2023 Kia Telluride vs 2023 Subaru Forester

The 2023 Kia Telluride, particularly in its X-Line and X-Pro models, showcased a refreshed design with updated front and rear styling, new headlights and taillights, and a selection of new wheel designs. The SUV was available in striking new paint colours such as Midnight Lake Blue, Dawning Red, and Jungle Green, complemented by fresh interior hues like Terracotta, Navy, and Sage Green. The X-Line model replaced the Nightfall Edition, featuring a raised suspension, unique grille design, and black 20-inch wheels, while the X-Pro model further enhanced its off-road appeal with exclusive 18-inch wheels and all-terrain tires. Inside, the Telluride boasted a modernized dashboard with a digital instrumentation panel and a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, all under a sleek 24-inch curved glass. The interior updates were subtle, focusing on new colours, minor trim changes, and improved functionality of the centre console.

In contrast, the 2023 Subaru Forester maintained its traditional, utilitarian design, reminiscent of its predecessors. The Premier trim, which we tested, featured a Cascade Green Silica paint that added a touch of elegance to its otherwise boxy silhouette. The Forester's design included flared fenders, a narrow waist, and distinctive lighting elements, giving it a rugged yet familiar appearance. Inside, the Premier trim offered exclusive brown leather and trim, with exposed stitching and metallic accents, creating a warm and inviting cabin. The Forester's interior was practical, with analog gauges, an 8-inch touchscreen, and a straightforward control layout that emphasized ease of use. Despite its abundance of hard plastic, the cabin was easy to clean and maintained a back-to-basics charm that appealed to those seeking functionality over flashiness.

The 2023 Kia Telluride retained its robust 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 various driving modes, including Eco, Comfort, Smart, Sport, and Snow, with an AWD system featuring a low-speed Lock setting for enhanced traction. The Telluride X-Line achieved an average fuel consumption of 9.8 litres per 100 kilometres, while the X-Pro, with its off-road capabilities, returned 11.5 L/100 km. The Telluride's suspension was raised by 10 mm, improving ground clearance and off-road performance, complemented by a new Downhill Brake Control system. The X-Pro model, equipped with all-terrain tires and an improved cooling system, increased towing capacity to 2,495 kilograms. On highways, the Telluride offered a smooth and quiet ride, with some wind noise at higher speeds, and a slightly firm steering in Sport mode.

The 2023 Subaru Forester, powered by a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, produced 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque, driving all four wheels through a CVT with eight programmed ratios. The Forester's SI-Drive system offered a Sport mode for quicker responses, while the X-Mode off-road traction control system included Deep Snow and Mud settings. The Forester Premier, tested during adverse weather conditions, handled flooded roads and muddy trails with ease, showcasing its capability in challenging environments. On dry roads, the Forester's driving dynamics impressed, with light and accurate steering, responsive brakes, and excellent suspension tuning. Despite its adequate powertrain, the Forester's ride was firm and communicative, reminiscent of classic Subaru models. However, the Forester's fuel consumption of 9.1 L/100 km fell short of its official rating, highlighting the need for a more efficient or turbocharged engine option.

The 2023 Kia Telluride offered a spacious interior, accommodating seven or eight passengers depending on the second-row configuration. Our test vehicles featured premium Nappa leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, and heated and ventilated front- and second-row captain’s chairs. The second row provided comfort with manual sunshades, USB ports, and adjustable armrests, 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, expanding to 1,304 litres with the third row folded, and a maximum of 2,455 litres with both rear rows down. A smart power tailgate with proximity-sensing and an automatic closing function added convenience.

The 2023 Subaru Forester prioritized function over form, offering a practical and straightforward interior. The Touring trim included a panoramic sunroof, power-adjustable driver’s seat, and heated front seats, with higher trims offering StarTex or genuine leather upholstery and dual-zone climate control. The Forester's excellent outward visibility, thanks to tall glass and thin pillars, made it easy to drive and park. However, the panoramic sunroof's lack of tinting could lead to excessive solar heating, and the rear seats, while spacious, lacked leg support and had a reclined backrest angle. Interior storage was plentiful, with well-sealed doors and a usefully shaped cargo area. The Forester offered 762 litres of cargo space behind the back seat, expanding to 1,957 litres with the seats folded, providing ample room for gear and luggage.

The 2023 Kia Telluride came equipped with a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM, and Kia Connect services. The system supported over-the-air updates and Bluetooth pairing for two devices simultaneously. Driver Talk and Quiet Mode enhanced communication within the cabin, while a wireless phone charger and a 10-speaker Harman Kardon audio system were standard in higher trims. The Telluride also offered digital-key technology and a Full Display rear-view mirror, along with an optional head-up display with a larger viewing area. The Leading Vehicle Departure Alert system was a standout feature, providing reminders when traffic started moving.

The 2023 Subaru Forester's technology might have appeared outdated, but it offered a user-friendly experience. The Base trim included a 6.5-inch touchscreen with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Starlink services. An 8-inch display with navigation and a Harman Kardon audio system was available in higher trims. The Forester's older Starlink system, with separate climate controls and physical knobs, was preferred for its simplicity. However, the voice-recognition system was unreliable, making Apple CarPlay or Android Auto essential for navigation and commands.

The 2023 Kia Telluride boasted an extensive list of standard safety features, including forward-collision warning, pedestrian and cyclist detection, and a new junction turning system. Blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane-keeping assist were also standard, along with adaptive cruise control with curve speed reduction. The Telluride's Highway Drive Assist 1.5 provided semi-autonomous driving assistance, with Advanced Highway Drive Assist available in higher trims. The SUV earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, though NHTSA ratings were unavailable.

The 2023 Subaru Forester featured the next-generation EyeSight system, with updated software and cameras for improved performance. Adaptive cruise control was standard, with Automatic Emergency Steering available in higher trims. The Forester's Rear Automatic Braking system was prone to false alarms, and the DriverFocus Distraction Mitigation System was exclusive to higher trims. The Forester received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, a step down from the previous year, but maintained five-star ratings from the NHTSA.