2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid vs 2022 Kia Telluride

The 2022 Kia Telluride boasted a muscular design with balanced proportions, appealing to consumers with its trendy blacked-out wheels and trim. Kia made minimal changes for 2022, only updating the grille pattern and adding new badges. The Telluride's interior was praised for its logical arrangement of controls and upscale appearance, though the glossy plastic in the lower cabin detracted from its overall quality. Despite this, the Telluride offered numerous standard features, including a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, automatic climate control, and advanced driving aids.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid drew styling cues from the Tacoma pickup, giving it a rugged appearance. However, its design felt disjointed compared to more cohesive competitors. The interior featured an asymmetrical dash with a metallic styling element, providing storage and breaking monotony. The Highlander Hybrid Bronze Edition had light grey fabric upholstery with a questionable pattern, surrounded by Softex synthetic leather. While the materials trailed behind other SUVs, the Highlander Hybrid remained a popular choice due to its hybrid powertrain.

The 2022 Kia Telluride was equipped with a 291-horsepower 3.8-liter V6 engine, delivering 262 pound-feet of torque. It featured an eight-speed automatic transmission and offered AWD with a Lock mode for power distribution. The Telluride excelled on various terrains, including snow and muddy roads, and provided a smooth ride with its Torque Vectoring Cornering Control system. It achieved an EPA fuel economy estimate of 21 mpg combined, with a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid utilized a 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid engine producing 243 horsepower, paired with a CVT. It offered AWD through an electric motor for the rear axle. The Highlander Hybrid reached 60 mph in just over 8 seconds, with a subtle engine hum under light acceleration. The ride quality was soft, and the cabin remained quiet on highways. The Highlander Hybrid prioritized comfort over sporty handling, making it suitable for family use.

The 2022 Kia Telluride balanced form and function with an upscale interior and practical features like grab handles and overhead air vents. It offered dual-zone climate control, leather upholstery options, and a Smart Power Liftgate. The Telluride accommodated adults in all three rows, with a one-touch sliding mechanism for easy third-row access. It provided 21 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 87 cubic feet with seats folded.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid featured well-cushioned front seats with ample adjustments, though the driver's armrest was awkwardly positioned. It offered generous second-row space with sliding and reclining seats, built-in window shades, and USB ports. The third row was less accommodating, suitable for children or short trips. Cargo space measured 16 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 84.3 cubic feet with seats stowed.

The 2022 Kia Telluride came standard with a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, though it required a wire for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Kia Connect offered connected services, including emergency assistance and remote features. The Telluride included USB ports in all rows, a wireless charging pad, and features like Quiet Mode and Driver Talk. The SX trim added a Harman Kardon sound system and a surround-view monitor.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid featured an 8-inch touchscreen, with a 12.3-inch option for higher trims. It included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration. XLE trims and above offered a wireless charging pad, while navigation and a JBL audio system were available on higher trims. The infotainment system was responsive, with physical shortcut buttons for ease of use.

The 2022 Kia Telluride included Kia Drive Wise, offering features like forward-collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. Highway Driving Assist provided lane-centering assistance, though it required driver engagement. The Telluride earned a five-star NHTSA rating and a Top Safety Pick from IIHS, missing the highest award due to headlight ratings.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid achieved a five-star NHTSA rating and a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keep assist. The systems generally performed well, though some features required fine-tuning for smoother operation.