2022 Kia Telluride vs 2022 Lexus GX

The 2022 Kia Telluride attracted consumers with its muscular design and balanced proportions, complemented by trendy blacked-out wheels and trim. For 2022, Kia made only minor changes to the grille pattern and added new badges. The Telluride continued to be available in LX, S, EX, and SX trims, with prices ranging from $32,790 to $44,590, plus a destination charge. The interior was well-designed and logical, though the lower half's glossy plastic looked cheap, especially in the SX Prestige with its Nappa leather and simulated suede headliner. New standard features included a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, automatic climate control, and advanced driving aids.

In contrast, the 2022 Lexus GX 460 Black Line Special Edition featured a blacked-out exterior, eliminating almost all chrome. The Black Onyx paint job made the SUV look like a rolling black hole. However, the GX's design appeared dated, resembling the first-generation 2002 GX 470. Inside, the cabin quality was high, with smooth, refined materials and a quiet atmosphere. The GX was available in Standard, Premium, and Luxury trims, with prices ranging from $56,700 to $66,210, including destination charges. The Black Line Special Edition started at $60,535.

The 2022 Kia Telluride, despite its size and taller center of gravity, was satisfying to drive. Its 291-horsepower 3.8-liter V6 engine, paired with 262 pound-feet of torque, provided ample power. The eight-speed automatic transmission and available AWD with Lock mode ensured good performance on various terrains. The Telluride offered a smooth ride, thanks to its brake-based Torque Vectoring Cornering Control system and multiple driving modes. It achieved an EPA fuel economy estimate of 21 mpg in combined driving, with a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds.

The 2022 Lexus GX 460, with a base curb weight of 5,126 pounds, featured a 4.6-liter V8 engine producing 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque. This powertrain allowed a 7.8-second run to 60 mph and a towing capacity of 6,500 pounds. The six-speed automatic transmission and full-time 4WD system provided stability and off-road capability. The GX's Kinetic Dynamics Suspension System (KDSS) improved ride quality and handling. However, its EPA fuel economy estimate was 16 mpg in combined driving, and the steering and brake pedal were less refined.

The 2022 Kia Telluride balanced form and function with an upscale, organized interior. Thoughtful details included overhead air vents, rear smartphone storage pouches, and USB ports in all three rows. The SX Prestige package added premium Nappa leather upholstery and a simulated suede headliner. The Telluride offered comfortable seating for adults in all three rows, with a one-touch sliding and folding second-row seat mechanism. Cargo space was generous, with 21 cubic feet behind the third row, 46 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 87 cubic feet with both rear rows down.

The 2022 Lexus GX provided an elevated driving position and clear visibility. The interior featured comfortable seats and physical controls, though some switchgear was outdated. The Black Line Special Edition included NuLuxe upholstery, black ash wood trim, and a black headliner. The GX offered triple-zone automatic climate control and heated and ventilated front seats. However, rear seat access was challenging, and the third-row seat was cramped and reduced cargo space. The GX's side-swinging tailgate further complicated loading, with a maximum cargo capacity of 64.7 cubic feet.

For 2022, the Kia Telluride included a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with navigation as standard. However, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto required a wire. Kia Connect provided connected services, including emergency assistance, remote engine start, and smart speaker integration. The Telluride also featured Quiet Mode, Driver Talk, and a 10-speaker Harman Kardon sound system in the SX trim.

The 2022 Lexus GX introduced a 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, eliminating the need for the old Remote Touch Interface touchpad. The system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and navigation. The GX also offered a CD player, a smartwatch-compatible Lexus app, and Lexus Enform connected services. However, the stereo controls were awkwardly placed, and the test vehicle lacked the available 17-speaker Mark Levinson audio system.

The 2022 Kia Telluride included numerous standard safety features under Kia Drive Wise, such as forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. Highway Driving Assist and Smart Cruise Control-Curve were also standard. The Telluride earned a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a "Top Safety Pick" designation from the IIHS.

The 2022 Lexus GX, lacking crash-test ratings, relied on Lexus Safety System+ for safety. This included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and automatic high-beam headlights. The GX also featured blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and Safety Connect services. However, it lacked some advanced safety technologies found in competitors.