Named after a ski resort in Colorado, the Telluride marked a return to the large three-row segment that Kia abandoned with the demise of the ill-fated Borrego in 2011. It is a twin under the skin of the new Hyundai Palisade. Unlike the Palisade, which looks overstyled, the designer of the sleek Telluride knew when to “lift the pen.

Inside, the dashboard, with conventional gauges and a German style free-standing info screen at the top of the centre stack, eschews the “right now” computer tablet used on the Hyundai Palisade. Like the Palisade, the Telluride’s cabin is quite plush. Kia’s new three-row is very roomy in the first two rows and has abundant cargo space with the third row seat folded down. The Telluride is equipped with an in-car intercom system Kia calls Drive Talk, a rear occupant sensor so nobody gets left behind and second-row passengers are warned not to open their doors if another vehicle is approaching from the rear.

The Telluride is positioned right at the heart of the three-row segment, like the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander. Power is derived from a 3.8 L-V6 Kia calls Lambda II, and is unusual is that it is a non-hybrid that Atkinson Cycle combustion system. Power reaches all four wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive is standard. Self-levelling rear suspension is optional.

Driven briefly, the Telluride is a tour-de-force in terms of fit and finish, logical controls and lavish equipment for the price. The 3.8L V6 is strong, smooth, flexible and very quiet except for when pushed, when it sounds symphonic. The conventional eight-speed automatic transmission works very well overall but can delay downshifts more than some drivers appreciate. The ride is very absorbent. Good visibility for a giant bus.

The base EX trim, with a sunroof, a power driver’s seat, heated front seats and steering wheel, wireless cellphone charging and navigation, is nicely equipped. Moving up to the SX adds a panoramic sunroof, a power passenger seat, leather seating, a right-side view monitor, rear auto braking, ventilated front seats and a Harman-Kardon audio system. The SX Limited upgrade heated and ventilated ventilated middle-row seats, Nappa processed leather, a rear suspension self-levelling and a head-up display system. The X-Line and X-Pro trims add little of value other than additional tow capacity.

Average reliability predicted during the warranty period. Hyundai V6 engines seemed to be immune to the failures experienced with its 2L and 2.4L engines, however, failures of the 3.3L-V6 may not auger well for the 3.8L V6 powering the Telluride. It might be best to lease your new Telluride to avoid the possibility of premature engine failures after the warranty ends.