2024 Kia Telluride vs 2025 INFINITI QX80

In Canada, the 2024 Kia Telluride was available 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 updates maintained its attractive proportions, and the interior offered premium Nappa leather seats, though the black interior was less appealing compared to other available colours like Mahogany brown and Sage Green.

The 2025 INFINITI QX80 underwent its first redesign since 2017, growing slightly in length and width while retaining its body-on-frame architecture. The new frame improved torsional and lateral stiffness significantly. The QX80's styling updates were most notable at the front, with a larger grille and stacked-headlight setup. The rear retained its shape but featured full-width LED taillights. Available in Luxe, Sensory, and Autobiography trims, the QX80 included standard 22-inch wheels and a panoramic moonroof. The interior boasted a high-tech makeover with a large horizontal display and 64-colour ambient lighting, though shiny black plastic trim detracted from the premium feel.

The 2024 Kia Telluride was powered by a 3.8-litre V6 engine producing 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with 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 and Sport. It provided 20.3 centimetres of ground clearance, 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 during testing. Despite this, the Telluride delivered a refined driving experience with responsive steering and effective brakes.

The 2025 INFINITI QX80 featured a new twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V6 engine, producing 450 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque, replacing the previous V8. A nine-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive enhanced performance. The QX80 felt more energetic, though active sound enhancement added artificial noise. It included an air suspension with adaptive damping, offering 25.4 centimetres of ground clearance in off-road mode. Despite its size, the QX80's handling was average, with the air suspension unable to fully counteract bumps. Its towing capacity reached 3,855 kilograms, surpassing many competitors.

The 2024 Kia Telluride offered a comfortable interior, especially in higher trims with premium Nappa leather, heated and ventilated seats, and a dual sunroof. The 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system was user-friendly, though metallic buttons were hard to read in bright light. The Telluride provided generous storage, including a hands-free power liftgate. Cargo space was ample, with 594 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,463 litres with seats folded.

The 2025 INFINITI QX80 increased cargo space by up to 28%, offering 623 litres with all seats up and 2,860 litres with seats folded. It featured power-folding seats and a power liftgate for easy reconfiguration. Passenger space was generous, with increased legroom and available heated, ventilated, and massaging seats. The QX80's towing capacity was impressive at 3,855 kilograms.

The 2024 Kia Telluride came with a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, requiring a cable for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It included a Kia Connect trial, satellite radio, and a Harman Kardon audio system. Features like a blue-light filter, Quiet Mode, and a digital key function added convenience. A camera-based rearview mirror and a 360-degree camera system were also available.

The 2025 INFINITI QX80 featured dual 14.3-inch screens and a 9-inch touchscreen for controls. It was the first Infiniti with Google built-in apps, offering Google Maps and Assistant. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were supported. The QX80 included a Klipsch sound system, with up to 24 speakers in higher trims. A 360-degree camera system and digital rearview camera enhanced safety and convenience.

The 2024 Kia Telluride impressed with standard driver assistance features, including collision avoidance and lane-keeping assist. Advanced Highway Driving Assist offered semi-autonomous capabilities. It received a five-star NHTSA rating and a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS.

The 2025 INFINITI QX80 also earned a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS. It included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and ProPilot Assist for highway driving assistance. The advanced ProPilot Assist 2.1 allowed hands-free driving and automated lane changes.