2024 Kia Telluride vs 2024 Toyota Sequoia

The 2024 Kia Telluride and the 2024 Toyota Sequoia both commanded attention with their distinctive designs and well-considered aesthetic choices, but they appealed to different tastes and preferences.

For the Kia Telluride, it was offered in five core trim levels: LX, S, EX, SX, and SX Prestige. Buyers had the option to add the rugged X-Line treatment to all but the base LX and S trims, while the top two trims had the X-Pro package reserved exclusively for them. Opting for the X-Line package endowed the Telluride with standard all-wheel drive (AWD) with a center locking differential, increased ground clearance to 8.4 inches, and better approach and departure angles. It also featured a unique grille, 20-inch wheel designs, and roof rails. The X-Pro package built upon this with 18-inch matte-black wheels, all-terrain tires, and heavy-duty engine cooling, which increased the towing capacity to 5,500 pounds.

With prices ranging from $35,990 for the LX to $53,185 for the SX Prestige with the X-Pro package (not including the destination charge), the Telluride strived to combine value with versatility. A particular favorite during our test was the SX Prestige with the X-Line package, decked out in extra-cost Wolf Gray paint, which brought the MSRP to $54,270, including the $1,365 destination charge.

This SUV's appealing looks were a big draw for many buyers. Despite some mixed reactions to last year's styling updates, its fundamental attractiveness remained unapologetically appealing. The Wolf Gray paint paired wonderfully with the blacked-out X-Line styling for a sleek and cohesive look.

Inside, our test model boasted a black interior with premium Nappa leather seats, though not the most enticing color option available. Depending on the trim, other interior color choices included Mahogany brown, Terracotta brown, light gray over black or dark blue, and an unusual Sage Green, each complementing the simulated open-pore wood trim.

However, it was hard not to notice the prevalence of shiny plastic in the lower portions of the interior, a letdown in an otherwise sumptuous setting that nearly touched luxury SUV standards thanks to its soft leather, artificial suede headliner, and thoughtful details.

The 2024 Toyota Sequoia, meanwhile, shared its platform with the Tundra pickup and borrowed several design cues from it, such as hexagonal grilles, strong fender creases, and a robust stance. The paint color significantly influenced its appearance. Our test of the top-trim Capstone model in Celestial Silver resulted in a slightly dated, "cop car" look. Conversely, livelier colors like the punchy Solar Octane orange coupled with black accents transformed the Sequoia into an adventurous Tonka truck look.

Inside, the Sequoia mimicked the Tundra's dash layout with blocky, geometric designs, physical dials and buttons for volume and the tri-zone climate control, resembling the Tacoma too. The top of the center console featured a shallow compartment with padded armrests, lifting up to reveal a spacious cubby beneath. The Capstone trim's unique semi-aniline leather upholstery presented an upgraded feel, though it’s worth noting fabric seating was standard on the base SR5 trim. The seats were extensively adjustable, catering to comfort as you climbed the trim ladder.

The cabin housed many thoughtful stripes, including padded armrests on the center console and driver-focused adjustments, contributing to Sequoia's inviting atmosphere. However, substantial use of chrome on our Capstone also lent it an old-fashioned vibe that might not appeal to everyone.

Examining the performance of the 2024 Kia Telluride revealed a well-rounded offering equipped with a 3.8-liter V6 engine, generating 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. This power was delivered to the front or all four wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission. Standard Tellurides could tow up to 5,000 pounds, while the X-Pro package, with added heavy-duty engine cooling, upped the towing capacity to 5,500 pounds.

Equipping the Telluride with AWD included a locking center differential, enabling a 50/50 torque split between front and rear wheels at low speeds. Additional driving modes such as Snow, Comfort, Sport, and Smart offered tailored driving experiences while maintaining decent ground clearance of 8.0 inches, increasing to 8.4 inches with the X-Line and X-Pro packages. This SUV featured a self-leveling rear suspension, too, which aided stability.

The Telluride performed admirably in acceleration and passing power, making freeway driving a breeze. However, its fuel efficiency lagged, with the EPA rating AWD versions at 20 mpg combined, though our real-world testing in hilly areas and city driving averaged 17.5 mpg to 19 mpg.

Despite the fuel economy shortfall, the Telluride excelled in providing a refined and athletic drive. Enhanced with brake-induced Torque Vectoring Cornering Control and responsive steering, it handled curves and corners more dynamically than many competitors. The ride remained comfortable, firm at lower speeds, and compliant at higher speeds, even on uneven roads.

Over the years, the Telluride demonstrated commendable off-road capability, handling varied terrains such as trails in Colorado and ridges in Texas proficiently, albeit not to the extent of a Jeep.

The 2024 Toyota Sequoia, on the other hand, adopted an exclusively hybrid format with the iForce MAX hybrid powertrain. This setup combined a twin-turbo V6 engine with an electric motor, generating a robust 437 horsepower and 583 lb-ft of torque. This marked an upgrade of 56 hp and 182 lb-ft over its V8-powered predecessor, mirroring a substantial improvement in fuel economy to 20 mpg combined for the 4WD model from a previous 14 mpg.

The Sequoia TRD Pro trim showcased serious off-road readiness with a part-time 4WD system featuring selectors for 4Hi, 4Lo, and 2WD, along with a skid plate. Other trims offered 4WD for an additional $3,000. The 10-speed automatic transmission provided smooth operation. Handling was adequate for its class, albeit unremarkable.

For adventurous types, the TRD Off-Road package on the SR5, Limited, and Platinum trims included all-terrain tires, a skid plate, Bilstein shocks, and an electronic locking rear differential. Driver-assist features like Crawl Control and Multi-Terrain Select were also available, enhancing off-road efficacy.

The Sequoia's towing capacity reached a maximum of 9,520 pounds, a significant increase from 7,400 pounds in previous models and included useful features like the Tow Technology Package and power-extending trailer tow mirrors for added convenience.

Inside the 2024 Kia Telluride, comfort was a key priority, particularly in higher trims. Our SX Prestige X-Line test vehicle featured premium Nappa leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats with comprehensive adjustments, including lumbar massage, and second-row captain’s chairs similarly heated and ventilated. Even the third-row seat offered sufficient space for adults. The ambience was lightened by a dual sunroof, though the interior's dark tones sometimes needed this intervention.

Controls were oriented horizontally for intuitive use. The standard 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system was user-friendly, supplemented by physical controls. However, some metallic finished buttons posed visibility issues under bright sunlight. The Telluride compensated with thoughtful touches, like a digital instrumentation panel displaying scenic landscapes, enhancing driving pleasure.

Storage was ample, featuring a covered forward cubby and room in the door bins, ensuring convenience. The hands-free power liftgate, while practical, posed issues in certain scenarios but could be toggled on or off through the infotainment system.

Cargo space in the Telluride was generous, providing 21 cubic feet behind the third row, expandable to 46 cubic feet with the seats folded, and a maximum of 87 cubic feet, making it a segment leader in storage capacity.

In comparison, the 2024 Toyota Sequoia was equipped with automatic power-deploying running boards in the Capstone and optionally in the Platinum trim, simplifying entry but requiring careful timing to avoid mishaps.

Cargo space maxed out at 86.9 cubic feet with both second- and third-row seats folded, offering 49 cubic feet behind the second row and between 11.5 to 22.3 cubic feet behind the third row, depending on seat position. However, the third-row seats’ positioning above the hybrid battery pack caused a non-flat load floor and reduced headroom by nearly three inches, affecting passenger comfort in the back.

Second-row access was convenient, and folding down the 60/40 split third-row seats was easy via a button push, though this did not create a flat surface. Legroom was adequate but not class-leading, with measurements of 41.2 inches in the first row, 39.2 inches in the second row, and 28.1 to 33.7 inches in the third row, ranking behind vehicles like the Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon. Second-row captain’s chairs on higher trims added comfort but lacked substantial bolstering.

The 2024 Kia Telluride impressed with its tech-forward offerings. The standard 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system was largely impressive, though it required a cable for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which was an odd oversight in today's wireless age. Fox example, a Kia Connect subscription was necessary for the voice recognition system, but wireless Bluetooth pairing worked seamlessly for streaming.

Four Kia Connect plans were available, with the Lite plan complimentary for five years, providing basic features like 911 Connect. Upgrades to Care, Plus, or Ultimate plans unlocked features such as safe driver settings, remote engine start, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. The Ultimate plan, priced at $199 annually, included the Voice Assist feature.

The test model featured satellite radio, a 10-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, and wireless smartphone charging. Notably, the Telluride included thoughtful tech such as a blue-light filter for the infotainment screen, a Quiet Mode for front speakers only, and a driver’s voice projection feature. Additionally, a digital key function, camera-based rearview mirror, a 10-inch head-up display, and a 360-degree camera system enhanced the tech offering. A Leading Vehicle Departure Alert system was also included for traffic stops, adding to its convenience.

Overall, the Telluride's tech features were well-rounded and catered to modern needs, ensuring a connected and comfortable ride.

The 2024 Toyota Sequoia also offered comprehensive technology features, especially in the Capstone trim. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard across all trims. A distinguishing feature was the infotainment system: the SR5 trim had an 8-inch touchscreen, while higher trims boasted a 14-inch screen. Though the Toyota Audio Multimedia system's appearance might underwhelm some, its functionality and user-friendliness were top-tier.

The driver-information display was a consistent 12.3-inch full-color screen in all trims, presenting clear graphics. The Panoramic View monitor was standard, a crucial feature for a large SUV. The 10-inch color head-up display was standard on the Capstone and available on Platinum, adding another layer of convenience. The 14-speaker JBL Premium Audio system was available on Limited trims and standard from Platinum upwards, enhancing the auditory experience.

Safety was a paramount focus for both models, though executed differently.

The 2024 Kia Telluride came equipped with Kia Drive Wise, a comprehensive suite of driver assistance features. This included collision avoidance, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear occupant protection. Highway Driving Assist provided a hands-on semi-autonomous driving experience with adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist.

Safety features varied by trim, with advanced options like front parking sensors, cross-traffic alert, evasive steering assist, lane-change assist, and automatic rear braking available. The camera-based Blind-Spot View Monitor system was a valuable addition, displaying blind-spot images on the digital instrument panel.

Highway Driving Assist 2.0 added automatic lane changing and semi-autonomous capabilities, which proved reliable on open roads and in stop-and-go traffic. However, it showed some limitations in moderate traffic and mountainous terrain.

The Telluride also had a five-star overall crash test rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), ensuring peace of mind for drivers.

Toyota made safety a standard across the Sequoia range, integrating the Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) 2.5 suite in every trim. This package included pre-collision systems with pedestrian detection, lane-departure alerts with steering assist, adaptive cruise control, and road-sign recognition. Front and rear parking sensors with automatic braking and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert were also standard.

Moreover, the Sequoia featured a Trailer Merge Warning system, extending blind-spot monitoring to trailers, an asset for towing. Optional aids were bundled into the Tow Technology Package, offering a digital rearview mirror and trailer backup guide with Straight-Path Assist, easing maneuverability.

Though the 2024 Sequoia had not yet been rated by IIHS or NHTSA, its mechanically similar sibling, the Tundra, achieved a Top Safety Pick+ designation, indicating promising safety standards.