2024 Kia Telluride vs 2025 Mazda CX-90

In Canada, the 2024 Kia Telluride was available in three core trims—EX, SX, and SX Limited—alongside the rugged X-Line and X-Pro trims, all featuring standard all-wheel drive. The X-Line trim added a centimetre of ground clearance, improved approach and departure angles, and a tow mode, 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 for the EX to $66,133 for the X-Pro, including a destination charge. The Telluride's styling updates were not universally appealing, but its attractive proportions remained. The Wolf Gray paint complemented the blacked-out X-Line styling, and the interior offered premium Nappa leather seats, though black was not the most appealing cabin colour. Other options included Mahogany brown, Terracotta brown, and Sage Green, which complemented the simulated open-pore wood trim.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90, available in three powertrain variants, offered a luxurious appearance with lustrous paint, polished chrome trim, and intricate 21-inch wheels. Its sculptural sheet metal created a compelling interplay of light and shadow, while the cabin's placement over the rear axle contributed to a low, athletic look. Inside, the CX-90 featured polished metallic trim, Nappa leather with contrast stitching, and clearly marked switchgear, creating an upscale feel. However, ergonomic issues, such as a confusing electronic shifter and counterintuitive climate controls, detracted from the experience. Despite these flaws, the CX-90 exuded sophistication compared to other midsize three-row crossover SUVs.

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, Snow driving mode, and 20.3 centimetres of ground clearance, rising to 21.3 centimetres in the X-Line and X-Pro trims. While acceleration was smooth and passing power was ample, fuel efficiency was a concern, with an average of 12.4 L/100 km on a mountainous loop and 13.4 L/100 km in city driving. The Telluride's ride was firm at lower speeds but soft and compliant at higher velocities, providing a comfortable experience on winding roads. Off-road capabilities were better than expected, though not comparable to a Jeep.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 featured a turbocharged 3.3-litre inline-six engine, producing 280 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque in standard-output models, and 319 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque in high-output versions. The power was delivered through an eight-speed automatic transmission and a standard all-wheel-drive system. The CX-90 offered Normal, Sport, Off-Road, and Towing modes, with a towing capacity of 2,268 kilograms. Fuel economy was rated at 9.3 L/100 km for the standard engine and 9.5 L/100 km for the high-output version. The plug-in hybrid variant offered 42 kilometres of electric range and a 9.4 L/100 km combined rating. While the CX-90 provided impressive ride and handling, drivetrain refinement was lacking, with unpredictable power delivery and transmission behaviour. Noise and impact harshness were also concerns, but the CX-90's taut suspension offered a dynamic driving experience.

The 2024 Kia Telluride offered a comfortable interior, especially in higher trims with premium Nappa leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and second-row captain’s chairs. The third-row seat accommodated adults, and a dual sunroof added light to the interior. The Telluride featured a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with physical controls for ease of use. Thoughtful details included a digital instrumentation panel with scenic landscape views and generous storage space. The hands-free power liftgate provided convenience, and the Telluride offered 594 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 2,463 litres with seats folded.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90's interior featured Nappa leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and second-row captain’s chairs. However, the three-zone climate control system was slow to cool the cabin. The panoramic sunroof provided natural light, and second-row passengers enjoyed elevated seating positions. The CX-90's third row was best suited for children, and storage space was limited, with a focus on style over practicality. The hands-free power liftgate revealed 451 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 2,129 litres with seats folded, which was small for the segment.

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

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and infotainment screen, with touch sensitivity only for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The native Mazda Connect platform required a knob and buttons for operation. The CX-90's voice recognition system was lacking, but a new Google built-in infotainment system was expected in future models. The test vehicle included a 12-speaker Bose audio system and a head-up display. The blind-spot monitoring system provided visual alerts, enhancing safety.

The 2024 Kia Telluride impressed with its standard driver assistance features, including collision avoidance, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear occupant protection. Highway Driving Assist provided semi-autonomous driving capabilities, with upgrades available for front parking sensors, junction cross-traffic alert, and more. The Telluride received a five-star overall crash test rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 was one of the few midsize SUVs to receive a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and five-star ratings in NHTSA crash tests. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and more. Higher trims added steering assist, emergency lane-keeping assist, and a surround-view camera system. The CX-90's driver aids met expectations, though the speed reduction feature was irritating.