Kia’s Telluride Lands on Newsweek’s List of Most-Anticipated New Cars for 2026

Newsweek spotlights the Telluride after Kia America announcement

Kia America said this week that Newsweek included the 2027 Kia Telluride on its list of “Most-Anticipated New Cars of 2026.” The company framed the recognition in a short press release from its public relations office, noting that although the model carries a 2027 model year badge, it is being marketed and talked about as one of the most-anticipated vehicles for 2026. The mention in Newsweek adds another public note to a rollout Kia has been previewing through official channels and dealer updates.

What’s new with the Telluride and why buyers care

The Telluride is Kia’s mid-size SUV that many families and buyers choose for space and comfort. For the 2027 model, Kia has signaled updates that are mostly evolutionary rather than a full remake. Public previews and company statements point to refreshed styling, with a cleaner front end and some new wheel and trim choices to modernize the look.

Inside, expect modest tech and comfort boosts: newer infotainment screens in higher trims, updated driver-assist and safety features, and small upgrades to materials and seat layouts. Kia also hints at powertrain tweaks aimed at smoothing performance and improving efficiency, though full engine or hybrid details are not yet official. In short, the 2027 Telluride keeps the roomy, family-focused shape buyers like, while polishing design and adding a few tech touches.

For shoppers, the appeal is familiar: a roomy cabin, straightforward technology, and a reputation for good value in the mid-size SUV segment. The changes are designed to keep the Telluride feeling fresh without reinventing the formula that made it popular.

Why being on Newsweek’s list matters in today’s SUV market

Lists like Newsweek’s matter because they shape early buzz. When a mainstream outlet flags a model as “most-anticipated,” it gets shoppers talking, dealers paying attention, and social media posts spreading specs and photos. That buzz can lift awareness at a time when many buyers begin planning their next vehicle.

The U.S. SUV market is crowded. The Telluride competes with other mid-size three-row models from established names and newer entries trying to win family buyers. In recent years, the Telluride helped Kia gain traction by offering space, simple features, and solid value. Public sales trends over past model cycles showed the Telluride helped lift Kia’s SUV lineup in two ways: by attracting buyers who needed passenger space, and by improving the brand’s reputation in a key category.

Being on a high-profile list won’t guarantee big sales gains, but it can be a useful nudge. For some buyers who were comparing models, an editorial shout-out can tip interest toward a test drive or a waitlist for new trims.

What this recognition could mean for Kia

For Kia, the Newsweek mention is a marketing win with low cost. It gives the brand a fresh talking point as it prepares to show more official details, and it helps dealers by driving early consumer attention. Recognition like this nudges the Telluride from “another mid-size SUV” to “one to watch,” which supports Kia’s broader aim of moving upmarket in buyers’ minds.

That said, the mention is not proof of future sales. The real test will be how official specs, pricing, and availability line up with buyers’ expectations. At this stage, the recognition is best seen as positive publicity that can amplify Kia’s own rollout messaging.

How buyers can follow the Telluride rollout

Kia has not yet released full specifications, pricing, or official sales dates for all trims. The company’s press page and dealer announcements are the places where those confirmed details will appear first. News outlets like Newsweek and major auto media will also publish hands-on previews and test drives as Kia releases more information.

If you’re watching because you might buy, expect official pricing and availability to be announced closer to dealer shipments. Dealers sometimes open order banks or take reservations for new-model launches; that will vary by location and by how Kia chooses to allocate early production. For now, the practical step is simple: watch Kia’s official communications for the full spec sheet, look for regional dealer updates if you want to be notified, and pay attention to test-drive reviews once media cars become available.

In short, the Newsweek pick gives the Telluride an early boost in attention. The next few weeks should bring clearer technical details and timing from Kia that will show how big that boost might be for shoppers and dealers alike.

Sources

• prnewswire.com