2024 Toyota 4Runner vs 2023 Kia Telluride

During our time in Texas, we experienced the 2023 Kia Telluride X-Line and X-Pro models, which featured refreshed front and rear styling, updated headlights and taillights, and new wheel designs. The Telluride offered new paint colours like Midnight Lake Blue, Dawning Red, and Jungle Green, while the interior introduced fresh hues such as 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. The X-Pro model further enhanced its off-road appeal with exclusive 18-inch wheels and all-terrain tires. Inside, the Telluride's updates were subtle, with a digital instrumentation panel and a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system under a curved 24-inch glass piece, pushing the SUV into a more modern era.

In contrast, the 2024 Toyota 4Runner retained its classic, albeit outdated, design, reminiscent of its 2010 roots. Its boxy shape and flared fenders gave it a robust stance, ideal for off-road adventures. The TRD Pro model we reviewed featured underbody skid plates, all-terrain tires, and a tubular roof rack, enhancing its rugged persona. However, the interior showed its age with an analog instrument panel and an eight-inch infotainment touchscreen. The 4Runner's interior was filled with hard plastics, though cushioned panels provided some comfort. Despite its nostalgic charm, the 4Runner lacked the modern touches found in competitors like the Ford Bronco and Jeep Wrangler.

The 2023 Kia Telluride maintained its mechanical prowess with a 3.8-litre V6 engine producing 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. The Telluride X-Line averaged 9.8 litres per 100 kilometres, while the X-Pro returned 11.5 L/100 km, including off-roading. The X-Pro model was equipped for off-road adventures with 18-inch wheels, all-terrain tires, and an improved cooling system, increasing towing capacity to 2,495 kilograms. The Telluride excelled on highways, offering a smooth ride and quiet interior, though the off-road tires made it feel slightly squishier in turns.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner, powered by a 4.0-litre V6 engine with 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque, was paired with a five-speed automatic transmission. While its powertrain specs were comparable to the Bronco and Wrangler, the 4Runner's transmission limited its responsiveness and fuel efficiency. The TRD Pro model featured standard 4WD and a two-speed transfer case, excelling in off-road conditions. However, on pavement, the 4Runner felt sluggish, with noticeable rear-end squat during acceleration and a noisy engine. The soft suspension resulted in body roll and floatiness, though it absorbed larger road imperfections well.

The 2023 Kia Telluride offered seating for 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 journeys. The second row featured manual sunshades, USB ports, and storage pockets, while the third row was more accessible and comfortable than many competitors. The Telluride boasted ample storage space, with a smart power tailgate and generous cargo capacity, ranging from 601 litres behind the third row to 2,455 litres with all rear seats folded.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner's interior, though outdated, was functional with large climate-control dials and sturdy handles. It offered excellent outward visibility, crucial for off-road adventures. The front seats provided ample space, though the steering wheel's limited telescoping range could be an issue for taller drivers. The second row offered generous legroom, but headroom was limited due to the elevated bench height. The 4Runner's cargo capacity ranged from 1,337 litres behind the rear seats to 2,540 litres with the rear seats stowed. However, the lack of remote seat releases and a powered liftgate were drawbacks.

The 2023 Kia Telluride featured a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Kia Connect services. It included over-the-air updates, six USB charging ports, and a wireless phone charger. The Telluride also offered Driver Talk and Quiet Mode, a 10-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, and digital-key technology. A Full Display rear-view mirror and an optional head-up display enhanced the driving experience, while the Leading Vehicle Departure Alert system provided added convenience.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner's infotainment system included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but its eight-inch touchscreen was challenging to use while driving. The TRD Pro model featured a 15-speaker JBL audio system, though road noise often overshadowed its quality. Additional terrain controls were located in the headliner console, with Crawl Control and Multi-Terrain Select systems for off-roading. However, the lack of off-road specific apps and gauges limited its technological appeal.

The 2023 Kia Telluride came equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including forward-collision warning, pedestrian and cyclist detection, and automatic emergency braking. It also offered blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane-keeping assist. Advanced Highway Drive Assist provided semi-autonomous driving assistance, while a Rear Occupant Alert system ensured passenger safety. The Telluride received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner received mixed safety ratings, with four out of five stars from NHTSA for overall and frontal crash protection. It included adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-departure warning. However, the 4Runner's safety systems were often oversensitive, leading to frequent alerts. The TRD Pro and Limited trims featured a surround-view camera system, enhancing visibility.