2021 Kia Telluride vs 2022 Volvo XC90

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). Base pricing ranged from $32,190 to $42,490, excluding destination charges. The Telluride S trim offered significant value, but many opted for the top-tier SX trim, which could be equipped with a Prestige package, transforming it into a luxury SUV with features like premium stitched Nappa leather, a simulated suede headliner, a head-up display (HUD), and heated and ventilated second-row seats. The Nightfall Edition package, new for 2021, added gloss black 20-inch aluminum wheels and a blacked-out look. Our test vehicle, equipped with the Nightfall Edition, AWD, Prestige package, Towing package, and other accessories, had a sticker price of $50,180, including a $1,170 destination charge.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 showcased a sleek and modern design, moving away from the boxy shapes of past models. The XC90's body appeared poised to launch forward, with a long and sleek roofline that contained a spacious greenhouse without appearing bulky. Pronounced wheel arches and a snub nose added to its athletic look, while the "Thor's Hammer" LED headlights paid homage to its Swedish heritage. Inside, the XC90's interior was described as "Scandinavian Modern" and "Swedish Luxury," featuring natural wood and metal trim, a sliding wood tambor cover on the center console, and a clear crystal gear selector handle. Volvo's commitment to going leather-free by 2030 was evident, though Nappa leather was still available for those who wanted ventilated front seats. Our test car, equipped with leather seats, provided a luxurious and comfortable experience, even during a week of high temperatures and humidity.

The 2021 Kia Telluride featured a single powertrain: 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. Kia's Drive Mode Select technology offered Snow, Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Smart driving modes. Optional AWD included a low-speed Lock function for maximum traction, combined with eight inches of ground clearance. The Telluride demonstrated impressive off-road capabilities during a media event in Colorado, handling muddy trails and blizzard conditions with ease. In suburban Los Angeles and mountain testing near Malibu, the Telluride's ride and handling minimized "head-toss" thanks to its suspension tuning. The EX and SX trims featured a self-leveling rear suspension, ensuring proper ride and handling when loaded. The Telluride's fuel economy was rated at 21 mpg combined for AWD models, with our test vehicle averaging 20.5 mpg.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrain options. The T5 model featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 250 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. The T6 model added a supercharger, increasing output to 316 hp and 295 lb-ft. The T8 plug-in hybrid combined a supercharged/turbocharged engine with an electric motor, producing a combined 455 hp and 523 lb-ft of torque. T5 models were available with FWD or AWD, while T6 and T8 models were AWD only. All XC90 models used an eight-speed automatic transmission. The T8's fuel economy was rated at 27 mpg combined on gas and 55 MPGe with an 18-mile EV range, while the extended range variant offered 26 mpg combined and 66 MPGe with up to 36 miles of EV range. Charging the battery took about five hours at 240 volts. The XC90's driving experience was superb, with minimal body roll and spirited acceleration, especially in the T8 Inscription extended range model.

The 2021 Kia Telluride excelled in comfort and utility. The SX trim's driver's seat offered 14-way power adjustment, including lumbar and thigh support, while both front seats featured heating and ventilation. The Prestige package added distinctive leather upholstery and acoustic sound-absorbing glass. The second-row captain's chairs, also heated and ventilated, provided easy access to the third row via a button that tilted and slid the seats. The third-row seat was suitable for adults, though not as spacious as in some competitors. The Telluride offered ample storage, including smartphone bins, USB ports, and grocery bag hooks. The "smart" hands-free power liftgate opened automatically when the key fob was nearby, revealing 21 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expandable to 46 cubic feet with the third row folded and 87 cubic feet with both rows down.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 came in six- and seven-passenger configurations, with easy access to the third row via a one-handed slide and fold of the second row. The third row was best suited for children due to limited legroom and thigh support. The XC90 offered 15.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, 41.8 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 85.7 cubic feet with both rows down. Towing capacity ranged from 4,000 to 5,000 pounds, depending on the configuration. The XC90's interior featured ample storage, comfortable seating, and a spacious cabin enhanced by a panoramic moonroof. The air-conditioning system performed well during a heat wave, providing a comfortable environment even in extreme conditions.

The 2021 Kia Telluride came standard with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The LX and S trims featured an 8-inch touchscreen, while the EX and SX had a 10.25-inch screen with navigation and other upgrades. Kia's UVO Link Lite connected services plan was free for five years, offering features like 911 Connect and Rear Occupant Alert. Additional plans provided remote engine start, climate control, and more. The Telluride could pair two smartphones via Bluetooth and offered wireless charging in upper trims. The infotainment system was user-friendly, though the voice-recognition system had room for improvement. The SX trim included a 10-speaker Harman Kardon surround-sound system, Driver Talk, and Quiet Mode. The Prestige package added a head-up display with blind-spot notifications.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system with a nine-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen. The system supported familiar gestures like pinch, pull, and swipe, but could be slow to respond. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available, with better performance when connected to an iPhone. The XC90 also had a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and an optional head-up display as part of the $1,650 Advanced package, which included a 360-degree camera system and advanced air cleaner. The standard Harman Kardon sound system could be upgraded to a $3,200 Bowers & Wilkins system, offering exceptional surround sound. The XC90 included multiple USB ports and a WiFi hotspot with a trial subscription. The Volvo Care app provided remote lock/unlock and other controls for four years.

The 2021 Kia Telluride came standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including blind-spot warning, lane-keeping assistance, forward-collision warning with pedestrian and cyclist detection, rear cross-traffic alert, driver-monitoring system, and automatic emergency braking. EX and SX trims added Highway Drive Assist, combining adaptive cruise control with lane-centering assistance for Level 2 semi-autonomous driving. The SX trim also included front parking sensors, a surround-view camera system, and a Blind-Spot View Monitor. The Telluride earned a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though its standard headlights received a Poor rating.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 continued Volvo's legacy of safety with features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, parking assist, rain-sensing wipers, slippery road alert, lane-keeping aid, adaptive cruise control, oncoming lane mitigation, and road-sign recognition. Volvo's Pilot Assist system combined several safety features for assisted driving on highways. The XC90 received the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.