22 MPG combined makes the 2025 Kia Telluride FWD a pragmatic choice for the family on the go, a figure that doesn’t surprise anyone who understands the vehicle’s mission. This isn’t a vehicle designed for segment-leading efficiency; it’s engineered to deliver spacious three-row comfort, strong capability, and good value. The 3.8-liter V6, paired with its smooth eight-speed automatic transmission, provides the kind of confident, unlabored power that owners prioritize when hauling a full complement of passengers and cargo. It’s part of a well-rounded package that delivers exactly what buyers expect from a modern family hauler, consistent performance with a fuel economy figure that is competitive, if not groundbreaking, for its class.

City and highway performance

Breaking down the Telluride FWD’s 22 MPG combined, we see honest numbers: 20 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. The city figure of 20 MPG is entirely respectable for a large, naturally aspirated V6 powering a substantial SUV. Owners spend significant time in urban and suburban environments, navigating school drop-offs, grocery runs, and daily commutes. In these stop-and-start conditions, the Telluride’s engine and transmission work effectively to manage its mass, providing smooth acceleration without feeling strained. On the highway, the 26 MPG is where the Telluride truly shines for long-haul family trips. The eight-speed automatic intelligently selects gears to keep the V6 operating efficiently at cruising speeds, contributing to a relaxed and economical journey. This balance between city efficiency and highway capability is precisely what the target buyer demands, a vehicle that performs reliably in varied driving scenarios without excessive thirst.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2025 Kia Telluride FWD 3.8L 6-cyl at $2,000. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, split between city and highway driving, using an assumed national average fuel price. For Telluride owners, this $2,000 annual expenditure is a known quantity, a part of the total cost of ownership they’ve likely factored into their budget. It reflects the reality of powering a spacious, capable three-row SUV with a naturally aspirated V6. Buyers in this segment are typically less sensitive to marginal differences in fuel economy compared to compact car buyers; they focus more on overall utility, safety, comfort, and the price point of the vehicle itself. The Telluride’s overall value, including its warranty and feature set, often outweighs concerns about this specific fuel cost.

Real-world expectations

Drivers of the Kia Telluride FWD consistently find its real-world fuel economy to align closely with the EPA estimates. While lead-footed driving or heavy loads will naturally push the numbers down, a sensible driving style typically yields figures very close to the 20 MPG city and 26 MPG highway. The 3.8L V6 is not a high-strung engine; it delivers its power smoothly and predictably, encouraging a relaxed driving demeanor that inherently aids efficiency. Telluride buyers are families heading to soccer practice, loading up for a weekend getaway, or commuting comfortably. The engine’s strong low-end torque means it doesn’t need to rev excessively to get up to speed, which benefits stop-and-go efficiency. The aerodynamically tuned body and well-calibrated transmission contribute to steady highway performance. For a full look at all Kia models, browse all Kia fuel economy data.

How it compares

When placed against its direct competitors, the 2025 Kia Telluride FWD’s 22 MPG combined is right in the thick of the segment. The Honda Pilot FWD, for example, equipped with its 3.5L V6, achieves 22 MPG combined (19 city/27 highway), matching the Telluride’s overall efficiency. The Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid FWD, while a different powertrain approach, offers a significant leap at 36 MPG combined, but at a higher price point and with a different driving character. A more direct competitor, the Mazda CX-90 3.3 Turbo S Premium Plus FWD, with its inline-six mild-hybrid, delivers 25 MPG combined (23 city/28 highway), slightly besting the Telluride, but again, with a different powertrain philosophy and price tag. The Subaru Ascent, with its 2.4L turbo-four and standard AWD, manages 22 MPG combined (20 city/26 highway), identical to the Telluride’s numbers. This competitive parity highlights that the Telluride’s fuel economy is exactly where it needs to be to remain a top choice for buyers prioritizing space, features, and value. For specific numbers across all model years, check out TELLURIDE MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Maintaining proper tire inflation is important for any vehicle, and the Telluride is no exception. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and reducing your effective MPG. Check your tire pressures monthly, ensuring they match the recommended psi found on the sticker inside your driver’s side door jamb.

Smooth acceleration and braking can dramatically improve your fuel economy. The Telluride’s V6 provides ample power, so there’s no need to aggressively launch from every stoplight. Anticipate traffic and aim for gentle, progressive acceleration and deceleration to keep the engine operating efficiently.

Use the Telluride’s cruise control on highway stretches. Maintaining a consistent speed prevents unnecessary acceleration and braking, which are significant fuel consumer actions. For optimal efficiency, aim for speeds within posted limits; resistive drag increases exponentially with speed.

Avoid carrying unnecessary weight. Every extra pound the Telluride has to move increases fuel consumption. Regularly clear out the cargo area and remove rooftop carriers or bike racks when not in use, as these also create aerodynamic drag.

Regular maintenance, including oil changes and air filter replacements, ensures the 3.8L V6 operates at peak efficiency. A clogged air filter, for instance, can restrict airflow to the engine, causing it to work harder and consume more fuel. Follow Kia’s recommended service schedule diligently.