2024 Kia Telluride vs 2023 Lexus RX

The 2023 Lexus RX presented a modernized exterior with a shorter height, broader width, and longer wheelbase, maintaining the same overall length as its predecessor. Despite offering more cargo space than the 2022 model, it appeared smaller due to reduced rear overhang and softer design lines. The signature spindle-style grille was seamlessly integrated, flowing into an elevated hood and upswept body sides reminiscent of the Lexus IS sedan. The rear featured a light-blade taillight design and sporty bumper, ensuring the RX was recognizable yet fresh compared to its predecessor. Inside, the RX boasted a modern interior with fewer buttons, digital instrumentation, and a choice of touchscreen displays. Quality materials like NuLuxe artificial leather and real wood trims elevated the cabin's luxury feel.

The 2024 Kia Telluride offered a range of trim levels, with the SX Prestige X-Line showcasing premium Nappa leather upholstery and a dual sunroof. The interior was thoughtfully designed with horizontal controls and a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Despite the lack of wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the system was user-friendly. The Telluride's cabin featured numerous storage solutions and a hands-free power liftgate. Cargo space was generous, with 21 cubic feet behind the third row and a maximum of 87 cubic feet. The Telluride's exterior updates maintained its attractive proportions, and the X-Line package added rugged elements like increased ground clearance and unique grille designs.

The 2023 Lexus RX 350 was powered by a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. During testing, the RX 350 Luxury trim displayed occasional torque steer and excess body motion over uneven surfaces, while the F Sport Handling trim felt more secure with its adaptive suspension. The RX 350 AWD accelerated to 60 mph in 7.2 seconds, with fuel economy expectations of 24 mpg combined, though real-world results were slightly lower.

The 2024 Kia Telluride featured a 3.8-liter V6 engine delivering 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The Telluride's towing capacity was 5,000 pounds, increased to 5,500 pounds with the X-Pro package. The SUV offered a smooth ride with responsive steering and brakes, though fuel efficiency was a concern, averaging 19 mpg in combined driving. The Telluride's driving experience was refined, with features like Torque Vectoring Cornering Control enhancing its athleticism.

The 2023 Lexus RX 350 provided comfortable seating with premium materials, including semi-aniline leather and NuLuxe simulated leather. The RX 350 Luxury trim offered ten-way power-adjustable front seats, while the F Sport Handling trim featured sportier seats with eight-way adjustments. The back seat was roomy, though taller passengers might find headroom tight. Cargo space was improved, with 29.6 cubic feet behind the second row and a maximum of 46.2 cubic feet.

The 2024 Kia Telluride's interior was spacious and comfortable, especially in higher trims like the SX Prestige X-Line. It featured heated and ventilated seats, a dual sunroof, and a third-row seat suitable for adults. The Telluride's controls were user-friendly, and the infotainment system included a 12.3-inch touchscreen. Cargo space was generous, with 21 cubic feet behind the third row and a maximum of 87 cubic feet. The hands-free power liftgate added convenience, and the X-Line and X-Pro packages offered useful roof rails.

The 2023 Lexus RX introduced the Lexus Interface infotainment system with a choice of 9.8-inch or 14-inch touchscreen displays. It included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and various connected services. The system featured an Intelligent Assistant for voice commands, though it occasionally provided inaccurate results. The RX also offered a 21-speaker Mark Levinson sound system, digital instrumentation, and a head-up display, though the latter was difficult to see with polarized sunglasses.

The 2024 Kia Telluride came with a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, though Apple CarPlay and Android Auto required a cable connection. Kia Connect offered various subscription plans, with features like remote engine starting and over-the-air updates. The Telluride included a Harman Kardon audio system, a digital key function, and a camera-based rearview mirror. A head-up display and 360-degree camera system were available, enhancing safety and convenience.

The 2023 Lexus RX was equipped with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, offering advanced driving assistance features like motorcycle detection, evasive steering assistance, and intersection turn assistance. New semi-autonomous technologies included Proactive Driving Assist, Traffic Jam Assist, and Advanced Park Assist. While LSS+ 3.0 was impressive, some features, like curve-speed reduction, were less effective.

The 2024 Kia Telluride featured the Kia Drive Wise suite of driver assistance technologies, including collision avoidance, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. Highway Driving Assist was standard, with upgrades like front parking sensors and a Blind-Spot View Monitor available. The Telluride received a five-star overall crash test rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS.