2024 Kia Telluride vs 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe had a notably conservative design, especially when compared to some of Hyundai’s more daring models. The Santa Fe wasn't unattractive by any means but lacked the standout aesthetics defining several other Hyundai models. It maintained the look and feel from the 2022 model year, available in five trim levels: SE, SEL, XRT, Limited, and Calligraphy. Front-wheel drive (FWD) was standard across all trims, with all-wheel drive (AWD) as an optional feature.

Our test vehicle featured the Calligraphy AWD trim, adorned in the deep, rich Stormy Sea blue paint with a black-on-black interior. The base price of the SUV was $42,600, with AWD adding $1,700, and carpeted floor mats another $210, bringing the total MSRP to $45,845, including the destination charge.

The exterior was characterized by a wide upper and lower grille—a familial trait among Hyundai models—and thin LED headlights that added a touch of distinction. Still, the overall styling normalized quickly from front to rear. Internally, the Calligraphy model’s black interior, while high-quality, bordered on monotonous. Nappa leather seats were both comfortable and attractive, complemented by standard heated and cooled front seats and second-row seat heaters. The interior suggested that opting for a beige or gray interior might break the monotony and offer more visual contrast.

On the other hand, the 2024 Kia Telluride was available in five trim levels: LX, S, EX, SX, and SX Prestige, with added ruggedness in the X-Line and X-Pro packages for all but the base trims. The X-Line brought additional ground clearance to 8.4 inches, a center locking differential, and unique grille and 20-inch wheel designs, while the X-Pro package added 18-inch matte-black wheels and heavy-duty engine cooling for a higher towing capacity of 5,500 pounds.

Our SX Prestige X-Line test model was finished in Wolf Gray with black interior Nappa leather seats, adding a premium feel. The exterior boasted a fundamentally attractive form and proportion, with a blacked-out grille and bumper details enhancing the rugged appeal. The test model's MSRP was $54,270, including destination charges and additional paint and floor mats costs.

The Telluride’s interior was luxurious, featuring heated and ventilated front seats with lumbar massage, heated and ventilated second-row captain’s chairs, and a functional third-row. Despite a dark interior, the dual sunroof panel introduced adequate light. Controls were horizontally oriented, with a user-friendly 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system. While the metallic finish buttons could be challenging to read on bright days, thoughtful features like a panoramic display panel and extensive storage options compensated for minor inconveniences.

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe featured a 2.5-liter engine, with naturally aspirated and turbocharged versions available. The SE, SEL, and XRT trims housed the naturally aspirated engine, producing 191 horsepower and 181 pound-feet of torque, mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. The Limited and Calligraphy trims benefited from a turbocharger, boosting output to 281 hp and 311 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed "wet" dual-clutch automatic transmission.

FWD was standard, with AWD optional across all trims. The Santa Fe also featured a drive-mode selector with Comfort, Sport, Snow, and Smart modes. Paddle shifters added an unnecessary but sporty touch. On-paper, the turbocharged engine provided a significant 90-hp advantage, evident during actual drives. The Calligraphy trim exhibited brisk acceleration without noticeable turbo lag, and the turbo engine was impressively quiet. Handling was smooth, with minimal body lean during cornering and stable high-speed lane changes.

The non-turbo Santa Fe could tow up to 2,000 pounds, while the turbo model could manage 3,500 pounds, provided trailer brakes were used. Although we didn't take the Santa Fe off-road or test its towing capabilities, it performed admirably for its price point.

Contrastingly, the 2024 Kia Telluride packed a 3.8-liter V6 engine delivering 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, with power channeled via an eight-speed automatic transmission. While most trims could tow 5,000 pounds, the X-Pro package’s enhanced cooling increased towing capacity to 5,500 pounds.

The AWD system included a locking center differential, splitting power evenly at low speeds and offering modes like Snow, Comfort, Sport, and Smart. Standard ground clearance was 8.0 inches, rising to 8.4 inches with the X-Line and X-Pro packages. The Telluride’s acceleration was robust, though fuel efficiency was a downside, averaging 19 mpg in combined driving and 17.5 mpg in city conditions.

The Telluride’s ride quality was firm at low speeds but softened at higher velocities, absorbing road undulations effectively. The SUV was equipped with brake-induced Torque Vectoring Cornering Control and responsive steering, providing an athletic feel in curves. The adaptable suspension system further enhanced the driving experience, making the Telluride more refined but equally adept in off-road scenarios.

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe smartly opted for two rows instead of cramming in a third row, resulting in more rear-seat legroom (41.7 inches) and a competitive cargo space (36.4 cubic feet behind the second row). Folding the second-row seats increased storage to 72.1 cubic feet, supplemented by an underfloor compartment. The SEL trim and above featured eight-way power driver’s seats, dual-zone climate control, and various comfort and convenience enhancements. The Calligraphy trim included advanced features like a head-up display, a panoramic sunroof, and ambient lighting, though the center console's width slightly compromised driver leg space.

In comparison, the 2024 Kia Telluride accommodated three rows of seats while maintaining ample space. The SX Prestige X-Line model offered premium Nappa leather seats, and both front and second-row seats were heated and ventilated. The third row could comfortably transport adults. Cargo space was substantial with 21 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 46 cubic feet with the third row folded, and a maximum of 87 cubic feet with all rear seats down. The Telluride also featured a hands-free power liftgate, facilitating easy access to the expansive storage area, and functional roof rails for additional cargo capacity.

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe excelled in technology, particularly in infotainment and ADAS. SE, SEL, and XRT trims included a 4.2-inch color LCD display, while Limited and Calligraphy trims upgraded to a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. Infotainment systems ranged from an 8-inch display with basic connectivity in lower trims to a 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation, voice recognition, and a 12-speaker Harman Kardon audio system in higher trims.

Voice recognition, while functional for navigation and weather queries, was hit-or-miss for music and climate control commands. The system struggled with background noise, requiring users to shout on occasion. Despite minor hiccups, the infotainment system's extensive customization and clear home screen icons were commendable.

The 2024 Kia Telluride featured a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system requiring a wired connection for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. An active Kia Connect subscription was necessary for advanced voice recognition. The Telluride's Kia Connect services offered various plans, with the highest level providing comprehensive connectivity and remote capabilities. The test model included satellite radio, wireless charging, and a 10-speaker Harman Kardon system.

Thoughtful technological inclusions in the Telluride comprised a blue-light filter to reduce eye strain, a Quiet Mode, and a driver’s voice amplification feature. Additionally, a digital key function and a camera-based rearview mirror heightened convenience, complemented by a 10-inch head-up display and a 360-degree camera system.

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe was robust in safety, offering numerous standard ADAS features across all trims. These included forward-collision warning with pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure warning, and rear cross-traffic alert. Higher trims added Highway Driving Assist, integrating adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist. The Santa Fe received top safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS, achieving a five-star overall rating and "Top Safety Pick+" designation.

The 2024 Kia Telluride's Kia Drive Wise suite also provided extensive safety features, including collision avoidance, lane-keeping assist, and rear occupant protection. Trim-specific enhancements brought additional safety elements like front parking sensors and automatic rear braking. The camera-based Blind-Spot View Monitor and Highway Driving Assist 2.0 with automatic lane changing were notable upgrades. The Telluride earned top marks in safety tests, with five-star ratings from NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from IIHS.