NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED
2025 Kia Telluride
Federal crash-test performance, recalls, and complaints, scored into one NHTSA Safety Index.
The Kia Telluride is a three-row midsize SUV that has carved out serious credibility in a competitive family-hauler segment since its 2020 debut. Positioned as a near-premium alternative to pricier domestic and Japanese rivals, it targets families who want generous interior space, a composed road presence, and strong value. The Telluride competes directly with the Ford Explorer, Toyota Highlander, and Hyundai Palisade.
The 2025 Kia Telluride earns an NHTSA Safety Index of 80 out of 100, an strong result driven by its federal crash-test stars and its recall record. It has 3 recalls on record, reflected in the score.
- urban drivers exposed to side-impact risk
Reviewers generally regard the Telluride as one of the more well-rounded three-row SUVs in its class, praising its cabin quality, spaciousness, and composed driving character for the segment. Most professional assessments position it as a strong family-vehicle choice, though some note the competitive midsize SUV field has grown tighter in recent years.
NCAP // CRASH TESTCrash-test breakdown
Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 20731
Index breakdown
NCAP // CRASH IMAGESCrash-test images
Crash-test images are US federal government works (NHTSA / NCAP), public domain.
NHTSA // RECALLSRecall record
SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:RECLINER26V105000
Risk: A seat back frame that fails to properly restrain an occupant during a crash increases the risk of injury.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the front seat back frame assemblies, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed beginning April 24, 2026. Owners may contact Kia Customer Service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC362. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will become searchable on NHTSA.gov on March 9, 2026.
Reported 2026-02-23
TIRES:TEMPORARY/EMERGENCY SPARE TIRE25V745000
Risk: Anti-lock braking or traction control systems that do not function properly can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the spare wheel and tire assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 3, 2025. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC355. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will be searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning November 13, 2025.
Reported 2025-10-31
STRUCTURE:EXTERIOR TRIM25V494000
Risk: A detached trim piece can become a road hazard for other vehicles, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the belt molding trim assemblies as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 19, 2025. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC347.
Reported 2025-07-28
NHTSA // COMPLAINTSOwner complaints
78 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.