2020 Lexus RX vs 2021 Kia Telluride

The 2020 Lexus RX received a significant refresh, enhancing its appeal in a competitive market. The exterior updates included standard 18-inch wheels, slimmer headlights, and L-shaped taillights, with optional triple-beam LED headlamps. The grille was redesigned to align with other Lexus models, and a new paint option, Moonbeam Beige Metallic, was introduced. The rear of the vehicle was updated with a new shape, dual exhaust, and a hands-free tailgate option. Inside, the RX maintained its reputation for luxury with standard heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and leather-wrapped surfaces. The F Sport packages added unique features like a special steering wheel and 20-inch wheels. However, the centre stack's design was considered dated, lacking the modern flair seen in newer models.

In contrast, the 2021 Kia Telluride was praised for its striking design and luxurious feel at a mainstream price. Available in four trims, all with standard AWD, the Telluride offered a premium experience, especially in the SX Limited trim, which included Nappa leather and a head-up display. The new SX Limited Nightsky Edition added a blacked-out aesthetic with gloss black 20-inch wheels. The Telluride's interior was noted for its contemporary design, with high-quality materials and thoughtful features like a well-placed transmission shifter. While the interior was mostly praised, the use of glossy hard plastic in some areas was a minor drawback. The Telluride's design was well-received, with few criticisms of its exterior or interior styling.

The 2020 Lexus RX was equipped with a 3.5-litre V6 engine, producing 295 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD in Canada. The RX 350 L variant had slightly reduced power at 290 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque. A hybrid version, the RX 450h, combined the V6 with an electric motor for a total of 308 horsepower and 247 lb-ft of torque, using a CVT. The RX was not particularly sporty, taking 7.9 seconds to reach 60 mph, but it offered a smooth driving experience with various drive modes, including Sport S+ for F Sport models. Fuel efficiency was a highlight for the hybrid models, with the RX 450h achieving 7.9 L/100 km combined.

The 2021 Kia Telluride featured a 3.8-litre V6 engine, delivering 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, also paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It offered multiple drive modes, including Snow, Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Smart. The Telluride's AWD system included a low-speed Lock function for improved traction, and its 20.3 cm ground clearance aided in off-road conditions. The Telluride excelled in ride comfort, minimizing head-toss with its suspension tuning. It provided a firm and connected feel at low speeds, softening at higher velocities. The Telluride's fuel efficiency was rated at 11.3 L/100 km combined, with real-world testing showing 11.5 L/100 km.

The 2020 Lexus RX offered a spacious interior for four adults in its two-row configuration, but the three-row RX-L's third row was cramped, suitable only for small children. The RX's cargo space was limited compared to competitors, with a high load floor reducing capacity. The RX 350 L and 450h L had even less cargo space, with about 560 litres less than the Lincoln Aviator. A hands-free liftgate was available on most models.

The 2021 Kia Telluride excelled in comfort and utility, with a 12-way power-adjustable driver's seat and heated, ventilated front seats. The second-row captain's chairs offered heating and ventilation, with easy access to the third row. The Telluride provided ample storage solutions, including smartphone bins and USB ports. The smart hands-free power liftgate opened automatically when the key fob was nearby, revealing 601 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expandable to 2,455 litres with seats folded.

The 2020 Lexus RX's infotainment system was criticized for its complexity, despite improvements like a closer touchscreen. It included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and various connectivity options, but the interface remained challenging. The RX had six USB ports and a standard 12-speaker audio system, with an optional 15-speaker Mark Levinson system.

The 2021 Kia Telluride featured a 10.25-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM. It allowed pairing of two smartphones and included wireless charging. The system was user-friendly, with intuitive controls. The SX trim had a 10-speaker Harman Kardon system, and Limited grades added a head-up display.

The 2020 Lexus RX came with Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, including adaptive cruise control and automatic high beams. It added features like daytime bicyclist detection and lane-tracing assist. The RX had good safety ratings from IIHS and NHTSA, though not as high as newer models.

The 2021 Kia Telluride offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including blind-spot warning, lane-keeping assistance, and forward-collision avoidance. SX trim added front parking sensors and a surround-view camera. The Telluride earned a Top Safety Pick rating from IIHS and a 5-star rating from NHTSA, with a minor blemish in frontal-impact tests.