2024 Kia Telluride vs 2023 Lexus GX

The 2023 Lexus GX, with its massive spindle grille and 8.1 inches of ground clearance, certainly had a commanding presence. Its front end looked ready to dominate the road, framed by large headlights that accentuated its distinctive face. The GX Black Line Special Edition, limited to 3,000 units, returned for 2023 with three paint options: Obsidian, Eminent White Pearl, and the exclusive Nori Green Pearl.

Despite its luxury badge, the GX's dimensions seemed to shrink when viewed from the side, with a short 109.8-inch wheelbase and minimal overhangs. The design leaned sleeker compared to Toyota's blocky aesthetics, making it easier to navigate technical driving. Inside, the GX had a mix of luxury touches and disappointing plastic materials, with features like heated and cooled front seats, a power-retracting steering wheel, and impressive leather upholstery.

The 2024 Kia Telluride offered five core trim levels: LX, S, EX, SX, and SX Prestige, with the rugged X-Line and X-Pro packages available for higher trims. The X-Line package added standard AWD, increased ground clearance to 8.4 inches, and unique design elements. The X-Pro package further enhanced towing capacity to 5,500 pounds with heavy-duty engine cooling and all-terrain tires.

The Telluride's design updates maintained its attractive proportions, with the Wolf Gray paint and blacked-out X-Line styling standing out. Inside, the SX Prestige X-Line test vehicle featured premium Nappa leather seats, a dual sunroof, and a range of interior color options. The cabin's thoughtful details, like the 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and generous storage space, added to its appeal. The hands-free power liftgate and ample cargo space, including 87 cubic feet with seats folded, made it practical for families.

The 2023 Lexus GX was defined by its 4.6-liter V8 engine, producing 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque through a six-speed automatic transmission. While not the most powerful on paper, the V8 delivered a satisfying linear power rise and a distinctive sound. However, its fuel economy was a drawback, with EPA estimates of 15 mpg city, 19 highway, and 16 combined. The GX's 6,500-pound towing capacity was respectable but not class-leading.

Despite its weight, the GX handled predictably, with communicative road feel and strong brakes. The Torsen torque-sensing limited-slip differential and standard 4WD system made it capable off-road, adjusting power distribution based on wheel slip. The GX's driving dynamics had improved over the years, but it still felt dated compared to newer models.

The 2024 Kia Telluride featured a 3.8-liter V6 engine with 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The X-Pro package increased towing capacity to 5,500 pounds. AWD models included a locking center differential and multiple driving modes, including Snow. The Telluride's fuel economy was average, with AWD versions achieving 20 mpg combined, though real-world testing showed lower figures.

The Telluride offered a refined driving experience with quick acceleration, responsive steering, and effective brakes. Its ride quality varied, feeling firm at low speeds but compliant at higher velocities. Off-road, the Telluride proved capable, handling various terrains with ease, though it wasn't as rugged as a Jeep.

The 2023 Lexus GX provided ample cubby space, with a deep center console bin, a phone space ahead of the shifter, and side-by-side cupholders. However, it lacked modern USB-C ports, sticking with older USB-A ports. The physical controls were a blessing, avoiding the complexity of touchscreens, though the numerous buttons required familiarization. The adjustable center console lid and comfortable second-row seats added to its practicality.

The third row was tight, suitable only for occasional use, and the side-hinged, non-power-operated trunk door was cumbersome. Cargo space was limited, with just 11.6 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 64.7 cubic feet with all seats folded, less than a Toyota RAV4.

The 2024 Kia Telluride excelled in comfort, especially in higher trims like the SX Prestige X-Line, with premium Nappa leather, heated and ventilated seats, and a dual sunroof. The controls were user-friendly, with a 12.3-inch touchscreen and physical buttons, though some metallic finish buttons were hard to read in bright light. Thoughtful details, like the digital instrumentation panel and generous storage, enhanced the experience.

The hands-free power liftgate and ample cargo space, including 21 cubic feet behind the third row and 87 cubic feet with seats folded, made the Telluride practical for families. The X-Line and X-Pro packages added useful roof rails for extra storage.

The 2023 Lexus GX's infotainment system, updated in 2022, already felt dated. The 10.3-inch touchscreen was an improvement, with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration, but the graphics and responsiveness lagged behind competitors. The Lexus Remote Touch Interface was unnecessary with the improved touchscreen. The GX included three years of Lexus Enform Remote and a 17-speaker Mark Levinson stereo, but the inclusion of a CD player highlighted its outdated tech.

Off-road capability was a strong suit, with a real 4WD system, downhill assist, hill-start assist, traction control, and stability control. The Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System and Off-Road Package added further off-road enhancements.

The 2024 Kia Telluride featured a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, though Apple CarPlay and Android Auto required a cable. Kia Connect subscription plans offered various features, including remote engine start, climate pre-conditioning, and over-the-air updates. The test vehicle's inactive Kia Connect subscription limited voice recognition testing, but past experiences were positive.

Additional tech included satellite radio, wireless smartphone charging, and a 10-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. Thoughtful features like a blue-light filter, Quiet Mode, and driver voice projection added convenience. The digital key function and camera-based rearview mirror were practical, while the 10-inch head-up display and 360-degree camera system enhanced safety. The Leading Vehicle Departure Alert system was a useful addition.

The 2023 Lexus GX had not been crash-tested by NHTSA or IIHS, but its 2010 engineering raised concerns about structural safety. However, it included advanced driver assistance systems like automatic emergency braking, lane-departure alert, adaptive cruise control, parking assist, and automatic high beams, making it safer than its age suggested.

The 2024 Kia Telluride impressed with its standard Kia Drive Wise driver assistance features, including collision avoidance, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear occupant protection. Highway Driving Assist provided semi-autonomous driving, with upgrades like front parking sensors, cross-traffic alert, and evasive steering assist available. The Blind-Spot View Monitor and Highway Driving Assist 2.0 added further safety enhancements. The Telluride earned a five-star overall crash test rating from NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from IIHS.