2023 Kia Telluride vs 2022 Hyundai Kona

The 2022 Hyundai Kona received a significant makeover, enhancing its sophistication with a 4-centimetre increase in length, a revised grille, and updated LED lighting. The sporty new character lines and lower body cladding added to its crossover appeal, while new alloy wheel designs completed the exterior updates. Inside, the Kona's instrument panel and centre console were separated to create a more spacious look, complemented by ambient lighting in the front cupholders and footwells. The introduction of the N Line and Kona N trims brought unique styling elements, such as body-colour cladding and exclusive wheel designs, enhancing the vehicle's athletic appearance. The Kona N further elevated the sportiness with features like wide fenders, a front lip spoiler, and N sport bucket seats.

In contrast, the 2023 Kia Telluride showcased fresh front and rear styling, updated headlights and taillights, and new wheel designs. The introduction of new paint colours and interior options added to its appeal. The X-Line and X-Pro models replaced the Nightfall Edition, featuring raised suspensions, unique grille designs, and exclusive wheel options. The interior updates included a digital instrumentation panel and a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, enhancing the Telluride's modernity. The SUV's interior changes also included new colours, minor trim updates, and a more functional centre console. The Telluride's spaciousness and comfort were further highlighted by features like power-adjustable front seats and heated and ventilated second-row captain’s chairs.

The 2022 Hyundai Kona offered a diverse range of powertrains, catering to different performance preferences. The Essential and Preferred trims featured a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with 147 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque, paired with a CVT. The N Line trim provided a more spirited drive with a turbocharged 1.6-litre engine delivering 195 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque, coupled with a seven-speed DCT. The Kona N took performance to another level with a turbocharged 2.0-litre engine producing 276 horsepower and 289 pound-feet of torque, paired with an N eight-speed wet DCT. The Kona's handling was composed, with its low ride height and AWD contributing to its stability and agility.

The 2023 Kia Telluride retained its 3.8-litre V6 engine, generating 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The SUV offered various driving modes, including Eco, Comfort, Smart, Sport, and Snow, with an AWD system featuring a low-speed Lock setting. The Telluride's performance was impressive, with the X-Line averaging 9.8 litres per 100 kilometres and the X-Pro returning 11.5 L/100 km. The SUV's off-road capabilities were enhanced by a raised suspension, improved approach and departure angles, and a new Downhill Brake Control system. The Telluride's ride quality was smooth and connected, with some wind noise at highway speeds.

The 2022 Hyundai Kona, despite its compact size, offered ample front-seat comfort with generous headroom and legroom. However, rear-seat occupants faced challenges with small door openings and limited head- and legroom. The Kona's cargo space was tight, with 544 litres available with all seats up and 1,296 litres with the rear seats folded. Towing was not recommended for the Kona.

The 2023 Kia Telluride provided spacious accommodation for seven or eight passengers, with premium Nappa leather upholstery and power-adjustable front seats. The second-row captain’s chairs were heated and ventilated, offering comfort and convenience. The Telluride's cargo space was generous, with 601 litres behind the third row, 1,304 litres with the third row folded, and a maximum of 2,455 litres with both rear rows down. The SUV featured a smart power tailgate and ample storage options.

The 2022 Hyundai Kona introduced more tech features, including an 8-inch display with Bluetooth connectivity and a six-speaker audio system. The N Line and Kona N offered a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with navigation and an optional Harman Kardon audio system. Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay were standard with the base screen, while the larger screen required wired connections. Hyundai BlueLink was available on most trims, providing connected services for three years.

The 2023 Kia Telluride came standard with a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM, and Kia Connect services. The system supported OTA updates and Bluetooth pairing for two devices. The Telluride 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 were also available. The SUV offered an optional HUD with a larger viewing area and a Leading Vehicle Departure Alert system.

The 2022 Hyundai Kona provided essential safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assistance, and driver attention warning. Available technologies included adaptive cruise control, blind-spot warning, and Highway Drive Assist. The Kona received five stars from the NHTSA for overall crash protection and "Good" ratings from the IIHS in crashworthiness tests.

The 2023 Kia Telluride offered an extensive list of standard safety features, including forward-collision warning, pedestrian and cyclist detection, and automatic emergency braking. The SUV included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane-keeping assist. Advanced features like Highway Drive Assist 1.5 and Advanced Highway Drive Assist were available. The Telluride received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS.