2022 Acura RDX vs 2021 Kia Telluride

The 2021 Kia Telluride was available in four trim levels in Canada, all equipped with standard all-wheel drive (AWD): EX, SX, SX Limited, and SX Limited Nightsky Edition. The base pricing ranged from $46,195 to $55,695, excluding destination charges of $1,895. The Telluride EX was noted for its value, but many opted for the SX Limited trim, which offered luxury features like premium stitched Nappa leather and a head-up display. The SX Limited Nightsky Edition introduced a blacked-out aesthetic with unique design elements. The Telluride's styling was widely praised, with its exterior and interior design receiving high marks, although some glossy hard plastic in the interior was noted as a minor flaw.

In contrast, the 2022 Acura RDX featured subtle styling changes inspired by the larger MDX model, with updates to the grille surround and bumper styling. The RDX lineup included the base model, Technology, A-Spec, A-Spec Platinum Elite, and the PMC Edition, with prices starting from $45,800 to $61,500, excluding a $2,375 destination charge. The A-Spec Platinum Elite package, priced at $60,375, offered high-quality interior materials and a quieter cabin. While the RDX's styling was considered more stylish than many rivals, some design elements, like the vertical air inlets, were less popular.

The 2021 Kia Telluride was powered by a 3.8-litre V6 engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, delivering 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. It featured Kia’s Drive Mode Select technology with options like Snow, Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Smart modes. The AWD system included a low-speed Lock function for maximum traction, and the Telluride's 20.3 cm ground clearance aided in handling low-grip conditions. The suspension tuning minimized head-toss, providing a firm yet compliant ride. The Telluride averaged 11.5 L/100 km in fuel efficiency during testing.

The 2022 Acura RDX came with a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder VTEC engine, producing 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. It featured a 10-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters and Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system, which could deliver up to 70% of power to a single rear wheel. The RDX's Integrated Dynamics System (IDS) offered distinct driving modes, and the adaptive-damping suspension provided a smoother ride. The RDX averaged 11.4 L/100 km in fuel efficiency during testing. The RDX was praised for its driving dynamics, though it did not qualify for Acura's Type S performance badge.

The 2021 Kia Telluride excelled in comfort and utility, with a 12-way power-adjustable driver’s seat and heated and ventilated front seats. The second-row captain’s chairs offered heating and ventilation, and the third-row seat was accessible and usable for adults. The Telluride provided 601 litres of cargo space behind the third-row seats, expanding to 2,455 litres with seats folded. The smart hands-free power liftgate was a convenient feature.

The 2022 Acura RDX, though a compact SUV, offered ample room for four adults and their luggage. The interior featured a sporty driving position and a unique control layout. The front seats were comfortable and supportive, with available ventilation. The back seat, however, was less comfortable for adults. The RDX provided 835 litres of cargo space, expanding to 1,668 litres with the back seat folded. The power liftgate with hands-free operation was standard.

The 2021 Kia Telluride included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio, with a 10.25-inch touchscreen display and navigation system. The infotainment system was user-friendly, though the voice-recognition system had room for improvement. A 10-speaker Harman Kardon surround-sound system was standard with SX trim, and the Limited grades added a head-up display.

The 2022 Acura RDX featured the TTI infotainment system with a 10.2-inch display and touchpad controller. The system required acclimation but included Amazon Alexa Built-in for voice recognition. The RDX offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, satellite radio, and AcuraLink connected services. Three premium sound systems were available, with the ELS Studio 3D surround-sound audio system featuring 16 speakers in higher trims.

The 2021 Kia Telluride came with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including blind-spot warning, lane-keeping assistance, and forward-collision avoidance. The SX trim added front parking sensors and a surround-view camera system. The Telluride earned a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though it received four-star frontal-impact results.

The 2022 Acura RDX received structural upgrades for improved side-impact safety, maintaining its Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS. New safety features included a rear seatbelt reminder and enhanced AcuraWatch systems. The RDX earned a five-star overall crash-test rating from the NHTSA, with four-star frontal-impact and rollover resistance ratings.