Kia Teases Mysterious Covered Telluride Ahead of LA Auto Show — Could be a Rugged WKNDR Concept?

by Nov 14, 20252025 LA AutoShow, All News, Kia, Slider

mysterious kia telluride teaser suggest an even more rugged wkndr concept

Kia has sparked fresh excitement in the SUV world by teasing a mysterious, covered Telluride positioned next to the recently revealed second-generation Kia Telluride. Alongside the updated production model, this hidden vehicle comes with a message that suggests “we haven’t seen it all yet.” Kia has officially set the stage for November 20 at the LA Auto Show, where the big reveal is expected. And now the big question: What exactly is Kia hiding?

A New Telluride Variant? Kia Hints We’re Not Done Yet

With the second-generation Telluride already impressing with updated styling, premium tech, and enhanced capability, the shadowy silhouette teased by Kia raises intriguing possibilities. The fact that it’s covered—and showcased with the new production model—implies that this isn’t just a trim package or a minor refresh.

Kia clearly wants attention on whatever this is.

The Most Likely Possibility: A Rugged “WKNDR” Concept Telluride

Industry watchers and Kia fans are already speculating, and one compelling theory is that the shrouded SUV could be a new off-road-focused WKNDR concept. Kia has played with adventure-themed concepts before, and with the booming overlanding market, the timing couldn’t be better.

What a Telluride WKNDR Concept Might Include

If Kia is indeed preparing a rugged WKNDR Telluride, expect possible features like:

  • More aggressive all-terrain tires
  • Increased ride height or unique off-road suspension tuning
  • Roof-mounted gear such as baskets or tents
  • Off-road lighting, skid plates, and protective cladding
  • Adventure-ready interior features and modular cargo solutions
  • Bespoke exterior accents and concept-grade styling touches

Such a model would align perfectly with the Telluride’s reputation as a family SUV with genuine capability—while tapping into the lifestyle-adventure branding Kia has been expanding.

Other Possibilities: Sport Model? Hybrid? Electric Tease?

While the WKNDR concept is the most discussed theory, there are other avenues Kia could take:

1. A Performance-Oriented Telluride “GT” Style Variant

Kia’s GT-line models have been successful—could an aggressive, more athletic Telluride be in the works?

2. A Hybrid or Electrified Telluride Preview

With Kia expanding its electrified lineup, a hybrid Telluride concept would attract major attention at a show like LA, known for its EV-friendly audience.

3. Special Edition or Design Study

Kia has released design-forward concepts in the past that influenced future production styling. This could be another.

All Eyes on the LA Auto Show — November 20

Kia’s teaser does exactly what it set out to do: create hype. With only a covered silhouette to go on, anticipation is building for the brand’s LA Auto Show announcements.

If the reveal is indeed a WKNDR-inspired Telluride concept, Kia could be stepping deeper into the adventure-SUV segment—and giving fans something bold and unexpected.

One thing is certain: Kia isn’t done showing the world what the next generation of Telluride can be.

Written by Jose Antonio Lopez

Passionated about Korean cars from Hyundai, Kia & Genesis. Photographer. I love being in nature, hiking. Tech lover.
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