2021 Kia Telluride vs 2022 Subaru Outback

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 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 aesthetic with unique design elements. The Telluride's styling was widely praised, with its exterior and interior design receiving high marks, though some interior plastics were criticized. The transmission shifter was highlighted for its quality feel, and while interior color options were limited, the overall look and feel were impressive.

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness stood out with its increased ground clearance of 9.5 inches and rugged design elements, making it more akin to a Jeep than a traditional station wagon. It featured all-terrain tires, unique grille design, and blacked-out trim with Anodized Copper accents. The interior was dominated by dark gray and black StarTex upholstery, which was water-repellant but could be uncomfortable in hot weather. The Outback Wilderness was positioned between the Onyx XT and Limited XT in terms of pricing, with a starting price of $36,995 plus destination charges. The test vehicle, equipped with additional features, totaled $39,965. The Outback Wilderness injected personality into the Outback lineup, appealing to those seeking a more adventurous vehicle.

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. The optional AWD system included a low-speed Lock function for enhanced traction, complemented by eight inches of ground clearance. The Telluride's suspension tuning minimized head-toss, providing a smooth ride. It featured a MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension, with self-leveling rear suspension on EX and SX trims. The Telluride's fuel economy was rated at 21 mpg combined, with a tested average of 20.5 mpg.

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness was equipped with a turbocharged 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine, producing 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. It had a towing capacity of 3,500 lbs and an EPA rating of 24 mpg combined, with a tested average of 21.3 mpg. The Outback Wilderness featured a CVT with eight programmed ratios, though its performance was less engaging than a dual-clutch transmission. Standard AWD and specialized wheels and tires enhanced its off-road capabilities, with 9.5 inches of ground clearance and improved approach and departure angles. The Outback Wilderness excelled off-road, with features like a dual function X-Mode traction system and hill descent control.

The 2021 Kia Telluride offered a comfortable and spacious interior, with a 14-way power-adjustable driver's seat and heated and ventilated front seats. The second-row captain's chairs were also heated and ventilated, with sliding functionality for easy third-row access. The Telluride provided ample storage solutions, including smartphone storage 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 Subaru Outback Wilderness featured StarTex upholstery, which was water-repellant but could be uncomfortable in hot weather. The front seats offered power adjustment, and the rear seat provided generous space for passengers. The cargo area measured 32.5 cubic feet, expanding to 75.7 cubic feet with the rear seat folded. The Outback Wilderness included a robust roof rack with a 700-pound static load rating, suitable for rooftop camping.

The 2021 Kia Telluride came with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The EX and SX trims featured a 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation. Kia's UVO Link connected services offered various features, including remote engine start and climate control. The Telluride's infotainment system was user-friendly, with a 10-speaker Harman Kardon sound system on SX trim. Features like Driver Talk and Quiet Mode enhanced the driving experience.

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness had an 11.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with physical controls for essential functions. Voice recognition required specific prompts, but Apple CarPlay and Android Auto offered better functionality. The Outback Wilderness lacked a premium sound system, but it featured PIN code entry technology for convenience.

The 2021 Kia Telluride included a comprehensive suite of safety features, such as blind-spot warning, lane-keeping assistance, and automatic emergency braking. Highway Drive Assist provided Level 2 semi-autonomous driving capabilities. The Telluride earned a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and a 5-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though its headlights received a Poor rating.

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness featured EyeSight technology, offering adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, and automatic emergency braking. It also had steering-responsive headlights and a blind-spot warning system. The Outback Wilderness's EyeSight system was effective, providing Level 2 ADAS capabilities. The standard Outback earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a 5-star overall rating from the NHTSA.