The 2020 Kia Telluride AWD with the 3.8L V6 gets 21 MPG combined. This number will be acceptable or a deal-breaker, depending on your family’s needs. This isn’t a hyper-efficient hybrid, and it doesn’t try to be. It’s a large, comfortable, and capable three-row SUV designed for hauling people and cargo, a purpose that requires some trade-offs. If you need seating for eight and all-weather confidence, you know fuel costs are a factor. If you’re primarily concerned with maximizing MPGs, the Telluride probably isn’t on your shopping list anyway.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2020 Telluride AWD are 19 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway. The city figure is predictably lower because of stop-and-go driving, where the vehicle’s weight and the need to frequently accelerate from a standstill reduce efficiency. The highway figure is more respectable, reflecting the engine’s ability to cruise efficiently at steady speeds. The eight-speed automatic transmission helps by keeping the engine in its optimal power band. Drivers who spend a significant portion of their time commuting in congested areas will probably see figures closer to the city estimate, while those with longer highway commutes can expect to approach or even slightly exceed the highway number, if they resist the temptation to use all 291 horsepower for passing.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2020 Kia Telluride AWD at exactly $2,100. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with fuel prices reflecting national averages at the time of calculation. Remember that this is just an estimate. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of driving you do (city vs. highway), and gas price fluctuations. While $2,100 is a substantial amount, it’s important to consider that this is the cost of operating a large, capable SUV that provides a level of comfort and utility unavailable in smaller, more fuel-efficient vehicles.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized testing protocol, real-world fuel economy always varies. Some TELLURIDE MPG across all years will be better, but expect the numbers to be influenced by factors like driving style, load (passengers and cargo), tire pressure, and even weather conditions. Aggressive driving, especially frequent, hard acceleration, will significantly reduce fuel economy. Carrying a full load of passengers and luggage will decrease MPGs. Properly inflated tires are essential for optimal fuel efficiency, and cold weather can also negatively impact fuel economy because of increased engine friction and the use of auxiliary systems like the heater. Don’t expect the window sticker number to be the only number you ever see.

How it compares

The Kia Telluride competes against many other three-row SUVs. Compared to the Honda Pilot AWD, which offers around 20 MPG combined, the Telluride performs about the same. A Toyota Highlander V6 AWD gets around 22 MPG combined, giving it a slight edge. The Ford Explorer, depending on the engine choice, can achieve similar or slightly lower figures. The base Explorer EcoBoost AWD, is rated at around 23 MPG combined. The Chevrolet Traverse AWD comes in very close, with similar EPA estimates. This comparison matters because buyers in this segment typically prioritize space, features, and overall value. Fuel economy is a consideration, but it’s balanced against the other attributes a large SUV provides, all these vehicles are in the same range.

You can always view all Kia fuel economy data on this site.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration. The Telluride’s 3.8L V6 provides plenty of power, but stomping on the accelerator frequently wastes fuel. Gentle starts and smooth acceleration will help you conserve fuel without sacrificing too much performance.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Check your tires regularly and inflate them to the recommended pressure listed on the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Maintaining the correct pressure improves handling and extends tire life too.

Minimize idling. If you anticipate stopping for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Modern engines are designed to be restarted frequently without causing excessive wear and tear. Idling burns fuel without covering any distance.

Lighten the load. Remove any unnecessary items from the vehicle. Extra weight increases fuel consumption, so clearing out any clutter in the cargo area or passenger compartment can make a noticeable difference over time. Don’t use your Telluride as mobile storage.

Use cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a steady speed on the highway minimizes fluctuations in engine RPM, which improves fuel economy. Cruise control does the work for you and can help prevent unintentional speeding, a major contributor to poor MPGs.