Kia Sorento vs Kia Telluride

The 2024 Kia Telluride was offered in five core trim levels: LX, S, EX, SX, and SX Prestige. The rugged X-Line treatment could be added to all trims except the LX and S, while the top trims, SX and SX Prestige, had the option for the X-Pro package. The X-Line package included standard all-wheel drive (AWD) with a center locking differential, almost half an inch added to the ground clearance, unique grille and 20-inch wheel designs, roof rails, and other off-road improvements. The Telluride with the X-Pro package boasted 18-inch matte-black wheels, all-terrain tires, and enhanced engine cooling, allowing it to tow up to 5,500 pounds.

Consumers could purchase the Telluride from $35,990 for the LX up to $53,185 for the SX Prestige with the X-Pro package, excluding destination charges. Test-driving an SX Prestige with the X-Line package, the Wolf Gray paint and premium floor mats brought its MSRP to $54,270, including the $1,365 destination charge. While last year’s design updates didn’t appeal to everyone, the Telluride maintained its attractive form and proportions. The Wolf Gray exterior paired beautifully with the blacked-out X-Line styling.

Inside, the Telluride featured a luxurious black interior with premium Nappa leather seats. Consumers could choose from a variety of appealing cabin colors like Mahogany brown, Terracotta brown, light gray over black or dark blue, and an unusual Sage Green, each of which complemented simulated open-pore wood trim. Despite the sophisticated cabin, shiny plastic lower portions detracted somewhat from its otherwise near-luxury finish. Special touches like a dual-screen digital display panel and soft leather seating brought it close to luxury SUV standards, despite these few qualms.

For the 2024 Kia Sorento, the vehicle received its first significant visual update since the 2021 redesign. The gas-powered Sorento now featured a design more in line with its siblings, the Telluride and EV9. It had a bolder front end with a large grille, LED projector-beam headlights, and amber LED daytime running lights, making it look larger and more intimidating. At the rear, subtle updates included new bumpers and LED taillights for higher trims. New wheel designs were spread across most versions.

The trim levels for the Sorento were the same as those offered in 2023: LX, S, EX, SX, and SX Prestige. However, the rugged X-Line package was available for EX and higher models, while the SX Prestige was exclusive to the X-Line or the new X-Pro. Both the X-Line and X-Pro conveyed a more aggressive look with blacked-out wheels and earthy paint colors. The X-Pro differed by having smaller wheels and all-terrain tires.

Inside, the Sorento offered a more contemporary and upscale cabin with a new dashboard design reminiscent of the EV9, cleaner in appearance and user-friendly. The combined gauge cluster and infotainment displays under a single pane of glass were standard, with twin 12.3-inch displays available on the SX and SX Prestige trims, making the dashboard aesthetically pleasing and modern.

Though the entry-level models missed some top-notch materials, the upgraded Sorento cabin had improved quality, making the interior feel more upscale. Faux open-pore wood grain on the X-Line and X-Pro dashboards, along with quality stitching on the leather-wrapped steering wheel and seats, added a touch of luxury. Optional interior colors like green and brown added to the vehicle’s distinct character.

The 2024 Kia Telluride came with a robust 3.8-liter V6 engine producing 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. The power was channeled to either the front or all four wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission. Most Telluride models had a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, augmented to 5,500 pounds with the X-Pro package. AWD-equipped Tellurides included a locking center differential and a Snow driving mode, along with Comfort, Sport, and Smart modes.

Acceleration was smooth, and the Telluride had strong passing power, though its fuel efficiency lagged. The EPA estimated 20 mpg combined for AWD versions, but test drives showed an average of 19 mpg, dropping to 17.5 mpg in city driving. The vehicle’s ride was firm at low speeds but softened at higher velocities.

The Telluride showcased brake-induced Torque Vectoring Cornering Control, enhancing its agility in corners compared to rivals. The self-leveling rear suspension and 20-inch wheels contributed to a refined driving experience. While it wasn’t the most fuel-efficient, the ride quality and handling made the Telluride enjoyable. Off-road capability was commendable, having tested it on various challenging terrains.

The 2024 Kia Sorento featured no significant mechanical changes, maintaining the base 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 191 horsepower and 181 pound-feet of torque. This engine felt underpowered for the SUV’s weight, making acceleration sluggish, with a 0-60 mph time of nearly 10 seconds. The base LX and S trims were limited to this engine, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.

Higher trims, starting from the EX, got a turbocharged 2.5-liter engine delivering 281 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, significantly improving performance. Paired with a dual-clutch eight-speed automatic, these models achieved zero-to-60 mph times in the mid-seven-second range. Despite some engine noise under stress, the turbo models offered ample acceleration and passing power.

All models defaulted to front-wheel drive (FWD), with AWD available as an option. For EX and SX trims, adding AWD also brought the entire X-Line package, including raised ground clearance and blacked-out wheels, enhancing both aesthetics and usability. The Sorento demonstrated a confident cornering ability and responsive steering, with consistent braking performance. While all Sorentos rode comfortably, larger wheels on X-Line models transmitted vibrations on harsh surfaces.

The X-Pro took the off-road capability up a notch with 17-inch rims and all-terrain tires, offering improved grip and ride quality on rough terrains. The enhanced engine cooling elevated the towing capacity to 4,500 pounds. Tested in severe conditions, the Sorento X-Pro displayed remarkable reliability in near-blizzard scenarios.

Though not as fuel-efficient as hybrid models, gas-powered Sorentos were average for their class, with non-turbo models achieving up to 26 mpg combined. In testing, the turbo X-Pro model matched its EPA estimate of 23 mpg combined.

In the 2024 Kia Telluride, comfort was paramount, especially in higher trims. The SX Prestige X-Line model featured premium Nappa leather seats, numerous adjustments including lumbar massage, and heated and ventilated second-row captain’s chairs. The third-row seating was spacious enough for adults. A dual sunroof added brightness to the otherwise dark interior.

The 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system was user-friendly, and the physical controls, though metallic buttons could be hard to read in bright light, were intuitive. Thoughtful details abounded in the Telluride with scenic digital instrumentation and a plethora of convenient storage spaces.

The power liftgate could be a mixed bag, with its automatic operation upon detecting the key fob nearby—a blessing in some scenarios but potentially cumbersome in others. Nevertheless, cargo space was generous: 21 cubic feet behind the third row, 46 cubic feet with it folded, and a maximum of 87 cubic feet which stood out in its segment. Furthermore, X-Line and X-Pro variants offered useful roof rails for additional storage.

The 2024 Kia Sorento was equally impressive but tighter in the third row. Despite this, it provided meaningful advantages over smaller SUVs and compared favorably with some larger models like the non-Grand Toyota Highlander. With 41.4 inches of legroom in the front and 41.7 in the second row, it exceeded many two-row competitors in spaciousness. The higher trims added acoustic glass for sound insulation and offered heated and ventilated front seats.

Adults would find the third row’s 29.6 inches of legroom cramped, but it bested several competitors. The Sorento worked well for families needing flexible transportation options without the need for a larger, more expensive vehicle.

Cabin design emphasized usability, with ergonomic controls and ample small item storage, though it lacked a combined infotainment screen like the EV9. Cargo compromises included 12.6 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 38.5-45 cubic feet with the third row folded, and offering up to 72.1 cubic feet with all seats down. Power liftgates were available on EX models and higher.

The 2024 Kia Telluride came equipped with a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, although Apple CarPlay and Android Auto required a wired connection—a miss in an era of increasing wireless capabilities. For conversational voice recognition and other connected features, an active Kia Connect subscription was necessary.

Despite forgetting the necessary cable during testing, pairing via Bluetooth was straightforward. Kia Connect plans varied from complimentary to an annual subscription for the Ultimate plan, which offered premium features like remote starting and climate control, vehicle tracking, and over-the-air updates.

The Telluride's infotainment system was complemented by thoughtful features such as a blue-light filter and Quiet Mode for front speakers only when rear passengers are sleeping. The digital key function and camera-based rearview mirror added convenience and safety, while a comprehensive 360-degree camera system and 10-inch head-up display with blind-spot warnings were available.

For the 2024 Kia Sorento, like many other Kia models, it adopted the single-pane, twin-screen setup for central and gauge displays. The revamped Connected Car Navigation Cockpit (CCnC) software streamlined the user interface, focusing on popular features for ease of use. Navigation was standard except on the LX trim, and the system could receive over-the-air updates, ensuring long-term functionality and style.

All trims now had a 12.3-inch central touchscreen. Lower trims had a partial digital gauge cluster, while higher trims boasted two 12.3-inch displays. Voice recognition needed improvement, but wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard across the lineup. USB-C outlets were plentiful, catering to modern connectivity needs.

SX Prestige models offered a 12-speaker Bose audio system, enhancing the audio experience. Digital Key 2.0 was also available, allowing digital access and control via specific smartphones or NFC smart cards—a modern convenience for busy families.

The 2024 Kia Telluride featured an extensive suite of standard driver assistance tech under the Kia Drive Wise banner, including collision avoidance, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and Highway Driving Assist for semi-autonomous driving. Higher trims received additional tech like front parking sensors, cross-traffic alert, evasive steering assist, and a Blind-Spot View Monitor.

Highway Driving Assist 2.0 was available on upper trims, offering automatic lane changes, though it performed best on open highways and in traffic. The lane-keeping system, however, could be intrusive, leading to a less than seamless driving experience.

In crash testing, the Telluride excelled, earning a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS.

The 2024 Kia Sorento also boasted a robust list of safety features within its Drivewise suite. Standard adaptive cruise control, forward automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring were just a few highlights. Advanced options included navigation-based adaptive cruise control, Highway Driving Assist, and on SX Prestige trims, Highway Driving Assist 2 with automated lane changes.

Kia claimed better adaptive learning and more precise sensors for their systems in 2024, though real-world performance could vary with weather conditions affecting sensor functionality. Available surround-view cameras and a rear-view camera mirror on upper trims added to safety and convenience.

The IIHS had given the Sorento good ratings in several crash tests, though its LATCH system was rated acceptable due to the anchor placement. The NHTSA had not fully evaluated the 2024 model at the time, but previous iterations earned four-star overall ratings.