2021 Kia Telluride vs 2022 Toyota Sienna

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 was noted for its value, but many opted for the SX trim, which could be enhanced with a Prestige package, adding luxury features like 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, both inside and out, with only minor criticisms regarding interior color options and some plastic materials.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna, continuing from its 2021 redesign, embraced its minivan identity while incorporating SUV-like styling cues. It featured a bold front end and cleverly concealed sliding door channels. The Sienna's interior was designed to avoid the typical minivan feel, offering ample storage and seating flexibility. It provided comfortable seating for second- and third-row passengers, with available captain’s chairs and a spacious third-row bench. The Sienna's design emphasized practicality and comfort, making it a strong contender for families needing a versatile vehicle.

The 2021 Kia Telluride was powered by a 3.8-liter V6 engine, delivering 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque through an eight-speed automatic transmission. It offered various driving modes, including Snow, Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Smart, with optional AWD featuring a low-speed Lock function for enhanced traction. The Telluride's suspension tuning minimized head-toss, providing a smooth ride and commendable handling. It achieved an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in combined driving, with real-world testing averaging 20.5 mpg.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna featured a hybrid powertrain, combining a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with two electric motors, producing 243 horsepower. It offered FWD as standard, with AWD available across all trims. The Sienna's electronically controlled CVT contributed to its smooth power delivery and impressive fuel efficiency, with EPA ratings of 36 mpg combined for FWD models and 35 mpg for AWD. The Sienna's handling was enhanced by its TNGA platform, providing a comfortable and stable ride.

The 2021 Kia Telluride excelled in comfort and utility, with a driver’s seat offering 14-way power adjustments and heated and ventilated front seats. The second-row captain’s chairs, also heated and ventilated, provided easy access to the third row. The Telluride offered 21 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 87 cubic feet with seats folded. Its smart hands-free power liftgate added convenience for loading cargo.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna was designed as a family workhorse, capable of accommodating a full 4x8 sheet of plywood. It offered 33.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 101 cubic feet with seats folded. The Sienna featured power-operated sliding doors and tailgate with foot-motion triggers, enhancing accessibility. Its interior was equipped with numerous storage cubbies and cupholders, catering to family needs.

The 2021 Kia Telluride came with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM, with an 8-inch touchscreen on lower trims and a 10.25-inch screen on higher trims. It offered various connected services, including remote engine start and climate control. The SX trim featured a 10-speaker Harman Kardon sound system and advanced features like Driver Talk and Quiet Mode.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna included a 9-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. It offered telematics services, Bluetooth streaming, and optional Qi wireless charging. Higher trims featured a 12-speaker JBL audio system and an available rear-seat entertainment system. The Sienna also offered a head-up display and a digital rearview mirror on select trims.

The 2021 Kia Telluride was equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including blind-spot warning, lane-keeping assistance, and automatic emergency braking. It offered Highway Drive Assist for semi-autonomous driving and received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, though its standard headlights were rated poorly.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna boasted a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star NHTSA rating. It included Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, featuring adaptive cruise control, lane centering, and automatic emergency braking. The Sienna also offered 10 airbags and a rear-seat reminder system, enhancing its family-friendly safety credentials.