2022 Kia Telluride SX AWD: A Comprehensive Review

Nov 14, 2025 by Alex Braham 50 views

Alright, folks, let's dive deep into the 2022 Kia Telluride SX AWD! This SUV has been making waves, and for good reason. It's got the looks, the space, and the features that families and adventure seekers alike are craving. This review is going to cover everything from its performance and interior to its tech and overall value. Get ready to find out if this is the right ride for you!

Unveiling the 2022 Kia Telluride SX AWD: First Impressions

When the 2022 Kia Telluride SX AWD first rolled onto the scene, it turned heads. The design is sleek, modern, and exudes a premium vibe. The SX trim, in particular, amps up the style with its unique features. From its bold front grille to its stylish LED headlights and taillights, the Telluride SX is a real looker. The proportions are just right, giving it a commanding presence on the road. It doesn't look like your typical boring family SUV; it's got a confident and sophisticated aesthetic that sets it apart from the competition.

But it's not just about the looks, guys. The Telluride SX AWD is also incredibly practical. It's a three-row SUV, meaning it can comfortably seat up to eight passengers. The doors open wide, making it easy to get in and out, even for those in the back. The overall build quality feels solid, and the materials used in the interior are top-notch. Kia has really stepped up its game in recent years, and the Telluride SX is a prime example of their commitment to quality. The first time you sit in one, you'll immediately notice the attention to detail. It's clear that Kia has put a lot of thought into creating a comfortable and user-friendly experience for both the driver and passengers. The layout of the dashboard is clean and intuitive, with everything within easy reach. The seats are supportive and comfortable, even on long journeys, and there's plenty of legroom and headroom in all three rows.

Exterior Design and Features

Let's talk about the exterior. The 2022 Kia Telluride SX AWD boasts a bold and distinctive design. The front fascia is dominated by Kia's signature tiger-nose grille, flanked by sleek LED headlights. The LED daytime running lights give it a modern and aggressive look. The SX trim adds unique features like a dark metallic finish on the grille and other exterior accents. The side profile is clean and well-proportioned, with a strong character line that runs along the side of the vehicle. The rear features stylish LED taillights and a power liftgate for easy access to the cargo area. The available 20-inch alloy wheels add to the overall premium appearance. Color options are varied and offer something for everyone. Whether you prefer a classic black or a vibrant blue, there is a color that matches your personal taste. Overall, the exterior design of the Telluride SX AWD is a major selling point. It's a head-turner that combines style, functionality, and a touch of ruggedness, making it a perfect fit for a variety of lifestyles.

Interior Comfort and Space

Stepping inside the 2022 Kia Telluride SX AWD is like entering a well-appointed living room. The interior is spacious, comfortable, and packed with features. The seats are covered in premium leather, with the front seats offering heating and ventilation. The second-row seats are also heated, providing added comfort for passengers. The third row is surprisingly roomy, making it suitable for both kids and adults. There's plenty of legroom and headroom in all three rows, ensuring a comfortable ride for everyone. The dashboard is well-designed and features a large touchscreen display for infotainment and navigation. The materials used throughout the cabin are of high quality, with soft-touch surfaces and attractive trim. The panoramic sunroof lets in plenty of natural light, creating an airy and inviting atmosphere. Cargo space is plentiful, with plenty of room for luggage, groceries, or sports equipment. With all seats in place, there's still a generous amount of cargo space behind the third row. Folding down the second and third-row seats expands the cargo area even further, making it ideal for hauling larger items. The Telluride SX AWD truly excels when it comes to interior comfort and space. It's a perfect vehicle for families or anyone who needs a roomy and comfortable SUV.

Performance and Driving Experience

Under the hood, the 2022 Kia Telluride SX AWD packs a punch with its 3.8-liter V6 engine, producing a healthy 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, which delivers smooth and responsive shifts. The AWD system provides excellent traction and stability, making it capable in various driving conditions. Whether you're navigating city streets or tackling off-road trails, the Telluride SX AWD offers a confident and enjoyable driving experience.

The engine provides ample power for acceleration and merging onto highways. The transmission is well-tuned and delivers smooth and timely shifts. The AWD system ensures that power is distributed efficiently to all four wheels, enhancing traction and stability in slippery conditions. The steering is precise and responsive, making the SUV easy to maneuver. The suspension system absorbs bumps and imperfections in the road, providing a comfortable ride. The Telluride SX AWD is also equipped with a variety of driver-assistance features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring, which further enhance the driving experience. The combination of power, performance, and advanced features makes the Telluride SX AWD a pleasure to drive.

Engine and Transmission

The 2022 Kia Telluride SX AWD is powered by a robust 3.8-liter V6 engine that generates 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides plenty of power for daily driving and highway cruising. The engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, which delivers smooth and responsive shifts. The transmission is well-engineered to optimize both performance and fuel efficiency. It allows for quick acceleration while also maintaining reasonable fuel economy. The engine and transmission work together seamlessly to provide a refined and enjoyable driving experience. The V6 engine offers a good balance of power and efficiency, making it a practical choice for families and individuals. The eight-speed automatic transmission is a key component, contributing to the overall driving pleasure of the Telluride SX AWD.

Handling and Ride Quality

When it comes to handling and ride quality, the 2022 Kia Telluride SX AWD excels. The suspension system is tuned to provide a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road with ease. The SUV handles corners and curves with confidence, thanks to its well-balanced chassis and responsive steering. The AWD system further enhances handling by providing excellent traction and stability in various driving conditions. The steering feel is precise and provides good feedback, allowing the driver to feel connected to the road. The brakes are strong and provide confident stopping power. Overall, the Telluride SX AWD offers a smooth, comfortable, and controlled ride. The combination of a well-tuned suspension, responsive steering, and a capable AWD system makes it a pleasure to drive. The SUV is equally at home on the highway or in city traffic, offering a refined and enjoyable driving experience for both the driver and passengers.

Technology and Features

Tech-savvy drivers, rejoice! The 2022 Kia Telluride SX AWD is packed with cutting-edge technology and features designed to make your life easier and more enjoyable. The centerpiece of the tech suite is the large touchscreen display, which houses the infotainment system. This system includes navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto integration, allowing you to seamlessly connect your smartphone and access your favorite apps and music. The SX trim also comes standard with a premium audio system, ensuring a high-quality listening experience.

Beyond the infotainment system, the Telluride SX AWD is equipped with a host of driver-assistance features. These include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and forward collision avoidance assist. These features enhance safety and make driving more convenient. The SUV also includes a surround-view camera system, making it easy to park and maneuver in tight spaces. Other notable features include a wireless charging pad, a head-up display, and a smart key with remote start. Overall, the technology and features of the Telluride SX AWD are impressive. The combination of advanced infotainment, driver-assistance features, and convenience technologies makes it a standout in its class.

Infotainment System

The 2022 Kia Telluride SX AWD features a user-friendly and feature-rich infotainment system. The centerpiece is a large touchscreen display that provides access to various functions and settings. The system includes navigation, allowing you to easily find your way around town or on long road trips. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration allow you to seamlessly connect your smartphone and access your favorite apps, music, and contacts. The system is easy to navigate, with intuitive menus and controls. The touchscreen display is responsive and provides clear graphics. The SX trim comes standard with a premium audio system that delivers high-quality sound throughout the cabin. The infotainment system in the Telluride SX AWD is a standout feature, enhancing the overall driving experience. It provides connectivity, entertainment, and navigation capabilities, making it a truly modern SUV.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

Safety is a top priority, and the 2022 Kia Telluride SX AWD doesn't disappoint. It comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety and driver-assistance features designed to protect occupants and enhance driving safety. Standard features include forward collision avoidance assist, lane departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. Adaptive cruise control is also available, making highway driving more relaxed. The SUV is equipped with multiple airbags, including front, side, and curtain airbags, to protect occupants in the event of a collision. The Telluride SX AWD also boasts a high safety rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). These ratings demonstrate the vehicle's ability to protect occupants in the event of a crash. The combination of advanced safety features, robust construction, and high safety ratings makes the Telluride SX AWD a safe and reliable choice for families and individuals.

Trim Levels and Pricing

The 2022 Kia Telluride SX AWD is the top-of-the-line trim, offering the most features and the highest price point. However, Kia offers other trims to cater to different budgets and needs. The base LX trim is the most affordable, offering a good value proposition with a decent set of features. The EX trim adds more features, such as leather upholstery and a power liftgate. The S trim offers a balance of features and value, making it a popular choice. Pricing for the Telluride SX AWD starts at a higher price due to its premium features. But, when compared to other SUVs in its class, the Telluride SX AWD offers excellent value for the money. The combination of a well-equipped interior, advanced technology, and a powerful engine makes it a compelling choice. Buyers should carefully consider their needs and budget when choosing a trim level. Kia offers a variety of options to ensure there is a Telluride that suits everyone.

Overview of Trim Levels

The 2022 Kia Telluride is available in several trim levels, each offering a unique combination of features and value. The LX trim is the base model, providing a solid foundation of features at an affordable price. The S trim adds more features, such as upgraded exterior styling and interior enhancements. The EX trim offers premium features, such as leather upholstery and a power liftgate. The SX trim is the top-of-the-line model, boasting the most features, including advanced technology and premium amenities. Each trim level is designed to cater to different budgets and needs. Buyers can choose the trim that best suits their preferences and lifestyle. Kia's trim level lineup offers something for everyone, making the Telluride a versatile and appealing SUV.

Pricing and Value Proposition

The 2022 Kia Telluride SX AWD offers excellent value for the money, despite being the top-of-the-line trim. While the starting price is higher than the base models, the SX trim comes loaded with features that justify the cost. When compared to other SUVs in its class, the Telluride SX AWD offers a competitive price point. The combination of premium features, advanced technology, and a powerful engine makes it a worthwhile investment. Kia is known for providing a high level of value, and the Telluride SX AWD is no exception. The SUV's strong resale value and low ownership costs further enhance its value proposition. Buyers looking for a spacious, feature-rich, and reliable SUV will find the Telluride SX AWD to be a great choice. Kia's commitment to providing a high level of value makes the Telluride a standout in the competitive SUV market.

Pros and Cons

Okay, let's break down the good and the not-so-good of the 2022 Kia Telluride SX AWD. On the plus side: It has a stunning design, a spacious and luxurious interior, a powerful engine, tons of tech features, and an excellent overall value. It's a great choice for families and anyone who wants a comfortable and capable SUV. However, there are a few downsides. Some potential drawbacks include its large size, which can make it a bit difficult to maneuver in tight spaces, and some may find the infotainment system a bit overwhelming at first. Also, despite its high safety ratings, no car is perfect in a crash, so be aware of those considerations. Overall, the pros far outweigh the cons, making the Telluride SX AWD a top contender in its class.

Advantages

Stylish Design: The 2022 Kia Telluride SX AWD boasts a head-turning design that is both modern and sophisticated. Its bold front grille, sleek LED headlights, and well-proportioned body create a commanding presence on the road. The SX trim adds unique exterior accents that enhance its premium appearance. Overall, the design is a major selling point, making the Telluride SX AWD a standout in its class.
Spacious and Luxurious Interior: The interior is spacious, comfortable, and well-appointed, with premium materials and high-quality finishes. Passengers enjoy plenty of legroom and headroom in all three rows. The seats are supportive and comfortable, even on long journeys. The panoramic sunroof adds to the airy and inviting atmosphere. The overall comfort and spaciousness make the Telluride SX AWD a perfect choice for families or anyone who needs a roomy SUV.
Powerful Engine and Smooth Transmission: The 3.8-liter V6 engine provides ample power for acceleration and highway cruising. The eight-speed automatic transmission delivers smooth and responsive shifts. The engine and transmission work together seamlessly to provide a refined and enjoyable driving experience. The combination of power and performance makes the Telluride SX AWD a pleasure to drive.
Abundant Tech and Features: The Telluride SX AWD is packed with cutting-edge technology and features, including a large touchscreen display, navigation, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a premium audio system. Driver-assistance features such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring enhance safety and convenience. The smart key with remote start and a surround-view camera system add to the overall user experience. The abundant tech and features make the Telluride SX AWD a truly modern SUV.
Excellent Value: The Telluride SX AWD offers excellent value for the money, especially considering its long list of standard features and premium amenities. The SUV is competitively priced compared to other SUVs in its class. Kia's reputation for providing high value makes the Telluride SX AWD a compelling choice for buyers looking for a well-equipped and affordable SUV.

Disadvantages

Size and Maneuverability: The 2022 Kia Telluride SX AWD is a large SUV, which can make it challenging to maneuver in tight spaces, such as crowded parking lots or narrow city streets. The large size can also make it more difficult to park. However, the surround-view camera system helps mitigate this issue. For some drivers, the size might be a drawback.
Infotainment System Complexity: The infotainment system, while feature-rich, can be a bit overwhelming for some users, especially those who are not familiar with the latest technology. The sheer number of features and settings might require some time to learn and get used to. However, the system is generally user-friendly, and the benefits of its features outweigh the initial learning curve.
Price (Higher Trim): The SX trim, being the top-of-the-line model, has a higher price point than the base models. While the value is still excellent, the initial cost might be a barrier for some buyers. However, the extensive list of standard features and premium amenities justifies the higher price for those who value luxury and advanced technology.

Conclusion: Is the 2022 Kia Telluride SX AWD Worth It?

So, is the 2022 Kia Telluride SX AWD worth it? Absolutely, yes! It's a fantastic SUV that offers a compelling combination of style, space, performance, and features. It's perfect for families, adventurers, or anyone who wants a comfortable and well-equipped vehicle. While the price might be a bit higher than some competitors, the value you get is undeniable. If you're in the market for a three-row SUV, the Telluride SX AWD should be at the top of your list. Trust me, guys, you won't be disappointed! It's a vehicle that truly delivers on its promise. The Telluride SX AWD is a standout choice in a competitive market, setting the bar high for other SUVs. Consider it a top contender in its class, offering both practicality and a premium experience.