2021 Kia Telluride vs 2022 Volvo XC90

The 2021 Kia Telluride was available in four trim levels in Canada, all featuring standard all-wheel drive: EX, SX, SX Limited, and SX Limited Nightsky Edition. The pricing ranged from $46,195 to $55,695, excluding destination charges. The Telluride was praised for its luxurious feel, especially in the SX Limited trim, which included premium features like Nappa leather and a head-up display. The Nightsky Edition added a stylish blacked-out look with unique design elements. The Telluride's exterior and interior design were well-received, with a focus on quality and contemporary aesthetics. However, the interior colour options were limited, with light grey leather only available in the SX Limited trim.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 represented a significant evolution from Volvo's past, maintaining its family-friendly and safety-oriented image while moving towards the luxury class. The XC90's design was sleek and modern, with a long roofline and pronounced wheel arches. The interior was described as "Scandinavian Modern" with natural wood and metal trim, offering a luxurious feel. Volvo's commitment to going leather-free by 2030 was evident, though Nappa leather was still available for those who preferred it. The XC90's interior was spacious and comfortable, with a focus on quality and attention to detail.

The 2021 Kia Telluride featured a 3.8-litre V6 engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, delivering 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. It offered various driving modes, including Snow, Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Smart, thanks to Kia's Drive Mode Select technology. The Telluride's AWD system included a low-speed Lock function for maximum traction, and its 20.3 cm ground clearance made it capable on low-grip surfaces. The suspension tuning minimized head-toss, providing a smooth ride, while the self-leveling rear suspension ensured proper handling when loaded. The Telluride's fuel efficiency was rated at 11.3 L/100 km in combined driving, with a tested average of 11.5 L/100 km.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrain options: the T5 with a turbocharged 2.0-litre engine, the T6 with a supercharged and turbocharged version, and the Recharge plug-in hybrid. The T5 produced 250 horsepower, the T6 delivered 316 hp, and the Recharge combined gasoline and electric sources for 455 hp. All models featured AWD and an eight-speed automatic transmission. The XC90's fuel efficiency varied by model, with the Recharge offering an EV range of up to 58 km. The XC90's driving experience was praised for its handling and acceleration, with minimal body roll and smooth power delivery.

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 ample storage, including smartphone-friendly features and a smart hands-free power liftgate. Cargo space was generous, with 601 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,455 litres with seats folded.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered six- or seven-passenger configurations, with easy access to the third row. Cargo capacity was 357 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,855 litres with seats folded. The XC90's interior was spacious and comfortable, with ample storage and a panoramic moonroof. The climate control system performed well in various conditions, and the XC90 was equipped for both summer and winter driving.

The 2021 Kia Telluride featured a 10.25-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with Bluetooth connectivity for two smartphones and wireless charging. The SX trim included a 10-speaker Harman Kardon sound system and a head-up display with blind-spot notifications.

The 2022 Volvo XC90's Sensus infotainment system offered tablet-like functionality with a nine-inch touchscreen. While the system was intuitive, it was occasionally slow to respond. The XC90 included a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, a head-up display, and a Harman-Kardon audio system. USB ports were available for device charging.

The 2021 Kia Telluride came with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including blind-spot warning, lane-keeping assistance, forward-collision avoidance, and adaptive cruise control. 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.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 was equipped with a wide range of safety features, such as blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping aid, and adaptive cruise control. Volvo's Pilot Assist system provided assisted driving capabilities. The XC90 received the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.