The Kia Telluride three-row midsize SUV has a multitude of changes for the 2023 model year. This includes a refreshed design, new technologies, and new off-road trims. Find out the differences in this 2023 Kia Telluride vs. 2022 Telluride comparison.

2023 Kia Telluride vs. 2022 Telluride: What are the differences?

In this 2023 Kia Telluride vs. 2022 Telluride comparison, we evaluated several areas to show the differences between the two models. This includes exterior design, interior design, technology features, performance, fuel economy, towing, and off-road capabilities.

2023 Telluride vs. 2022 Telluride: Exterior design 

The most noticeable difference between the 2023 Kia Telluride and the 2022 Telluride is the exterior design. Changes include new bumpers and grille, wheel designs, and rear fascia and trim. Also, the 2023 Telluride has a revised vertical headlamp design with standard LED and available foglights, revised taillights, and revised lower door garnish trim/side sills.

Additionally, the 2023 Telluride offers new exterior paint color options. This includes Dawning Red, Jungle Wood Green, and Midnight Lake Blue.

2023 Telluride vs. 2022 Telluride: Interior design 

Another difference between the 2023 Kia Telluride and 2022 Telluride is the interior design. Changes include a redesigned steering wheel and a redesigned dashboard with revised trim panels and HVAC vents. Also, the 2023 Telluride has new interior color packages. 

2023 Telluride vs. 2022 Telluride: Technology features

The 2023 Kia Telluride has new technologies, as well as upgrades to technologies in the 2022 Telluride. Like the redesigned 2023 Kia Sportage, the 2023 Telluride offers curved dual 12.3-inch display screens. Also, in place of the standard rearview mirror, the 2023 Telluride offers an optional Full Display Mirror with HomeLink functionality.

Additionally, the 2023 Telluride has enhancements to Kia Connect services, new driving assistance technologies (Intelligent Speed Limit Assist and Forward Collision-Avoidance – Junction Turning), and a Smart Power Liftgate with “Auto Close” functionality.

2023 Telluride vs. 2022 Telluride: Performance and fuel economy

The 2023 Kia Telluride has the same engine and transmission as the 2022 Telluride: a 3.8-liter V-6 engine and an eight-speed automatic transmission. The output of the engine is 291 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque. Like the 2022 Telluride, the 2023 Telluride offers a choice of either a front-wheel drive or an all-wheel drive system. The only significant change on the performance front for the 2023 Telluride is the addition of a Hill-Descent Control feature.

As of this writing, the efficiency ratings are not yet available for the 2023 Telluride. However, since the engine and transmission are unchanged, it will likely have a similar estimated fuel economy as the 2022 Telluride (up to 20 city/26 highway mpg).

2023 Telluride vs. 2022 Telluride: Towing

The 2023 Kia Telluride has the same standard towing capacity as the 2022 Telluride. However, the all-new 2023 Telluride X-Line and X-Pro trims (see below) have a Tow Mode to aid towing capabilities. Also, the Telluride X-Pro can tow up to 5,500 pounds. 

2023 Telluride vs. 2022 Telluride: Enhanced off-road capabilities with X-Line and X-Pro trims

For drivers that aim to head off-road and seek some wilderness adventures, the 2023 Telluride offers two new trims: X-Line and X-Pro. Both the X-Line and X-Pro have a standard all-wheel drive system, higher ground clearance (+10mm), and improved approach and departure angles. The X-Line and X-Pro also have bridge-type roof rails, and the X-Pro features all-terrain tires. 

Along with the enhanced off-road capabilities, the X-Line and X-Pro have exclusive design features. This includes unique model-specific exterior badging and embossing on the seats, a unique radiator grille design, and exclusive wheels and color packages.

Kia aims to improve upon the success of the Telluride with the changes for the 2023 model year. While not a complete redesign and overhaul, the changes to the 2023 Kia Telluride make it a better option than the 2022 Telluride — so it’s worth the wait.