Kia Telluride vs Hyundai Tucson Hybrid

When looking back at the 2022 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid, one couldn't help but notice its bold and aggressive styling that set it apart from previous models. The sharp, angular cues across its fascia and sides were a far cry from the more subdued design of its predecessors. The addition of a grille that blended seamlessly with the LED headlights enhanced its futuristic charm, especially when illuminated. The interior of the Tucson Hybrid also impressed with its open feel, further accentuated by an unobstructed view at and just below eye level, courtesy of an integrated dash and hoodless driver information display.

Similarly striking was the 2023 Kia Telluride, which received notable updates both inside and out. Fresh front and rear styling, new headlamp and taillight designs, and distinctive wheel options marked its exterior enhancements. With vibrant new paint colors and interior palettes like Terracotta, Navy, and Sage Green, the Telluride managed to balance a rugged appearance with luxurious touches. The introduction of the X-Line and X-Pro trims further bolstered its aesthetic appeal, lending it an adventurous air without compromising on sophistication. Inside, a massive 12.3-inch touchscreen joined the digital instrumentation panel under a sleek, curved 24-inch piece of glass, signifying a bold step into the future for Kia.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid showcased significant advancements in performance, particularly with its hybrid powertrain. The combination of a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine and electric motor produced a robust 226 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, far outpacing the more pedestrian gas-powered variant. Drivers appreciated the responsive steering and smooth operation of the six-speed automatic transmission. Fuel economy figures were commendable, with the Hybrid achieving an EPA-rated 37 mpg city and 36 highway. The suspension system also shined, offering a comfortable and balanced ride, adeptly handling imperfections on the road.

In contrast, the 2023 Kia Telluride maintained its mechanical structure but excelled in delivering reliable performance. The robust 3.8-liter V6 engine generated an impressive 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with a refined eight-speed automatic transmission. The Telluride’s adjustable driving modes—including Eco, Comfort, Smart, Sport, and Snow—allowed drivers to tailor the experience to their preferences. While it offered a respectable 24.1 mpg on the highway and varied terrain, the X-Pro model performed admirably off-road, thanks in part to its enhanced suspension and all-terrain tires. The SUV handled with grace on highways and rugged paths alike, underscoring its versatility.

Despite a larger footprint, the 2022 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid managed to retain a sleek profile. It boasted substantial cargo space with 38.8 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 74.5 cubic feet with them folded down, eclipsing competitors like the Mazda CX-5 and Toyota RAV4. Both front and rear legroom were generous, ensuring passenger comfort. The dual-level cargo floor and multiple storage solutions, including convenient bottle holders and cupholders, added to its practical appeal.

The 2023 Kia Telluride also excelled in interior functionality, comfortably seating seven or eight passengers depending on the configuration. Premium Nappa leather upholstery and ventilated front and second-row seats in the SX Prestige trim exemplified luxury. The convenience extended to rear-seat passengers with features like manual side-window sunshades, USB ports, and overhead climate controls. Cargo space was ample, with 21 cubic feet behind the third row, 46 cubic feet with it folded down, and an impressive 87 cubic feet of total storage. The smart power tailgate added another layer of practicality, though it required attention to avoid unintended openings.

Hyundai’s technology in the 2022 Tucson Hybrid impressed with a 10.25-inch touchscreen that, while visually appealing, had its limitations. The screen size reduced significantly when using Android Auto or Apple CarPlay, and the requirement for a wired connection was a drawback. The touch-capacitive buttons controlling the infotainment and HVAC systems were less user-friendly compared to physical controls. Nevertheless, the Tucson featured plentiful USB ports and a high-quality Bose stereo system, ensuring that users remained entertained and connected.

In the 2023 Kia Telluride, technology took a significant leap with a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The interface supported Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and other connectivity services, enhanced by the inclusion of a voice recognition system that performed reliably. Over-the-air updates and the ability to pair multiple devices via Bluetooth added to its technological prowess. Additional features like Driver Talk, Quiet Mode, and an optional Harman Kardon premium sound system complemented the Telluride’s advanced tech suite. The Full Display Mirror and augmented reality head-up display (HUD) further elevated the driving experience, providing valuable information without distraction.

Safety was a strong suit for the 2022 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid. Standard safety features included automatic emergency braking, pedestrian and cyclist detection, blind-spot collision avoidance, and several advanced driver-assistance systems. The Limited trim upped the ante with a surround-view monitor, highway-driving assist, and unique features like the blind-spot view monitor and remote smart park assist. Although NHTSA hadn’t tested the 2022 Tucson, its top safety pick+ rating from the IIHS offered reassurance.

The 2023 Kia Telluride also excelled in safety, with a comprehensive array of standard and advanced features. From forward-collision warning and automatic emergency braking to a junction turning system and adaptive cruise control, the Telluride covered all bases. The Highway Drive Assist 2.0 system, now standard, provided semi-autonomous driving capabilities. Additional features in higher trims, such as collision avoidance and blind-spot monitoring systems, further bolstered its safety credentials. While formal crash-test ratings were pending, the breadth and depth of its safety systems were impressive.