2021 Kia Telluride vs 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan

The 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan, redesigned in 2018, presented a stylish yet conservative German aesthetic. Its exterior featured clean lines and a horizontal grille adorned with Volkswagen's new flat logo, connecting the headlights. While the exterior maintained a contemporary appeal, the interior was less impressive, with plain design elements and hard black plastic surfaces. Despite this, the Tiguan offered advanced electronics, including an optional digital dashboard and a glass-covered touchscreen infotainment system, which were highlights in an otherwise simple cabin.

In contrast, the 2021 Kia Telluride was praised for its exceptional styling and quality execution both inside and out. The Telluride's exterior design was well-proportioned and free from criticism, while the interior boasted contemporary design and quality materials, aside from some glossy hard plastic. The transmission shifter was strategically placed to preserve storage space, and the overall feel of the Telluride was one of luxury at a mainstream price, especially with the SX trim's Prestige package, which added premium features like Nappa leather and a head-up display.

The 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan was powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 184 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, available in both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations. Despite its larger size and curb weight of up to 3,847 pounds, the Tiguan offered a snappy throttle response and minimal turbo lag. However, its performance was only moderate, with highway passing requiring patience. The Tiguan's handling was impacted by its size, with a longer wheelbase affecting nimbleness, though it provided a comfortable ride with its soft suspension.

The 2021 Kia Telluride featured a 3.8-liter V6 engine, delivering 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque through an eight-speed automatic transmission. It offered a choice of driving modes, including Snow, Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Smart. The optional all-wheel drive system included a low-speed Lock function for enhanced traction. The Telluride excelled in ride and handling, nearly eliminating head-toss with its suspension tuning. It provided a firm and connected sensation at lower speeds, while softening at higher speeds for a smooth ride. The Telluride's fuel economy was rated at 21 mpg combined, with real-world testing averaging 20.5 mpg.

The 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan offered practicality with its versatile seating arrangement. The second row could slide up to seven inches, making the third row more usable. While the third row was not spacious, it provided enough legroom for shorter adults and children. Front-drive models came with a standard third row, while it was optional on all-wheel drive models. The Tiguan's cargo capacity was impressive, with up to 73.5 cubic feet available in two-row models. The driver's seat offered ample room, and the Tiguan felt larger than its numbers suggested, appealing to those downsizing from larger SUVs.

The 2021 Kia Telluride excelled in comfort and utility, with a driver’s seat offering 14-way power adjustments and a forward view reminiscent of a Range Rover. The SX trim's Prestige package added luxurious touches like Nappa leather and acoustic sound-absorbing glass. The second-row captain’s chairs were heated and ventilated, with sunshades and climate control for rear passengers. The third row was accessible via a button that tilted and slid the second-row seat. The Telluride provided ample storage, with thoughtful features like smartphone storage pouches and a smart hands-free power liftgate. Cargo space was generous, with up to 87 cubic feet available.

The 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan featured the MIB II infotainment system, which was set to be replaced by MIB3 in the following year. Despite this, the current system was highly regarded, with an 8-inch capacitive touchscreen available on higher trims. The Tiguan offered a digital cockpit, customizable and reconfigurable, along with standard Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with a speedy processor and bright graphics. Higher trims included a wireless charging pad and a WiFi hotspot, enhancing the Tiguan's tech offerings.

The 2021 Kia Telluride came equipped with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The EX and SX trims featured a 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation and additional upgrades. Kia's UVO Link connected services offered various plans, including features like Rear Occupant Alert and remote engine start. The Telluride allowed pairing of two smartphones via Bluetooth and provided wireless charging on upper trims. The infotainment system was intuitive, with menu shortcut buttons and stereo knobs. The SX trim included a 10-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, Driver Talk, and Quiet Mode, enhancing the Telluride's tech experience.

The 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan improved its standard safety package with features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. However, adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assistance were reserved for the top SEL trim. VW's Car-Net telematics package offered remote locking, status checks, and vehicle location services. The Tiguan received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS for SEL Premium models with LED headlights, though most models had halogen headlights rated poorly by the IIHS.

The 2021 Kia Telluride included a comprehensive suite of safety features, with eight standard technologies like blind-spot warning, lane-keeping assistance, and forward-collision warning. The EX and SX trims featured Highway Drive Assist, combining adaptive cruise control with lane-centering assistance. Additional safety systems included Rear Occupant Alert and Safe Exit Assist. The SX trim offered front parking sensors, a surround-view camera, and a Blind-Spot View Monitor. The Telluride earned a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and a 5-star overall rating from the NHTSA, despite some lower frontal-impact scores.