2023 Kia Telluride vs 2022 Toyota RAV4

The 2022 Toyota RAV4, a staple in the crossover SUV market, continued to build on its legacy of practicality and reliability. Initially launched in 1996 as a compact alternative to larger SUVs, the RAV4 evolved over five generations into a mature and sophisticated vehicle. By 2022, it had become a sales leader in Canada, thanks to its blend of car-like handling and SUV versatility. The exterior design of the 2022 RAV4 was characterized by angular wheel arches and crisp lines, giving it a distinctive look. The expressive headlights and snub-nosed grille added a playful yet aggressive touch, while the traditional Toyota fit and finish elevated the overall quality of the vehicle.

Inside, the RAV4 featured a layered dashboard with contrasting textures and colours, anchored by a straightforward centre stack. The touchscreen interface was strategically positioned for minimal distraction, and the interior design included unique geometric patterns that tied various elements together. The 19-inch matte gray alloy wheels on the Trail grade model further enhanced its visual appeal. Overall, the 2022 RAV4 offered a well-rounded package that appealed to a wide range of drivers.

The 2023 Kia Telluride, on the other hand, showcased a fresh design with updated front and rear styling, new headlights and taillights, and a selection of new paint colours. The X-Line and X-Pro models, which replaced the Nightfall Edition, featured raised suspensions and unique grille designs, giving them a mildly aggressive off-road appearance. Inside, the Telluride boasted a modern digital instrumentation panel and a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, housed under a curved 24-inch glass panel. The interior updates included new colours, minor trim changes, and a redesigned steering wheel, enhancing the overall functionality and aesthetics of the cabin.

The Telluride's interior was spacious and comfortable, with premium Nappa leather upholstery and power-adjustable front seats. The second-row captain's chairs were heated and ventilated, providing a luxurious experience for passengers. The third-row seating area was more accessible and comfortable than many competitors, making the Telluride a practical choice for families. With a generous cargo capacity and a smart power tailgate, the 2023 Telluride offered a well-rounded package for those seeking a versatile and stylish SUV.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 offered a choice of three powertrains, catering to a variety of driving preferences. The gasoline-only model featured a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, this engine delivered smooth and immediate power, making it suitable for everyday driving. The RAV4's fuel economy was commendable, with FWD models achieving 8.8 L/100 km in the city and 6.8 on the highway. AWD models had slightly higher consumption, ranging from 8.7 to 9.5 L/100 km in the city and 6.9 to 7.4 on the highway.

The RAV4 Hybrid combined a 2.5-litre engine with an electric motor, producing 217 net horsepower. Its fuel economy was impressive, with ratings of 5.8 L/100 km in the city and 6.3 on the highway. The RAV4 Prime, a plug-in hybrid, offered 302 horsepower and could run up to 68 kilometres on electricity alone. Its fuel consumption was 5.7 L/100 km in the city and 6.4 on the highway in hybrid mode. The RAV4's handling was car-like, with a four-wheel independent suspension and dynamic torque vectoring for improved cornering.

The 2023 Kia Telluride retained its 3.8-litre V6 engine, delivering 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, the Telluride offered a smooth and powerful driving experience. The SUV featured multiple driving modes, including Eco, Comfort, Smart, Sport, and Snow, allowing drivers to tailor the performance to their liking. The AWD system included a low-speed Lock setting for improved traction.

The Telluride's fuel economy was competitive, with the X-Line model averaging 9.8 L/100 km during testing. The X-Pro model, designed for off-road adventures, returned 11.5 L/100 km, including off-roading. The Telluride's suspension was raised for better ground clearance, and it featured a new Downhill Brake Control system for improved off-road performance. The X-Pro model also had a higher towing capacity of 2,495 kilograms, making it a versatile choice for those who enjoy outdoor activities.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 offered a spacious interior with a cargo capacity of 1,059 litres behind the second row. Folding the second row flat increased the capacity to 1,977 litres, making it suitable for various hauling needs. The RAV4's payload capacity ranged from 499 to 511 kilograms, depending on the configuration. Towing capacity varied by model, with the Trail and TRD Off-Road models capable of towing up to 1,588 kilograms. Inside, the RAV4 provided ample space for four adults, with comfortable front seats and a well-designed centre console. The XLE grade added features like dual-zone climate control and a power-adjustable driver's seat, enhancing comfort and convenience.

The 2023 Kia Telluride accommodated seven or eight passengers, depending on the second-row seating configuration. The interior featured premium Nappa leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, and heated and ventilated front- and second-row captain's chairs. The second row offered manual side-window sunshades, USB ports, and storage pockets, while the third row was more accessible and comfortable than many competitors. The Telluride's cargo space was generous, with 601 litres behind the third row and up to 2,455 litres with both rear rows folded down. The smart power tailgate and automatic closing function added convenience for loading and unloading.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 came equipped with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, six-speaker audio, and smartphone integration through Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Higher trims offered a 9-inch touchscreen, an 11-speaker JBL audio system, and additional features like navigation and Safety Connect. The RAV4 Prime showcased advanced technology, including multiple USB ports, auxiliary power outlets, and a wireless charging pad. Optional features included a bird’s-eye view camera system and a head-up display, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2023 Kia Telluride featured a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Kia Connect services. The system supported over-the-air updates and allowed for the pairing of two devices simultaneously. The Telluride included Driver Talk and Quiet Mode, enhancing communication and comfort for passengers. A wireless phone charger and a 10-speaker Harman Kardon audio system were standard in Canada. The Telluride also offered digital-key technology, a Full Display rear-view mirror, and an optional head-up display with a larger viewing area.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 was equipped with Toyota’s Star Safety System, which included features like enhanced vehicle stability control, traction control, and anti-lock braking. The RAV4 also had eight airbags and Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, a suite of driver-assist systems. This included a pre-collision system, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure alert. The RAV4 was an IIHS Top Safety Pick and received a five-star rating from the NHTSA.

The 2023 Kia Telluride offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, and automatic emergency braking. The Telluride also included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane-keeping assist. New features for 2023 included a junction turning system and Intelligent Speed Limit Assist. The Telluride was rated as a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS, reflecting its strong safety credentials.