2022 Kia Telluride vs 2021 Volvo XC90

The 2021 Volvo XC90 was a testament to the brand's ability to evolve its design language while maintaining its core identity. Known for its conservative styling, Volvo managed to infuse the XC90 with more character without losing its recognizable features. The SUV retained its boxy profile and blunt front end, but with softer lines, more chrome, and distinctive LED headlights featuring "Thor’s Hammer" daytime running lights. The Inscription trim, with its extra chrome and optional 21-inch alloy wheels, was the most eye-catching, while the R-Design and Momentum trims offered sportier and more understated looks, respectively. Inside, the XC90 embraced "Swedish minimalism," offering a serene cabin with matte-finish wood trim and unique upholstery options like wool and Nappa leather. The Orrefors crystal shifter added a touch of luxury, albeit slightly out of place in the otherwise restrained interior.

The 2022 Kia Telluride, on the other hand, was praised for its muscular design and balanced proportions, which drew consumers in with its handsome appearance. Kia made minimal changes for 2022, only updating the grille pattern and adding new badges. The Telluride's interior was both upscale and functional, with thoughtful details like overhead air vents, rear smartphone storage pouches, and USB ports in all three rows. The SX Prestige package elevated the interior with Nappa leather upholstery and a simulated suede headliner, creating an impression of a more expensive vehicle. The Telluride's spaciousness was complemented by features like heated and ventilated seats, dual sunroof panels, and a Smart Power Liftgate, making it a practical choice for families.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains, all centered around a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base T5 model featured a turbocharged engine producing 250 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, while the T6 added a supercharger to boost output to 316 hp and 295 lb-ft. The T8 Twin Engine plug-in hybrid, or Recharge, combined the T6 engine with electric motors for a total of 400 hp and 472 lb-ft. The T5 came with front-wheel drive, with all-wheel drive optional, while the T6 and T8 had standard AWD. Despite the impressive 400 hp, the XC90's small engine struggled with flexibility compared to competitors' six-cylinder or V8 engines. The XC90 excelled in luxury, offering a smooth ride with its optional air-suspension system and maintaining a quiet cabin. It had a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds, though the base FWD T5 was limited to 4,000 pounds.

The 2022 Kia Telluride was powered by a 291-horsepower 3.8-liter V6 engine, delivering 262 pound-feet of torque. This engine was the sole option, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The Telluride's AWD system included a Lock mode for even power distribution, and it offered a smooth ride with its brake-based Torque Vectoring Cornering Control system. Drivers could choose from Eco, Comfort, Smart, and Sport driving modes, with the SX trim featuring 20-inch wheels for added grip. The Telluride's ride quality was supple, allowing for a comfortable drive on various terrains. It achieved an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in combined driving with AWD, and 23 mpg with FWD. The Telluride's towing capacity matched the XC90 at 5,000 pounds.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 was available in six-seat or seven-seat configurations, with headroom and legroom being average for the segment. The third row was tight for adults, and the seats lacked support. An optional power moonroof and the XC90's upright roof profile gave the interior a spacious feel. The Inscription trim featured 10-way power-adjustable heated and ventilated front seats with massage, but lacked a power-adjustable steering wheel. Cargo space was limited, with 11.2 cubic feet behind the third row, 34.1 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, and 64.1 cubic feet with all seats down. A hands-free power tailgate was standard.

The 2022 Kia Telluride balanced form and function with an upscale interior and practical features. It offered comfortable seating for adults in all three rows, though the third row was less preferred. The Telluride's interior included dual-zone automatic climate control, SynTex simulated leather in lower trims, and Nappa leather in the SX Prestige package. The Smart Power Liftgate and folding seats provided ample cargo space, with 21 cubic feet behind the third row, 46 cubic feet with it folded, and 87 cubic feet with all seats down. The Telluride's flat load floor made it easy to transport large items.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system with a 9-inch touchscreen, 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility. It included a WiFi hotspot, USB ports, and an optional 19-speaker Bowers & Wilkins audio system. The touchscreen was user-friendly, though the text was sometimes hard to read while driving. A wireless charging pad was added for 2021, but it was too small for most phones.

The 2022 Kia Telluride came standard with a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, including navigation and voice recognition. It lost wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, requiring a wire for connectivity. Kia Connect offered a range of connected services, including emergency assistance and remote features. The Telluride included USB ports in all rows, a wireless charging pad in most trims, and a Quiet Mode for playing music only through the front speakers. The SX trim featured a 10-speaker Harman Kardon audio system and a surround-view monitoring system.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS for non-hybrid models and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. It offered a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including lane-keep assist, traffic-sign recognition, and Pilot Assist, which combined adaptive cruise control with lane centering.

The 2022 Kia Telluride included Kia Drive Wise, a suite of standard safety features like forward-collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. It also featured Highway Driving Assist and Safe Exit Assist. The Telluride earned a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a "Top Safety Pick" designation from the IIHS.