Driven: 2022 Kia Telluride SX AWD

The 2022 KIA Telluride is here, looking to continue KIA’s plethora of industry awards since its release a few short years ago. Not only is it arguably one of the best-looking SUVs in its segment, it offers tech, power and other goodness that all add-up to a great SUV.

For the 2022 model year, KIA has added a few cosmetic touches to help keep it polished and fresh. Amongst the new additions are the updated KIA logo and front grill, a revised logo on the rear liftgate, the new non-nightfall colored AWD emblem as well. As far as something useful goes, the refresh is the addition of a navigation-based cruise control.

Under the hood, we still find the powerful 3.8-liter V6 engine that sports twin turbos. It has a rated power output of 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. Power is delivered to a top-notch all-wheel-drive system through an eight-speed automatic transmission. 0-60 is rate at 7.5 seconds and the EPA gives a combined economy rating of 21 miles per gallon, combined for city/highway.

Inside, you’ll find a 10-way adjustable driver’s seat with 2-way lumbar support, a seat extender as well as thigh support. The front passenger seat isn’t quite as elaborate as it’s only an 8-way adjustable seat. Both front seats are heated and vented, and there’s an option for the 2nd row to also have heating/venting. The 2nd row does have a one-touch slide and fold, very handy for getting them out of the way for the third-row passengers to get in and out.

Driver aids are, driver attention warning, around-view camera, blind spot cameras, parking sensors, blind spot collision avoidance assist, rear cross-traffic alert, frontal collision emergency braking, lane follow assis, lane keeping assist, safe exit technology and a rear occupant alert for the morons who forget their kids in the back. Finally, there is also adaptive cruise control and numerous collision avoidance / mitigation systems in tow as well.

The large 10.25-inch infotainment display is easy to read and rather intuitive to use. It features AM/FM/Satellite radio, Bluetooth audio, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, voice recognition, driver talk, and a quiet mode.

It’s powered by a 10-speaker Harman Kardon surround sound audio system that has excellent power, fidelity, clarity and punch. Charging nerds will enjoy the six USB ports, 3 power outlets and a 110v inverter. Remote start is standard on this SX model.

Of course KIA wraps it all up with an industry-leading 10-year / 100,000 mile powertrain warranty that’s augmented by a 5-year/60,000 mile basic warranty on the entire vehicle. Regular maintenance is included.

There is plenty of room in the back to haul your gear. A room 21 cubic feet behind the third row expands to 46 cubic feet with the 2nd row folded and a whopping 87 cubic feet when all of the passenger seats are folded down.

Thanks to the use of MacPherson struts, a front suspension stabilizer bar and KIA’s multi-link independent rear suspension, the Telluride simply feels stable. Even taking corners are a more brisk pace, you’ll find very little body roll – it feels light on its feet. The base model comes with 18-inch alloy wheels while our SX test model sports 20-inch wheels.

On the road, you’’l find the 2022 Telluride SX provides a blissful combination of available power, comfort, quietness and ride quality. It never feels as if it’s lacking power with plenty to spare while passing slower vehicles or going over a mountain pass.

Test drive one, if you can find one – inventory is rather low for many dealers – and you’ll soon see why it might just be the best in class vehicle out there.

Prices start at $32,790 to the SX-P $46,890
Test car SX V6 AWD – $49,120
The Telluride might be the best value in the class for what you get

Pros:
A long list of standard features means excellent value
Spacious and comfortable interior
Attractive styling and high-quality interior materials

Cons:
There are fewer small-item storage compartments