The Kia Telluride is worthy of its namesake, as it's a hell of a ride. Strong proportions pull in the viewer, with wide shoulders, a square back, and sinewy lines. The rectangular LED headlamps attract attention, with people coming to see more of this all-new seven-seater from a brand sometimes known – unfairly – only for value. Let me be the first to tell you Kia is so much more than value.

The interior is nothing short of sumptuous, evoking a Mercedes feel offering high-end textures and materials like Nappa leather seat trim, heated and cooled seats, and standard key safety features. The ride is smooth, with a wide, planted track offsetting the high roof line and providing the Telluride with a smaller driving feel belying the seven or eight-seat capacity.

A 3.8L 6-cylinder engine powers the Telluride mated efficiently to an 8-speed automatic transmission. Stated fuel economy is 19 city, 24 highway, 21 combined but I clocked a very satisfying 25.5 MPG over 186 miles and still had 200 miles of range.

If you need a seven-seater SUV, the Telluride is well worth your consideration. Spring for the $41,490 SX if your budget allows but the $37,090 EX will do nicely too.