2023 Kia Telluride vs 2023 Ford Bronco

During our time in Texas, we experienced the 2023 Kia Telluride X-Line and X-Pro models, which featured fresh front and rear styling, updated headlights and taillights, and new wheel designs. The Telluride's new paint colours, such as Midnight Lake Blue, Dawning Red, and Jungle Green, added a vibrant touch, while the interior offered new hues like Terracotta, Navy, and Sage Green. The X-Line model replaced the Nightfall Edition, boasting a raised suspension, unique grille design, and black 20-inch wheels, while the X-Pro took it further with exclusive 18-inch wheels and all-terrain tires, enhancing its off-road appeal. Inside, the Telluride's updates were subtle, with a digital instrumentation panel and a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, both housed under a curved 24-inch glass piece, giving the SUV a modern edge.

The 2023 Ford Bronco, available in nine distinct trims, showcased a blend of retro-cool styling and modern engineering. Its blocky shape, wide horizontal grille, and big round headlights were unmistakable. The Base trim had a primitive charm with steel wheels, while the Raptor stood out with a wide stance and massive tires. The Heritage Edition added nostalgia with a white grille, roof, and plaid seat upholstery. The Bronco's interior continued the rugged theme with a broad dash and sealed switches, allowing for easy cleaning. The materials prioritized durability over luxury, and while some creaking was noted over bumps, it was quieter than a Jeep Wrangler. The Bronco's styling was not just aesthetic; features like cleats above the headlights and raised "fins" provided functional benefits for off-roading.

The 2023 Kia Telluride retained its 3.8-litre V6 engine, delivering 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Drivers could choose from Eco, Comfort, Smart, Sport, and Snow driving modes, with an AWD system featuring a low-speed Lock setting for power distribution. The Telluride X-Line averaged 9.8 litres per 100 kilometres, while the X-Pro, with its off-roading capabilities, returned 11.5 L/100 km. The Telluride's suspension was raised by 10 mm, improving ground clearance and off-road performance. The X-Pro model offered 18-inch wheels, all-terrain tires, and an improved cooling system, increasing towing capacity to 2,495 kilograms. The Telluride excelled in off-road conditions, showcasing its AWD Lock mode, ground clearance, and stability.

The 2023 Ford Bronco offered three engine choices: a 2.3-litre four-cylinder with 300 horsepower, a 2.7-litre V6 with 330 hp, and a 3.0-litre turbocharged V6 in the Raptor with 418 hp. All Broncos featured a 4WD drivetrain and a two-speed transfer case. The base engine was adequate for most adventures, while the Raptor's engine provided exhilarating power. The Bronco's ride quality was bouncier than typical SUVs but more stable than a Jeep Wrangler. Its high-riding dimensions required careful handling on curving roads, but the Bronco felt confident. The four-door model was easier to maneuver, aided by cameras for obstacle avoidance. The Bronco's off-road capabilities were impressive, though it couldn't match the comfort of a Land Rover Defender.

The 2023 Kia Telluride accommodated seven or eight passengers, with premium Nappa leather upholstery and power-adjustable front seats. Heated and ventilated front and second-row captain’s chairs were available, providing comfort for long trips. The second row featured manual sunshades, USB ports, and storage pockets. The third-row seat was more comfortable than many competitors, though it couldn't match the Volkswagen Atlas for leg support. The Telluride offered ample storage space, with a smart power tailgate and generous cargo capacity: 601 litres behind the third row, 1,304 litres with the third row folded, and 2,455 litres with both rear rows down.

The Ford Bronco's boxy shape provided ample interior space, especially in the four-door model. The two-door required some effort to access the rear seats. Up front, storage options included netted door pockets and a rubberized tray for phones. The two-door Bronco offered 634 litres of cargo space, expanding to 1,481 litres with seats folded, while the four-door provided 1,008 litres and 2,197 litres, respectively. The rear seats didn't fold flat, creating a step-up that hindered sliding longer cargo. The Bronco's fenders and doors were easily removable, appealing to off-road enthusiasts.

The 2023 Kia Telluride featured a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM, and navigation. The voice recognition system performed well, though climate control adjustments required manual input. Over-the-air updates kept the system current, and Bluetooth supported dual-device pairing. The Telluride included Driver Talk and Quiet Mode, a wireless phone charger, and a 10-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. Digital-key technology and a Full Display rear-view mirror were available, along with an optional head-up display. The Leading Vehicle Departure Alert system was a standout feature, reminding drivers when traffic ahead moved.

The Ford Bronco utilized technology to enhance off-road capabilities, with G.O.A.T. drive modes optimizing settings for various terrains. Camera views provided visibility in tight spots, and Trail Turn Assist allowed sharp turns. The Bronco's infotainment system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Ford’s SYNC 4, and FordPass Connect. A wireless charging pad was optional, and most Broncos featured an eight-inch touchscreen, with a 12-inch display available for easier use.

The 2023 Kia Telluride offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, and automatic emergency braking. Blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane-keeping assist were standard, along with adaptive cruise control and Highway Drive Assist. Advanced collision avoidance features were available on higher trims. The Telluride received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, though NHTSA crash-test results were unavailable.

The Ford Bronco received mixed safety ratings, with the four-door model earning four stars for frontal crash protection and three stars for rollover protection from the NHTSA. The IIHS awarded it "Good" ratings in most crashworthiness tests. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, hill-start assist, and Trail Turn Assist. The Mid package added blind-spot monitoring and lane-keep assist, while the High and Luxe packages offered additional features. The Bronco's safety features functioned well, though it lagged behind more conventional SUVs in terms of standard equipment.