2023 Genesis GV80 vs 2022 Kia Telluride

The 2022 Kia Telluride was a striking midsize SUV, boasting a muscular design with balanced proportions. Its aesthetic appeal was enhanced by trendy blacked-out wheels and trim, while minor updates to the grille pattern and new Kia badges kept the model fresh. The Telluride's interior was equally impressive, with a logical arrangement of controls and a stylish appearance. However, the glossy plastic on the lower half of the cabin detracted from its overall upscale feel, especially in the SX Prestige trim, which featured luxurious Nappa leather upholstery and a simulated suede headliner.

In contrast, the 2023 Genesis GV80 exuded sophistication and grace with its quad-lamp headlights and bold grille. The SUV's stately presence was complemented by 22-inch alloy wheels on the Prestige trim and a matte Brunswick Green paint job that added an elegant touch. Inside, the GV80 continued the dark green theme with quilted leather seats, a split dash with thin air vents, and a center console featuring three large dials for infotainment, transmission, and drive modes. The interior was spacious and luxurious, though the 14.5-inch infotainment screen seemed awkwardly placed atop the dash.

The 2022 Kia Telluride was powered by a 291-horsepower 3.8-liter V6 engine, delivering 262 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, provided a satisfying driving experience despite being the sole engine option. The Telluride's AWD system included a Lock mode for even power distribution, and its brake-based Torque Vectoring Cornering Control system enhanced handling. The SUV offered a smooth ride, with driving modes like Eco, Comfort, Smart, and Sport, and achieved an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in combined driving. Its towing capacity was 5,000 pounds.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 offered a choice between a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 300 horsepower and a turbo 3.5-liter V6 producing 375 horsepower and 391 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. While the GV80 wasn't particularly quick, taking about five and a half seconds to reach 60 mph, it excelled at highway driving. The electronically controlled suspension and active noise cancellation ensured a smooth and quiet ride, making it ideal for long commutes.

The 2022 Kia Telluride balanced form and function with an upscale, organized interior that prioritized utility. Features like overhead air vents, rear smartphone storage pouches, and USB ports in all three rows added convenience. The SX Prestige trim offered premium Nappa leather upholstery and a simulated suede headliner, enhancing the cabin's luxurious feel. The Telluride's three rows of seats accommodated adults comfortably, and its cargo space ranged from 21 to 87 cubic feet, making it versatile for various needs.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 focused on luxury and comfort, with heated and ventilated front and rear seats, Nappa leather upholstery, and a tri-zone climate control system. The Ergo Motion driver's seat reduced fatigue with its inflatable pockets. While a third row was available, its limited legroom made it suitable only for children. The GV80 offered ample cargo space, with 34.9 cubic feet behind the second row and 84 cubic feet with the seats folded. Its towing capacity was 6,000 pounds.

The 2022 Kia Telluride featured a standard 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, though it required a wired connection for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Kia Connect provided connected services, including emergency assistance and remote features. The Telluride also offered a Quiet Mode and Driver Talk function for convenience. The SX trim included a Harman Kardon sound system, head-up display, and surround-view monitoring.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 came with a 14.5-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch 3D digital gauge cluster. While the infotainment system had a learning curve, it supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, albeit not wirelessly. The GV80 featured remote smart parking assist, allowing the car to park itself without the driver inside. It also included wireless charging, multiple USB ports, and a head-up display.

The 2022 Kia Telluride was equipped with Kia Drive Wise, a suite of driver assistance and collision avoidance technologies. It included features like forward-collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. The Telluride earned a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a "Top Safety Pick" designation from the IIHS, though its headlights received lower ratings.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 offered a comprehensive set of safety features, including forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. Its Highway Drive Assist system provided hands-on/eyes-up driving aid on approved highways. The GV80 received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and high marks from the IIHS, though its headlights and LATCH system were rated as Acceptable.