2022 Kia Telluride vs 2022 Toyota Sequoia

The 2022 Kia Telluride was a striking midsize SUV that captivated consumers with its muscular design and balanced proportions. It featured trendy blacked-out wheels and trim, which added to its handsome appearance. For 2022, Kia made only minor changes to the grille pattern and updated the badges, maintaining the successful design. The Telluride was available in LX, S, EX, and SX trims, with prices ranging from $32,790 to $44,590, plus a destination charge. The interior was well-organized and attractive, though the glossy plastic in the lower cabin detracted from its overall appeal. Despite this, the Telluride offered numerous standard features, including a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, automatic climate control, and advanced driving aids.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia, on the other hand, continued its second generation into its 14th year without substantial changes. Its exterior design was a testament to timeless style, with a modestly sized grille and elegant wheel arches. The Sequoia was a large SUV, measuring 77 inches tall, 79.9 inches wide, and 205.1 inches long, with a 122-inch wheelbase. Inside, the Sequoia's design felt dated compared to modern SUVs, with a 7-inch touchscreen and a 4.5-inch TFT driver information screen. However, the interior was built to last, with high-quality materials and tight seams. The Nightshade Special Edition model added a modern touch with darkened chrome and black-painted finishes.

The 2022 Kia Telluride was powered by a 3.8-liter V6 engine producing 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. It featured an eight-speed automatic transmission and offered all-wheel drive with a Lock mode for power distribution. The Telluride provided a smooth ride with its brake-based Torque Vectoring Cornering Control system and selectable driving modes. It achieved an EPA fuel economy estimate of 21 mpg combined, with a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds. The Telluride excelled on both dry pavement and challenging terrains, making it a versatile choice for drivers.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Sequoia was equipped with a 5.7-liter i-Force V8 engine, delivering 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque. It came with a six-speed automatic transmission and a lockable Torsen limited-slip center differential. The Sequoia had a payload capacity of around 1,300 pounds and a maximum towing capacity of 7,400 pounds. Its fuel economy ratings were 13 mpg city, 17 mpg highway, and 15 mpg combined for rear-wheel drive models. Despite its weight, the Sequoia offered a smooth and stable ride, with excellent off-road capabilities and a respectable turning circle for daily driving.

The 2022 Kia Telluride boasted an upscale and organized interior, with thoughtful details like overhead air vents, rear smartphone storage pouches, and USB ports in all three rows. It featured dual-zone automatic climate control for front-seat occupants and a single-zone panel for the rear. The Telluride offered a range of seating options, including premium Nappa leather upholstery in the SX Prestige package. With comfortable seating for adults in all three rows, the Telluride provided ample storage space, with 21 cubic feet of cargo room behind the third row and a maximum volume of 87 cubic feet.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia prioritized passenger comfort with its spacious three-row seating and three-zone climate control. It featured a standard one-touch tilt/slide power moonroof and available heated and ventilated front seats. The Sequoia offered generous storage options, including a large center console and glove compartment. Its cargo compartment had an auxiliary 12-volt outlet and provided 18.9 cubic feet of space behind the third row, expanding to 120.1 cubic feet with both the second and third rows folded flat.

The 2022 Kia Telluride came standard with a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, including navigation and voice recognition technology. While it lost wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality, it offered USB charging ports in all rows and a wireless smartphone charging pad. Kia Connect provided a range of connected services, including emergency assistance, remote engine start, and smart speaker integration. The Telluride also featured a Quiet Mode and Driver Talk function for enhanced convenience.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia's infotainment system felt outdated with its 7-inch touchscreen and clunky operating system. However, it offered standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, WiFi connectivity, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The Sequoia Limited added navigation and a 12-speaker audio system, with an optional premium audio package. While the Sequoia lacked modern powertrain technology, it featured LED exterior lighting and a rear backup camera.

The 2022 Kia Telluride included a comprehensive suite of standard safety features under the Kia Drive Wise umbrella. These features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. The Telluride also offered Highway Driving Assist technology and Safe Exit Assist. It earned a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a "Top Safety Pick" designation from the IIHS.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia was equipped with the Toyota Safety Sense P suite, including pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure alert. It also featured the STAR safety system, with stability control, traction control, and anti-lock brakes. The Sequoia included a full complement of airbags, crumple zones, and child safety features.