2024 Kia EV9 vs 2023 Kia Telluride

During our time in Texas, we experienced the 2023 Kia Telluride X-Line and X-Pro models, which showcased the SUV's refreshed design. The Telluride featured updated front and rear styling, new headlights and taillights, and fresh wheel designs. New paint colours like Midnight Lake Blue, Dawning Red, and Jungle Green added to its appeal, while interior options included Terracotta, Navy, and Sage Green. The X-Line model replaced the Nightfall Edition, offering a raised suspension, unique grille design, and black 20-inch wheels. The X-Pro model went further with exclusive 18-inch wheels and all-terrain tires, enhancing its off-road capabilities. Inside, the Telluride boasted a digital instrumentation panel and a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, housed under a curved 24-inch glass panel, pushing the SUV into a more modern era.

The 2024 Kia EV9, on the other hand, marked a bold step forward for Kia's electric vehicles. Its exterior design was distinctly Kia, with a blockier, digital clock-inspired look. The EV9's lighting signature was a standout feature, with "Star Map" daytime running lights outlining the "Digital Tiger Face" grille. The LED headlights varied by trim, appearing as clusters of dashes or dots. The top Land trim offered a Digital Pattern Lighting Grille, adding a constellation of light points. The EV9's design was a testament to Kia's commitment to innovation and modernity, setting it apart from traditional SUVs.

The 2023 Kia Telluride retained its reliable 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 Telluride's raised suspension, improved approach and departure angles, and traction control modifications enhanced its off-road performance. The X-Pro model, with 18-inch wheels and all-terrain tires, increased towing capacity to 2,495 kilograms and featured a self-levelling rear air suspension.

The 2024 Kia EV9 offered a range of powertrains, starting with the Light trim's single motor, rear-wheel-drive setup producing 215 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, with an electric range of 370 kilometres. The Wind model, with a larger 99.8-kWh battery, provided 489 kilometres of range. The top Land trim featured dual motors, delivering 379 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque, with a range of 451 kilometres. The GT-Line sacrificed some range for performance, offering 435 kilometres. The EV9's power delivery was smooth, with good handling and minimal body roll. Its regenerative braking system was adjustable, allowing for a natural driving experience. Fast charging capability enabled the EV9 to go from 10 to 80 percent in 25 minutes on a high-speed DC fast charger.

The 2023 Kia Telluride accommodated seven or eight passengers, depending on the second-row seating 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 interior was spacious, with a power lumbar stabilization system for driver comfort. The second row offered manual side-window sunshades, USB ports, and storage pockets. The third-row seating area was accessible and comfortable, with ample storage space throughout the vehicle. Cargo space was generous, with 601 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,455 litres with both rear rows folded down.

The 2024 Kia EV9 stood out with its spacious third row, offering 1,004 millimetres of headroom, surpassing the Telluride, BMW X7, and Rivian R1S. The EV9 seated up to seven passengers, with second-row captain’s chairs available in higher trims. Cargo space measured 572 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,313 litres with only the front-row seats in place. The EV9's high and flat load floor made loading and unloading easier. Storage space up front was adequate, with a floating centre console and a large open compartment between the driver and front passenger.

The 2023 Kia Telluride featured a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, and Kia Connect services. The voice recognition system performed well, though climate control adjustments required manual input. Over-the-air updates kept the system current, and six USB charging ports provided power for all passengers. The Telluride included Driver Talk and Quiet Mode, a wireless phone charger, and a 10-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. A Full Display rear-view mirror and a head-up display were available, along with a Leading Vehicle Departure Alert system.

The 2024 Kia EV9 took technology to the next level with a three-screen curved display, including a 12.3-inch driver information display, a 5-inch Climate Display, and a 12.3-inch infotainment screen. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with a wireless charging pad. Higher trims featured a 14-speaker Meridian Premium Audio system. The EV9's connectedness was a highlight, with over-the-air updates and the Kia Connect store offering additional features and upgrades. This future-proofing approach allowed for customization and enhancements over time.

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 system could reduce speed based on navigation data, and Highway Drive Assist provided semi-autonomous driving assistance. The Telluride earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS.

The 2024 Kia EV9 featured a robust suite of standard driver-assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control with navigation-based capabilities, blind-spot collision avoidance, and forward collision avoidance. The Blind-spot View Monitor was available on higher trims. The EV9 had not yet been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA, but it received the highest rating from Euro NCAP.