The 2023 Kia Telluride FWD with the 3.8L V6 gets 23 MPG combined. This figure won’t win any efficiency awards, but Telluride buyers accept this trade-off for spacious three-row seating, a comfortable ride, and many features at a good price. This isn’t a vehicle bought for exceptional fuel economy; it’s bought for its practicality and value. Owners are typically families who prioritize space and features over outright efficiency.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the Telluride at 20 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go nature of urban driving, placing a higher demand on fuel as the engine works harder to accelerate the Telluride’s weight from a standstill. The highway rating of 26 MPG is respectable, demonstrating the V6 engine’s ability to cruise efficiently at consistent speeds. The eight-speed automatic transmission also plays a role, selecting higher gears to keep engine RPMs low, minimizing fuel consumption on long highway stretches. Remember that driving style will affect fuel economy. Aggressive acceleration and speeding will decrease fuel economy, while smooth, consistent driving will help maximize it.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA says the average annual fuel cost for the 2023 Kia Telluride FWD is $1,900. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and assumes the use of regular unleaded gasoline at the national average fuel price. Your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, the type of driving you do, and local fuel prices. If you mostly drive in the city and tend to drive aggressively, your fuel cost will be more than $1,900. If you drive mostly highway miles with a more relaxed style, your fuel costs will most likely be less than $1,900.

Real-world expectations

The EPA estimates provide a standardized baseline, but real-world MPG often differs. Many Telluride owners average around 21-24 MPG in mixed driving conditions. Factors include driving style, terrain, and cargo load. Keeping up with manufacturer-recommended maintenance, such as tire inflation and oil changes, can also help maintain optimal fuel efficiency. Treat that 23 MPG combined figure as a benchmark, not a guarantee. You may find it’s higher or lower.

How it compares

The Telluride’s fuel economy is in the middle of its competitive segment. The Toyota Highlander V6, for example, achieves an EPA-estimated 25 MPG combined, making it slightly more fuel-efficient. The Honda Pilot with its V6 engine delivers similar fuel economy, around 22 MPG combined. The Ford Explorer, depending on configuration, can range from 21 MPG to 24 MPG. The EcoBoost options deliver better numbers than the older V6 engines, although they require drivers to use premium fuel to realize these numbers. For buyers who need the space and utility of a large SUV, the Telluride provides a reasonable compromise, its 23 MPG shows that a three-row SUV doesn’t have to break the bank. See other all Kia fuel economy data to see how the Telluride compares to other Kia models, or research TELLURIDE MPG across all years to see if older models have better fuel economy.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The 3.8L V6 in the Telluride responds well to smooth, predictable driving. Avoid sudden acceleration and braking, as this wastes fuel. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a consistent speed when possible. Accelerating and decelerating gradually uses less fuel. Aggressive driving significantly reduces fuel economy, especially in a large SUV like the Telluride.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the levels recommended on the tire placard, typically on the driver’s side doorjamb. This is an easy way to save gas and improve handling.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Hauling extra cargo places a greater demand on the engine. Remove any items from your Telluride that you don’t need, especially heavier objects. Even a few extra pounds can impact fuel economy, particularly in city driving. Overloading the vehicle will cause decreased fuel economy. If towing, maintain proper tire inflation and drive slowly.

Think about using cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a constant speed with cruise control can help optimize fuel efficiency on long drives. Avoid using cruise control in hilly areas, as the vehicle may downshift frequently, negating any potential fuel savings. For maximum efficiency, apply slight pressure to the accelerator pedal.

Minimize idling. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Modern engines are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, and idling consumes fuel without moving the vehicle. Many newer vehicles will start and stop automatically when stopped.