Kia America has launched a multi-channel creative campaign for the 2027 Telluride Turbo-Hybrid, its first hybrid powertrain option for the flagship three-row SUV. The 360-degree campaign signals how Kia is positioning hybrid technology as a mainstream selling point. The Telluride Turbo-Hybrid is also the first hybrid vehicle assembled in the state of Georgia.
Highlights
- Kia’s “Sea Lion” campaign is the second installment in a 360-degree push spanning TV, CTV, paid social, digital, and out-of-home channels
- The Turbo-Hybrid powertrain delivers 329 horsepower with an EPA-estimated 35 MPG combined and 637-mile range on the EX FWD trim
- Creative messaging emphasizes family lifestyle and road-trip range rather than technical hybrid specs
- The Turbo-Hybrid is expected in showrooms in the coming weeks alongside the standard turbocharged model
Campaign Strategy
The “Sea Lion” spot is the second installment in a campaign that launched with a spot called “Horse Herder.” It follows a family on a long road trip to see sea lions, using the journey to highlight the Turbo-Hybrid’s range and interior space.
The 360-degree campaign includes :30 and :60 broadcast spots, :15 and :06 cut-downs, CTV, paid social, paid digital lifestyle content, out-of-home placements, and owner channel components. Cut-down spots focus on specific features such as the X-Pro design, the hybrid powertrain, available 9.1-inch ground clearance, and available front recovery hooks.
The creative approach is notable for what it doesn’t emphasize. Rather than leading with electrification or efficiency metrics, Kia centers the campaign on family lifestyle and adventure. This positions the hybrid powertrain as an enabler of range and convenience rather than a technology story.
Powertrain and Efficiency
The turbocharged hybrid powertrain produces up to 329 horsepower. Kia cites an EPA-estimated 35 MPG combined and a total driving range of 637 miles on a full tank for the EX FWD trim.
Russell Wager, vice president of marketing at Kia America, said the Turbo-Hybrid “offers all the things people love about Telluride — the boxy profile; the class above interior; and three row capability.”
Every 2027 Telluride comes standard with a turbocharged gasoline engine. The hybrid option adds electrified assistance to that base.
Model Lineup and Features
The 2027 Telluride is offered in seven trims: LX, S, EX, SX, SX-Prestige, X-Line, and X-Pro. The second-generation model is larger overall, with more cargo space and interior room than its predecessor.
Available features include:
- Full LED Ground Lighting for exterior illumination
- Ground View Monitor (X-Pro exclusive)
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto standard across all trims
- 9.1-inch ground clearance (available)
Availability
The standard turbocharged 2027 Telluride is in showrooms now. Kia expects the Turbo-Hybrid model to arrive over the next few weeks.
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