2022 Hyundai Palisade vs 2021 Kia Telluride

The 2021 Kia Telluride was available in four trim levels: LX, S, EX, and SX, with both front-wheel drive (FWD) and optional all-wheel drive (AWD). Its base pricing ranged from $32,190 to $42,490, excluding destination charges. The Telluride S trim was noted for its value, but many opted for the SX trim, which could be enhanced with a Prestige package, adding luxury features like premium Nappa leather and a head-up display. The Nightfall Edition package, new for 2021, offered a blacked-out aesthetic with unique design elements. The Telluride's styling was widely praised, with its exterior and interior design receiving high marks for quality and contemporary appeal. However, the limited interior color options and some inexpensive-looking plastic were minor drawbacks.

The 2022 Hyundai Palisade, as Hyundai's SUV flagship, boasted an elegant and striking exterior design, shedding any past criticisms of being derivative. Its distinctive lines, prominent grille, and sculpted wheel arches added visual interest, while the continuous strip of glass surfaces created a floating roof effect. Inside, the Palisade offered a polished and elegant cabin with high-quality materials and finishes. The horizontally arrayed screen and beefy center console were highlights, and the spacious second and third rows provided ample room for passengers. The Palisade's fit and finish were near-luxury levels, making it a worthy flagship for Hyundai.

The 2021 Kia Telluride featured a 3.8-liter V6 engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, delivering 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. It offered Kia’s Drive Mode Select technology with various driving modes, and AWD was optional, enhancing traction with a low-speed Lock function. The Telluride's suspension tuning minimized head-toss, providing a smooth ride and handling. It had a self-leveling rear suspension on EX and SX trims, ensuring proper ride quality when loaded. The Telluride's fuel economy was rated at 21 mpg combined for AWD models, with a real-world average of 20.5 mpg during testing.

The 2022 Hyundai Palisade also came with a 3.8-liter V6 engine, producing 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. It featured gasoline direct injection and dual variable valve timing for improved power and efficiency. The Palisade's EPA estimates were 22 mpg combined for FWD models and 21 mpg combined for AWD models. Despite its middling efficiency, the Palisade offered a satisfying engine note and quick acceleration for family use. It handled well, thanks to its four-wheel independent suspension and stabilizer bars, and could tow up to 5,000 pounds with trailer brakes.

The 2021 Kia Telluride excelled in comfort and utility, with a driver’s seat offering 14-way power adjustments and a forward view reminiscent of a Range Rover. The Prestige package added luxurious leather upholstery and acoustic glass for a quieter cabin. The second-row captain’s chairs were heated and ventilated, and the third-row seat was accessible via a button or pass-through. The Telluride provided ample storage solutions, including smartphone bins and USB ports. Its smart hands-free power liftgate revealed 21 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 87 cubic feet with seats folded.

The 2022 Hyundai Palisade offered comfortable seating throughout, with ample storage in the front row and convenient features like cupholders and seatback pockets. Luggage space measured 18 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 86.4 cubic feet with seats folded. The Palisade's shift-by-wire gear selector saved space, and its intuitive controls were easy to use. Upper trims featured luxury amenities like a dual-panel sunroof, premium leather upholstery, and power-folding third-row seats, enhancing the overall experience.

The 2021 Kia Telluride came equipped with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The EX and SX trims featured a 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation and other upgrades. Kia’s UVO Link connected services offered various plans, including remote engine start and climate control. The Telluride's infotainment system was user-friendly, with menu shortcut buttons and intuitive touchscreen operation. The SX trim included a 10-speaker Harman Kardon sound system and features like Driver Talk and Quiet Mode for enhanced convenience.

The 2022 Hyundai Palisade showcased Hyundai's technological prowess, with a high-resolution touchscreen and premium audio system on upper trims. The infotainment system supported wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, with multiple USB ports and a wireless charging pad. Hyundai's Blue Link connected car system offered remote functions and vehicle monitoring. The Limited and Calligraphy trims featured a digital instrument cluster and head-up display, integrating with safety systems for a comprehensive driving experience.

The 2021 Kia Telluride included a suite of advanced safety features, such as blind-spot warning, lane-keeping assistance, and forward-collision warning. Highway Drive Assist, standard on EX and SX trims, provided semi-autonomous driving capabilities. The Telluride earned a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though its headlights received a Poor rating.

The 2022 Hyundai Palisade boasted a comprehensive list of safety features, including seven airbags, blind-spot collision avoidance, and forward collision-avoidance assist. It earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. The Palisade's safety systems were extensive, with features like Highway Driving Assist and trailer sway control available on higher trims.