2023 Kia Telluride vs 2022 Toyota 4Runner

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner retained its rugged, adventure-ready design, reminiscent of its 1980s SUV roots. Unlike many modern SUVs that have transitioned to car-based platforms, the 4Runner maintained its connection to the Toyota Tacoma pickup, offering a high ride height, boxy proportions, and a sharply angled front bumper for tackling obstacles. Inside, the 4Runner's design was functional, though it showed its age with a dash layout reminiscent of the late 2000s. In Canada, the 4Runner was available in Trail and SR5 models, with various TRD and Limited packages offering different features and capabilities, such as the TRD Pro's enhanced off-road equipment.

The 2023 Kia Telluride, on the other hand, showcased a fresh design with updated front and rear styling, new wheel designs, and a range of new paint and interior colours. The X-Line and X-Pro models added a touch of ruggedness with raised suspensions and unique styling elements. Inside, the Telluride featured a modern and spacious cabin with premium materials, including Nappa leather upholstery and a new digital instrumentation panel. The 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system and advanced technology features, such as a digital key and a full-display rear-view mirror, highlighted Kia's commitment to innovation and comfort.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner was powered by a 4.0-litre V6 engine, producing 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with a five-speed automatic transmission, delivered power to a standard 4WD system with a low range. While reliable, the engine felt underwhelming in most driving situations, and the ride was harsh and cumbersome, with noticeable body roll. However, off-road, the 4Runner excelled, with its suspension absorbing rough terrain effortlessly. The TRD Pro and TRD Off-Road models offered additional off-road features like Crawl Control and a locking differential. The 4Runner's towing capacity was up to 2,268 kilograms (5,000 pounds).

In contrast, the 2023 Kia Telluride featured a 3.8-litre V6 engine, generating 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. The Telluride offered multiple driving modes, including Eco, Comfort, Smart, Sport, and Snow, with an AWD system featuring a low-speed Lock setting. The Telluride's ride was smooth and comfortable, with a fuel economy of 9.8 litres per 100 kilometres in the X-Line and 11.5 L/100 km in the X-Pro. The X-Pro model, designed for off-road adventures, included all-terrain tires and an improved cooling system, increasing towing capacity to 2,495 kilograms (5,500 pounds).

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner offered a maximum cargo capacity of 2,540 litres in the two-row version, with 1,337 litres available with the second-row seats in use. The three-row model reduced maximum cargo space to 2,514 litres, with only 254 litres behind the rear seats. The 4Runner lacked a power rear liftgate but featured a power-open/close rear window for easy access. While not the most spacious SUV, the 4Runner provided adequate storage and seating for its class.

The 2023 Kia Telluride accommodated seven or eight passengers, depending on the second-row seating configuration. The interior was spacious and comfortable, with premium Nappa leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, and heated and ventilated front- and second-row captain’s chairs. The Telluride offered ample storage space, with a "smart" power tailgate and a maximum cargo volume of 2,455 litres with both rear rows folded down. The third-row seating was more comfortable than many competitors, providing better leg support and overall room.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner came with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity, SiriusXM satellite radio, and multiple USB ports. While not the most advanced system, it offered straightforward functionality with tactile controls, suitable for those who appreciated a simpler interface.

In contrast, the 2023 Kia Telluride boasted a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, and Kia Connect services. The system supported over-the-air updates and Bluetooth pairing for two devices simultaneously. The Telluride included features like Driver Talk, 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.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner featured the Toyota Safety Sense suite, including forward automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, and lane-departure warning. It earned four out of five stars in frontal and side-impact testing from the NHTSA, with three stars for rollover testing.

The 2023 Kia Telluride offered an extensive list of standard safety features, including forward-collision warning, pedestrian and cyclist detection, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. New features for 2023 included a junction turning system, 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.