2024 Kia Telluride vs 2024 Toyota Sequoia

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 added a centimetre of ground clearance and improved approach and departure angles, while the X-Pro trim enhanced off-road capabilities with 18-inch matte-black wheels and heavy-duty engine cooling, increasing towing capacity to 2,495 kilograms. Prices ranged from $53,433 to $66,133. The Telluride's design, with its attractive proportions and Wolf Gray paint, appealed to many, though some found last year’s styling updates less appealing. Inside, the test model featured a black interior with premium Nappa leather seats, though other trims offered more vibrant options like Mahogany brown and Sage Green, complementing the simulated open-pore wood trim.

The 2024 Toyota Sequoia shared its platform with the Tundra pickup, featuring hexagonal grilles and muscular stances. The Capstone model, with its chrome accents and Celestial Silver colour, appeared somewhat dated. Inside, the Sequoia mirrored the Tundra’s blocky, geometric dash design, with physical dials and buttons for climate control. The Capstone trim boasted semi-aniline leather upholstery, while other trims offered SofTex leatherette or standard leather. The Sequoia’s interior was spacious, with power-adjustable front seats across all trims and a power-tilt and -slide moonroof standard on higher trims. The Sequoia’s design and features catered to those seeking a robust, truck-like SUV experience.

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 offered a towing capacity of 2,268 kilograms, with the X-Pro trim increasing this to 2,495 kilograms. The Telluride featured a locking centre differential and multiple driving modes, including Snow, Comfort, Sport, and Smart. Ground clearance was 20.3 centimetres, rising to 21.3 centimetres in the X-Line and X-Pro trims. Despite its power, the Telluride was not fuel-efficient, averaging 12.4 L/100 km in combined driving. The driving experience was refined, with responsive steering and effective brakes, though the ride felt firm at lower speeds.

The 2024 Toyota Sequoia was exclusively offered with the iForce MAX hybrid powertrain, combining a twin-turbo V6 engine with an electric motor, producing 427 horsepower and 583 lb-ft of torque. This marked a significant improvement over its predecessor. Fuel economy improved to 11.7 L/100 km combined with 4WD. The Sequoia featured a part-time 4WD system with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The SR5 TRD Off-Road model included off-road enhancements like unique tires and an electronic locking rear differential. The Sequoia’s towing capacity reached 4,137 kilograms, with available towing upgrades. The hybrid powertrain provided a powerful yet efficient driving experience.

The Kia Telluride offered a comfortable interior, especially in higher trims with premium Nappa leather, 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 hands-free power liftgate and ample cargo space, offering up to 2,463 litres with seats folded. The Telluride’s interior design included thoughtful details like a digital instrumentation panel with changing landscapes.

The Toyota Sequoia featured automatic power-deploying running boards and a spacious interior with up to 2,460 litres of cargo space. The second-row seats were easy to move for third-row access, though the third-row seats did not create a flat load floor due to the hybrid battery. Headroom and legroom were slightly compromised compared to rivals. The Sequoia offered second-row captain’s chairs in higher trims, though they lacked bolstering. The interior was practical, with a focus on functionality.

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

The Toyota Sequoia featured wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with an 8-inch touchscreen on the SR5 and a 14-inch screen on other trims. The infotainment system was functional, with a 12.3-inch driver information display. The Panoramic View monitor and a 10-inch head-up display were standard on higher trims. The Sequoia offered a 14-speaker JBL audio system on select trims. The technology focused on ease of use and practicality.

The 2024 Kia Telluride impressed with its standard driver assistance features, including collision avoidance, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. Highway Driving Assist was standard, with upgrades available for higher trims. The Telluride received a five-star overall crash test rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS.

The 2024 Toyota Sequoia included the Toyota Safety Sense 2.5 suite as standard, with features like a pre-collision system, lane-departure alert, and adaptive cruise control. Front and rear parking sensors with automatic braking were also standard. The Sequoia had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA, but the similar Tundra earned a Top Safety Pick+ designation.