The 2022 Kia Telluride AWD, with its 3.8L V6, gets a combined fuel economy of 21 MPG. While this isn’t the highest, it’s reasonable given that the Telluride is designed to haul families and their gear safely and comfortably in all weather. This three-row SUV is made for weekend trips and everyday tasks, not fuel efficiency competitions. The Telluride’s ideal buyer values interior space, safety features, and confidence in any weather more than saving every drop of gas.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the Telluride AWD at 19 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway. The city MPG reflects the stop-and-go traffic where the Telluride’s weight and naturally aspirated engine affect fuel consumption. The highway MPG is better, but aerodynamic drag increases significantly with speed. Driving at 75-80 mph will likely result in MPG closer to the combined figure than the highway estimate. The smooth-shifting 8-speed automatic transmission helps optimize fuel economy, but physics affects a vehicle of this size.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2022 Kia Telluride AWD at $2,100. This is calculated based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices, but it’s just an estimate. Your actual fuel costs will change based on your driving habits, driving type (city versus highway), and local fuel prices. Aggressive driving and higher fuel costs will increase that number, while gentle acceleration and cheaper gas can lower it.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA figures provide a starting point, real-world fuel economy often varies. Some owners see MPG slightly higher or lower than the official estimates, depending on their driving and conditions. Frequent short trips in heavy traffic will likely result in lower MPG, while longer highway trips at moderate speeds might produce better results.

The Telluride’s all-wheel-drive system also influences fuel economy. It mainly operates in front-wheel drive to save fuel, but it automatically engages all four wheels when needed, using more energy. Regular maintenance, like proper tire inflation and air filter replacement, will also help achieve the best fuel economy.

How it compares

The 2022 Kia Telluride AWD’s fuel economy is about average compared to other SUVs. The Toyota Highlander AWD gets a slightly better 24 MPG combined with its 3.5L V6, making it an option for buyers who want more fuel efficiency. If you’re interested in lower numbers across the Kia lineup, explore all Kia fuel economy data. The Honda Pilot AWD gets around 22 MPG combined, which is similar to the Telluride. A more powerful, luxurious option like the Acura MDX SH-AWD gets only around 21 MPG combined, highlighting the trade-offs between performance, luxury, and fuel efficiency in the three-row SUV category.

People interested in yearly data may want to view the TELLURIDE MPG across all years to understand its consistency over time. This comparison is important for Telluride buyers to contextualize the SUV’s fuel consumption within the market. Knowing how it compares to competitors helps manage expectations and highlights the compromises when choosing a vehicle like this.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Smooth and steady acceleration is important. The Telluride’s 3.8L V6 provides plenty of power, so avoid pressing the gas pedal hard. Gentle acceleration saves fuel and reduces wear on the engine and drivetrain. Anticipate traffic and avoid sudden braking when you can.

Keep your tires properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, making the engine work harder and using more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly, especially when the temperature changes, and inflate them to the recommended pressure listed on the driver’s side doorjamb.

Avoid idling. Letting the engine idle for a long time wastes fuel. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, it’s more efficient to turn off the engine and restart it when you’re ready. This is especially true in cold weather when the engine works harder to stay warm.

Reduce aerodynamic drag. Remove unnecessary items from the roof rack because they create drag and reduce fuel economy. Also, drive at a consistent speed on the highway. Using cruise control can help maintain a steady pace and avoid unnecessary acceleration and braking.

Carefully select drive modes. The Telluride offers various drive modes, including “Eco” and “Comfort.” These modes may slightly improve fuel economy in some cases, but they can also reduce performance. Considering the driving conditions and your priorities, use them wisely.