2024 Kia Telluride vs 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe

The 2024 Kia Telluride was available in Canada in five trims: EX, SX, SX Limited, X-Line, and X-Pro, all featuring 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, with the X-Line trim showcasing a striking Wolf Gray paint. The Telluride's design, with its attractive proportions and styling updates, continued to draw buyers, although opinions on its aesthetics varied. Inside, the test model featured a black interior with premium Nappa leather seats, though other colour options like Mahogany brown and Sage Green were available, complementing the simulated open-pore wood trim. Despite some shiny plastic in the lower interior, the SX Limited trim nearly reached luxury SUV standards with its soft leather, dual-screen digital display, and thoughtful details.

The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe, available in XRT, Luxury, and Ultimate Calligraphy trims, maintained its fifth-generation design with a chunky, boxy appearance, long wheelbase, and pixelated H-shaped LED headlamps. The rear design, however, suffered from mismatched proportions, with taillights positioned too low. Each trim had specific wheels, ranging from 18 to 21 inches, with the XRT trim adding chrome and black exterior accents. Inside, the Santa Fe offered seating for seven, except in the Ultimate Calligraphy trim, which featured second-row captain's chairs. The interior fit and finish were generally good, though some squeaks and rattles were noted. The inclusion of physical dials for HVAC temperature was appreciated, but the fan speed buttons were less user-friendly. Overall, the Santa Fe's design and interior offered a mix of practicality and style, though some elements could have been improved.

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, Snow driving mode, and a ground clearance of 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 on a mountainous loop and 13.4 L/100 km in city driving. The SUV's driving experience was refined, with responsive steering and brakes, though the ride felt firm at lower speeds. Off-road, the Telluride proved capable, handling various terrains with ease.

The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe came with a 2.5-litre turbocharged engine, producing 277 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The Santa Fe Hybrid offered a combined 231 horsepower and 271 pound-feet of torque. The Santa Fe felt stable in corners, with firm brakes and responsive steering, though turbo lag and delayed downshifts were noted. The gear selector, located on a stalk, required some adjustment. The XRT trim featured 30-inch all-terrain tires and 21.2 centimetres of ground clearance, improving off-road geometry. While not a rugged rock crawler, the Santa Fe handled graded dirt roads and small obstacles well, though larger SUVs were better suited for more challenging terrains.

The 2024 Kia Telluride offered a comfortable interior, especially in higher trims with premium Nappa leather upholstery, heated and ventilated seats, and a dual sunroof. The controls were oriented horizontally, with a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system and physical controls. Thoughtful details included a digital instrumentation panel with scenic landscape views and generous storage space. The hands-free power liftgate was convenient, though its automatic function could be undesirable in certain situations. The Telluride provided 594 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 1,302 litres with the third row folded, and a maximum volume of 2,463 litres.

The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe's XRT trim featured heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a sunroof, with the Ultimate Calligraphy trim offering additional amenities like heated second-row seats and a premium audio system. The Santa Fe boasted the most third-row legroom in its class, with adjustable second-row seats. Cargo space was ample, with 1,148 litres available with the third row folded and 2,267 litres with the second row down. The rear opening was widened to 127.5 cm, accommodating larger items. Towing capacity varied, with most trims handling 1,587 kilograms and the XRT trim capable of 2,040 kilograms.

The 2024 Kia Telluride featured a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, though Apple CarPlay and Android Auto required a cable connection. A Kia Connect trial subscription was included, with various plans available post-trial. Standard features included satellite radio, wireless smartphone charging, and a 10-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. Thoughtful tech features included a blue-light filter, Quiet Mode, and a digital key function. A camera-based rearview mirror and a 10-inch head-up display were available, enhancing visibility and safety.

The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe offered a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system and digital gauge cluster, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto standard. Charging options included multiple USB-C ports and a wireless charging pad. A digital key function allowed smartphone or Apple Watch use for unlocking and starting the car. The Ultimate Calligraphy trim featured a digital rearview mirror and head-up display. Standard Bluelink app connectivity provided remote vehicle functions and over-the-air updates.

The 2024 Kia Telluride impressed with its standard driver assistance features, including collision avoidance, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. Highway Driving Assist offered semi-autonomous capabilities, with additional safety features available on 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 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe offered a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, and forward collision avoidance assist. Highway Drive Assist combined adaptive cruise control and lane following assist, though performance varied in traffic. The top trims featured blind spot avoidance and Blind View Monitor. The Santa Fe received a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a "Good" rating from the IIHS, with some exceptions.