The Kia Telluride is a mid-size three-row crossover SUV that entered production in 2020 and has continued through the 2027 model year, which introduced a full redesign and an available turbo-hybrid powertrain. Towing capacity varies by model year, trim level, engine configuration, and whether a factory tow package is installed.
This guide covers year-by-year towing specifications for the Kia Telluride, including maximum trailer weight, payload, tongue weight limits, and hitch class requirements. Operating within manufacturer-rated towing limits is critical for protecting the transmission, braking system, and rear suspension under load.
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2027 Kia Telluride Towing Capacity
The 2027 model year introduced a full redesign with two distinct powertrain options: a standard 2.5L turbocharged gasoline engine and an available turbo-hybrid system. Towing capacity differs between these two configurations.
2027 Kia Telluride – Gas (2.5L Turbo)
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.5L Turbocharged Inline-4 |
| Horsepower / Torque | 274 hp / 311 lb-ft |
| Drivetrain | FWD / AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Approx. 1,565 lbs (710 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Refer to owner’s manual |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 500 lbs (227 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class III |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
2027 Kia Telluride – Turbo-Hybrid (HEV)
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.5L Turbo-Hybrid Inline-4 |
| Horsepower / Torque | 329 hp / 339 lb-ft |
| Drivetrain | AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 4,500 lbs (2,041 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 4,500 lbs (2,041 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Approx. 1,500 lbs (680 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Refer to owner’s manual |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 450 lbs (204 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class III |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2027 Kia Telluride gas model offers a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) when properly equipped with the optional tow package. The turbo-hybrid variant is rated at a lower 4,500 lbs (2,041 kg) due to the hybrid system’s architecture. An available self-leveling rear suspension system assists in maintaining stability under load for both configurations.
2026 Kia Telluride Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.8L Lambda II V6 |
| Horsepower / Torque | 291 hp / 262 lb-ft |
| Drivetrain | FWD / AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 5,500 lbs (2,495 kg) – X-Pro; 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) – all other trims |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Approx. 1,565 lbs (710 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Refer to owner’s manual |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 500 lbs (227 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class III |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
| Unbraked Towing Limit | 1,650 lbs (748 kg) |
The 2026 Kia Telluride carries the same 3.8L V6 powertrain used throughout the first generation, with a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) across standard trims. The X-Pro trim raises the maximum trailer weight to 5,500 lbs (2,495 kg) when the tow package is installed. Without a trailer-mounted brake system, the towing limit drops to 1,650 lbs (748 kg) on all trims.
2025 Kia Telluride Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.8L Lambda II V6 |
| Horsepower / Torque | 291 hp / 262 lb-ft |
| Drivetrain | FWD / AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 5,500 lbs (2,495 kg) – X-Pro; 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) – standard trims |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Approx. 1,565 lbs (710 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Refer to owner’s manual |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 500 lbs (227 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class III |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
| Unbraked Towing Limit | 1,650 lbs (748 kg) |
The 2025 Kia Telluride maintains the same towing specifications as the 2024 model. Standard trims with the 3.8L V6 and optional tow package reach a maximum trailer weight of 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg). The X-Pro trim retains its elevated rating of 5,500 lbs (2,495 kg) when properly equipped.
2024 Kia Telluride Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.8L Lambda II V6 |
| Horsepower / Torque | 291 hp / 262 lb-ft |
| Drivetrain | FWD / AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 5,500 lbs (2,495 kg) – X-Pro; 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) – standard trims |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Not rated (refer to owner’s manual) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Refer to owner’s manual |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 500 lbs (227 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class III |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
| Unbraked Towing Limit | 1,650 lbs (748 kg) |
The 2024 Kia Telluride offers a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) across most trims, including the LX, S, EX, EX X-Line, and SX. X-Pro and SX-Prestige X-Pro models with the factory tow package reach 5,500 lbs (2,495 kg). Tongue weight is rated at 500 lbs (227 kg) for both dead weight hitch and weight-distributing hitch setups.
2023 Kia Telluride Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.8L Lambda II V6 |
| Horsepower / Torque | 291 hp / 262 lb-ft |
| Drivetrain | FWD / AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 5,500 lbs (2,495 kg) – X-Pro; 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) – all other trims |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Approx. 1,565 lbs (710 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Refer to owner’s manual |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 500 lbs (227 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class III |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
| Unbraked Towing Limit | 1,650 lbs (748 kg) |
The 2023 model year was the first time Kia increased the Telluride’s maximum towing capacity above 5,000 lbs. The X-Pro trim with the factory tow package achieves a maximum trailer weight rating of 5,500 lbs (2,495 kg). All other 2023 trims retain the standard 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) braked towing limit.
2022 Kia Telluride Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.8L Lambda II V6 |
| Horsepower / Torque | 291 hp / 262 lb-ft |
| Drivetrain | FWD / AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Approx. 1,565 lbs (710 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Refer to owner’s manual |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 500 lbs (227 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class III |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
| Unbraked Towing Limit | 1,500 lbs (680 kg) |
The 2022 Kia Telluride is rated at a uniform 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) towing capacity across all trims and drivetrain options. The 3.8L V6 remained the only available engine for this model year, producing 291 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque. All trims require a properly rated trailer hitch and wiring harness to reach the maximum towing limit.
2021 Kia Telluride Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.8L Lambda II V6 |
| Horsepower / Torque | 291 hp / 262 lb-ft |
| Drivetrain | FWD / AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,565 lbs (710 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Refer to owner’s manual |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 500 lbs (227 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class III |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
| Unbraked Towing Limit | 1,500 lbs (680 kg) |
The 2021 Kia Telluride carries a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) with a trailer brake system installed. Payload capacity for this model year is rated at 1,565 lbs (710 kg), accounting for passengers, cargo, and any tongue weight contribution. The vehicle’s self-leveling rear suspension assists in maintaining rear ride height and stability under tow load.
2020 Kia Telluride Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.8L Lambda II V6 |
| Horsepower / Torque | 291 hp / 262 lb-ft |
| Drivetrain | FWD / AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,565 lbs (710 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Refer to owner’s manual |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 500 lbs (227 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class III |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
| Unbraked Towing Limit | 1,500 lbs (680 kg) |
The 2020 Kia Telluride is the first model year of this vehicle and establishes the baseline towing rating of 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) that carried through the early generation. All trims across both FWD and AWD configurations share the same maximum towing limit. Towing without a trailer brake system reduces the allowable trailer weight to 1,500 lbs (680 kg).
Towing Equipment and Setup
Proper towing equipment is required to safely reach the maximum towing capacity on any Kia Telluride model year. Using undersized or improperly rated equipment can reduce control and increase braking distance under load.
Factory Tow Package
The Kia Telluride factory tow package includes a Class III hitch receiver, a 4-pin flat connector, and a 7-pin round connector. The tow package does not inherently increase the towing capacity rating but provides the necessary mounting hardware and wiring to safely tow. The available self-leveling rear suspension, which activates under load, is part of the tow package on applicable trims.
Equipment Comparison: Standard vs. Heavy Towing Setup
| Component | Standard Towing Setup | Heavy Towing Setup |
|---|---|---|
| Hitch Class | Class III receiver | Class III with higher-rated ball mount |
| Wiring Harness | 4-pin flat | 7-pin round (required for trailer brakes) |
| Trailer Brakes | Not required under 1,650 lbs | Required above 1,650 lbs |
| Weight Distribution | Not required | Recommended for trailers near max capacity |
| Transmission Cooling | Stock cooler | Supplemental cooler recommended |
| Tire Load Rating | Standard OEM tires | Verify load index for combined GVWR |
| Sway Control | Trailer Stability Assist (standard) | Aftermarket sway bar for heavy trailers |
Trailer Brake Controller
The Kia Telluride’s maximum braked towing capacity is 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) or 5,500 lbs (2,495 kg) for X-Pro trims. A trailer brake controller must be connected to the 7-pin harness for trailers exceeding 1,650 lbs (748 kg). Without an active brake system on the trailer, the allowable tow weight drops sharply to protect the vehicle’s stopping capability.
Weight-Distributing Hitch
A weight-distributing hitch is not required for the Kia Telluride’s standard towing range, as the 500 lbs (227 kg) tongue weight rating applies equally to dead weight and weight-distributing hitch setups. For trailers approaching the maximum towing capacity, using a weight-distributing hitch improves axle load balance and reduces rear squat.
Transmission and Drivetrain Considerations
Extended towing, particularly in hilly terrain or hot climates, increases transmission fluid temperature. Adding an external transmission cooler helps maintain safe operating temperatures during sustained towing. The Telluride’s AWD system provides additional traction control when towing on graded or uneven surfaces, but does not increase the maximum rated towing capacity compared to FWD models.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum towing capacity of a Kia Telluride?
The maximum towing capacity of a Kia Telluride is 5,500 lbs (2,495 kg), achieved on the X-Pro trim from the 2023 model year onward when equipped with the factory tow package. Standard trims across all model years are rated at 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) with trailer brakes installed. The 2027 hybrid variant carries a lower maximum of 4,500 lbs (2,041 kg).
How much can a Kia Telluride tow with a tow package?
With the factory tow package installed, most Kia Telluride trims can tow up to 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg). X-Pro trims from 2023 onward can reach 5,500 lbs (2,495 kg) with the tow package. The tow package provides the hitch receiver, wiring harness, and on applicable trims, the self-leveling rear suspension needed to reach these ratings.
Does AWD affect Kia Telluride towing capacity?
AWD does not increase the maximum towing capacity of the Kia Telluride above the FWD rating. All trims, regardless of whether they are equipped with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, carry the same towing limit for the same model year. AWD improves traction and control when pulling a loaded trailer on slippery or off-road surfaces.
What trailer weight is safe for a Kia Telluride?
Any trailer within the manufacturer-rated limit is considered safe, provided the setup is properly configured and total payload, including tongue weight, does not exceed the vehicle’s payload capacity of approximately 1,565 lbs (710 kg). Tongue weight should be maintained at approximately 10 percent of the trailer’s gross weight, not to exceed 500 lbs (227 kg). Distributing cargo evenly on the trailer and loading 60 percent of cargo weight forward of the trailer axle helps maintain stability.
Do I need a weight-distributing hitch for a Kia Telluride?
A weight-distributing hitch is not required to reach the Kia Telluride’s maximum towing limit, as the tongue weight rating is the same for both dead weight and weight-distributing hitch configurations. For trailers in the 4,000 lbs to 5,000 lbs range, a weight-distributing hitch can reduce pitch and improve rear axle loading on the tow vehicle. Always verify that the combined tongue weight does not exceed the 500 lbs (227 kg) limit regardless of hitch type.
What is the Kia Telluride unbraked towing limit?
The Kia Telluride can tow up to 1,500 lbs to 1,650 lbs (680 to 748 kg) without a trailer brake system active. This limit is set by the manufacturer to account for the vehicle’s braking capability under load without supplemental trailer braking. Trailers above this weight require a functioning brake controller and trailer brake system connected via the 7-pin harness.
Conclusion
The Kia Telluride covers a towing capacity range of 4,500 lbs (2,041 kg) to 5,500 lbs (2,495 kg), depending on model year, trim, powertrain, and equipment configuration. From the 2020 through 2022 model years, the maximum rating held at 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) across all trims. Starting with the 2023 model year, the X-Pro trim raised the ceiling to 5,500 lbs (2,495 kg), a rating maintained through the 2026 generation. The redesigned 2027 model introduced a turbo-hybrid option rated at 4,500 lbs (2,041 kg), while the standard 2.5L turbocharged gas variant retains the 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) rating.
Engine configuration, tow package installation, and trailer brake availability are the primary factors determining how much any specific Telluride can legally and safely tow. Operating within tongue weight limits and total payload ratings is as important as staying within the trailer weight limit. Always verify specifications using the owner’s manual and vehicle placard before towing heavy loads.
