2020 Kia Telluride vs 2020 Audi Q7

The 2020 Kia Telluride was a standout in Kia's lineup, breaking away from the brand's reputation for budget-friendly adequacy. It presented a more upscale appearance than its price suggested, with a design that borrowed elements from luxury SUVs while maintaining its unique identity. The Telluride's exterior featured a boxy yet fluid design, reminiscent of a blend between a Chevy and a Volvo, with distinctive details like amber LED running lights and large "TELLURIDE" badges. Inside, the Telluride offered a cabin that could easily be mistaken for a luxury vehicle, with features like Nappa leather seats and a soft headliner in the SX trim. Despite some cost-cutting measures, such as faux wood and hard plastics, the interior was inviting and well-crafted, leaving passengers impressed with its perceived value.

The 2020 Audi Q7, particularly in the 55 TFSI Prestige trim, showcased a refined and high-tech design. The exterior updates aligned it with the flagship Q8, featuring new wheels and lighting elements. Inside, the Q7 adopted the advanced dashboard and instrumentation from the Q8, replacing most physical controls with digital displays. The cabin, adorned in Okapi Brown leather and natural wood inlays, exuded luxury and sophistication. The Q7's interior was spacious and comfortable for five passengers, though the third row was best suited for children. Despite limited practical storage, the Q7 offered a panoramic sunroof and multi-color ambient lighting, enhancing the overall ambiance.

The 2020 Kia Telluride was powered by a 3.8-liter V6 engine, producing 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, available in both front-wheel and all-wheel drive configurations. While the Telluride's power delivery was sufficient for its size, the transmission's response was sometimes delayed, and the shifting felt rough compared to competitors. The Telluride excelled in ride comfort, with strong braking and a quiet cabin, thanks to double-paned glass and acoustic insulation. It offered a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds with the optional Towing package and achieved an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 19 mpg city, 24 highway, and 21 combined.

The 2020 Audi Q7 55 TFSI featured a new 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine, delivering 335 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. This engine was complemented by a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, enhancing fuel efficiency. Paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and Quattro all-wheel drive, the Q7 offered multiple driving modes through Audi Drive Select. It accelerated from zero to 60 mph in 5.7 seconds and had a towing capacity of 7,700 pounds. The Q7's fuel economy was rated at 18 mpg combined, with an average of 21 mpg during testing. The Prestige trim included an adaptive air suspension, providing a smooth ride and agile handling, even on challenging terrain.

The 2020 Kia Telluride offered seating for seven or eight passengers, depending on the trim. The second-row seats provided ample space and comfort, with heating and cooling options in the SX trim. The third row, while not as spacious, was tolerable for adults if second-row passengers sacrificed some legroom. Cargo capacity was generous, with 21 cubic feet behind the third row and 87 cubic feet with all seats folded. The Telluride's interior featured analog controls and a user-friendly infotainment system, with larger screens available on higher trims.

The 2020 Audi Q7, while capable of seating seven, was best suited for five passengers due to the cramped third row. With the third row folded, cargo space increased from 14.2 cubic feet to 35.7 cubic feet, and up to 69.6 cubic feet with both rear rows down. The Q7's interior was comfortable for long journeys, with power-adjustable, heated, and ventilated front seats. The second row offered ample legroom and climate control options. However, interior storage was limited, with most space occupied by technology features.

The 2020 Kia Telluride came standard with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Kia's UVO link, allowing remote access via an app. Upper trims featured navigation with voice recognition and live traffic updates. The SX trim offered a live blind-spot feed, Highway Driving Assist, and a Harman Kardon surround stereo. However, the Telluride lacked onboard WiFi and rear-seat entertainment options.

The 2020 Audi Q7 introduced MMI Touch Response technology, combining two touchscreens for system access. It included natural voice recognition, handwriting recognition, and wireless smartphone integration. The Prestige trim featured a head-up display and a Bose premium sound system. The Q7's 4G LTE WiFi hotspot was extensively used during testing, though some functions were restricted while driving.

The 2020 Kia Telluride had not been crash-tested by NHTSA or IIHS at the time, but it was expected to receive top scores. It came standard with a suite of active driver assists, including forward-collision alert, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. Safe Exit Assist and surround-view cameras were also available.

The 2020 Audi Q7 received high safety ratings from IIHS, except for its "poor" headlight assessment. It featured advanced driving-assistance systems, including Emergency Assist, Turn Assist, and Adaptive Cruise Assist. However, the traffic-sign recognition system and Active Lane Assist were found to be problematic during testing.