If you’re shopping for a new midsize three-row SUV, the 2022 Kia Telluride and Toyota Highlander are likely options. The two have a lot in common, but the Telluride excels where the Highlander doesn’t. During Consumer Reports tests, it found that the road test was where most differences occurred. Here’s why you should buy a 2022 Kia Telluride, not a Toyota Highlander.

Reasons to buy a 2022 Kia Telluride: Performance

Firstly, the 2022 Kia Telluride is Consumer Reports‘ best overall three-row SUV. On top of an excellent road-test score, you’d be hard-pressed to find something wrong with the Telluride. This fairly new SUV received plenty of awards already and is only getting better yearly. CR likes the smooth and powerful 3.8-liter V6 engine, which is standard for all models. Additionally, it gets 21 combined mpg, which only falls short of the class-leading V6 Highlander by one mpg.

Next, the Telluride gains a performance edge with its powerful engine. It outperformed the Highlander in both CR speed tests, including 0-60 time and quarter-mile acceleration. Even more important is how quickly the SUVs can brake from those high speeds. Kia’s three-row offering took five and eight feet fewer to stop in CR’s dry and wet-braking tests, respectively, than the Highlander.

Reasons to buy the 2022 Kia Telluride: Interior

Finally, the Telluride’s handling and comfort are phenomenal. Sitting inside the Kia model is what sets it apart from the competition. More specifically, it reached 53.5 mph during the CR maneuverability test, which beats the 2022 Toyota Highlander‘s 50 mph. In addition, the suspension provides a comfortable ride for all passengers. This is excellent because it’s also easier to get in and out of the third-row seat inside Kia’s SUV. CR says even average-sized adults have an easy time climbing in and out of the Telluride, and it’s roomy enough to keep them happy on a road trip.

Consumer Reports calls the 2022 Kia Telluride interior “much nicer than the Highlander’s-and nearly every other nonluxury midsized SUV’s.” Moreover, there are plenty of soft-touch surfaces, which is what you’d expect inside a luxury vehicle. Additionally, the infotainment screen is fast, responsive, and easy to use. It also comes standard with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and still uses physical knobs for volume and tuning.

Buy a 2022 Kia Telluride, Not a Toyota Highlander

Almost every advantage points in the direction of the Telluride. As a result, Consumer Reports named it its number one overall three-row SUV model for 2022. However, the Highlander is far from forgettable. It’s right behind the Telluride in the rankings and excels in other areas. For example, those interested in superb fuel economy should opt for the Highlander Hybrid, which beats the Kia SUV in every measurement.

In conclusion, the 2022 Kia Telluride is better in most other ways. Consumer Reports‘ reliability and owner satisfaction surveys put the Telluride at the top immediately. Couple that with a smoother transmission, better braking, nicer interior, more cargo room, and a higher quantity of active safety systems, and there’s an easy choice for the best overall three-row SUV. Not to mention, the Telluride is cheaper than the 2022 Toyota Highlander in its base and fully loaded forms.