2023 Kia Telluride vs 2023 Genesis GV80

The 2023 Kia Telluride X-Line and X-Pro models showcased a refreshed design with updated front and rear styling, new headlights and taillights, and a selection of new wheel designs. The exterior color palette expanded to include Midnight Lake Blue, Dawning Red, and Jungle Green, while the interior offered new hues like Terracotta, Navy, and Sage Green. The X-Line model replaced the Nightfall Edition, featuring a raised suspension, unique grille design, and black 20-inch wheels, while the X-Pro model added exclusive 18-inch wheels and all-terrain tires, enhancing its off-road appeal. Inside, the Telluride boasted a digital instrumentation panel and a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, both housed under a curved 24-inch glass panel, giving the SUV a modern edge. Additional interior updates included new colors, minor trim changes, and a redesigned steering wheel, with the X-Line and X-Pro trims embossed on the front seatbacks.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 exuded sophistication with its quad-lamp headlights and bold grille, presenting a stately presence at over 16 feet long. Standard 19-inch wheels were upgraded to 22-inch alloy wheels in the Prestige trim, while the rear echoed the quad lamp design with four-part taillamps above dual exhausts. The hands-free liftgate maintained a boxy design, complemented by the elegant matte Brunswick Green paint. Inside, the dark green quilted leather seats matched the exterior, with a dash split by thin horizontal air vents and adorned with metal and matte wood trim. The center console featured three large dials for infotainment, transmission, and drive modes, while the two-spoke steering wheel added a unique touch. The 14.5-inch infotainment screen, though slightly awkwardly placed, offered a spacious and luxurious interior experience, enhanced by a 21-speaker stereo system and a panoramic glass roof.

The 2023 Kia Telluride retained its mechanical prowess with a 3.8-liter V6 engine producing 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Drivers could choose from Eco, Comfort, Smart, Sport, and Snow driving modes, with the AWD system offering a low-speed Lock setting for power distribution. The Telluride X-Line averaged 24.1 mpg, while the X-Pro returned 20.4 mpg, with official EPA ratings suggesting 21 mpg in combined driving. Kia enhanced the Telluride's off-road capabilities with a raised suspension, increased ground clearance, and improved approach and departure angles. The X-Pro model featured 18-inch wheels, all-terrain tires, and an improved cooling system, boosting towing capacity to 5,500 pounds. The Telluride excelled in off-road conditions, showcasing its stability and traction control, while providing a smooth and quiet highway ride.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 offered a choice between a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, or a turbo 3.5-liter V6 producing 375 hp and 391 lb-ft of torque, both mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. While not the quickest in its class, the GV80 excelled in highway driving, with smooth power delivery and shifts. The electronically controlled suspension scanned the road for roughness, enhancing ride comfort, while active noise cancellation ensured a quiet cabin. The GV80's performance was less athletic compared to its German rivals, but it provided a refined and comfortable driving experience.

The 2023 Kia Telluride offered seating for seven or eight passengers, with premium Nappa leather upholstery and power-adjustable front seats. The SX Prestige trim included heated and ventilated front and second-row captain’s chairs, a heated steering wheel, and a power lumbar stabilization system. The second-row seats featured manual side-window sunshades, USB ports, and storage pockets, while a button on the captain’s chairs facilitated access to the third-row seating area. The Telluride provided ample storage space, with a smart power tailgate and generous cargo capacity, offering 21 cubic feet behind the third row, 46 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 87 cubic feet with both rear rows down.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 prioritized luxury with heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and ventilated front and rear seats. The Ergo Motion driver’s seat featured seven pockets for fatigue reduction, while Nappa leather upholstery added a sumptuous touch. The optional third row offered limited legroom, suitable for children. The GV80 included Genesis puddle lamps, a proximity key, and a digital key, along with a tri-zone climate control system and a 21-speaker stereo system. The GV80 boasted one of the largest cargo spaces in its class, with 34.9 cubic feet behind the second row and 84 cubic feet with the seats folded, and a towing capacity of 6,000 pounds.

The 2023 Kia Telluride featured a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, and Kia Connect services. The system supported voice recognition, though climate control adjustments required manual input. The Kia Access app allowed remote control via Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, with OTA updates and Bluetooth pairing for two devices. The Telluride included Driver Talk and Quiet Mode, a 10-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, wireless charging, and a Full Display Mirror. The optional HUD offered a 10-inch viewing area, and the Leading Vehicle Departure Alert system provided helpful reminders.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 came with a 14.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a 12.3-inch 3D digital gauge cluster. The infotainment screen was slightly out of reach, with a dial for navigation, handwriting detection, and a complex menu structure. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available, though not wirelessly. The GV80 included wireless charging, USB ports, and a 110-volt outlet. The remote smart parking assist allowed for maneuvering in tight spaces without the driver in the car, enhancing convenience.

The 2023 Kia Telluride offered a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including forward-collision warning, pedestrian and cyclist detection, and automatic emergency braking. The SUV included blind-spot monitoring, rear parking sensors, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. The adaptive cruise control system could adjust speed based on navigation data, and Highway Drive Assist 2.0 provided semi-autonomous driving assistance. The Telluride also featured a Rear Occupant Alert system and a Blind-Spot View Monitor, enhancing safety and convenience.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 was equipped with advanced driver’s aids, including forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. The GV80 featured a video feed of the blind spot in the digital gauge cluster, and Highway Drive Assist provided hands-on/eyes-up driving aid. The system could change lanes automatically and adjust speed for curves, though it struggled with sun glare. The GV80 received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and high ratings from the IIHS, though the headlights and LATCH system were rated as Acceptable.