powertrain options is another sour note, though the Telluride can tow up to 5,500 pounds.

Fortunately, it does most things well enough to be our top-recommended choice in this class. The cabin is spacious and serene, with three rows of seating that are all big enough for adults. The safety tech is top-notch, and the driving experience aims for a balance between comfort and confidence. Kia’s chassis tuning wins are especially significant, as the Telluride doesn’t drive as large as its sizable dimensions would suggest.