Hey everyone! Today, we're diving deep into the 2022 Kia Telluride SX AWD, a vehicle that's been making waves in the SUV world. This isn't just a review; it's a comprehensive look at what makes this Telluride trim a standout, covering everything from its performance and features to its overall value proposition. If you're considering a three-row SUV, or if you're just curious about what the hype is all about, then you're in the right place. We'll break down the SX AWD trim, and explore why it remains a popular choice even a few years after its initial release. So, buckle up, and let's get started!

Unpacking the 2022 Kia Telluride SX AWD: What's in the Box?

First off, what exactly are we talking about when we say 2022 Kia Telluride SX AWD? This represents the top-tier SX trim level, equipped with all-wheel drive, giving it enhanced capability in various driving conditions. It’s the fully loaded version, packed with premium features and a powerful engine. The Telluride, in general, has earned accolades for its design, spaciousness, and value. The SX trim elevates this, offering a suite of advanced technologies and luxury appointments. You get the peace of mind of all-wheel drive, which is a big plus, especially if you live in an area with challenging weather conditions. The SX trim’s design is quite distinct, with stylish touches like LED headlights, a distinctive grille, and a more aggressive stance, which immediately grabs your attention. Inside, the SX boasts a premium feel with leather seating, wood trim accents, and a panoramic sunroof, creating an airy and luxurious cabin. The infotainment system is impressive, with a large touchscreen display and features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. Safety is also a priority, with advanced driver-assistance systems included as standard. The SX AWD isn't just about luxury; it's also about performance. Under the hood, you’ll find a robust V6 engine that delivers plenty of power for everyday driving, as well as for towing. This combination of features, performance, and style has made the Telluride SX AWD a highly sought-after vehicle in the market. Its ability to offer luxury, functionality, and safety at a competitive price point has made it a favorite among families and individuals looking for a versatile SUV.

The Heart of the Beast: Performance and Handling

Let’s talk about the engine! The 2022 Kia Telluride SX AWD is powered by a 3.8-liter V6 engine, producing a healthy 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. This engine is mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission, which provides smooth and responsive shifts. The all-wheel-drive system enhances the vehicle's handling and stability, especially in less-than-ideal weather conditions, such as rain, snow, or even off-road scenarios. The Telluride SX AWD is capable of handling a variety of driving conditions, from highway cruising to city driving. The power delivery is responsive, providing ample acceleration for merging onto highways and passing other vehicles. Towing capacity is another key factor for many SUV buyers, and the Telluride SX AWD doesn’t disappoint, with a maximum towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. This means you can easily tow small trailers, boats, or other recreational equipment. The suspension is well-tuned, providing a comfortable ride, even over rough roads. The steering is precise and gives good feedback, making the Telluride surprisingly agile for its size. The vehicle's handling characteristics are designed to be user-friendly, catering to a wide range of drivers, from those new to SUVs to experienced drivers. The all-wheel-drive system continuously monitors road conditions and distributes power to the wheels with the most grip, ensuring optimal traction and stability. This feature enhances safety and driver confidence, particularly in adverse weather. Overall, the performance and handling of the 2022 Kia Telluride SX AWD contribute significantly to its appeal, making it a capable and enjoyable vehicle to drive in various situations.

Interior and Technology: Where Luxury Meets Function

Step inside the 2022 Kia Telluride SX AWD, and you'll immediately notice the premium feel. The interior is designed to be both stylish and functional, with high-quality materials and a well-thought-out layout. The SX trim comes standard with leather seating, which is available in a variety of colors, adding a touch of luxury to the cabin. The seats are comfortable and supportive, providing excellent comfort for both short commutes and long road trips. The driver’s seat often features power adjustments, including lumbar support, to ensure a perfect fit. The spacious cabin offers plenty of room for passengers in all three rows. Even adults can comfortably sit in the third row, making it a true family-friendly SUV. The design is sleek and modern, with a focus on user-friendliness. The dashboard features a clean design with easy-to-reach controls. One of the standout features of the Telluride SX AWD is its infotainment system. It typically includes a large touchscreen display, typically 10.25 inches, that serves as the command center for various vehicle functions. This system includes features such as navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto integration, allowing you to seamlessly connect your smartphone and access your favorite apps, music, and navigation tools. The audio system is also impressive, often featuring a premium sound system for an enhanced listening experience. The technology extends beyond the infotainment system, including a host of advanced driver-assistance systems. These can include features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and forward collision avoidance assist. These systems enhance safety and provide peace of mind on the road. The interior also boasts ample storage space. There are numerous compartments for storing small items, as well as a spacious cargo area behind the third row of seats. With the rear seats folded down, the cargo capacity expands significantly, making it easy to transport larger items. The combination of premium materials, advanced technology, and functional design makes the interior of the 2022 Kia Telluride SX AWD a standout feature, contributing significantly to the overall driving experience.

Driving the 2022 Kia Telluride SX AWD: Road Test and Real-World Impressions

Alright, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty: how does it feel behind the wheel? I spent some time with the 2022 Kia Telluride SX AWD, and here’s what I found. First off, the driving position is excellent, providing a commanding view of the road. The seats are comfortable, even on longer drives. The V6 engine provides plenty of power for everyday driving, with responsive acceleration. Merging onto highways is a breeze, and passing slower vehicles is done with confidence. The 8-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly, contributing to a comfortable driving experience. The all-wheel-drive system truly shines in varied conditions. I had the opportunity to test it in both wet and dry conditions, and the system did a fantastic job of maintaining grip and stability. The steering is well-weighted and provides good feedback, making the Telluride surprisingly agile for its size. Maneuvering in tight spaces is made easier thanks to the available parking assist features, including a surround-view camera. On the highway, the Telluride SX AWD cruises effortlessly, with a quiet cabin that minimizes road and wind noise. The suspension is well-tuned, providing a comfortable ride even over less-than-perfect road surfaces. I found the advanced driver-assistance systems to be particularly helpful. The adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist made long highway drives less tiring, while the blind-spot monitoring and forward collision avoidance systems provided an extra layer of safety. The infotainment system is intuitive and easy to use. The touchscreen display is responsive, and the integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is seamless. The audio system delivers impressive sound quality, making it a joy to listen to music or podcasts. Overall, driving the 2022 Kia Telluride SX AWD is a pleasant experience. It combines a comfortable ride, responsive performance, and a host of advanced features to create a vehicle that is both practical and enjoyable to drive.

Safety Features: Keeping You and Your Family Safe

Safety is paramount, and the 2022 Kia Telluride SX AWD doesn’t disappoint in this area. It comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features designed to protect you and your passengers. Standard safety features include a full complement of airbags, electronic stability control, and traction control. The Telluride also boasts a robust body structure designed to absorb impact energy in the event of a collision. In addition to these fundamental safety features, the Telluride SX AWD is packed with advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). These systems are designed to help prevent accidents and mitigate the severity of collisions. Some of the key ADAS features include forward collision-avoidance assist, which can detect potential collisions and automatically apply the brakes. Lane-keeping assist helps to keep the vehicle within its lane by providing steering assistance if the driver drifts too close to the lane markings. Blind-spot monitoring alerts the driver to vehicles in their blind spots, while rear cross-traffic collision-avoidance assist helps to prevent collisions when backing out of parking spaces or driveways. Adaptive cruise control automatically maintains a set distance from the vehicle in front, adjusting the speed of the Telluride to match the flow of traffic. The Telluride SX AWD also features a surround-view monitor, which provides a 360-degree view of the vehicle's surroundings, making it easier to maneuver in tight spaces. Parking distance warning systems help to detect obstacles when parking, alerting the driver to potential hazards. These advanced safety features have contributed to the Telluride’s high safety ratings from organizations like the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) and the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration). These ratings demonstrate the Telluride’s commitment to providing a safe and secure driving experience. Overall, the comprehensive safety features of the 2022 Kia Telluride SX AWD make it a top choice for families and individuals who prioritize safety.

Value for Money: Is the 2022 Kia Telluride SX AWD Worth It?

Here’s the million-dollar question: is the 2022 Kia Telluride SX AWD a good value? Considering its features, performance, and overall appeal, the answer is a resounding yes! The Telluride has always been praised for offering a lot of vehicle for the price, and the SX trim takes it up a notch with its premium features. When compared to its competitors, such as the Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander, and Hyundai Palisade (which shares a platform with the Telluride), the Telluride SX AWD offers a competitive price point, without sacrificing features or quality. The combination of a powerful V6 engine, all-wheel drive, a luxurious interior, and a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance systems makes the Telluride SX AWD an excellent value proposition. The long list of standard features, including leather seating, a large touchscreen infotainment system, and advanced safety technologies, eliminates the need to pay extra for many desirable options. The build quality is excellent, with a well-designed interior and high-quality materials. The Telluride also boasts a strong reputation for reliability, adding to its long-term value. Resale value is another important consideration, and the Telluride has consistently held its value well, making it a smart investment. When you factor in the overall cost of ownership, including fuel efficiency, maintenance costs, and resale value, the 2022 Kia Telluride SX AWD emerges as a compelling choice. It offers a balance of luxury, performance, and practicality, all at a competitive price. If you’re in the market for a three-row SUV, the Telluride SX AWD should definitely be on your list. Its combination of features, performance, and value makes it a winner in a crowded market.

Pros and Cons: A Quick Recap

To give you a clearer picture, let's quickly summarize the pros and cons of the 2022 Kia Telluride SX AWD:

Pros:

• Stylish and Functional Design: The Telluride boasts an attractive exterior and a well-designed interior.
• Spacious and Comfortable Interior: Plenty of room for passengers and cargo.
• Powerful V6 Engine: Provides ample power for various driving situations.
• Comprehensive Safety Features: Equipped with advanced driver-assistance systems.
• User-Friendly Infotainment System: Easy-to-use touchscreen with smartphone integration.
• Excellent Value for Money: Offers a lot of features and performance for the price.
• All-Wheel Drive: Enhances handling and stability in various weather conditions

Cons:

• Fuel Economy: While not terrible, it's not the most fuel-efficient in its class.
• Availability: Due to its popularity, finding one might require some searching.

Final Verdict: Is the 2022 Kia Telluride SX AWD Right for You?

So, is the 2022 Kia Telluride SX AWD the right SUV for you? If you’re looking for a spacious, stylish, and well-equipped SUV that offers excellent value, then the answer is likely yes. It’s a fantastic choice for families and individuals who need a versatile vehicle that can handle daily commutes, weekend adventures, and everything in between. The SX trim provides a premium experience with its luxurious interior and advanced technology. The all-wheel-drive system adds an extra layer of capability, making it a great choice for those who live in areas with inclement weather. While it's not the most fuel-efficient SUV in its class, its other strengths more than compensate for this minor drawback. Overall, the 2022 Kia Telluride SX AWD is a top-tier choice in the three-row SUV segment. It’s a vehicle that excels in design, performance, and value. If you’re considering an SUV, I highly recommend checking out the Telluride SX AWD. You won’t be disappointed!

That's all for our in-depth review of the 2022 Kia Telluride SX AWD. I hope you found this helpful! Let me know if you have any questions in the comments below. Thanks for watching, and happy driving!