Electric Cars

The 2027 Kia Telluride X-Pro marks a significant evolution for the renowned three-row SUV, introducing a robust package tailored for enhanced off-road performance. While uni-body SUVs aren't typically the first choice for hardcore off-roading, the growing demand for ruggedized family vehicles has prompted Kia to equip the X-Pro with substantial mechanical upgrades. This model builds upon the Telluride's established comfort and style, adding features like elevated ground clearance, specialized all-terrain tires, and advanced terrain management systems, aiming to broaden its appeal to adventurous families seeking capability beyond urban streets.

A critical upgrade for the X-Pro model is its elevated suspension, providing 9.1 inches of ground clearance, a notable increase over the standard Telluride's 7.4 inches. This enhancement allows the X-Pro to navigate obstacles more effectively, minimizing concerns about undercarriage damage on challenging trails. Positioned at the higher end of the Telluride lineup, the X-Pro trim is available in SX X-Pro or SX Prestige X-Pro variants. It comes standard with all-wheel drive and is exclusively powered by a 274-horsepower turbocharged 2.5-liter inline-four engine, emphasizing its performance-oriented design for varied terrains. Unlike the X-Line package, which primarily offers aesthetic changes, the X-Pro focuses on functional improvements to its off-road prowess.

Equipping the X-Pro with Continental CrossContact all-terrain tires on 18-inch wheels distinguishes it from other Telluride models, which typically feature larger wheels and lower-profile tires. These specialized tires provide a greater sidewall, crucial for absorbing impacts and maintaining traction on uneven surfaces. Their knobbier tread and unique rubber compound are engineered to deliver superior grip on slippery terrain, including mud, snow, and sand. Despite their rugged design, these tires maintain a surprisingly quiet ride on paved roads, ensuring that the X-Pro remains comfortable for daily commutes while being ready for off-road excursions.

During test drives on a specially prepared off-road course in Southern California, the Telluride X-Pro demonstrated impressive ride quality over challenging surfaces, including gravel and rutted roads. The cabin remained remarkably quiet, enhancing the overall driving experience. The vehicle's Terrain modes, including settings for Snow, Sand, and Mud, effectively optimize traction and stability for various conditions. A key feature is the electronically controlled limited-slip differential, which, while operating subtly, proved instrumental in allowing the Telluride to ascend slippery inclines and maneuver through articulation courses where wheels might otherwise lose contact with the ground.

The interior of the X-Pro model receives distinctive styling cues, such as faux-carbon-fiber trim on the dashboard and faux-suede upholstery for the seats, available in various color schemes. These elements contribute to a more rugged yet refined cabin ambiance. Furthermore, the vehicle's infotainment system includes off-road-specific gauges that display real-time information such as steering angle, elevation, and degrees of pitch and roll, providing vital data for navigating complex terrains. The Ground View Monitor, offering multiple camera perspectives, is a valuable aid for identifying obstacles, though its operation is limited to speeds of 6 mph or less.

The Kia Telluride X-Pro presents a compelling option for those seeking a family-friendly SUV with legitimate off-road capabilities. While many owners may primarily use it on pavement, its enhancements align with those found in competitors like the Nissan Pathfinder Rock Creek, Ford Explorer Tremor, and Chevrolet Traverse Z71. However, the Telluride X-Pro distinguishes itself through its superior overall package, offering a more aesthetically pleasing design, a more engaging driving experience, and a more inviting interior compared to its rivals. Its robust foundation and thoughtful off-road modifications make it a standout choice in the increasingly competitive segment of ruggedized three-row SUVs.

In a surprising turn for the notoriously uncompromising Italian automaker, Ferrari has acknowledged customer discontent with its modern haptic steering wheel controls. The company is now offering a retrofit program to replace these touch-sensitive interfaces with traditional physical buttons, marking a rare concession to user feedback. This initiative, which began with the 12Cilindri and Purosangue models, is set to expand to include the 296 GTB, 296 GTS, and Roma Spider, underscoring a significant shift in Ferrari's design philosophy and a renewed focus on driver preference.

Ferrari's Bold Move: From Haptic to Tactile Steering Controls

Maranello, Italy - In a move that has sent ripples through the automotive world, luxury sports car manufacturer Ferrari has announced a new program to retrofit its steering wheels with physical buttons, replacing the previously implemented haptic controls. This decision, confirmed by a Ferrari spokesperson to 'Car and Driver', follows widespread feedback from customers who expressed a preference for the tactile response of traditional buttons over the digital touch-sensitive interfaces. The retrofit option is currently available for owners of the Ferrari 12Cilindri and Purosangue, with plans to extend this offering to the 296 GTB, 296 GTS, and Roma Spider models. The new steering wheel design, developed internally by Ferrari engineers, will be installed by authorized dealerships. Notably, the engine start/stop button will retain its haptic design, a choice Ferrari believes minimizes accidental activation due to its placement. This unexpected reversal from a brand renowned for its design tenacity highlights a responsiveness to its discerning clientele and a willingness to adapt in pursuit of an optimal driving experience. The 2027 Ferrari Amalfi, a refreshed version of the Roma, already reflects this change, featuring a steering wheel predominantly equipped with physical buttons, contrasting with the haptic-heavy design of the 2026 Roma.

This development is a fascinating study in brand evolution and customer-centric design, even for an icon like Ferrari. It demonstrates that even the most prestigious manufacturers are not immune to market demands and the importance of user experience. While often associated with cutting-edge technology, this move back to physical controls suggests that sometimes, tried-and-true methods still deliver the best experience, especially in the high-stakes environment of performance driving. It's a reminder that true innovation isn't just about pushing boundaries, but also about refining what works best for the end-user.