Kia Telluride
Tech specs
Price range: TBA.
Engine: 3.8-litre Atkinson-cycle V6.
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Transmission/drive: Eight-speed automatic/all-wheel.
Why it matters: Designed and built in the United States specifically for North America, this is Kia’s first serious entry into one of the industry’s fastest-growing categories: at 197 inches in overall length, it’s a just-right-sized midsize three-row crossover.
Propulsion is provided by an Atkinson-cycle (for enhanced fuel economy) 291-hp, 3.8-litre V6, teamed with an eight-speed automatic and active on-demand all-wheel drive that can vary between 100-per-cent front-wheel drive and 50:50 front/rear. Most customers, however, will likely be more interested in the Telluride’s promise of comfort, space, technology and safety.
It offers up to eight seats, with best-in-class legroom over three rows, and above-average cargo space.
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Available touchscreen sizes go up to 10.25 inches, smartphone wireless charging is available, and there are two USB ports in each row.
An extensive array of available driver-assist systems ranges up to smart cruise with stop-and-go, automatic highway lane following, and safe-exit assist; the latter can prevent the rear doors from unlocking if a vehicle is detected approaching from the rear.
Tow rating is up to 5,000 lbs. and a self-levelling rear suspension is available. Telluride goes on sale this spring.
Traveling color neighbor
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Kia Forte5
Jeremy Sinek/The Globe and Mail
Coming this fall is the hatchback sibling of the new-last-year Forte compact sedan. The hatch is significantly longer, wider and lower than before. Lower trims will duplicate the sedan’s 2.0-litre/CVT automatic powertrain, but the hatch will add a performance option with a 201-hp 1.6-litre turbo engine and seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.
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