Volvo XC90 vs Kia Telluride

When the current-generation XC90 went on sale nearly a decade ago, it marked the Swedish automaker’s pivot from its boxy and boring past to a future defined by design, quality, and technology. Volvo used the XC90’s blueprint throughout its lineup of cars, SUVs, and wagons, building a bridge to its electrified future. Has it overstayed its welcome? Perhaps, and it carries over this year without changes. But having spent a week driving the 2024 XC90 Recharge T8 plug-in hybrid, it remains an appealing choice in the luxury SUV segment.

Verdict: Beautifully styled, inside and out, and offering a range of powertrains that includes a plug-in hybrid variant, the 2024 Volvo XC90 stands out in its field. However, it commands a steep price tag, and its safety tech isn’t as innovative as what you’ll find in some rival SUVs.

The 2024 Telluride is one of those rare vehicles that’s almost perfect right off the drafting table. A midsize, three-row crossover SUV, the Telluride was transformational for Kia when it debuted in 2020. Five years later, Kia hasn’t messed with its success, following last year’s refresh with minor detail changes for 2024, including gloss-black exterior detailing for the X-Line and X-Pro versions. All it’s missing for near perfection is a more efficient hybrid powertrain.

Verdict: To say we recommend buying the 2024 Kia Telluride isn’t the whole story. This is a midsize SUV we would buy ourselves, and we test-drive and evaluate scores of new vehicles each year. Stylish and safe, roomy and rugged, and loaded with surprise-and-delight details, the 2024 Telluride is worthy.