2023 Kia Telluride vs 2022 Buick Encore GX

The 2022 Buick Encore GX was a compact SUV that closely resembled its sibling, the Encore, with both models sharing Buick's signature trapezoidal "waterfall" grille and similar headlight styling. The Encore GX, however, was slightly longer, which gave it a more balanced appearance. The optional ST (Sport Touring) appearance package enhanced its aesthetic appeal with sport bumpers, custom grille, and 18-inch aluminum wheels. Inside, the Encore GX offered a comfortable cabin with soft-touch materials and leather upholstery on higher trims, though it wasn't considered truly premium. The controls were user-friendly, although some found the rotary toggles on the steering wheel cumbersome.

In contrast, the 2023 Kia Telluride featured refreshed front and rear styling, updated lighting, and new wheel designs. The X-Line and X-Pro models added a rugged touch with raised suspensions and unique grille designs. Inside, the Telluride boasted a modern interior with a digital instrumentation panel and a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The cabin updates included new colour options and a more functional centre console. The Telluride's interior was spacious, offering comfort and convenience with features like power-adjustable seats and a triple-zone climate system.

The 2022 Buick Encore GX was equipped with a 1.3-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine producing 155 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. While the engine was capable, it was somewhat noisy and lacked the refinement expected from a Buick. The Encore GX's ride was less settled, and noise levels were higher than anticipated. Despite its SUV classification, the Encore GX was not designed for off-roading, with its capabilities limited to light gravel and dirt paths.

The 2023 Kia Telluride retained its 3.8-litre V6 engine, delivering 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission. It offered multiple driving modes, including Eco, Comfort, Smart, Sport, and Snow, with an AWD system featuring a low-speed Lock setting. The Telluride's fuel efficiency varied, with the X-Line averaging 9.8 L/100 km and the X-Pro 11.5 L/100 km. The Telluride's off-road capabilities were enhanced with a raised suspension, improved approach and departure angles, and a Downhill Brake Control system. On highways, the Telluride provided a smooth and quiet ride, though the all-terrain tires made it feel slightly less stable in turns.

The 2022 Buick Encore GX, despite its compact size, offered adequate front-seat headroom and legroom, though rear-seat knee room was limited. Cargo space was reasonable, with 665 litres behind the rear seats and 1,422 litres with them folded. The Encore GX featured a two-level cargo floor and an optional hands-free power liftgate for added convenience.

The 2023 Kia Telluride accommodated seven or eight passengers, depending on the second-row seating configuration. It offered ample interior space, with comfortable front and second-row seats, and a third row that was more accommodating than many competitors. The Telluride's cargo space was generous, with 601 litres behind the third row, 1,304 litres with the third row folded, and 2,455 litres with both rear rows down. The SUV also featured a "smart" power tailgate with proximity-sensing and an automatic closing function.

The 2022 Buick Encore GX came with an eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a range of connectivity options. It offered a variety of driver-assistance features, including blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The tech package included an upgraded infotainment system with navigation and advanced voice recognition.

The 2023 Kia Telluride featured a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Kia Connect services. It offered over-the-air updates, six USB charging ports, and a wireless phone charger. The Telluride also included innovative features like Driver Talk, Quiet Mode, and a digital-key technology. A Full Display rear-view mirror and a head-up display with a larger viewing area were available, along with a Leading Vehicle Departure Alert system.

The 2022 Buick Encore GX was equipped with a range of safety features, including Teen Driver technology and a tire-fill alert system. It received a five-star overall crash protection rating from the NHTSA and "Good" ratings from the IIHS, though its headlights received mixed reviews.

The 2023 Kia Telluride offered an extensive list of standard safety features, including forward-collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. It introduced new features like Intelligent Speed Limit Assist and Advanced Highway Drive Assist. The Telluride was rated as a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS, though NHTSA ratings were unavailable at the time of review.