Kia Telluride Surpasses Bronco and Defender in Water Fording Capability
When it comes to crossing water obstacles, the 2027 Kia Telluride X-Pro surprisingly leads the pack in a specific off-road capability: wading depth.
Kia reports that the Telluride X-Pro can safely traverse water up to 38.6 inches deep before risking engine intake damage. This is a notable figure, especially since it exceeds the wading depth of some well-known off-roaders.
For context, the Land Rover Defender 110 can handle water depths up to 35.4 inches, while the Ford Bronco Raptor is rated at 37 inches. Only a Rivian R1S electric SUV surpasses the Telluride with a 39-inch wading depth, unless you equip a vehicle with a raised intake system.
- Rivian R1S — 39.0 inches
- Kia Telluride X-Pro — 38.6 inches
- Ford Bronco Raptor — 37.0 inches
- Land Rover Defender 110 — 35.4 inches
It’s important to note that despite the Telluride's impressive water fording depth, vehicles like the Defender, Bronco Raptor, and Rivian R1S offer greater overall off-road performance. Their advanced suspension setups, four-wheel drive low gear ratios, and rugged tires make them better suited for challenging terrain beyond water crossings.
Nonetheless, the Telluride X-Pro’s capability to handle deep water is remarkable, especially considering its primary focus on soft-roading rather than extreme off-road adventures. This makes it a surprisingly robust choice for drivers who might encounter water obstacles on their journeys.
