2023 Mazda CX-30 vs 2023 Kia Telluride

The 2023 Kia Telluride X-Line and X-Pro models, which were sampled in Texas, showcased a refreshed design with updated front and rear styling, new headlights and taillights, and fresh wheel designs. The new paint colours, including Midnight Lake Blue, Dawning Red, and Jungle Green, added to the SUV's appeal, while the interior offered new colour options like Terracotta, Navy, and Sage Green. The X-Line model replaced the Nightfall Edition, featuring a unique grille design, raised roof rails, and black 20-inch wheels, while the X-Pro model boasted exclusive 18-inch wheels and all-terrain tires, enhancing its off-road appearance. Inside, the Telluride's updates were subtle, with a new digital instrumentation panel and a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, both housed under a curved 24-inch piece of glass, giving the SUV a modern touch.

In contrast, the 2023 Mazda CX-30, available in four trim levels in Canada, presented a design that was both appealing and artful, albeit with excessive grey body cladding that detracted from its overall look. The GT Turbo model, tested with extra-cost Soul Red paint, featured black wheels that blended into the dark lower-body cladding. Inside, the CX-30 offered an upscale cabin with quality materials, including off-white leather and a chocolate brown centre console in the GT Turbo. The interior exuded a luxury feel, justifying its premium pricing. However, the CX-30's design was marred by its lack of legroom in the rear seats, despite the comfortable seat cushions and padded front seatbacks.

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. It offered various driving modes, including Eco, Comfort, Smart, Sport, and Snow, 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-road capabilities, returned 11.5 L/100 km. The SUV's raised suspension, improved approach and departure angles, and new Downhill Brake Control system enhanced its off-road performance. On highways, the Telluride provided a smooth and quiet ride, though the off-road tires made it feel slightly squishier in turns.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 offered three powertrains, with the base GX trim featuring a 2.0-litre engine producing 155 horsepower. The GS and GT models had a 2.5-litre engine with 191 horsepower, while the GT Turbo boasted a turbocharged 2.5-litre engine with up to 250 horsepower on premium gas. The CX-30's six-speed automatic transmission and AWD were standard, with a Sport mode for improved performance. The GT Turbo provided robust acceleration, though the powertrain could be caught flat-footed in traffic. The CX-30 averaged 10.0 litres per 100 kilometres, with a small 48-litre fuel tank limiting its range. Despite its soft suspension, the CX-30 excelled on twisty roads, offering a rewarding driving experience.

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 all occupants. The second row featured manual side-window sunshades, USB ports, and storage pockets, while the third row offered more comfort than many competitors. The Telluride's cargo space was generous, with 601 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,455 litres with both rear rows folded. A smart power tailgate with proximity-sensing and an automatic closing function added convenience.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 offered dual-zone automatic climate control, an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat, and a power moonroof. Heated front seats and rain-sensing wipers were standard, with a heated steering wheel available on the GS trim. The CX-30's front passenger seat lacked adjustability, and rear legroom was tight, though the seat cushions were comfortable. Storage space was reasonable, with bins and pockets throughout the cabin. The CX-30's cargo space was limited, with 572 litres behind the rear seats and 1,280 litres with the seats folded, lacking additional storage features.

The 2023 Kia Telluride featured a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM, and navigation. The system supported over-the-air updates and Bluetooth pairing for two devices. Driver Talk and Quiet Mode enhanced communication and comfort, while a wireless phone charger and a 10-speaker Harman Kardon audio system were standard in Canada. The Telluride also offered digital-key technology and a Full Display rear-view mirror. An optional head-up display provided additional driving information, and the Leading Vehicle Departure Alert system was a standout feature.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30's Mazda Connect infotainment system lacked a touchscreen, relying on centre console controls that required visual reference. The system's voice recognition was not conversational, and the absence of a tuning knob was inconvenient. Despite these flaws, the 8.8-inch display was well-integrated, with pleasing graphics and a logical menu structure. All CX-30s included Bluetooth, HD Radio, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and two USB ports, with Turbos adding SiriusXM, navigation, and a 14-speaker Bose audio system.

The 2023 Kia Telluride offered a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including forward-collision warning, pedestrian and cyclist detection, and automatic emergency braking. Blind-spot monitoring, rear parking sensors, and lane-keeping assist were also standard. The Telluride's adaptive cruise control could adjust speed based on navigation data, and Highway Drive Assist provided semi-autonomous driving assistance. The SUV earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, though NHTSA ratings were unavailable.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 improved its side-impact crash protection, earning a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS. Standard safety features included blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, with additional features available on higher trims. The GT and GT Turbo offered an adaptive front lighting system, surround-view camera, and head-up display. The CX-30's driving assistance systems worked well, though a forward-collision warning event was overly aggressive during testing.