📋 Quick Facts
Kia Telluride max trailer-tow ratings by model year. Always cross-reference your vehicle's exact configuration on the door-jamb tow sticker and in the owner's manual towing guide.
📊 Kia Telluride Towing Capacity Table
| Year | Top-Tow Engine / Config | Max Towing |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 3.8L V6 + Tow Package + Self-Leveling Suspension, AWD | 5,500 lb |
| 2025 | 3.8L V6 + Tow Package + Self-Leveling Suspension, AWD | 5,500 lb |
| 2024 | 3.8L V6 + Tow Package + Self-Leveling Suspension, AWD | 5,500 lb |
| 2023 | 3.8L V6 + Tow Package + Self-Leveling Suspension, AWD | 5,500 lb |
| 2022 | 3.8L V6 + Tow Package + Self-Leveling Suspension, AWD | 5,500 lb |
| 2021 | 3.8L V6 + Tow Package + Self-Leveling Suspension, AWD | 5,500 lb |
| 2020 | 3.8L V6 + Tow Package + Self-Leveling Suspension, AWD | 5,500 lb |
| 2019 | Not in production (launched 2020) | N/A |
| 2018 | Not in production (launched 2020) | N/A |
| 2017 | Not in production (launched 2020) | N/A |
| 2016 | Not in production (launched 2020) | N/A |
| 2015 | Not in production (launched 2020) | N/A |
| 2014 | Not in production (launched 2020) | N/A |
Capacities shown are manufacturer maximum ratings for properly equipped configurations. Your actual capacity depends on trim, engine, drivetrain, axle ratio, and whether the factory tow package is fitted. Check the door-jamb sticker and owner's manual before towing.
📝 Configuration Notes
Telluride launched in 2020 with a 3.8L Lambda II V6 (291 hp / 262 lb-ft) and 8-speed automatic. With both the Tow Package and Self-Leveling Rear Suspension (SLRS) it tows 5,500 lb. Without SLRS the rating drops to 5,000 lb. FWD models without Tow Package are limited to 2,000 lb. The 2023 refresh kept the powertrain unchanged.
The Tow Package adds a Class III receiver hitch, 7-pin trailer connector, trailer-sway control, transmission cooler, and beefier alternator. Self-Leveling Rear Suspension is an X-Pro Prestige feature that automatically levels the rear under tongue load. Payload is 1,433-1,653 lb. No factory integrated brake controller - aftermarket required.
🔧 What a Tow Package Actually Adds
- Class III or IV hitch receiver - factory-rated for the published tongue and trailer weight. Aftermarket hitches often have lower ratings.
- Transmission cooler - keeps ATF temperature under control on long grades. Without it, the transmission overheats and shifts harshly under load.
- Hitch wiring with 7-pin connector - the 7-pin handles trailer brakes, reverse lights, and battery charge. A 4-pin only carries running lights and turn signals.
- Integrated brake controller - on most full-size trucks but NOT this vehicle - add aftermarket if towing over 3,000 lb GVWR. Smooths braking and prevents trailer jackknife.
- Heavier alternator - feeds the trailer brake controller and trailer battery charge line without dimming the headlights.
- Trailer sway control + sometimes a numerically-higher rear axle ratio - reduces sway above 55 mph and gives better acceleration under load.