2021 Kia Telluride vs 2022 Cadillac XT6

The 2021 Kia Telluride was available in four trim levels: LX, S, EX, and SX, with both front-wheel drive (FWD) and optional all-wheel drive (AWD). Its base pricing ranged from $32,190 to $42,490, excluding destination charges. The Telluride S was noted for its value, but many opted for the SX trim with the Prestige package, which added luxury features like Nappa leather and a head-up display. The Nightfall Edition package, new for 2021, offered a blacked-out look with unique design elements. The Telluride's styling was widely praised, with a well-executed interior design, though limited interior color options and some hard plastics were minor drawbacks.

The 2022 Cadillac XT6, particularly in the Premium Luxury trim, presented a polished exterior with 20-inch alloy wheels and a Jet Black leather interior. It exuded a sophisticated, if somewhat conservative, image. The XT6's design was attractive but lacked distinctiveness, with some elements resembling other GM models. Pricing started just under $50,000, and with options, it could reach $73,565. While the XT6 offered quality materials and advanced driving assistance technology, its interior design and features did not fully align with its luxury SUV status, feeling more akin to other GM crossovers.

The 2021 Kia Telluride featured a 3.8-liter V6 engine producing 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It offered various driving modes, including Snow, Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Smart. The optional AWD system included a low-speed Lock function for enhanced traction. The Telluride's suspension tuning minimized head-toss, providing a smooth ride and commendable handling. It achieved an EPA-rated 21 mpg in combined driving, with real-world testing averaging 20.5 mpg.

The 2022 Cadillac XT6 came with two engine options: a standard 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 235 horsepower and a 3.6-liter V6 with 310 horsepower for higher trims. The V6, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, offered sufficient power but lacked turbocharging. AWD was available, and the XT6 featured Tour and Sport driving modes. The adaptive-damping suspension and 20-inch wheels provided a comfortable ride, though the driving experience leaned more toward serenity than excitement. The XT6 V6 with AWD had an EPA rating of 21 mpg, with testing results at 19.5 mpg.

The 2021 Kia Telluride excelled in comfort and utility, with a 14-way power-adjustable driver's seat and heated and ventilated front seats. The second-row captain's chairs offered heating and ventilation, and the third-row seat was usable for adults. The Telluride provided ample storage solutions and a smart hands-free power liftgate. Cargo space measured 21 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 87 cubic feet with seats folded.

The 2022 Cadillac XT6, while comfortable, did not offer as much interior space as expected. The front seats were power-adjustable and wrapped in premium leather, but lacked massage functions. The second-row captain's chairs provided decent legroom, but the third-row seat was cramped for adults. Storage space was limited, with 12.6 cubic feet behind the third row and a maximum of 78.7 cubic feet with seats folded.

The 2021 Kia Telluride came equipped with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. Higher trims featured a 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation and additional upgrades. Kia's UVO Link connected services offered various features, including remote engine start and climate control. The infotainment system was user-friendly, though the voice-recognition system had room for improvement. A 10-speaker Harman Kardon audio system was standard on the SX trim.

The 2022 Cadillac XT6 offered advanced features like a digital rearview mirror and Super Cruise, but lacked digital gauges. The 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with intuitive voice recognition. However, some usability issues were noted, such as touch-sensing buttons and counterintuitive indicator lights. The available Bose Performance Series audio system provided excellent sound quality.

The 2021 Kia Telluride featured a comprehensive suite of safety technologies, including blind-spot warning, lane-keeping assistance, and automatic emergency braking. Highway Drive Assist offered Level 2 semi-autonomous driving. The Telluride earned a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and a 5-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though frontal-impact results were four stars.

The 2022 Cadillac XT6, equipped with the Platinum Package, included a wide range of safety features, such as forward collision warning and blind-spot monitoring. The standout feature was Super Cruise, a hands-free highway driving-assist system. The XT6 received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and five-star ratings from the NHTSA, with a four-star rollover resistance rating.