For the 2022 Kia Telluride FWD with the 3.8L V6, remember 23 MPG combined. It sits squarely in the middle of the three-row SUV class. The Telluride doesn’t promise hybrid efficiency or diesel economy, and it doesn’t pretend to. Instead, it delivers spaciousness, comfort, and a broad range of features at a price point that makes its fuel consumption acceptable to its target demographic: families who prioritize value and practicality over outright fuel savings.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 20 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway for this specific Telluride configuration. The eight-speed automatic transmission plays a key role here, allowing the engine to stay in its most efficient range at various speeds. In urban environments, expect the stop-and-go nature of driving to pull your average down closer to that 20 MPG mark.

On longer highway trips, with consistent speeds, achieving or even slightly exceeding the 26 MPG rating is realistic, provided you aren’t consistently driving significantly above posted speed limits. The Telluride’s aerodynamic profile, while helpful, is still that of a large SUV, so wind resistance increases noticeably at higher speeds.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $1,900 for the 2022 Kia Telluride FWD 3.8L V6. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Your individual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use, and where you live. Fuel prices fluctuate considerably by region, so someone in California will likely spend significantly more than someone in Texas to cover the same distance. It’s still a useful benchmark to assess the Telluride’s running costs against competing vehicles.

Real-world expectations

Don’t expect miracles, but also don’t assume you’ll be chained to the gas pump. The 23 MPG combined rating is a reasonable reflection of what most drivers will experience in everyday use. Aggressive driving, frequent short trips, and heavy cargo loads will negatively impact fuel economy. Conversely, gentle acceleration, consistent speeds, and proper tire inflation will help you stay closer to the EPA estimates. Many owners report averages ranging from slightly below 23 MPG to occasionally exceeding it on long road trips. Understanding your driving style and adapting accordingly is the key to maximizing the Telluride’s fuel efficiency. You can explore TELLURIDE MPG across all years.

How it compares

Compared to its rivals, the Telluride’s fuel economy is competitive, but not class-leading. The Honda Pilot, in its front-wheel-drive configuration, achieves a similar 20 MPG city, 27 MPG highway. The Toyota Highlander V6 FWD is rated at 21 city and 29 highway, a slight edge, but at a potentially higher price point. The Ford Explorer, with its standard 2.3L EcoBoost engine and rear-wheel drive, achieves 21 city and 28 highway. For buyers considering all-wheel-drive versions, the Telluride’s fuel economy decreases slightly, but remains comparable to its AWD competitors from Honda and Toyota. Buyers of the Kia are usually cross-shopping these mainstream competitor brands, and the Telluride offers more standard features for the price. For more information on Kia’s broader lineup, see all Kia fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Smooth and steady acceleration is crucial. Avoid sudden bursts of speed, as these significantly increase fuel consumption. The Telluride’s V6 provides ample power, so there’s no need to push it hard to maintain a reasonable pace. Anticipate traffic flow and adjust your speed gradually to minimize braking. Use cruise control on the highway to maintain a consistent speed and optimize fuel economy.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure listed on the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which negatively impacts fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly, especially with changes in temperature. A simple tire pressure gauge can save you money at the pump over time.

Avoid unnecessary idling. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern engines are designed to restart quickly and efficiently; idling wastes fuel. The Telluride doesn’t have a dedicated start/stop system, so it’s up to the driver to minimize idling time.

Regular maintenance is essential for optimal fuel economy. Ensure your engine air filter is clean and replaced as needed. A clogged air filter restricts airflow, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule for oil changes, spark plug replacements, and other routine services.

Consider minimizing the use of accessories like air conditioning, especially during shorter trips. Air conditioning is essential for comfort in hot weather, but it does place an extra load on the engine. Using the air conditioning sparingly can result in a small but noticeable improvement in fuel economy.