Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2025 Kia Telluride Base
The 2025 Kia Telluride Base is a suv that earns a Carivo score of 8.2/10 — rated Recommended. Its strongest dimension is Safety at 8.7/10, while Performance at 7.2/10 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. The reliability picture is solid rather than spectacular: 7.8/10, which puts it comfortably above the class median. On safety, it scores 8.7/10 in our assessment. Always confirm the official crash-test results for your exact trim at nhtsa.gov/ratings.
With 7.2/10 for performance, this is a car tuned for daily driving rather than excitement — perfectly capable on the commute, unremarkable on a back road. On technology it rates 8.4/10: a modern, well-integrated suite that compares favorably with anything at this price point.
Priced from $38,202–$49,223, 24 MPG, seating 8, the Kia Telluride Base sits in the mid-market bracket of the suv segment. At 7.7/10 for value, it delivers fair pricing for what's on offer, though the best alternatives in this price range score slightly higher. At 1 year old, it's recent enough that the core feature set holds up well against current competition.
Verdict: Nothing about the 2025 Kia Telluride Base will scare a sensible buyer off. It scores consistently across the board, and it does what a good suv should — quietly and competently.
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 2025 Kia Telluride Base ranks #29 of 2454 suvs in the Carivo database — better than 99% of the segment. Its 8.2/10 overall score is 0.8 points above the segment average of 7.4/10. Its $38,202 starting price is about 6% above the segment's median of $36,079.
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?
Smart-money pick: the 2022 Kia Telluride Base scores 8.1/10 — within striking distance of the 2025's 8.2 — and starts roughly $3,500 lower. If you don't need the newest model year, that's money better spent on a higher trim or kept in your pocket.
Above-average reliability record with solid owner satisfaction data
Top-tier safety scores across crash tests and driver-assistance tech
Good overall value; holds its own against pricier alternatives in the segment
Modern, intuitive tech suite with wireless connectivity and up-to-date ADAS
Versatile body style handles daily commuting and weekend adventures equally well
✗ Where it falls short
Driving dynamics are adequate but uninspiring; not the choice for enthusiast drivers
Brand resale values vary — check current market data before committing
Common Questions — 2025 Kia Telluride Base
Is the 2025 Kia Telluride Base reliable?
We rate the 2025 Kia Telluride Base's reliability 7.8/10 — above the middle of the pack for this class.
Is the 2025 Kia Telluride Base worth buying?
It scores 8.2/10 overall, ranking #29 of 2454 suvs in our database (better than 99% of the segment). A solid choice for most buyers — compare it against the segment leaders before deciding.
How much does the 2025 Kia Telluride Base cost?
The 2025 Kia Telluride Base starts at $38,202 and ranges up to $49,223 across trims (MSRP when new). At 24 MPG, expect roughly $2,188/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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