2020 Kia Telluride vs 2021 Genesis GV80

The 2020 Kia Telluride was a significant departure from Kia's previous reputation for producing adequate but unremarkable vehicles. It presented a more upscale appearance than its price suggested, although the prominent Kia badge on its grille was seen as a relic of the past that detracted from its stylish design. The Telluride's exterior was a blend of boxy and fluid elements, reminiscent of a big Chevy and a new Volvo, with upright, rectilinear themes and distinctive lighting features. Inside, the Telluride's cabin was surprisingly luxurious, with elements that could be mistaken for those in a Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class. Despite some cost-cutting measures, such as faux wood and hard plastics, the interior was inviting and well-crafted, with a solid feel and tasteful design.

The 2021 Genesis GV80, as Genesis' first SUV, was a fresh design that balanced innovation with the brand's emerging signature style. It featured a long hood, short front overhang, and a distinctive grille and headlamp arrangement that defined the Genesis look. The GV80's exterior was marked by elegant design elements, including large wheel arches and Quad Lamp taillights. Inside, the GV80 offered a sleek and uncluttered dashboard, with a focus on horizontal design elements that emphasized spaciousness. The interior was filled with authentic materials like real wood and leather, creating a luxurious environment that was both beautiful and functional.

The 2020 Kia Telluride was powered by a 3.8-liter V6 engine producing 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. It offered both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive options, with a Sport mode for improved response. However, the transmission's response was sometimes delayed, and the shifting could be rough. Despite these issues, the Telluride provided strong braking and a comfortable ride, aided by double-paned glass and acoustic insulation. It had a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds with the optional Towing package and offered a fuel economy of 19 mpg city, 24 highway, and 21 combined for AWD models.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 offered two engine choices: a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, and a twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6 with 375 horsepower and 391 pound-feet of torque. The GV80 featured an 8-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters and offered both rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive options. The 3.5T models came with advanced suspension systems for a smoother ride and an electronic limited-slip differential for improved handling. The GV80's fuel economy was rated at 21 mpg city, 25 highway, and 23 combined for the 2.5T RWD, and 18 mpg city, 23 highway, and 20 combined for the 3.5T AWD.

The 2020 Kia Telluride could seat seven or eight passengers, depending on the trim, with options for reclining captain's chairs in the second row. The interior was spacious, with ample room in the second row and a tolerable third row for adults. Cargo capacity was 21 cubic feet with all seats up and 87 cubic feet with them folded flat. The Telluride featured analog controls and a configurable infotainment system, with larger screens available on higher trims.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 offered a sophisticated interior with advanced technology and ergonomic design. The center console featured a rotary gear selector and a multimedia controller with dual control capabilities. The GV80's second row was comfortable and roomy, with power seats and window shades available. A third row was standard on certain models, increasing passenger capacity to seven. The GV80's interior was filled with luxury features, including power rear-door closure and a three-row climate control system.

The 2020 Kia Telluride came standard with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Kia's UVO link, which allowed remote access to the vehicle. Upper trims offered advanced navigation with voice inputs and live traffic updates. The Telluride featured a live blind-spot feed, Highway Driving Assist, and a Harman Kardon surround stereo on higher trims.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 featured a sixth-generation Genesis UX infotainment system with a 14.5-inch HD screen and user-configurable displays. It supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with over-the-air updates and cloud profiles for personalized settings. The GV80 offered a digital key function for Android users and came with three years of complimentary Genesis Connected Services. A head-up display and a 12.3-inch 3D digital instrument cluster were available on higher trims, along with a Lexicon Quantum Logic Surround audio system with 21 speakers.

The 2020 Kia Telluride had not yet been crash-tested by the NHTSA or IIHS, but it was expected to receive top scores. It came standard with a range of active driver assists, including forward-collision alert, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. Safe Exit Assist and a driver's knee airbag were also standard.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 had not been rated for crashworthiness by the IIHS or NHTSA, but Genesis aimed for top safety ratings. The GV80 featured 10 airbags, including a front-center airbag, and a comprehensive suite of safety systems, such as blind-spot collision avoidance, lane-departure warning, and forward collision-avoidance assist. It also offered adaptive cruise control with machine learning and Highway Driving Assist.