Telluride Hybrid launches with a starting price of $48,035, above the non-hybrid

The starting price for the Telluride Hybrid is $48,035, with differences in trims, powertrain, and front-wheel drive/all-wheel drive compared to the non-hybrid models.

High price, but the new hybrid practice arrives with full force

Kia presented the second generation of the Telluride with an available hybrid option, inserting it into the lineup of a highly sought-after three-row SUV. The Telluride Hybrid starts at $48,035, a figure that is $7,300 above the cheapest non-hybrid version.

Why is the hybrid's price higher?

The large price difference comes from the trim structure. While the gasoline Telluride starts at the LX and S levels, the hybrid already starts at the EX.

For example, the non-hybrid Telluride EX starts at $45,335, meaning the hybrid EX costs only $2,700 more than the equivalent non-hybrid.

The hybrid comes standard with front-wheel drive, with the option for all-wheel drive for an additional $2,000.

Trims, prices, and availability

The hybrid Telluride lineup is leaner, with five trims, compared to the extensive total of ten for the gasoline version.

The second most affordable option is the SX, starting at $53,035; it is only available with the hybrid powertrain and front-wheel drive. To get all-wheel drive, you must choose the X-Line SX, with a starting price of $56,035.

At the top, the SX-Prestige and X-Line SX-Prestige models are priced at $58,135 and $59,135, respectively, and both are offered only with all-wheel drive.

Performance and capability

All Telluride Hybrids feature the 2.5-liter turbo powertrain, coupled with two electric motors, delivering 329 hp. The EX FWD achieves up to 35 mpg combined, according to the EPA, and the hybrid can tow up to 4500 pounds.

The non-hybrid Tellurides are already in dealerships, and the hybrid should arrive soon.

Which version would you choose: hybrid or non-hybrid? Leave your opinion in the comments and explain what catches your attention most in this comparison.