23 MPG combined isn’t going to win any fuel economy awards, but it accurately reflects the compromise in owning a 2021 Kia Telluride. This large, three-row SUV prioritizes space, comfort, and value. Families with multiple children and active lifestyles often accept this fuel consumption as the cost for a vehicle that can comfortably haul people and gear.

City and highway performance

The 20 city MPG is where most Telluride owners will notice it most. Stop-and-go traffic, school drop-offs, and errands around town are where this big SUV spends much of its time. The 3.8L V6, while smooth and responsive, needs to work to move the Telluride’s weight. On the open road, the 26 highway MPG is better. Long road trips, a common scenario for Telluride owners packing the family for vacation, benefit from the efficient 8-speed automatic transmission which allows the engine to cruise at lower RPMs.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2021 Kia Telluride FWD at $1,900. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% of those miles driven in the city and 45% on the highway, using national average fuel prices at the time of calculation. Individual fuel costs will vary based on driving habits and local fuel prices, but this provides a benchmark for prospective buyers to understand the potential financial commitment of owning a Telluride. While the initial purchase price of the Telluride is attractive, fuel costs become a significant factor over the long term. Checking all Kia fuel economy data allows owners to see how the Telluride compares to other models in their lineup.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a standardized measurement, real-world fuel economy can vary depending on driving habits, terrain, and weather conditions. Aggressive acceleration, frequent hard braking, and consistently driving at higher speeds will all negatively impact fuel efficiency. Owners who live in hilly areas or frequently encounter strong winds will likely see lower MPG figures than those driving on flat terrain in good weather. Watching how you drive is important to reaching the quoted figures.

How it compares

The Telluride’s fuel economy is competitive, but not the best in its class. For example, the Honda Pilot FWD achieves a slightly better 23 MPG combined (20 city / 27 highway). The Toyota Highlander V6 FWD matches the Telluride’s 23 MPG combined (21 city / 29 highway), but the Highlander Hybrid gets 36 MPG combined. The Ford Explorer with its base 2.3L EcoBoost engine manages 24 MPG combined (21 city/ 28 highway). These differences, while small, can add up over the vehicle’s lifespan. The Telluride attracts buyers who want interior space, features, and overall value more than great fuel efficiency, but it’s important to understand the competition. Prospective owners should evaluate TELLURIDE MPG across all years to identify potential trends.

Tips to maximize efficiency

One of the easiest ways to improve fuel economy is to adopt a smoother driving style. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a consistent speed when possible. This reduces the amount of fuel wasted during rapid acceleration and deceleration, helping to improve both city and highway MPG.

Proper tire inflation is critical for good fuel efficiency. Check your tire pressure regularly, at least once a month, and make sure that they are inflated to the recommended pressure listed on the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, which forces the engine to work harder and burns more fuel.

Reduce excess weight in the vehicle. Carrying unnecessary cargo adds extra strain on the engine, reducing fuel economy. Remove items you don’t need from the trunk or cargo area, especially heavy objects. This is relevant for the Telluride, as its generous cargo space can easily become a place for items that rarely get used.

Minimize idling time. Idling consumes fuel without covering any distance. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. This is important in city driving, where drivers frequently encounter stoplights and traffic congestion. Restarting the engine uses less fuel than idling for an extended period.

Make sure your Telluride receives regular maintenance. A well-maintained engine operates more efficiently. Follow the recommended maintenance schedule for oil changes, air filter replacements, and tune-ups. Regular maintenance can prevent minor issues from becoming major problems that negatively impact fuel economy.