2023 Kia Telluride vs 2024 Lexus GX

During our test of the 2023 Kia Telluride X-Line and X-Pro models in Texas, its new styling garnered much attention. Both front and rear ends were refreshed, and the SUV featured updated headlights, taillights, and various new wheel designs. The paint options had expanded to include Midnight Lake Blue, Dawning Red, and Jungle Green, while interior choices featured Terracotta, Navy, and Sage Green.

The X-Line trim replaced the Nightfall Edition, boasting a unique grille design, body-color door handles, and striking black 20-inch wheels. Meanwhile, the X-Pro model carried it further with exclusive 18-inch wheels and all-terrain tires. Both held an air of off-road ruggedness, bolstered by updated bumper designs and standard raised suspensions. These looks suggested a competent off-roader vibe.

Inside, Kia didn't make sweeping changes. The most significant update was the digital instrumentation panel and a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system. These were aligned under a curved 24-inch piece of glass, aligning the Telluride with future-forward design elements.

The interior changes were minor but meaningful. Fresh colors, new steering-wheel design, and functional center console modifications were among the enhancements. Both X-Line and X-Pro trims had their names embossed on the front seatbacks, subtly emphasizing their unique identities.

In contrast, the 2024 Lexus GX 550 underwent a styling revolution. Diverging significantly from its predecessor, the GX 470, the newer model adopted geometric styling from headlight to taillight. While the spindle grille persisted, it was less pronounced. Standard triple-beam LED headlights framed the grille on the squared-off front fascia. The otherwise flat hood was accentuated by humps over each front wheel, aiding off-road positional awareness.

From the side, the GX looked like a solid, carved metal block with minimal character lines running horizontally. The low window beltline improved off-road visibility, and the window frame’s kick-up ahead of the C-pillar lent the GX a distinct silhouette. Standard running boards rounded out the bottom, with power units available on the high-end Luxury+ trim.

Lexus offered the GX in six trims: Premium, Premium+, Luxury, Luxury+, Overtrail, and Overtrail+. Each trim served different needs, with the Luxury models focusing on refinement with features like 22-inch wheels and illuminated doorsills. The Overtrail trims catered to off-road enthusiasts, equipped with 18-inch wheels and 33-inch all-terrain tires.

In summary, the 2023 Kia Telluride combined aesthetic updates with rugged touches, maintaining its appeal without radical changes. In contrast, the 2024 Lexus GX took a bold leap in design, blending luxury with off-road readiness through sharp lines and advanced features.

The 2023 Kia Telluride's mechanical components stayed consistent. Its 3.8-liter V6 engine delivered 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 modes, with AWD models offering a Lock setting for low-speed power distribution.

The V6 promptly powered the Telluride, averaging 24.1 mpg in X-Line trim, even amidst heavy traffic and twisty roads. In Sport mode, it showcased agility, although the X-Pro returned a lower 20.4 mpg due to off-roading. According to EPA ratings, the AWD Telluride achieved 21 mpg combined.

Kia’s off-road credentials were evident in the X-Line and X-Pro trims. Raised suspension, improved ground clearance, Downhill Brake Control, and all-terrain tires enhanced its capabilities. The Telluride's X-Pro trim even lifted towing capacity to 5,500 pounds and incorporated an available self-leveling rear suspension.

The Telluride delivered a smooth ride on highways, living up to expectations with minimal wind noise. The all-terrain tires, though, added a bit of softness in turns. Despite some steering concerns in Sport mode, the 2023 Telluride proved enjoyable to drive overall.

In the 2024 Lexus GX, the powertrain shifted from a V8 to a twin-turbocharged 3.4-liter V6 engine, resulting in 349 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. This modern engine provided more power, with torque available at lower revs, ideal for off-road excursions.

Built on the GA-F truck platform, the GX shared its underpinnings with various Toyota and Lexus models known for durability and performance. The 10-speed automatic transmission offered reliable, smooth operation. Standard 4WD with a locking Torsen limited-slip center differential featured prominently, and Overtrail trims added a rear differential for enhanced power distribution.

The Overtrail trims also benefited from Lexus' Electronic Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (E-KDSS), ensuring stability both on and off-road. During our drives, the GX delivered strong acceleration and braking performance, remaining composed in twists and turns, contrary to its predecessor's tendencies to exhibit body roll.

Despite weather constraints limiting our off-road testing, the GX's reinforced capabilities, including various traction management modes and descent-control systems, indicated substantial off-road proficiency.

The 2023 Kia Telluride offered generous interior space, seating seven or eight passengers depending on the second-row configuration. In our tests, the SX Prestige model featured luxurious Nappa leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, and ventilated second-row captain’s chairs. The configuration promised comfort and convenience with even a heated steering wheel included.

The front seats provided exceptional comfort, bolstered by a new lumbar stabilization system, enhancing long-trip viability. Rear seating was equally accommodating, with the second row featuring manual sunshades, USB ports, and climate system controls. Accessing the third row was easier than in many competitors, though it still lacked the spaciousness of the Volkswagen Atlas.

For cargo, the Telluride offered 21 cubic feet behind the third row, 46 cubic feet with it folded, and 87 cubic feet with both rear rows down. Storage solutions were plentiful, and the proximity-sensing smart power tailgate ensured ease of loading, albeit occasionally opening unintentionally.

The 2024 Lexus GX’s interior reflected a sophisticated, minimalist overhaul, simplifying controls while retaining essential physical buttons. With 41.2 inches of legroom in the front and 36.7 inches in the second row, the space was comfortable for taller adults. However, the third-row seat, included only in Premium and Luxury trims, was tight with 31.7 inches of legroom, more suitable for children.

Comparing rivals, the GX outmatched the Defender 110 in the second-row space but lagged in third-row comfort. However, for those truly needing third-row functionality, considering larger SUVs, like the Defender 130, would be prudent.

Cargo capacity favored the GX, with 10.3 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 40.2 cubic feet with it folded, and totaling 76.9 cubic feet. Overtrail models, sans third row, offered even more, with 45.6 cubic feet behind the second row and an outstanding 90.5 cubic feet total.

The 2023 Kia Telluride sported a new 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, coming standard with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, and Kia Connect services, including a Wi-Fi hotspot. The voice recognition system performed well, though it couldn’t control climate settings.

With the Kia Access smartphone app, remote functions via Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant were possible. The system supported dual Bluetooth pairing, featured six USB charging ports, and included Driver Talk and Quiet Mode—enhancements aimed at convenience and family comfort.

Optional upgrades, such as the Harman Kardon premium sound system and wireless smartphone charging, added luxury, along with digital-key technology and a Full Display Mirror. A comprehensive head-up display (HUD) provided crucial driving information.

The 2024 Lexus GX integrated a 14-inch touchscreen into its dashboard, accompanying USB-C ports and an available wireless charging pad. Overtrail trims added USB-C ports in the back, and all trims featured a 120-volt AC outlet in the trunk.

Lexus Interface supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with Drive Connect offering intelligent voice assistance. Subscription services included Drive Connect and Remote Connect, free for the first three years before adopting a paid model.

Standard audio systems featured 10 speakers, while the Luxury and Overtrail+ trims could opt for a 21-speaker Mark Levinson stereo. Despite the Lexus Interface’s intuitive design, the post-trial subscription costs could be a long-term consideration for buyers.

The 2023 Kia Telluride equipped an extensive array of standard safety features. Forward-collision warning, pedestrian and cyclist detection, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert were present across all trims. Advanced systems like Highway Drive Assist 2.0 combined adaptive cruise control with lane-centering assist for semi-autonomous highway driving.

Additional features included front and rear parking sensors, a surround-view camera, blind-spot view monitor, and Rear Occupant Alert with ultrasonic sensors. Practical inclusions like automatic high-beam headlights and a driver attention warning system further ensured safety.

While crash-test ratings were unavailable, the updated GA-F architecture and comprehensive ADAS offerings instilled confidence in the GX’s improved safety.