2023 Kia Telluride vs 2024 Lexus TX

During our time in Texas, we explored the 2023 Kia Telluride X-Line and X-Pro models, which featured refreshed front and rear styling, updated headlights and taillights, and new wheel designs. The Telluride offered new paint colors like Midnight Lake Blue, Dawning Red, and Jungle Green, along with interior colors such as Terracotta, Navy, and Sage Green. The X-Line replaced the Nightfall Edition, boasting a raised suspension, unique grille design, and black 20-inch wheels. The X-Pro further enhanced the off-road look with exclusive 18-inch wheels and all-terrain tires. Inside, the Telluride introduced a digital instrumentation panel and a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, housed under a curved 24-inch glass piece, pushing the SUV into a modern era.

The 2024 Lexus TX, based on the Toyota Grand Highlander, presented itself as a luxury SUV with a more conservative design compared to other Lexus models. Our test model, equipped with Luxury trim, featured striking 22-inch wheels that enhanced its upscale appearance. The TX offered a toned-down styling approach, appealing to those who found previous Lexus designs too bold. Available in TX 350, TX 500h F Sport Performance, and TX 550h+ plug-in hybrid models, the TX 350 was expected to be the most popular. Our test vehicle, with FWD and Luxury trim, included a Convenience Package, Technology Package, and a 21-speaker surround-sound audio system, culminating in a luxurious yet understated interior.

The 2023 Kia Telluride retained its 3.8-liter V6 engine, producing 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It offered various driving modes, including Eco, Comfort, Smart, Sport, and Snow, with an AWD system featuring a low-speed Lock setting. The Telluride X-Line averaged 24.1 mpg, while the X-Pro returned 20.4 mpg, showcasing its off-road capabilities with a raised suspension and improved ground clearance. The X-Pro also increased towing capacity to 5,500 pounds, making it ideal for off-road adventures. On highways, the Telluride provided a smooth ride, though the off-road tires made it feel slightly squishier in turns.

The 2024 Lexus TX 350 featured a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. It accelerated to 60 mph in about eight seconds, offering adequate performance for typical driving situations. The TX 350 FWD averaged 20.4 mpg, with AWD available for an additional $1,600, enhancing traction in adverse conditions. The TX 350’s suspension balanced firmness and comfort, providing a quiet and smooth ride. However, the brake pedal felt too soft, though it was easy to modulate for smooth stops.

The 2023 Kia Telluride accommodated seven or eight passengers, with premium Nappa leather upholstery and heated and ventilated front and second-row seats. The interior offered ample space, with a power lumbar stabilization system for long trips. The second-row seats featured manual sunshades, USB ports, and storage pockets, while the third-row provided more comfort than many competitors. Cargo space was generous, with 21 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 87 cubic feet with both rear rows folded.

The 2024 Lexus TX addressed previous shortcomings in Lexus’s three-row SUVs, offering a comfortable and spacious interior. Our TX 350 Luxury model included premium leather and artificial suede upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. The second-row bench seat was less welcoming due to its flat cushion, but the third-row seat was habitable for adults. Cargo space measured 20.2 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 97 cubic feet with all seats folded, providing ample room for road trips.

The 2023 Kia Telluride came standard with a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The system included Driver Talk and Quiet Mode, enhancing communication and comfort. Upgrades included a Harman Kardon sound system and digital-key technology. The Telluride also offered a Full Display Mirror and a head-up display with a 10-inch viewing area, providing essential driving information.

The 2024 Lexus TX featured a Technology Package with a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel, head-up display, and a surround-view camera. However, the unmarked steering wheel controls were distracting. The Lexus Interface infotainment system, with a 14-inch touchscreen, included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The TX offered a 21-speaker Mark Levinson sound system, providing impressive audio quality. Subscriptions to Drive Connect, Service Connect, and Safety Connect enhanced connectivity and safety.

The 2023 Kia Telluride offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, and automatic emergency braking. It also included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. Highway Drive Assist 2.0 provided semi-autonomous driving assistance, and a Rear Occupant Alert system ensured passenger safety.

The 2024 Lexus TX was equipped with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, featuring adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. Proactive Drive Assist added braking and steering assistance. The TX also included blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. Traffic jam assist provided hands-free driving at low speeds, though the system slowed too dramatically when other vehicles cut in.