2023 Kia Telluride vs 2023 Acura RDX

During our time in Texas, we sampled the new 2023 Kia Telluride X-Line and X-Pro models, so our commentary is based on these versions of the SUV. All Tellurides received fresh front and rear styling, updated headlights and taillights, and new wheel designs. New paint colors included Midnight Lake Blue, Dawning Red, and Jungle Green, while the interior offered new colors like Terracotta, Navy, and Sage Green. The X-Line replaced the Nightfall Edition, featuring a raised suspension, unique grille design, raised roof rails, body-color door handles, and black 20-inch wheels. The X-Pro took it a step further with exclusive 18-inch wheels and all-terrain tires, giving both models a mildly aggressive off-roader look.

Kia’s interior updates were less obvious but significant. The most notable change was the available digital instrumentation panel and the standard 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, both housed under a curved 24-inch piece of glass. Other interior changes included new colors, minor trim updates, a new steering-wheel design, and a more functional center console. Both the X-Line and X-Pro had their trim names embossed into the upper portion of the front seatbacks. The 2023 Telluride was available in LX, S, EX, SX, and SX Prestige trims, with prices starting at $35,690 for the LX with front-wheel drive and rising to $52,785 for the SX Prestige X-Pro with all-wheel drive.

The 2023 Acura RDX was unique in its class for its sharp, angular style, but it remained conventional enough to not stand out from the crowd. The signature Acura grille, flanked by sleek wraparound headlights and deep creases in the bodywork and hood, gave the nose a sporty and aggressive look. The side was accentuated by a distinctive character line that suggested forward movement, even when parked. The rear of the RDX was more conventional, resembling many other small SUVs in its overall styling.

The RDX’s interior took a different route from the horizontal dashboard layout favored by many designers. The cockpit had a distinct vertical layout, with the center stack of controls flowing into the center console. The center section was dominated by gear-selector buttons and a drive-mode dial, emphasizing Acura's focus on performance. Above that were physical climate controls and a 10.2-inch infotainment display atop the dash. The instrument panel featured a digital center display with analog gauges on either side. The white-faced gauges with red flourishes further accentuated the RDX's sporting intent. The interior wasn’t as modern as some rivals, but it offered a familiar layout for those averse to new glass cockpits.

Mechanically, the 2023 Kia Telluride remained largely the same as before, featuring a 3.8-liter V6 engine producing 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Drivers could select from Eco, Comfort, Smart, Sport, and Snow driving modes, and the available AWD system had a low-speed Lock setting for even power distribution. The V6 easily motivated the Telluride, averaging 24.1 mpg in the X-Line during a mix of highway, heavy traffic, and twisty roads. The X-Pro returned 20.4 mpg, including off-roading with the drivetrain in Lock mode. Official EPA ratings for the AWD Telluride were 21 mpg in combined driving.

Kia raised the suspension by 10mm, increased ground clearance to 8.4 inches, improved approach and departure angles, and modified the traction control system for better off-road performance. The new Downhill Brake Control system worked well, despite a briefly terrifying moment when the SUV picked up more speed than expected. The X-Pro, with 18-inch wheels, all-terrain tires, and an improved cooling system, increased towing capacity to 5,500 pounds. A self-leveling rear air suspension was also available. The Telluride performed well off-road, showcasing its AWD Lock mode, all-terrain tires, ground clearance, wheel articulation, Downhill Brake Control system, forward camera view system, and stability on slopes.

The 2023 Acura RDX was powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. It came standard with front-wheel drive, while Acura's "super-handling all-wheel drive" (SH-AWD) was available on all models and standard in top trims. The RDX accelerated to 60 mph in 6.7 seconds, about average for its class. The turbo powertrain provided immediate throttle response, and the engine and exhaust had a pleasing deeper tone. The transmission selected the correct gear efficiently, and the brake pedal had a reassuring firmness.

The RDX’s handling inspired confidence, with well-managed body roll and abundant traction from the advanced AWD system. It cornered with enough prowess to be considered sporty, yet ride comfort remained excellent. Road imperfections were smoothed over, and mid-corner bumps were barely acknowledged. The RDX's broad performance range, easy-to-drive nature, and comfortable ride made it an attractive option for many shoppers.

The 2023 Kia Telluride accommodated seven or eight passengers, depending on the second-row seating configuration. Our test vehicles featured premium Nappa leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, and heated and ventilated front- and second-row captain’s chairs. The SX Prestige trim included a heated steering wheel. The front seats were comfortable, with a new power lumbar stabilization system to keep drivers fresh on long trips. The second-row seats were also comfortable, with manual side-window sunshades, adjustable inboard armrests, USB ports, and storage pockets. The third-row seat was more comfortable than in some midsize SUVs, though not as spacious as the Volkswagen Atlas.

Storage space was plentiful, with a “smart” power tailgate and an automatic closing function. Cargo space was generous, with 21 cubic feet behind the third-row seat, 46 cubic feet with the third-row folded, and 87 cubic feet with both rear rows folded.

The 2023 Acura RDX offered plenty of space in the front seats, with additional power adjustments for side bolsters and thigh extension in top trims. The cushioning was generous, and the heated and ventilated seats quickly adjusted temperatures. The rear seats accommodated average-sized adults comfortably, though six-footers might touch the headliner. Legroom was ample, and the large panoramic sunroof enhanced the cabin's open and airy feel.

Cargo space behind the rear seats was 31.1 cubic feet, larger than its competition by one or two cubic feet. A deep bin under the cargo floor featured a center drain plug, useful for wet gear or as a tailgate cooler. Folding the rear seats expanded capacity to 79.8 cubic feet, with remote seatback levers for easy transformation. Front passengers had plenty of storage options, including cupholders, a covered center console bin, a bin under the armrest, and a large tray with a wireless charging pad. The door pockets were small, but overall storage was adequate. The center stack's gear selector buttons and drive mode dial took up unnecessary space, contrasting with Honda's efficient use of space.

The 2023 Kia Telluride featured a new 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system as standard, including Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, a navigation system, and Kia Connect services with a new Wi-Fi hotspot. The voice recognition system performed well, though it didn’t control the climate system. The Kia Access smartphone app allowed remote control via Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, with over-the-air updates and Bluetooth pairing for two devices. Six USB charging ports were available, and Driver Talk and Quiet Mode enhanced communication and comfort.

Upgrades included a 10-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, wireless smartphone charging, and digital-key technology. The Full Display Mirror showed a video view of what’s behind the SUV, and the head-up display (HUD) had a larger, full-color 10-inch viewing area. The Leading Vehicle Departure Alert system reminded drivers when traffic started moving, a useful feature.

The 2023 Acura RDX used a touchpad infotainment controller, which was better than Lexus' but still challenging to use. The dashtop display was not a touchscreen and was out of reach. The experience improved with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, allowing easier operation with quick glances. The infotainment system had sharp graphics, quick responses, and logically arranged menus.

Standard features included a Wi-Fi hotspot and remote monitoring via the Acuralink smartphone app. Premium audio options included a 16-speaker ELS system with potent bass and clear high notes.

The 2023 Kia Telluride offered a long list of standard safety features, including forward-collision warning, pedestrian and cyclist detection, a junction turning system, and automatic emergency braking. Other features included blind-spot monitoring, rear parking sensors, rear cross-traffic alert with automatic braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, lane-centering assist, Safe Exit Assist, and adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability. Highway Drive Assist 1.5 and 2.0 provided semi-autonomous driving assistance, with additional collision avoidance features in SX trim. The Telluride also included automatic high-beam headlights, a driver attention warning system, and a Rear Occupant Alert system with ultrasonic sensors.

The 2023 Acura RDX received five stars from the NHTSA for overall and side crash protection, and four stars for frontal and rollover protection. The IIHS named it a Top Safety Pick+ with the highest scores for crashworthiness. Standard safety features included forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, and lane-keep assist. The Technology package added parking sensors, while the Advance package included a surround-view camera system and a head-up display. All systems worked well, with smooth adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist better suited for straight highways.