2022 Porsche Macan vs 2023 Kia Telluride

The 2022 Porsche Macan retained much of its original design, despite several updates over the years. It featured a refreshed styling with larger standard wheels and a new centre console that incorporated haptic touch controls, enhancing the interior's usability. The Macan lineup in Canada included four models: the base Macan, Macan T, Macan S, and Macan GTS, with the Macan S benefiting from a high-output powertrain previously found in the GTS. Our test vehicle, a Macan S, showcased a sleek Volcano Gray exterior with 21-inch RS Spyder Design wheels, embodying Porsche's tradition of combining athletic aesthetics with high performance.

Inside, the Macan drew inspiration from other Porsche models, featuring an ignition switch to the left of the steering wheel, a large tachometer, and a flat, wide dashboard. The interior, adorned with red leather, gloss black trim, and silver metallic accents, exuded an upscale, sporty vibe. Despite its sporty nature, the Macan offered a comfortable driving experience, with supportive front seats and a well-designed cabin that emphasized both luxury and functionality.

The 2023 Kia Telluride, particularly in its X-Line and X-Pro models, received notable updates in styling and functionality. It featured refreshed front and rear designs, updated lighting, and new wheel options. The X-Line replaced the Nightfall Edition, offering a raised suspension, unique grille, and black 20-inch wheels, while the X-Pro added exclusive 18-inch wheels and all-terrain tires, enhancing its off-road appeal. Inside, the Telluride boasted a modernized dashboard with a digital instrumentation panel and a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, housed under a curved 24-inch glass piece, pushing the SUV into a more futuristic realm.

Interior changes in the Telluride included new colour options, minor trim updates, and a redesigned steering wheel. The X-Line and X-Pro models featured embossed trim names on the front seatbacks, adding a touch of exclusivity. In Canada, the Telluride was available in various trims, starting with the EX and capping with the X-Pro, offering a range of features and pricing to suit different preferences. Our test drive in Texas highlighted the Telluride's capability and comfort, making it a strong contender in the midsize SUV segment.

The 2022 Porsche Macan offered a range of powertrains, with the base Macan and Macan T featuring a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine producing 261 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. The Macan GTS inherited a 2.9-litre twin-turbo V6 from the previous Macan Turbo, delivering 434 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque. Our Macan S test vehicle was equipped with a twin-turbo 2.9-litre V6, generating 375 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque, allowing it to accelerate to 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds with the optional Sport Chrono Package and launch control.

All Macan models featured a seven-speed PDK dual-clutch automatic transmission and a fully variable all-wheel-drive system, emphasizing rear-wheel power distribution. Porsche re-tuned the Macan's steering and suspension for improved ride and handling, with the Macan S benefiting from larger 20-inch wheels and Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) adaptive damping. The test vehicle also included optional Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus (PTV+) and Porsche Surface Coated Brakes (PSCB), enhancing its performance capabilities.

The 2023 Kia Telluride retained its 3.8-litre V6 engine, producing 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. It offered various driving modes, including Eco, Comfort, Smart, Sport, and Snow, with an AWD system featuring a low-speed Lock setting for even power distribution. During our test drive, the Telluride X-Line averaged 9.8 L/100 km, while the X-Pro returned 11.5 L/100 km, reflecting its off-road capabilities.

Kia enhanced the Telluride's off-road performance by raising the suspension, improving approach and departure angles, and modifying the traction control system. The X-Pro model, with its all-terrain tires and improved cooling system, increased towing capacity to 2,495 kilograms. Our off-road experience in Texas demonstrated the Telluride's stability and capability, making it a reliable choice for adventurous drivers.

The 2022 Porsche Macan offered a comfortable driving experience, with optional 14-way power-adjustable front seats featuring heating and ventilation. However, the rear seats were cramped, especially for taller passengers. The redesigned centre console with haptic touch controls provided a modern look but required drivers to look away from the road to use them. Cargo space was limited, with 488 litres available behind the rear seats, expandable to 1,503 litres with the seats folded.

In contrast, the 2023 Kia Telluride provided ample space for passengers and cargo. Depending on the configuration, it accommodated seven or eight passengers, with premium Nappa leather upholstery and heated and ventilated front and second-row seats. The second-row captain's chairs offered easy access to the third row, which was more comfortable than many competitors. Cargo space was generous, with 601 litres behind the third row, expandable to 2,455 litres with both rear rows folded.

The 2022 Porsche Macan featured a 10.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay, SiriusXM satellite radio, and a navigation system. While the user experience was generally intuitive, the voice recognition system was less reliable than competitors. The Macan offered stereo volume and tuning controls separate from the touchscreen, reducing the need for interaction while driving.

The 2023 Kia Telluride came equipped with a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, including Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Kia Connect services. The voice recognition system performed well, though climate control adjustments required manual input. The Telluride also featured over-the-air updates, multiple USB ports, and innovative features like Driver Talk and Quiet Mode. A wireless phone charger and a 10-speaker Harman Kardon audio system were standard in Canada, with additional options like a digital key and a Full Display rear-view mirror available.

The 2022 Porsche Macan included standard lane-departure warning and a reversing camera, with optional features like blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking. While these systems performed as expected, the Macan lacked more advanced driving assistance technologies. Parking assistance features, such as a surround-view camera and Park Assist, were available.

The 2023 Kia Telluride offered an extensive list of standard safety features, including forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, and automatic emergency braking. It also included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane-keeping assist. Advanced features like Highway Drive Assist and Intelligent Speed Limit Assist were available, enhancing the Telluride's safety profile. The IIHS rated the Telluride as a Top Safety Pick+, reflecting its comprehensive safety offerings.