2021 Kia Telluride vs 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan

The 2021 Kia Telluride was available in four trim levels: LX, S, EX, and SX, each offering front-wheel drive (FWD) or optional all-wheel drive (AWD). The base pricing ranged from $32,190 to $42,490, excluding destination charges. The Telluride S was considered a great value, but many opted for the top-tier SX trim, which could be enhanced with a Prestige package, transforming it into a luxury SUV with features like premium Nappa leather and a head-up display. The Nightfall Edition package, new for 2021, added a blacked-out aesthetic with gloss black 20-inch wheels and a unique grille. The test vehicle, equipped with the Nightfall Edition, AWD, and other packages, had a sticker price of $50,180. The Telluride's styling was widely praised, both inside and out, with only minor criticisms regarding interior plastic and limited color options.

In contrast, the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan featured clean lines and balanced proportions, offering a conservative and timeless design. It was larger than its predecessor, nearly matching the interior space of a Hyundai Santa Fe or Kia Sorento. The Tiguan's upsizing resulted in a roomy interior, accommodating up to seven passengers with an optional third-row seat. The interior design was characterized by modern geometric forms and a straightforward control layout, though some found the engine start button's placement unusual. The cabin was dressed with shiny detailing and a touchscreen infotainment system, but the presence of hard plastic and flimsy steering wheel stalks detracted from its premium feel. The Tiguan was available in S, SE, and SEL trims, with sporty R-Line variants, and pricing ranged from $25,245 to $39,095, excluding a $1,195 destination charge. The test vehicle, an SEL with 4Motion AWD, was priced at $35,040.

The 2021 Kia Telluride was powered by a 3.8-liter V6 engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, delivering 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque to the front wheels. It featured Kia's Drive Mode Select with options like Snow, Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Smart. AWD was optional, offering a low-speed Lock function for enhanced traction. The Telluride's suspension tuning minimized head-toss, providing a firm yet compliant ride. It offered commendable grip with 20-inch wheels and brake-based Torque Vectoring Cornering Control. The AWD Telluride was rated at 21 mpg combined by the EPA, and during testing, it averaged 20.5 mpg.

The 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan came with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 184 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque. An eight-speed automatic transmission sent power to the front wheels, with 4Motion AWD as an option. The Tiguan's powertrain was adequate but suffered from turbo lag, and its nearly 4,000-pound curb weight contributed to a perception of lethargy. The EPA rated the Tiguan at 25 mpg combined with FWD and 24 mpg with AWD, but testing showed an average of 22.6 mpg. The Tiguan offered a pleasurable driving experience with light steering, a compliant ride, and refined braking, though it struggled with suspension isolation over bumps. It was quiet and composed on the highway, making it suitable for long trips.

The 2021 Kia Telluride excelled in comfort and utility, with a driver's seat offering 14 adjustments and a high seating position. The test SUV featured heated and ventilated front seats, with the Prestige package adding distinctive leather upholstery. The second-row captain's chairs were heated and ventilated, with sunshades and separate climate control. The third-row seat was accessible via a button or pass-through, and storage was ample, with smartphone-friendly bins and USB ports. The hands-free power liftgate revealed 21 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 87 cubic feet with seats folded.

The 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan prioritized comfort, with easy entry and adjustable front seats. The V-Tex leatherette upholstery and dual-zone climate control added to the experience. The back seat offered generous legroom and support, with air vents and USB ports. A panoramic sunroof was available, and storage was limited but functional. The Tiguan's 40/20/40-split rear seat allowed for flexible cargo arrangements, with 33 to 37.6 cubic feet of space behind the second row, depending on the model, and a maximum of 73.5 cubic feet.

The 2021 Kia Telluride featured Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The EX and SX trims had a 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation. Kia's UVO Link offered connected services, including Rear Occupant Alert and remote functions. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with wireless charging and a 10-speaker Harman Kardon sound system in the SX trim. Driver Talk and Quiet Mode were available, and the Prestige package added a head-up display.

The 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan introduced the MIB3 infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and WiFi. The system included Car-Net services like remote start and Family Guardian settings. The SEL and SEL Premium R-Line featured Digital Cockpit instrumentation. The standard sound system struggled with bass, but the SEL Premium R-Line offered a nine-speaker Fender audio system.

The 2021 Kia Telluride came with standard Drive Wise safety features, including blind-spot warning, lane-keeping assistance, and automatic emergency braking. Highway Drive Assist was available on EX and SX trims, offering semi-autonomous driving. The SX trim added front parking sensors and a Blind-Spot View Monitor. The Telluride earned a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, though its headlights were rated poorly.

The 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan featured IQ Drive safety systems, including forward-collision warning and blind-spot monitoring. Adaptive cruise control was available on SE trims and above, with lane-keep assist on SEL trims. The Tiguan's parking sensors and reversing camera provided additional safety. The Tiguan earned a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS in SEL and SEL Premium R-Line trims.