As a trail ultrarunner, I’ve done extensive research and found that the Telluride is perfect for my needs. If budget weren’t a concern and I needed to reach 4x4 trailheads for camping and hiking, how would you customize a 2024 Telluride for off-roading and car camping?
Honestly, the best way to upgrade for off-road and camping is to buy a 4Runner instead. The Telluride isn’t built for serious off-roading. The X-Pro can handle light trails, but it lacks essential features like a locking differential and real off-road modes. Even then, AWD isn’t the same as 4x4, which is more suitable for your needs. I’d recommend starting with a 4Runner if that’s your focus.
Start with the X-Pro. Consider a minor lift and larger tires. If you’re frequently loading stuff on the roof, you might want to skip the glass roof. Why choose a Telluride over a 4Runner?
As an east coast ultrarunner, I just bought a 2024 AWD S model. It struggled on rocky service roads, barely going 5 mph without feeling like it would break. My buddy’s 4Runner managed the same road at 25-30 mph. I love the Telluride for regular travel but found it less capable than I expected on rough mountain roads. I wouldn’t change anything, but larger tires could help with terrain absorption.
@Ben
Thanks for sharing this insight, especially since we have similar lifestyles! I might need to consider a 4Runner after hearing this.
Cort said:
@Ben
Thanks for sharing this insight, especially since we have similar lifestyles! I might need to consider a 4Runner after hearing this.
It can go up there but it’s eye-opening how much better a vehicle designed for it performs. For my travels, Kia’s lane centering and smart cruise control are invaluable. I don’t mind a slower ascent to the mountain top, especially since I have AWD when needed. Also, a comparable 4Runner is $15k more than the Telluride.
@Ben
Exactly! That price difference is why I’m interested in Telluride. It feels like you get more for less. I can forgo extreme off-roading for a comfortable drive most of the time.
Cort said:
@Ben
Exactly! That price difference is why I’m interested in Telluride. It feels like you get more for less. I can forgo extreme off-roading for a comfortable drive most of the time.
Plus, that warranty is fantastic. I looked into Toyotas too. It’s frustrating that you need to buy higher trims for better tech features. At least all Telluride trims have the same infotainment screen. I chose the S trim to save money because the interior can get dirty in my fieldwork. I do wish I had spent a little more for air-conditioned seats—heated seats are nice, but those would be sweet in the Tennessee heat.
Consider a 4Runner or even a new Land Cruiser or Subaru Outback. The Telluride is more of a soft-roader meant for luxury and comfort. Other vehicles have community support for the off-road adventures you’re planning.
@Devin
That’s a valid point! I think I mistakenly thought I had aged out of the 4Runner. I’m 34 and a white-collar professional, so I just associated it with youths. I’ll definitely reconsider!
If money were no object for ultimate off-road camping, I would trade the Telluride for a Mercedes 4x4 Sprinter.
Consider 18" wheels with larger tires, and maybe a 2" lift. I love camping and sleeping in my Telluride for days at a time. I’m satisfied with the interior as it is but hope others have ideas for improvement.
I’m considering the Telluride to replace my Isuzu Trooper, which was great but unreliable as a 4x4. I’m excited about the extra space in the Telluride for car camping.
I’m envisioning a modular bed setup that doesn’t disturb the middle row too much and can still fold up to utilize trunk space behind the third row as needed. I’d like to create a false floor to maximize storage while supporting the bed setup.
With its towing capacity, if I want to try 4x4 trails, I could always tow or hitch-mount a toy. The AWD is available in all trims, and I don’t see the need to spend more on the X-Pro/X-Line for just a half-inch lift. I’ve seen someone do wild off-roading in a 2WD Nissan Rogue; I believe the Telluride will meet most people’s off-roading needs.
To be honest, I wouldn’t stick with the Telluride; I’d get a 4Runner instead.
Caiden said:
To be honest, I wouldn’t stick with the Telluride; I’d get a 4Runner instead.
That’s a common opinion. I’ll definitely look into it!
AWD is not equivalent to 4WD. If you truly require 4WD for your adventures, a Kia might not be the best option.
Since I just damaged my rear differential on a rock last night heading to a trailhead, I’d definitely suggest the 4Runner.
Blane said:
Since I just damaged my rear differential on a rock last night heading to a trailhead, I’d definitely suggest the 4Runner.
What happened?
The vehicle has a notorious bad suspension system. If off-roading is your goal, Kia isn’t the brand to choose. I’m dealing with issues with mine, and Kia is refusing to fix it.
Following this thread for ideas on the same build.