Kia Telluride Is the Official SUV of Texas

The 2020 Kia Telluride SX has successfully earned the title as the official SUV of the state of Texas after being chosen by the judges at the recent 2019 Texas Truck Rodeo.

The recognition adds another badge of honor for the multi-awarded brand-new model from the South Korean automaker, further proving the company’s efforts in making the Telluride specific to North American customers are paying off.

Kia came up with the Telluride’s design in Irvine, California, followed by its construction at the company’s factory in West Point, Georgia.

It was first launched at the 2019 Detroit Auto Show in front of an all-important mid-size SUV market, where it also faced one of its strongest competitors, Ford Explorer.

In vying for the award, the Telluride went under two days of on- and off-road evaluation, eventually winning over the judging panel. Texas Auto Writers Association President Michael Marrs noted that the “judges were impressed by the level of luxury and value in the new Telluride,” and that the SUV “delivers a lot of practicality and comfort for Texas families.”

Earlier this year, the Kia Telluride SX also bagged the CUV of Texas award at the Texas Auto Roundup also organized by TAWA.

Meanwhile, in the pickup truck categories, Ram and Jeep models dominated the competition, with the 2020 Ram 1500 winning the recognition as the Truck of Texas for the second straight year. Chrysler brands also scored high marks with the TAWA for 2019.

With regard to TAWA’s decision to give the title to the 2020 Ram 1500, Marrs shared, “journalist members were impressed with the continued capability and refinement in the Ram product line, particularly the 1500 compared to the domestic competitors at the event.”

The 2020 Ram 1500 Rebel bagged the best full-size truck award, while the 2020 Ram 1500 Limited was voted the best luxury pickup truck. The Ram 2500, on the other hand, won best off-road truck and best heavy-duty truck