Can’t believe a nearly $60k SUV doesn’t come with a hitch included. Paying an extra grand just to add it? Doesn’t seem right.
I’m checking out stealth hitches, though they haven’t confirmed yet if the 2024 model works for 2025. Also looking at eTrailer and OEM. The OEM comes with extra bumper parts that integrate it nicely, while eTrailer might require cutting the underside of the bumper.
I’ve installed a stealth hitch on an X5 before, which needed me to remove the whole rear bumper. Seems like the Telluride might be easier to bolt on, maybe an hour or less DIY. If the OEM integrates well, I might go that route, though eTrailer’s cost is tempting.
@MegWhitgal
I went with the eTrailer hitch. Cut out the notch myself and then had a shop install it to make sure it looked neat. It’s higher than some options, which I think helps with clearance. Came out looking pretty clean. Wish I could share pics right now; I’ll try to remember to do it tomorrow.
@MegWhitgal
Installed the OEM one myself a few months back. It wasn’t too hard if you know your way around a wrench. I did need to buy a muffler removal tool, only about $12 though. Took me closer to two hours since I was taking my time. I bet I could do it faster now, maybe an hour.
The OEM looks factory-installed, super clean look.
@Mark
Can you share the link for that muffler tool? Nothing worse than being halfway through only to realize you need a tool that’ll take two days to get here.
MegWhitgal said:
@Mark
Can you share the link for that muffler tool? Nothing worse than being halfway through only to realize you need a tool that’ll take two days to get here.
Here’s the one I used: link. Tons on Amazon, all probably the same. This one did the job. Usually, I try to improvise tools to save money, but don’t skip this one—it’s a pain without it.
@Mark
Thanks 
The eTrailer hitch is affordable and not too tricky to install. But if you’re looking to tow something heavy, this vehicle might not be the best fit. I pull a 17’ trailer, and it does fine, but much more than that would be pushing it.
@Jean
I was thinking something like the Nissan Pathfinder that tows 6k and comes with a hitch. Maybe I’m looking at the wrong car. I want something that can handle 5-6k towing so I can safely tow in the 3k range.
@ElizaFord
I’m towing about 3.5k with mine, and the Telluride handles it well. I don’t have the load-leveling shocks, so the rear dips a bit, but I don’t tow at night, so it doesn’t bother me. But yeah, if I towed more often, I’d have gone with a Pathfinder or maybe a used 4Runner.
Tow hitches aren’t usually ‘standard’ for a couple reasons:
- Most people don’t need them, so it’d just add extra weight and hurt fuel efficiency for no reason.
- Hitches are easy to add at the point of sale or later, so there’s not much need to have them pre-installed.
@SANDRA
You always have solid reasoning! I don’t tow, so I didn’t think about it like that, but it makes sense.
I got the Curt hitch and did the install myself. Just using it for bike racks, so I didn’t need any wiring. The install was straightforward, but I struggled with one bolt for a while. I had to drop the rear exhaust and cut a square in the bumper trim, but otherwise, it wasn’t bad. Wouldn’t have tried it if I needed wiring though.
howdyrobert said:
2023-2025 Kia Telluride Hitch Kit | Kia Stuff
Is that $730 for everything?
howdyrobert said:
2023-2025 Kia Telluride Hitch Kit | Kia Stuff
Is that $730 for everything?
At least it’s not a thousand bucks.
We have a 2022 EX AWD with the tow package, upgraded from an LX. Lease is up in January, but looking at the 2025 models, none have self-leveling shocks or a hitch. Online, the tow hitch add-on is separate now. Don’t want to go up to the SX just for a hitch and the bench seat, so might just buy out our lease since it has what we need.
I bought a 2024 X-Pro with self-leveling suspension, but no hitch installed from the factory. Dealer wanted $700 for the parts, but I checked parts.kia.com and found the same hitch for $450. Good to double-check pricing before going with the dealer.
Installed a Curt hitch on my 2025 S model myself, took about an hour and a half since I was being cautious. If I had to do it again, it’d probably take me 30 minutes. Dealer quoted me $525 for the hitch and $225 for wiring, but I got mine from Napa for around $200. Only tricky part was cutting a small trim piece, but it’s under the car, so no worries if you’re slightly off. Planning to do the wiring next, found it for about $80 on eTrailer.