2023 Kia Telluride vs 2022 Chevrolet Blazer

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer, available in Canada in LT, True North, Premier, and RS trims, offered a mix of turbocharged four-cylinder and V6 engines, with the latter providing a more robust performance. The RS trim stood out with its advanced twin-clutch AWD system, enhancing its capability on low-traction surfaces. The Blazer's design, inspired by the Camaro, featured a sporty exterior with options for two-tone paint and revised trim for the Premier version. Inside, the Blazer showcased a Camaro-like infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen and innovative climate controls, though it was marred by the use of hard plastics.

In contrast, the 2023 Kia Telluride, particularly in the X-Line and X-Pro trims, presented a refreshed look with updated front and rear styling, new wheel designs, and a selection of new paint and interior colours. The X-Line and X-Pro trims added off-road flair with raised suspensions and unique design elements. Inside, the Telluride boasted a modernized dashboard with a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system and digital instrumentation panel, all under a sleek 24-inch glass panel. The interior updates, including new colours and a redesigned steering wheel, enhanced the Telluride's appeal, making it a more contemporary choice.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer offered a choice between a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 228 horsepower and a 3.6-litre V6 engine producing 308 horsepower. Both engines were paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, with the V6 providing a more spirited drive, especially in the RS trim with its dual-clutch AWD system. The Blazer's driving modes included Tour, Sport, Slippery, and Tow/Haul, and it could tow up to 2,040 kilograms. However, the Blazer's sporty styling did not translate to a dynamic driving experience, as it struggled with suspension and transmission responsiveness on challenging roads. Fuel consumption averaged 11.5 L/100 km during testing.

The 2023 Kia Telluride retained its 3.8-litre V6 engine, delivering 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. The Telluride offered Eco, Comfort, Smart, Sport, and Snow driving modes, with an AWD system featuring a low-speed Lock setting for off-road conditions. The Telluride X-Line achieved an average fuel consumption of 9.8 L/100 km, while the X-Pro, with its off-road capabilities, averaged 11.5 L/100 km. The Telluride's off-road prowess was enhanced by a raised suspension, improved approach and departure angles, and a new Downhill Brake Control system, making it a versatile choice for both highway and off-road driving.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer provided a comfortable and functional interior, with black leather upholstery and red accents lending a sporty appearance. The front seats offered power adjustments and optional ventilation, though they lacked thigh support. The Blazer's dual-zone climate control and rear air vents ensured passenger comfort, while the sliding rear seat added flexibility for cargo or passenger space. Storage options were plentiful, but the cargo area, at 864 litres with the seats up and 1,818 litres with them down, was smaller than some competitors.

The 2023 Kia Telluride excelled in interior space and comfort, accommodating seven or eight passengers depending on the configuration. The test vehicles featured premium Nappa leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, and heated and ventilated front and second-row seats. The Telluride's second-row captain's chairs provided easy access to the third row, which was more comfortable than many rivals. Storage was abundant, and the smart power tailgate with proximity-sensing made loading cargo effortless. The Telluride offered 601 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 2,455 litres with both rear rows folded.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with simple physical controls, dual-zone climate control, and a range of connectivity options, including USB ports and a household-style power outlet. The Blazer's technology was user-friendly, but it lacked some of the advanced features found in newer models.

The 2023 Kia Telluride came equipped with a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM, and Kia Connect services. The system supported over-the-air updates and dual Bluetooth device pairing. The Telluride also included Driver Talk and Quiet Mode, a wireless phone charger, and a 10-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. New digital-key technology and a Full Display rear-view mirror added to the Telluride's tech-savvy appeal, while an optional head-up display provided additional driving information.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer came standard with the Chevy Safety Assist suite, which included forward-collision alert, pedestrian detection, low-speed automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, and automatic high-beam headlights. Additional safety features included a rear-seat reminder, Teen Driver technology, and an available Safety Alert Seat. However, the Blazer did not receive a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the IIHS due to its headlight performance.

The 2023 Kia Telluride offered an extensive list of standard safety features, including forward-collision warning, pedestrian and cyclist detection, and a new junction turning system. The Telluride also included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and lane-centring assist. Advanced features like Highway Drive Assist 1.5, Intelligent Speed Limit Assist, and a Rear Occupant Alert system with ultrasonic sensors were also available. The Telluride received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, highlighting its superior safety credentials.