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2022 Kia Telluride Trim Levels, Configurations & Comparisons.

2022 Kia Telluride Trim Levels, Configurations & Comparisons: LX vs S vs EX and SX
Reviewed & fact checked by
James Murdoch

Compare the 2022 Kia Telluride Trims - LX vs S vs EX and SX. What is the difference between them?

Since its introduction to the market, the Kia Telluride has quickly become one of most sought after vehicles; and with good reason. Its powerful engine, innovative technology features and ample interior cabin space make this three-row SUV an attractive option for any driver looking for top quality at a reasonable price point - bringing it much deserved recognition as we approach 2021.

There are four trims of the 2022 Kia Telluride. The LX, S, EX, and SX are the options, and from a cost perspective, they're pretty evenly spaced out. Many prospective buyers might not yet know which trim to get, and this guide should be able to provide them with useful information as they go about the decision-making process.

Compare the LX vs S Trim Levels. What is the difference?

Before going into detail regarding their differences, it might be a good idea to talk about how these trims are similar to each other. They all run on 3.8-liter V6 engines, with all-wheel drive being an option. One of these engines can deliver 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, and towing capacity is 5,000 pounds.

Safety is another area in which the LX and S are pretty much identical to each other. This indicates that the LX is very well equipped for an entry-level trim in this regard. Standard on these two trims are a number of driver-assist technologies, including forward collision warning with pedestrian and cyclist detection, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and lane keeping assist. With these monitoring and mitigation systems in place, the Telluride has the ability to adjust its steering and/or braking in order to stay a safe distance from other vehicles.

The Telluride also comes standard with smart cruise control and highway driving assist. It can adjust its speed to match the speed of the vehicle ahead of it, and it can slow down to get around curves more safely and deal with congestion. Other standard programs are rear cross-traffic collision-avoidance assist, blind-spot collision-avoidance assist, and driver attention warning. It's truly impressive what this vehicle can do to inform drivers about potential issues and help them correct certain types of situations.

Whether you opt for the LX or S model of your vehicle, both offer sleek exterior colors so that no matter which one is chosen, it will have a timeless look. The interior has been designed with comfort and style in mind. Choose from either dark hues to keep things classic on the inside, or lighten up with lighter colors offered exclusively by the S version.

The LX has a front and rear skid plate to help protect its underside, and it has a gloss black front grille with a chrome surround. More chrome is found on the window surround and lower door moulding. The front bumper air ducts and door handles are body-colored, and this trim rides on 18-inch wheels.

The S trim brings a sporty edge with eye-catching 20-inch wheels, satin chrome accents on the door molding, front bumper air ducts and window surround for an elegant touch. Silver skid plates create dynamic contrast while silver roof rails add functionality to style. For added flair these features are complemented by a single muffler with dual exhaust tips - combining luxury and performance in perfect harmony.

A power sunroof is a big perk that comes with the S. It can be fully opened to let in the sunlight and fresh air, or it can be tilted open to add a little ventilation.

When looking inside the cabin of the LX and S trims, a customer would be pleased with all these vehicles have to offer. For instance, they both have Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, along with 10.25-inch touchscreens and navigation. The LX and S have a total of six USB ports, giving passengers in every row access. The S has wireless charging as well.

The S trim of this vehicle excels when it comes to convenience and comfort - boasting LED interior lighting, eight-way power adjustable driver's seat with lumbar support, heated front seats, leather wrapped gear shifter plus other amenities such as storage compartments, dual zone climate control and remote engine start. The inclusion of a smart key system with push button start also adds an extra layer of luxury for drivers.

Perhaps the most significant difference between the trims is that they have different seating capacities. The S has captain's chairs in its middle row, so it can fit seven passengers. The rear seats can fold with the touch of a button, making it easy to move things around when needed. In the LX, there are accommodations for eight since it has a three-person bench seat in the middle row.

Compare the Telluride S vs EX. What is the difference?

At the EX level, there's an option to get a self-leveling rear suspension. This can balance out the vehicle when its hauling heavy loads. Other than that, the mechanics of the EX are the same as those found in the S.

On its exterior, the EX has power-folding side mirrors that can come in handy when parking in small spots. Unlike the S, which has satin chrome accents in various places, it has chrome accents. It also has 18-inch wheels instead of 20-inch ones. It does have the addition of LED rear combination lights, sound-absorbing windows on the front doors, and a smart power liftgate. This liftgate can open automatically when someone stands behind it while having the smart key fob on him or her.

Now, the EX does have the option to get upgraded with the Nightfall Edition package. This would include black accents on places like the skid plates, front grille surround, window surround, and roof rails. If this package is selected, the wheels would measure 20 inches and they'd have a black finish.

The EX offers a variety of features to keep you connected and comfortable on the road. This includes 20-inch machine finish wheels, roof rails with a satin chrome finish for added style, high beam assist along with LED projector headlights for optimal visibility in dark conditions. Going beyond basic amenities it also comes equipped with seven USB ports perfect for keeping your devices charged up while driving plus an auto dimming rearview mirror that's able to reduce glare from bright lights ahead.

The EX model of this vehicle has a more refined feel to it, with elegant leather seats and woodgrain interior accents. Enjoy luxuries such as power-adjustable drivers seat, heated/ventilated front seats and second-row window sunshades for added comfort in any climate. For convenience seating options are either an eight passenger bench or two captain chairs - giving you the freedom to choose whichever suits your lifestyle best.

Compare the Telluride EX vs SX Trim Levels. What is the difference?

The SX comes with an array of interior colors. There are six different color schemes, and in comparison, the EX only has two interior color schemes to choose from. This is just the beginning of what sets the SX apart from all the others in the lineup.

As the top-of-the-line trim, the SX comes with a Harman Kardon premium sound system. Rather than having six speakers like the other trims have, it has ten speakers along with Clari-Fi technology and an external amplifier. It's available with a 110-volt power inverter in case anyone thinks that this could be useful while traveling.

Behind the steering wheel of the SX, there's a seven-inch color LCD display. The others have 3.5-inch trip computers, in contrast. The steering wheel on the SX has the auto-dimming function plus HomeLink, giving it the ability to act as a garage door opener. Also, the SX has interior mood lighting which has 64 color choices and can be customized.

Nappa leather seats are an option on the SX if anyone wants to bring more sophistication to the vehicle. The driver's seat on this premium trip can move in ten ways instead of eight ways, and it can be programmed to remember two favorite seating positions. The side mirrors have this same feature. Bringing some extra style to this Telluride are the stainless steel pedals and stainless steel scuff trim on the doors.

The SX provides a luxurious ride for the family, complete with captivating captain's chairs as standard. To take it up another notch in comfort and convenience, you can opt for an optional heated steering wheel to keep your hands warm while driving plus second-row seating that is both heated and ventilated - so everyone stays cozy all year round!

The SX is an attractive option with sophistication and style. It boasts reverse tilt-down mirrors for added accuracy when parking, as well as LED projector beam headlights, high beam assist, and LED front fog lights that come standard. Its impressive 20-inch wheels make a statement with their sleek black finish while its signature satin chrome roof rails complete the look of luxury - exclusive only to this trim level!

With two sunroofs, the SX offers a unique blend of ventilation and extra light. Passengers can enjoy an open-air feel with one sliding roof above the front row whilst those in back are treated to a fixed skylight that expands their sense of space even further.

When driving the SX, you'll experience more confidence with its enhanced safety features. Enjoy added peace of mind knowing that parking distance warning systems are included in both front and back for a 360° view - an exclusive perk to this trim level!

The Telluride SX is equipped with a Blind Spot View Monitor - an extra set of eyes that engages whenever the turn signal is activated, providing you with direct access to what's in your blind spot. All this visual information appears on the instrument cluster behind the steering wheel for maximum convenience and safety. To top it off, drivers are also given access to a Head-Up Display feature which puts pertinent car data directly into their field of vision.

Final Thoughts

Featuring a suite of modern amenities and advanced technology, the LX trim of the Kia Telluride provides an excellent balance between luxury and value. With its robust V6 engine providing ample power for towing or cruising alike, as well as intuitive driver-assistance features like navigation systems accessible through a high definition touchscreen, it is perfect choice for anyone wanting comfort in addition to reliability.

The LX may not be the perfect choice for everyone; if you're in need of heated front seats, a sunroof, or wireless charging capabilities then opting for either the S trim or an upgrade to SX could offer more bang-for-your buck. Of course depending on personal preference and budget constraints, customers should carefully consider whether they want all that's included with higher trims before committing to one!

When choosing a car, don't forget to consider the seating capacity! The LX trim provides plenty of room with its eight-passenger option. If you're looking for something more exclusive, try out the S and SX models that can seat up to seven occupants comfortably. For versatile comfort in any setting, opt for an EX model - either way it'll host between seven or eight passengers.

Previous Year Trim Configurations:

2021 Kia Telluride Trime Levels