Test Drive: Kia Telluride

New Generations – Kia Telluride/BMW X1

At first glance, the historic town of Telluride, Colo., and the brand-new 2020 Kia Telluride SUV would seem to have little in common. Look closer, however, and you’ll find there’s definitely a connection.

Namesakes aside, both share an upscale vibe that, in the Kia’s case, might surprise you. This midsize sport-utility vehicle’s handsome exterior gives it a presence with the same rugged style as the former mining town high in the San Juan mountains.

Inside Telluride’s spacious three-row cabin you’ll find a comfortable place with room for up to eight passengers (or seven, with the available second-row captain’s chairs), including an adult-friendly back seat. Technology includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration, plus as many as a half-dozen USB plug-ins to keep everyone’s devices charged. There are even two clever audio system modes: one that mutes the rear speakers so passengers can sleep and another that projects the driver’s voice back there when it’s time to wake them up.

Add the 291-horsepower V-6 mated to a competent all-wheel drive system (front-wheel drive is standard), and Telluride becomes both an interesting road trip destination and an SUV that’s a great way to get the family there.

Base Price:$31,690

MPG:20 city, 26 highway

Crash Test: N/A

Test Drive: BMW X1
The new X1 is both upscale and practical.

Based on BMW’s uber-popular 3 Series sedan, the first-generation X1 was arguably the most fun to drive of all compact sport-utility vehicles. Alas, gen 1 is gone, replaced by an X1 that shares architecture with the Mini Clubman. The base version now has front-wheel rather than rear-wheel drive. And no longer is a six-cylinder engine an option; a turbo four-cylinder and eight-speed automatic is the only engine/transmission combo offered.

The upshot? The latest X1 is more practical. A little taller and wider, it’s quite roomy for a compact SUV. The interior is upscale and well-crafted except for the front-seat cushions, which are uncomfortably short and flat. A shorter hood allows excellent forward visibility. Handling is safe and secure. And the engine is silky smooth.

A front-wheel-drive X1 is the least expensive BMW, with a base price just under $35,000. All-wheel drive and option packages can drive the price tag crazy-high. But even the base model comes with plenty of standard goodies, including a power liftgate and Bluetooth. Stick to the basics and you can have this BMW for not much more than you’d pay for a compact SUV from a less prestigious brand.

Base Price: $35,000

MPG: 22 city, 31 highway

Crash Test: 5 Stars

Looking for a new ride? Check out more car reviews online at AAA.com/TestDrive.

Leave A Comment

Comments are subject to moderation and may or may not be published at the editor’s discretion. Only comments that are relevant to the article and add value to the Your AAA community will be considered. Comments may be edited for clarity and length.

YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS WILL NOT BE PUBLISHED. REQUIRED FIELDS ARE MARKED *

Subscribe to Your AAA Newsletter

Sign up and receive updates for all of the latest articles on automotive, travel, money, lifestyle and so much more!