Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2021 Kia Telluride Base
Our scoring places the 2021 Kia Telluride Base at 8.1/10 overall, which translates to a Recommended rating for this suv. Its strongest dimension is Performance at 8.9/10, while Technology at 6.5/10 is where it trails the competition most noticeably. It's a solid all-rounder that delivers across most dimensions without obvious deal-breakers.
Reliability and safety are the two dimensions that matter most for long-term ownership costs. We score reliability at 8.1/10 — better than most direct rivals, if short of the segment's best. The safety score of 7.6/10 is solid mid-pack territory. If advanced driver aids matter to you, compare standard equipment carefully and verify ratings at nhtsa.gov.
Performance is a genuine highlight at 8.9/10. The Kia Telluride Base delivers engaging driving dynamics — responsive handling, meaningful power delivery, and a drivetrain that rewards spirited driving without sacrificing daily usability. Technology scores 6.5/10 — the infotainment and driver-assist features feel dated against current-generation rivals. This is worth weighing if you prioritize connected features or modern safety tech.
Priced from $33,751–$41,179, 20 MPG, seating 8, the Kia Telluride Base sits in the mid-market bracket of the suv segment. Value is where it presses its advantage — 8.5/10, meaning the feature set and quality outrun the asking price. At 5 years old, it's worth checking whether a newer generation or refresh has addressed any weaker dimensions — compare it to the current model year before buying.
Our take: The 2021 Kia Telluride Base is a solid, well-rounded suv that covers the essentials without obvious deal-breakers. The main caveat is technology — worth checking if those dimensions are priorities for you. For most buyers in this segment, it's a safe, dependable choice.
Carivo scores are our own editorial assessment, informed by NHTSA safety and recall records, EPA fuel-economy figures, and manufacturer-published specifications. Scores are reviewed periodically and updated when new data becomes available. See our full methodology →
How It Ranks Among SUVs
The 2021 Kia Telluride Base ranks #84 of 2454 suvs in the Carivo database — better than 97% of the segment. Its 8.1/10 overall score is 0.7 points above the segment average of 7.4/10. Its $33,751 starting price undercuts the segment's median of $36,079 by about 6%.
Varies widely by driver and state — always quote the exact trim before buying
We only print costs we can compute from sourced data (EPA fuel economy, NHTSA recalls). We don't estimate maintenance or depreciation — anyone who gives you one number for those is guessing.
Which Telluride Base Year Should You Buy?
Across the Telluride Base model years we've scored, the 2021 holds its position — we didn't find an older year that delivers similar scores for meaningfully less money.
Above-average reliability record with solid owner satisfaction data
Strong safety ratings from NHTSA and independent testers
Exceptional value for money — high-quality features at a competitive price point
Engaging driving dynamics with class-leading power and handling
Versatile body style handles daily commuting and weekend adventures equally well
✗ Where it falls short
Tech suite is functional but lags behind segment-best options; some features cost extra
Fuel economy at 20 MPG is low — running costs will add up quickly
Common Questions — 2021 Kia Telluride Base
Is the 2021 Kia Telluride Base reliable?
We rate the 2021 Kia Telluride Base's reliability 8.1/10 — one of the stronger records in its class.
Is the 2021 Kia Telluride Base worth buying?
It scores 8.1/10 overall, ranking #84 of 2454 suvs in our database (better than 97% of the segment). A solid choice for most buyers — compare it against the segment leaders before deciding.
How much does the 2021 Kia Telluride Base cost?
The 2021 Kia Telluride Base starts at $33,751 and ranges up to $41,179 across trims (MSRP when new). At 20 MPG, expect roughly $2,625/year in fuel at 15,000 miles/year.
Which Telluride Base years should you avoid?
No standout weak years: across the 6 Telluride Base model years we've scored, every year lands within half a point of the best (8.3/10). Pick on price and condition rather than year.
Owner Essentials — Kia Telluride Base
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More Kia Reviews
Explore the full lineup of Kia models scored by Carivo — ranked by overall score across reliability, safety, value, performance, and technology.
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