2021 Kia Telluride vs 2022 Kia EV6

The 2021 Kia Telluride was available in four trim levels: LX, S, EX, and SX, with options for front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. 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, which could be enhanced with a Prestige package, adding luxury features like Nappa leather and a head-up display. The Nightfall Edition package, new for 2021, offered a blacked-out aesthetic with unique design elements. The Telluride's styling was widely praised, with its exterior and interior design receiving high marks, though some glossy hard plastic in the interior was noted as a minor flaw. The transmission shifter was particularly appreciated for its solid feel and space-saving placement.

In contrast, the 2022 Kia EV6 was described as sportier and more svelte compared to competitors like the Tesla Model Y. Its design featured a lower and wider stance, with a highback tail and a lip spoiler that doubled as a lightbar. The EV6's wheels were pushed to the corners, giving it a distinctive look with wide fenders reminiscent of a Porsche 911. The headlights had an aggressive V-shaped pattern, and the overall design was both stylish and functional. The interior boasted dual 12-inch screens, a floating center console, and seats covered in suede and leather. The EV6's design was noted for its industrial flair, with features like retractable door handles and a hidden rear charge port adding to its appeal.

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. It offered various driving modes, including Snow, Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Smart, with optional all-wheel drive featuring a low-speed Lock function for enhanced traction. The Telluride's suspension tuning minimized head-toss, providing a smooth ride even on uneven surfaces. It had a self-leveling rear suspension on EX and SX trims, ensuring proper ride and handling when loaded. The Telluride's fuel economy was rated at 21 mpg combined for AWD models, with a tested average of 20.5 mpg.

The 2022 Kia EV6, tested in its GT-Line e-AWD configuration, featured dual electric motors producing 320 horsepower and 446 lb-ft of torque. It accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in a claimed 4.6 seconds, with a top-power GT trim promising even more performance. The EV6's regenerative braking system offered multiple settings, allowing for one-pedal driving in its maximum I-Pedal setting. However, its driving range was affected by cold weather, with the EV6 delivering only 65 percent of its 274-mile EPA estimate in winter conditions. Charging performance was mixed, with the EV6 capable of accepting up to 240 kW, but real-world charging speeds were often lower due to network limitations.

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 Prestige package added premium leather upholstery and acoustic glass for a quieter cabin. The second-row captain’s chairs were heated and ventilated, with sunshades and climate controls for rear passengers. The third-row seat was accessible via a button that tilted and slid the second-row seat. The Telluride offered 21 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 87 cubic feet with seats folded. A smart hands-free power liftgate added convenience.

The 2022 Kia EV6 featured innovative design elements like pop-out door handles and a rotary shifter. Its interior provided generous legroom and headroom, with reclining rear seats and optional heated cushions. However, its cargo space was limited, with 24 cubic feet behind the seats and 50 cubic feet when folded. The EV6's towing capacity was 2,300 pounds, and it included an onboard power generator for 120-volt equipment. The EV6's design prioritized passenger comfort but sacrificed some cargo capacity compared to larger SUVs.

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 features, including remote engine start and climate control, though a WiFi hotspot was not available. The SX trim included a 10-speaker Harman Kardon sound system and features like Driver Talk and Quiet Mode for enhanced passenger communication and comfort. The Prestige package added a head-up display with blind-spot notifications.

The 2022 Kia EV6's infotainment system was user-friendly, with dual 12-inch screens and a head-up display with augmented reality. It lacked wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, requiring a wired connection. The EV6 featured Highway Driving Assist with lane-keeping and blind-spot monitoring, though lane-change functionality was inconsistent. The 360-degree cameras provided clear visuals, and higher trims included a 14-speaker Meridian stereo and remote parking system. However, Kia Connect features were disabled for Massachusetts residents due to compliance issues.

The 2021 Kia Telluride included a comprehensive suite of safety features, such as blind-spot warning, lane-keeping assistance, and forward-collision warning with pedestrian detection. Highway Drive Assist offered Level 2 semi-autonomous driving capabilities. The Telluride earned a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, though its standard headlights received a Poor rating. The NHTSA awarded it a 5-star overall rating, with four-star frontal-impact results.

The 2022 Kia EV6 lacked published safety test results but offered advanced safety tech, including lane-keeping, cyclist and pedestrian detection, and rear cross-traffic alert. The GT-Line trim added evasive steering assist and adaptive cruise with machine learning. The EV6's safety features were comprehensive, though real-world performance data was not available.