2024 Kia Telluride vs 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe

In Canada, the 2024 Kia Telluride was available in three core trims: EX, SX, and SX Limited, with additional rugged options in the X-Line and X-Pro trims. All trims featured standard all-wheel drive. The X-Line trim offered an appearance package with a centimetre of extra ground clearance, improved approach and departure angles, and a tow mode. The X-Pro trim enhanced off-road capabilities with 18-inch matte-black wheels, all-terrain tires, and heavy-duty engine cooling, increasing towing capacity to 2,495 kilograms. Prices ranged from $53,433 for the EX to $66,133 for the X-Pro, including a destination charge. The Telluride's styling updates were polarizing, but its attractive proportions remained. The Wolf Gray paint complemented the blacked-out X-Line styling, while the interior featured premium Nappa leather seats, though black was not the most appealing colour. Other options included Mahogany brown, Terracotta brown, and Sage Green, which paired well with the simulated open-pore wood trim.

The 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe presented a radical design departure, embracing a boxy shape for optimal storage capacity. This design was a significant shift from Hyundai's sleek, futuristic Ioniq models. The Santa Fe's upscale appearance turned heads, with sophisticated exterior colours and anodized-finish badging. The XRT trim added dark chrome and black cladding, while wheel sizes varied across trims. Inside, the Santa Fe offered premium styling, with the XRT and Ultimate Calligraphy trims showcasing luxurious materials. Some hard surfaces were present but integrated with soft padding. The headliner fabric was particularly decadent. The Santa Fe's design focused on elegance and practicality, making it a standout in its segment.

The 2024 Kia Telluride was powered by a 3.8-litre V6 engine, delivering 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque through an eight-speed automatic transmission. It could tow up to 2,495 kilograms in the X-Pro trim, thanks to heavy-duty engine cooling. The Telluride featured a locking centre differential and multiple driving modes, including Snow, Comfort, Sport, and Smart. Ground clearance was 20.3 centimetres, increasing to 21.3 centimetres in the X-Line and X-Pro trims. Fuel efficiency was a downside, with an average of 12.4 L/100 km on a mountainous loop and 13.4 L/100 km in city driving. Despite this, the Telluride offered a refined driving experience with responsive steering and brakes. Its ride was firm at low speeds but compliant at higher velocities, making it capable off-road.

In Canada, the 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe introduced a hybrid powertrain as the entry-level option, with a 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 231 horsepower and 271 pound-feet of torque. It used a six-speed automatic transmission instead of a CVT. Other models featured a 2.5-litre turbocharged engine with 277 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. AWD was standard across all trims. The Santa Fe offered Normal, Sport, and Snow driving modes, with the XRT adding off-road settings. Fuel economy for the hybrid was 6.9 L/100 km combined, while the gas engine consumed 10.6 L/100 km. The XRT trim had increased ground clearance and towing capacity. The Santa Fe's driving dynamics were smooth, with some body roll in turns. Off-road, the XRT trim was comparable to other rugged SUVs, thanks to its ground clearance and robust tires.

The 2024 Kia Telluride offered a comfortable interior, especially in higher trims with Nappa leather upholstery, heated and ventilated seats, and a dual sunroof. The controls were user-friendly, with a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Storage was generous, with a covered cubby and smartphone tray. The hands-free power liftgate was convenient but could be turned off when not needed. Cargo space was ample, with 594 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,463 litres with seats folded. Roof rails on the X-Line and X-Pro trims added versatility.

The 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe featured a longer wheelbase and body, focusing on cargo space for car camping and tailgating. The third row was snug, but the first and second rows were spacious. Depending on the trim, seating options included stain-resistant cloth, synthetic leather, or quilted Nappa leather. Heated front seats were standard, with ventilation available in higher trims. The cargo area offered 413 litres, expanding to 2,267 litres with seats folded. Roof rails supported 100 kilograms, and a UV sanitization compartment was available for small items.

The 2024 Kia Telluride came with a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, requiring a cable for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A Kia Connect trial was included for three years, with various subscription plans available. Standard features included satellite radio, wireless charging, and a Harman Kardon audio system. The Telluride offered a blue-light filter, Quiet Mode, and a digital key function. A camera-based rearview mirror and a 10-inch head-up display were also available.

The 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe boasted a curved panoramic display, offering a luxurious feel. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with a 12-speaker Bose stereo and six USB ports. The Preferred trim had a simpler 12.3-inch display. Wireless charging was available in higher trims. Hyundai's BlueLink system provided vehicle access and information, with digital key functionality in all but the base model.

The 2024 Kia Telluride featured a comprehensive suite of driver assistance technologies, including collision avoidance, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. Highway Driving Assist was standard, with upgrades available depending on the trim. The Telluride received a five-star overall crash test rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS.

The 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe had not been crash-tested by the IIHS or NHTSA, but Hyundai vehicles typically performed well. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, forward collision-avoidance assist, and blind-spot monitors. Higher trims added a 360-degree camera system, rain-sensing wipers, and remote automatic parking. The Santa Fe was the first Hyundai with driver monitoring, enhancing safety across the lineup.