2027 Kia Telluride Gas vs. Hybrid: MPG, Price, Power & Which to Buy

Every 2027 Kia Telluride shopper now faces a new question: gas or hybrid? The 2027 Kia Telluride gas vs. hybrid choice comes down to four numbers, and we lay them out below.

The 2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid costs an estimated $2,700 more than the gas model on the same trim, but delivers up to an estimated 35 mpg combined versus 22, and 329 hp versus 274 hp. The gas Telluride starts lower at an estimated $39,190 and tows up to 5,000 lbs., versus 4,500 lbs. for the hybrid.

At Step One Kia Fort Walton Beach, we work with Telluride shoppers from Okaloosa Island, Niceville, Destin, and Pensacola who want straight numbers on both powertrains. This guide covers price, mileage, power, and towing so you can choose before you visit.

Key Points: 2027 Kia Telluride Gas vs. Hybrid

• The real price gap is smaller than the sticker gap. The hybrid costs an estimated $2,700 more on every trim the two share, not the $7,300 the starting prices suggest.
• The hybrid can save roughly $811 to $1,065 a year in fuel. At an estimated $4.00 per gallon, that repays the $2,700 premium in about 2.5 to 3.3 years.
• The gas Telluride keeps the towing and seating edge. It tows up to 5,000 lbs. and seats up to eight, where the hybrid tops out at seven.

2027 Kia Telluride Gas vs. Hybrid at a Glance

Two engines share one three-row SUV, and the numbers separate them quickly. Here is the full side-by-side before we go deeper.

Prices are manufacturer starting MSRP and exclude destination and handling, taxes, title, and dealer fees. Horsepower, mileage, and towing figures are manufacturer and EPA estimates that vary by trim, equipment, and driving conditions. Contact our team to confirm current pricing and availability.

The hybrid wins on efficiency and power, and the gas model wins on starting price. The $7,300 gap between starting prices shrinks to $2,700 once the trims match. The hybrid begins at the EX, so it never competes with the gas LX or S.

How Much More Does the 2027 Telluride Hybrid Cost?

The 2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid costs an estimated $2,700 more than the gas Telluride on every trim the two share. The hybrid EX starts at $46,490, versus $43,790 for the gas EX, and the $39,190 gas LX has no hybrid counterpart.

The hybrid also pairs a 1.65-kWh battery with a 6-speed automatic, where the gas model uses an 8-speed. Drivers who log 12,000 miles or more a year tend to see the premium come back through fuel savings, while shoppers who drive less may prefer gas. Browse the new Telluride inventory for current trims, or review our finance options to see how the difference fits a monthly budget.

Which 2027 Kia Telluride Gets Better Gas Mileage?

The 2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid gets better gas mileage, rated at up to an estimated 35 mpg combined (34 city, 36 highway) in front-wheel drive. The gas Telluride is rated at an estimated 22 mpg combined (20 city, 26 highway). With all-wheel drive, the estimates are 31 mpg for the hybrid and 20 mpg for the gas model.

We used $4.00 per gallon for regular unleaded, close to the recent Crestview-Fort Walton Beach average, and compared EX trims.

Driving habits shift these numbers. Stop-and-go traffic on Highway 98 during beach season favors the hybrid most (34 mpg city against 20 mpg for gas in FWD), while steady highway driving narrows the gap to 36 against 26. At these savings, the $2,700 premium repays in roughly 2.5 to 3.3 years, and real-world mileage will vary.

Is the Telluride Hybrid More Powerful Than the Gas Model?

Yes. The 2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid produces 329 combined horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque, compared with 274 hp and 311 lb-ft for the gas model. That is 55 more horsepower, about 20% more. The hybrid never needs to be plugged in, because it recharges its own battery while you drive.

A hybrid electric vehicle, or HEV, is a vehicle that pairs a gas engine with an electric motor and a small battery to add power and cut fuel use, recharging through braking and engine output instead of a wall outlet. In the Telluride Hybrid, the motor adds torque the moment you press the pedal, which helps when merging onto I-10 near Crestview. KBB’s reviewer called the hybrid “strong and responsive,” and the gas Telluride’s 274 hp remains plenty for everyday family driving.

Gas vs. Hybrid: Which Telluride Is Better for Towing?

The gas Telluride tows more. Every 2027 gas Telluride is rated to tow up to 5,000 lbs. with proper equipment, versus up to 4,500 lbs. for the hybrid. Utility trailers, jet ski trailers, and many small boats fall under either rating, so the 500-pound gap matters most for heavier loads.

Towing capacity depends on configuration and equipment. The hybrid offers an available tow hitch and self-leveling rear suspension, and a trailer’s loaded weight, tongue weight, passengers, and cargo all count against the limit. Weigh your boat, trailer, and gear before you buy.

Which 2027 Kia Telluride Should You Buy?

Buy the gas Telluride for the lowest starting price, towing near 5,000 lbs., or an eight-seat bench. Buy the hybrid if you drive 12,000 or more miles a year, want 329 hp, and plan to keep the SUV long enough for fuel savings to offset the estimated $2,700 premium.

• Budget-conscious buyers: The gas LX starts at an estimated $39,190, which is $7,300 below the hybrid’s entry price.
• Daily commuters: The hybrid’s estimated 35 mpg combined (FWD) suits a daily run from Niceville to Okaloosa Island.
• Drivers who prioritize performance: The hybrid’s 329 hp and 339 lb-ft deliver the stronger launch and a more responsive feel.
• Frequent towing: The gas model’s 5,000-lb. rating gives the most headroom for boats and trailers.
• Long-term owners: The hybrid’s estimated $811 to $1,065 in yearly fuel savings can repay its premium in about three years.

Compare the 2027 Kia Telluride at Step One Kia Fort Walton Beach

The best way to settle gas vs. hybrid is to drive both back to back. Step One Kia Fort Walton Beach, on Beal Parkway in Fort Walton Beach, FL, welcomes shoppers from Destin, Crestview, Okaloosa Island, Niceville, and Pensacola.

Browse our new 2027 Kia Telluride inventory, explore all new Kia models, or check current Kia offers, then contact our team to schedule a test drive. Your Telluride is easiest to find behind the wheel, ideally one of each.

2027 Kia Telluride Gas vs. Hybrid Questions Fort Walton Beach Shoppers Ask

Picking a powertrain raises plenty of questions, and you deserve clear answers. These seven cover what Telluride shoppers around Fort Walton Beach bring to us.

What is the main difference between the gas and hybrid 2027 Kia Telluride?

The gas Telluride uses a 2.5L turbo engine with 274 hp and tows up to 5,000 lbs. The hybrid adds an electric motor for 329 combined hp and up to an estimated 35 mpg combined, but tows up to 4,500 lbs. Price, mileage, and towing needs usually decide which one fits.

How much does the 2027 Telluride Hybrid cost compared with the gas model?

The hybrid starts at an estimated $46,490 MSRP for the EX, while the gas Telluride starts at $39,190 for the LX. On the same trim, the hybrid costs an estimated $2,700 more. Prices exclude destination, taxes, and fees, so contact our team for current pricing.

Is the 2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid worth it?

For drivers who log 12,000 to 15,000 miles a year, the hybrid can save an estimated $811 to $1,065 in fuel annually at $4.00 per gallon. That repays the $2,700 premium in roughly 2.5 to 3.3 years. Shoppers who drive less, or want the lowest price, may prefer gas.

Does the Telluride Hybrid need to be plugged in?

No. The 2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid is a conventional hybrid, not a plug-in. Its battery recharges through braking and engine power while you drive, so you fill up at the pump just like the gas model. There is no charging cable, wall outlet, or home charger to buy.

Can the Telluride Hybrid tow a boat?

Yes, within limits. The 2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid is rated to tow up to 4,500 lbs. with proper equipment, and a tow hitch and self-leveling rear suspension are available. The gas model is rated up to 5,000 lbs., so weigh your boat and trailer before you choose.

Which Telluride seats more people?

The gas Telluride seats up to eight on the LX, EX, and SX trims with a second-row bench, while the 2027 Telluride Hybrid seats up to seven. Families who need eight seats should look at the gas model, and our team can show you both layouts in person.

Is there a 2027 Kia Telluride for sale near me in Fort Walton Beach, FL?

Step One Kia Fort Walton Beach serves Telluride shoppers in Destin, Crestview, Okaloosa Island, Niceville, and Pensacola. Availability changes often, so check our new Telluride inventory online for current gas and hybrid trims, then schedule a test drive and compare both back to back.