2023 Kia Telluride vs 2022 Volvo XC90

The 2022 Volvo XC90 represented a significant evolution from the brand's earlier boxy designs, maintaining its family-friendly and safety-oriented image while moving towards the luxury class. After Volvo's acquisition by China's Zhejiang Geely Holding in 2010, the company developed new vehicle platforms, including the Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) for the XC90. The SUV's design featured a sleek roofline, pronounced wheel arches, and a distinctive snub nose, reminiscent of the classic 245 wagon. The interior boasted "Scandinavian Modern" and "Swedish Luxury" styling, with natural wood and metal trim, and exquisite details like a crystal gear selector handle. Volvo's commitment to going leather-free by 2030 was evident, though Nappa leather was still available for those who preferred it.

The 2023 Kia Telluride, particularly in the X-Line and X-Pro models, showcased fresh front and rear styling, updated headlights and taillights, and new wheel designs. New paint colours and interior options added to its appeal. The X-Line replaced the Nightfall Edition, featuring a raised suspension, unique grille design, and black 20-inch wheels, while the X-Pro offered 18-inch wheels and all-terrain tires. Interior updates included a digital instrumentation panel and a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, housed under a curved 24-inch glass piece. The Telluride's interior changes were subtle, with new colours, minor trim updates, and a more functional centre console. The SUV was available in various trims, with prices starting at $50,195 for the EX and reaching $62,795 for the X-Pro.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains: the T5 with a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine producing 250 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, the T6 with a supercharged and turbocharged version delivering 316 hp and 295 lb-ft, and the Recharge plug-in hybrid combining a gasoline engine and electric motor for a total of 455 hp and 523 lb-ft. All models featured all-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission. Fuel efficiency varied, with the T5 achieving 11.5 L/100 km in the city and 8.4 on the highway, while the Recharge offered an 8.8 L/100 km combined rating in hybrid mode and a 29-kilometre EV range. The XC90's driving experience was praised for its minimal body roll and spirited acceleration, particularly in the Recharge Inscription extended range model.

The 2023 Kia Telluride retained its 3.8-litre V6 engine, producing 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Drivers could choose from various driving modes, including Eco, Comfort, Smart, Sport, and Snow, with an AWD system featuring a low-speed Lock setting. The Telluride X-Line averaged 9.8 L/100 km, while the X-Pro returned 11.5 L/100 km, including off-roading. The Telluride's suspension was raised for improved off-road performance, and the X-Pro offered increased towing capacity and a self-levelling rear air suspension. The SUV excelled in both off-road and highway driving, with a smooth ride quality and quiet interior, though the steering in Sport mode was noted to be overly firm.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 accommodated six or seven passengers, depending on the second-row configuration. The third row was suitable for children, with limited legroom for adults. Cargo capacity varied, with up to 357 litres behind the third row and 1,855 litres with all rear seats folded. The XC90 could tow up to 2,250 kilograms, making it suitable for light towing needs. The interior offered ample storage, comfortable seating, and a spacious cabin enhanced by a panoramic moonroof. The climate control system performed well, even in extreme heat, and the SUV was equipped with features like heated seats and a heated steering wheel.

The 2023 Kia Telluride offered seating 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, and the third row was more comfortable than many competitors. Storage space was abundant, with a smart power tailgate and generous cargo capacity, including 601 litres behind the third row and 2,455 litres with all rear seats folded. The Telluride's interior featured convenient storage solutions, USB ports, and a triple-zone climate system, ensuring comfort for all passengers.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system with a nine-inch touchscreen, offering tablet-like functionality and standard Bluetooth. However, the system was occasionally glitchy, performing better with Apple CarPlay. A 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and optional head-up display enhanced driver awareness. The Advanced package included a 360-degree camera system and advanced air cleaner. The XC90 also provided multiple USB ports for device charging.

The 2023 Kia Telluride came standard with a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, including Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Kia Connect services. The system supported voice recognition and over-the-air updates, with six USB charging ports available. Features like Driver Talk, Quiet Mode, and a wireless phone charger were standard, while a digital-key technology and Full Display rear-view mirror were available. The Telluride also offered an optional head-up display and Leading Vehicle Departure Alert system, enhancing convenience and safety.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 was renowned for its safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping aid. The Pilot Assist system provided semi-autonomous driving assistance on highways. The XC90 received top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, earning the Top Safety Pick+ designation and a five-star overall safety rating.

The 2023 Kia Telluride offered an extensive list of standard safety features, including forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, and automatic emergency braking. The SUV also included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control with curve speed reduction. Highway Drive Assist 1.5 provided semi-autonomous driving assistance, with additional collision avoidance features available on higher trims. The Telluride received the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating, though NHTSA ratings were unavailable at the time of review.