Published March 27, 2026 at 5:31 PM EDT
Adam Gray from the UK joined How-To Geek’s editorial team in 2025. He was a veteran automotive journalist with a passion for content creation. Adam Gray, an automotive journalist at How-To Geek who writes automotive reviews and features, is the first to report on news about automotive technology. Adam also contributes to TopSpeed, a sister site of How-To Geek, using his accreditation with the press office to get access to new vehicles. Adam was a freelance contributor of automotive content for a number of lifestyle and business publications before joining How-To Geek. He has also worked as a senior editorial and auction content manager at SBX Cars. His previous experience includes working for Supercar Blondie’s automotive content, Portfolio North Motoring Editor, North East motoring for Reach plc.
Adam is often found playing hockey at his local ice-rink or cheering on Middlesbrough FC at Riverside Stadium. Adam enjoys quality time spent with his children, Ellie, Oscar and Heidi.
Three-row SUVs aren’t the same as they used to be. The three-row SUV market has changed dramatically. What was once a simple, practical family vehicle is now a war of style, comfort and technology. Features that were previously only available in high-end vehicles are now found on more affordable models.
Mainstream SUVs have been closing the gap quickly, but luxury car prices continue to rise. The price of a badge is higher than ever, and this has opened up the market for smart mainstream models.
While not every effort has been successful, one SUV did more than just try. It quietly changed the rules nearly overnight.
The data that was used in this article to provide you with the most accurate and up-to date information is based on sources such as Edmunds, Kelley Blue Book and TopSpeed. Related
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The three-row SUV isn’t only for towing anymore
The SUV buyer is no longer satisfied with the basics.
Photo credit: Kia.
Comfort, technology, and luxury are all important.
But space and functionality are only the beginning. Even in less-than-luxury vehicles, consumers expect premium materials, comfort and smart technology. Safety features, big touchscreens and sleek digital displays are all part of the standard.
Automobiles must be easy to use and feel contemporary, particularly for those who drive long distances or transport their families.
The expectation is that comfort and ease of use are not extras, but a given. Credit: Toyota.
Family road trips and long drives have transformed the three-row SUV market.
It’s no longer a luxury to have comfort.
Not only are smooth rides, supportive seating, and quiet cabins expected but also a bonus. This segment doesn’t only focus on hauling passengers anymore, but also on delivering a complete package. This luxury crossover has a lot of space inside.
There are other options than luxury SUVs
Volkswagen Credit
Luxury brands once dominated this market.
BMW, Mercedes or Audi were the only brands that offered premium materials and cutting-edge technology, as well as a refined, smooth ride. This is no longer the case.
The mainstream brands are now upgrading the interiors, and making every detail shine. What’s the result? SUVs with a luxurious feel that is way above their prices.
Honda Credit
Today, consumers compare mainstream SUVs to luxury models, not just based on their price but also on how they feel. This gap, while not as large as many people think it is, is shaking the market. This shift is forcing luxury brands to explain why their SUVs cost so much while mainstream SUVs steal the show. Related
Jeep reintroduced an iconic SUV, but only as a Hybrid
Jeep has electrified a popular SUV.
Kia Telluride 2025 quietly changes the rules
Kia’s Telluride is a mainstream SUV with a premium feel
It didn’t fit in when it was launched.
It wasn’t another value-oriented three-row SUV. This one had the looks, feel and performance of something more expensive.
This design is bold. The 2025 Telluride is a confident vehicle with a strong, upright posture, clean lines and slick styling.
You can immediately tell that Kia has put thought into the cabin
. It doesn’t look or feel like a typical SUV. The Telluride is more premium than you might expect. Kia didn’t build a simple SUV, they built one that would compete on a high level. The interior of this everyday SUV is better than rival luxury SUVs.
With the technology and comfort you get in this SUV without having to pay luxury prices.
Telluride is a lot more expensive than you think
Its interior. Credit: Kia. The interior. Kia has created a cabin which feels luxurious, particularly in higher trim levels.
Soft-touch surfaces, sleek layouts and a smart design make everything easy to use without being overly complicated. The tech is thoughtfully integrated–a large infotainment display sits in the center of the car, and physical controls are easily accessible on the go. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are included, as well as plenty of USB port. Kia Credit
Space for Telluride is another major plus. There are three rows of seating, so everyone will have plenty of space no matter what they choose to sit in. The car is designed for family use, so it can be used to get the kids to school quickly or on a road trip.
The cargo space is also generous, putting practicality first.
Comfortable power with a smooth ride
Photo credit: Kia.
The Telluride is powered by a powerful 3.8-liter engine with 291 horsepower. The Telluride is available with either front-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive. The fuel economy is around 20 mpg with AWD and 22 mpg with FWD.
This makes it a good choice for daily driving.
Kia Credit
While the Telluride engine doesn’t offer any sporty thrills it is smooth and does its job. It can handle highway passes, heavy loads or even overtaking without much effort. This SUV is perfect for those who prefer refinement to raw power.
With a suspension system that absorbs bumps, the ride is comfortable and stable. This is exactly what families are looking for in this segment.
Related
Jeep brought an iconic SUV back–but as a hybrid.
Jeep has electrified a popular SUV.
Why it is more expensive than its rivals?
The Telluride is a great value. It’s loaded with features and very easy to use.
Value plays a big role in the Telluride. The Telluride comes with equipment and refinement normally found in luxury SUVs that cost much more. According to Kelley Blue Book, prices for 2025 will start in the $30,000s. Used models are a few thousand dollars cheaper. It’s cheaper even at the highest end than most luxury SUVs with three rows. Many of the features that are available as an option on luxury models come with this model.
Take on mainstream rivals and luxury models
Source: NetCarShow.com.
Telluride takes on mainstream SUVs such as the Highlander and Pilot. It also faces off against entry-level luxury vehicles like the Acura MDX and BMW X5. The Telluride offers a lot of comfort and technology at a fraction the cost of luxury cars. This trade-off can be a simple choice for many buyers. Related
10 Hybrids with Three Rows that Make Great Family Vehicles
The three-row vehicles offer the ideal mix of space and comfort for busy families.
Telluride: Why it keeps turning people’s heads (19459022)
Showing mainstream is not the same as basic
Photo credit: Kia.
Telluride changes how people view mainstream SUVs.
It’s not necessary to have a badge of luxury in order to feel premium. The package is still affordable for many buyers, as it combines a bold exterior design with a well-designed interior and comfortable driving. This balance makes the Telluride stand out even though it’s a three-row SUV.
Kia Credit
The Telluride is a great example of how the market for SUVs has changed. The choice is no longer between affordable or premium–buyers can have both.
Telluride is a huge hit because of this. The Telluride is not just a mainstream SUV; it shows that you do not need to spend a lot of money on luxury to have luxuries.