2023 Kia Telluride X-Pro Review: The Ultimate Off-Road Test

[@moloono1]

Not many buyers will be disappointed with the off-road capabilities of the X-Pro in the Olive Garden parking lot.

[@martinr8278]

BEST comment. Hysterical! 🏆😂🥇

[@hermanjohnson9180]

Exactly

[@gmoto2380]

My X-pro is Olive Garden color to 😅

[@moloono1]

@@gmoto2380 Oof…sorry to hear you paid extra for the X-Pro 💀

[@Rockybalboa541]

Dam

[@simpleignition101]

Solid review, you make a great point that if a manufacturer offers an offroad package, it should be more than just tires. I like the reduced gear ratios subaru puts on the Wilderness lineup and the 24 Trailsport Passport does seem to check those boxes too. The KIA/HY offerings are looking for market capitalization on an unsuspecting consumer and that's where your reviews shine.

[@clutch7366]

Some people don’t care at all. They just want the look and that’s it.

[@simpleignition101]

@@willr1796 weird, sounds like you had a bad engine or maintenance was lacking, good luck with your trucks!

[@colinslunecka7226]

We had a deposit on a new Telluride X-Pro to replace our Highlander. Unfortunately, Kia does not offer a factory receiver hitch and wiring harness even though they advertise the 5,500 lb towing capacity. The dealer also had no idea of when one would be offered. We tow a small camper so that was a major disappointment and we pulled our deposit.

[@fixedwing1]

Maybe due to the trailer harness fire hazard recall affecting up to 2022 Tellurides? Maybe they stopped selling them at all pending a redesign.

[@gregkramer5588]

These are easy to find in the aftermarket. That way you get more options also.

[@ruturaj47]

Don't waste your money on xpro package. Get SX prestige instead.

[@Jgjginkg244]

We pull cargo trailer and been going to burning man and no issues what so ever. Ride comfort is better way than full size trucks, full van. You name it. If you can’t find 3rd party to install aftermarket, then it’s your problem not able to find it. Highlander? Nice just like Corolla station wagon but Highlander is more like wallpaper. Blend in nice and unnoticeable and boring and…boring

[@louisvilaros9066]

Buy a subaru

[@BowmanOverland]

Love the video ! They didn’t give it an off-road mode because they know no one in their right mind will take a Telluride off the beaten path. Thing is a joke off-road!

[@gs98999]

Agree. While I appreciate the video and effort it goes into this test, this is essentially a minivan for people that are embarrassed to say they own a minivan.

[@moloono1]

100% agree. People who buy this are just posers looking for a badge.

[@MaGiKRat420]

​@moloono1 I'd believe that out of an audi or bmw... but a kia? A badge? That's a little off of an assessment if you ask me.

[@moloono1]

@@MaGiKRat420 Why would anyone buy the X-Pro if they were truly after off-road capability? They just want to show off their X-Pro badge to be “better” than all the other Tellurides. But I definitely agree with you, who’s out there showing off in a Kia, LMFAO!

[@2nd-place]

@@gs98999 Exactly. My wife wanted to get a minivan and I refused. We compromised on this. Waiting for the order to come through. It seems like it will be fine on light trails. We ordered the skid plate add-on just in case. This is just for some casual adventuring on road trips, while 95% of its use will be around town and on the highway, like most SUVs.

[@djinmt]

Finally have the xpro review!! Love it! How about an xpro vs pilot trailsport comparison! Thanks

[@BeanWater24]

Yes this!!

[@payasahermosa]

Yes please

[@therikker88]

I just bought a used 2023 Telluride XPro today. Your video was just what I was looking for to help me learn about the touch screen and everything else it has to offer. Very helpful!

[@hobbytake2845]

Hoping you’re going to test the 2023 Ascent on this course! Love to see how many of the crossovers do.

[@haroldbeauchamp3770]

Especially since the 2023 now has dual mode X-Mode. The Ascent is truly the only Subaru I’d consider. I need 3 rows.

[@lakayken8]

I second to that.

[@shawnb9917]

Love your videos, I’ve been huge fan for years now keep up the great content.

[@mohammadsattar5488]

Honestly I would LURVE to know what percentage of people don't have legs and torso proportionate that are also discriminated against by the cars they buy

[@trailrunnah8886]

5th gen 4Runner owner here, for literally any activity other than off-roading, I would take this over my 4Runner any day. And if "off-roading" was just dirt roads, probably rather have this for that too.

[@slandshark]

You say that, but I've driven on a lot of off-road/forest service roads and never once seen a Kia.

[@rob-1873]

@@slandsharklmfao did that in my 17 forte

[@dannyboy1984]

Sorry but you cant have the name PRO on your badge unless you have propper skid plates ....and a off road mode for more aggresive awd shifting power left to right

[@ibrahimpatwa3318]

I went on a adventure a bit more challenging with my ford explorer and there was one obstacle a little more difficult then where the telluride got stuck but the explorer managed it’s way through much better then the telluride

[@wildbill23c]

How old is your Explorer? The new ones from what I can tell went back to a more rear wheel drive based AWD system, so probably a better setup...my Explorer is much older, so I still have auto, high lock, and low range 4WD and the 4.6L V8...even at that they're still more of a street car than anything you'd really take offroad.

[@lukiw7044]

You're right. Best part of Yours reviews for me is off-road test. And those are great. Greetings

[@gorditaz8728]

Awesome video! Now I know Telluride is out of the question on off-road capabilities.

[@Rockmachine99]

Out of the question for long term reliability too.

[@ifyahadone]

@@Rockmachine99 lol how so?

[@AP-jl2lv]

@@ifyahadone its korean lol

[@sachilee1]

@@Rockmachine99 theres been tellurides over 100k miles lmao

[@ruturaj47]

Shouldn't have been in question at all 😂. Only pilot trailsport should be in this class.

[@mattstiglic]

Its a nice vehicle for sure. What i dont understand is people not just getting a damn 4x4 if your plan is to go offroad. AWD cant hold a candle to a proper 4 wheeler.

[@richfreedomguns]

A lot of people are looking for a good "all-arounder". Most of their driving is on the road where comfort is necessary, but would like to tackle a trail to get to a remote campsite on the weekend.

[@steveryder6733]

The more I follow this channel, the more I am happy with my forester.

[@wildbill23c]

Ryan has done great showing Subaru's true capabilities....when my 2005 Ford Taurus dies I'm getting a Subaru Forester or Outback Wilderness model.

[@steveryder6733]

I have the latest forester in sport trim. I looked first at a wilderness trim as well as an outback but after driving them both I like the shorter length of the forester for navigating tight trails and decided to ditch the wilderness trim on the forester and simply get some knobby tires for the sport trim. I really like how it's working out. Capable yet not very costly to own and run. A great balance. If you do not need the extra space of the outback or the power of the turbo four, get the forester. It's a little mountain goat light on its feet and surprisingly entertaining to drive with momentum through narrow twisty roads. Nearly no body roll

[@wildbill23c]

@@steveryder6733 Forester definitely then to avoid the turbo nonsense....thank you for the insight. I don't really go offroad, just up to camping spots which are on gravel backroads, although the camping spots are usually just dirt...but most of those trips are during the late spring, summer, and early fall before the roads get too messy...but more so I'll use it as a daily driver with the normal winter snow storms. I don't need much room, its just me if they still made a Subaru Justy it would work just fine too LOL.

[@steveryder6733]

@William Sevier it's perfect for all that and more if you need it to be. Won't let you down. The 2.5 liter engine will last for the long haul as well. Took me many years and many cars to learn there is no replacement for displacement. The driving position as well was something I enjoyed. Great visibility. Always a blast having a good camping adventure with some funny stories to tell afterwards.

[@wildbill23c]

@@steveryder6733 Thanks. I'm right there with you on the no replacement for displacement, those tiny little turbo engines in what are supposed to be work trucks don't last when you actually request that they give you the work truck power needs all the time...they might be fine for the weekend warrior crowds who take their camp trailer out a few times a year, but for those of us who use our vehicles to haul/tow and keep them for longer than the warranty period, the larger engine is definitely the best way to go, you lose a bit of economy overall, but you gain that loss back in longevity and less failure points. My aunt works at a dealership, she gets to see all those tiny little engine vehicles coming in all the time on wreckers with catastrophic failures, not only due to the lack of engine, but due to people skipping regular maintenance, and it costs them dearly in the end. Those little turbo 4 and 6 cylinder engines don't take kindly to skipped oil/filter changes.

[@conraderb4700]

I bought a 2022 SX brand new. I lock the hub and put in sports mode. I’ve been through trails that were oozing with mud, 2 feet of snow, drove through the northwest ice storm. sand at the beach. Even pulled a F-250 front getting stuck, all on dirt roads. My telluride is currently covered in mud from just going out and Having fun The way you hit all those obstacles was really weird and way too slow. That last obstacle should have been driven at a higher speed instead of babied Maybe that version is different but I never have had any problems with the telluride.

[@RoamingBiologist]

So 500 for skid plate, 350 for 2inch lift, 1100 for 18inch method wheels, and 800 for Firestone AT2 tires, and maybe 300 for labor to install these things... guess I'm just gonna stick to that with my 2021 Telluride.

[@bahamuttg]

I’ll be sticking with my OBW. 😊

[@traviscollins3249]

Got my Crosstrek as my first subaru. Has taken me places I feel I shouldn’t have been able to go with a lifted car. It is a beast in the snow too.

[@bahamuttg]

@@traviscollins3249 Happens to the best of us, I go places I really shouldn't go all the time with my 'Ru!

[@wildbill23c]

They're far more capable than they look LOL.

[@Rich-xq3uv]

Ryan created Kia's new slogan, 'It was good until it wasn't'.

[@moloono1]

100%

[@TheInternalwisdom]

Exactly!!! Untill the engine seized right after warranty expired

[@richardblack2796]

The new honda pilot trailsport seemed to have a much better awd system. Do you think it would have any issues on this coarse? Can you compare the crawl ratio with the honda pilot trailsport and this telluride?

[@Jonny8859]

There is no way anyone would trade their 4Runner for a KIA...

[@joeie0]

You so correct! I was thinking the same thing during the video 😂😂😂

[@floppinfish]

​@M azen he owns a 4 Runner. He has talked about how good it is many times. Watch the show.

[@tristandipaolo2022]

Wondering which 3 row suv you would give the best off road rating of these four: telluride xpro, pathfinder rock creek and pilot trail sport, explorer timberline.

[@StarLing4425]

First!! Any thoughts on the 24 seltos please?

[@ericpizarro3084]

What really shocked me was the fact the wheels in the vehicle for this trial are pretty good wheels and still it failed the last obstacle! I owns a Subaru Ascent (my wife) and a Crosstrek Sport. I know for sure that my Crosstrek with those wheels will eat all the obstacles. Not so sure about the Ascent. Beside it’s my wife car and if I scratch it, I am doomed!

[@tallll70]

I'm not so sure any small wheel awd car would do it when you stop on front of bolder by each diagonal wheel like that and try to start rolling uphill over them... I would like to see if Crosstrek would do exactly same, maybe it was clutch limitation on this specific vehicle although it did good on 3 wheel slip test

[@ericpizarro3084]

@@tallll70 there is one. Check it in his KZbin channel. You will be surprise how good is the Subaru Crosstrek Sport, and now there will be a new and even more capable Crosstrek Wilderness for 2024. What is even more important than anything else on these vehicles is the high clearance. The Subaru Crosstrek ground clearance is 8.7 inches. Even higher than this Telluride vehicle. The new one will have 9.4 inches clearance.

[@martinr8278]

You have great AWD drive SUVs. Subarus are amazing! Enjoy the off roading if you go…..you’ll have no problems. VIVA Subaru 🏆🥇

[@Doc1855]

I LOVE that Brown interior. It looks like the same color as is in my Forester Touring

[@robertyoung8289]

If you crap your pants it will not show. 🤔

[@Doc1855]

@@robertyoung8289 It beats the 33 year old Depressing Grey or Death Black interior colors that became popular in 1990. It’s a proven fact that when there’s civil unrest, wars and rumors of wars, shaky economy, people run to dark, drab, depressing, boring colors. But when the future looks bright, there’s civil rest, stable economies, peaceful outlook, people desire cheerful, bright openness in choosing the colors of their automobiles, the interior of them look classy, bright, open. Over 1/2 the houses in America are Gloomy Grey with white trim. Interior Motif colors are grey, black, drab, dark colors. Most of the automobiles are silver, grey, charcoal grey, black, dark burgundy, dark blues, greens, etc. We finished building our dream home in 19. We chose to paint it a nice shade of Yellow with white trim. Our motif colors are tan, with splashes of burgundy, light greens. Cheerful colors because we tend to see the glass 1/2 full instead of 1/2 empty. We bought 1/4 of a Mountain in north central WA state and built our home 1/2 way up our Mountain. Our friends bought the other 1/4 of the mountain and behind our properties is National Forest. A neighbor who lives on the Canyon floor complained to me that our house is too cheerful. They are both alcoholics, their house is gloomy grey with dark grey, black interior motifs. There vehicles are black with black interior and the other one is charcoal grey with black interior. His company van is black with charcoal gray interior. They never have a kind word to say about anything. She owns 2 bars and has a mouth on her that would make a Trucker blush. The other 3 alcoholic neighbors have Gloomy Grey houses with White trim. Their vehicles are also death black or Gloomy Grey. Over 1/2 my life Depressing Grey or Death Black interior colors have been shoved down everyone’s throats. So I’m sorry you’re depressed and have a crappy outlook on life , but that’s your problem, and Thankfully not ours. And if you haven’t figured it out by now, I’m a retired Psychologist. Enjoy your day…, if you can 🤣

[@payasahermosa]

I love it in my tundra 1794 edition.. peanut butter trim 😂

[@joeie0]

Another great video. I always enjoy watching!

[@charonboat6394]

If it supposedly to resemble any "adventurous" trim, the front attack angle should be more aggressive. As it is now 0.4 inch ground clearance is a joke.

[@martinr8278]

Old school here I guess……a lot ohhhs and ahhhs interior wise, since we’ve grown accustomed to the apple toys. Computer graphics, 360 view, tracking vehicles in front back, etc etc but for me how reliable is the vehicle? Can it adequately tackle some off road or horrible road conditions in winter? Will it las beyond 80,000 miles? I’m not so sure with this Kia…. Toyota and Subaru seem to check more boxes on and off the grid

[@keponen331]

I lost interest after "on demand AWD system", which translates to mostly FWD. Just make it Torsen, is it that hard

[@jeffreybaker4727]

I’d like to hear what other crossover vehicles make it through the course besides Subarus, like Bronco Sport Badlands, Maverick trims, GM vehicles, Toyota, Honda etc..

[@drivingsports]

This is a fairly new course and we haven’t run a lot of vehicles through it yet. I did attempt the Cadillac XT5: kzbin.info/www/bejne/iaasdKyMhsx0ZtU

[@getinthespace7715]

When I test drove a telluride it was clear it was more minivan than SUV.

[@brokeboy87]

After watching this, I would just skip the X-pro and just go with the X-line until Kia can deliver a proper off-road-worthy SUV.

[@Warren1203]

Just curious how the ivtm4 system would work on the same course and maybe to show how the two systems differ.

[@tallll70]

the ivtm4 has has actually stronger clutches on latest Pilot offroad model so hopefully it will be bit more resilient instead overheating in similar holes this was in

[@alsheremeta]

Thanks Ryan for another very informative video! Spanking TFL again! I apologize for nit picking, but please it is not MPG's but only miles per gallon not gallons 😁

[@LionRunner]

Lets take the Honda Pilot Trailsport and show Telluride X-Pro how its done? Maybe? Or Subaru Ascent "Wilderness" with X-mode2 if Subaru builds it? Maybe for model year 2024? It would definitely be a good battle between Honda and Subaru as Honda has real torque vectoring awd with clutch pack in the rear vs Subaru completely rely on the ABS system.

[@wildbill23c]

A Subaru Ascent Wilderness would really be a good future option for their lineup for sure. Wish they'd build something like the Brat with an old school 4WD/low range setup, I'd buy one instead of buying a UTV.

[@LionRunner]

@@wildbill23c Subaru having 4WD/low range in the past I guess the marketing dept said lets go behind mpg wars and just give CVT with a clutch based AWD (since CVT cannot handle a low range) 😥Since nowadays there are fuel efficient 9 speed / 10 speed automatics I really hope atleast they look at automatic transmissions just like Nissan did and skip the Crappy Vague Transmissions.

[@wildbill23c]

@@LionRunner Subaru was using CVTs clear back in the 80's, the "Automatic" option in the Subaru Justy was a CVT. Nothing new, other manufacturers toyed with them for a while too and gave up....although there are some of the hybrids that use some form of a CVT...except Toyota's Hybrid system I believe.

[@seadawg4278]

Another great video. Very informative!

[@rondail5675]

Ryan, were you able to get the brown stain off the seat after tipping the vehicle on 2 opposing wheels????

[@haroldbeauchamp3770]

Hahah if Ryan doesn’t heart this comment then I’m done lol

[@OnJMilesWay]

Felt like I was watching a mini-van off road test

[@bobstevenson4396]

Cannot wait for you to get an opportunity to test the upcoming Kia EV9! Looking forward to an Electric replacement for our high mileage 2008 Nissan Xterra Off-road 6 speed manual with 4-low and rear axle locker. Came standard from the factory with 265/75r16 tires that can easily be lowered to 18psi when hauling our 5000# boat and trailer out of a rocky shoreline.

[@drivingsports]

The EV9 does look great.

[@ruturaj47]

X pro is biggest waste of money, if someone wants that off road performance from a crossover then new pilot is 100x better. Telluride really shines in SX prestige trim.

[@johnwalker863]

Clearly he use some momentum and drove right up that little incline. And put in sport mode to apply more power. Not snow

[@JimSpence]

Kia does it again! 5k towing without a hitch even!

[@LatersOnTheMenjay.]

Nice review. Somehow they made the facelifted Telluride look older than the first release Telluride. Maybe it's the removal of the distinct orange driving lights or maybe the look is just aging but at 8:39 it already looks like an old design. Seems to be dog$hit off-road too. That's a pass for me.

[@sansin6250]

How does the Telluride X-pro compare to the Honda Pilot Trailsport in terms of deep snow driving?

[@atmartens]

Really curious on how the new Pilot and Passport will do. It’s a good looking SUV but with all the reliability issues they’ve had, there’s no way I’d be buying a Kia and Hyundai. No thanks. Great review!

[@ryzen397]

i like the way the music comes on when your stuck lol

[@tonylivesley8498]

I have a 21 sx telluride.. great car for long trips and hauling the kids around.. but it is not for off road by any means.. get a 4 runner or bronco if u want off road..

[@nickpagan5480]

Do you air down the tires at all ? Subarus are normally between 28 and 36 while the telluride is between 35 and 37 witch is going to affect off roading

[@drivingsports]

We kept it as provided. About 38 IIRC.

[@7t7o7]

Finally!! An objective test of a Kia/Hyundai vehicle that is heavily marketed as a serious off-road SUV. Turns out that the Telluride is nothing but a big pretender. Obviously these test folk are not part of Hearst media and thus were not paid off by Hyundai first.

[@louisvilaros9066]

What about traction control maybe that's a expensive light duty suv wonder what it would do on snow and ice

[@drivingsports]

Turning off TC, disables wheel braking. That doesn't help.

[@louisvilaros9066]

It's seems to have all 4 wheels spinning would b better than just 2

[@armaniusmaximus]

Great video Ryan! Pilot Trailsport is far better than this Kia off-road wise?

[@drivingsports]

The Honda is much better.

[@armaniusmaximus]

@@drivingsports Hi Ryan. On an unrelated subject which no one I ask seems to have the answer, what happens after I use up the battery in a PHEV by driving on EV only mode? Does the vehicle go into a combustion only mode? For example, on the new CX90 PHEV, about half of the 323 HP comes from the 4 cylinder engine and half comes from the electric motor. Once I deplete the battery, does it mean that I only have half of the 323 HP available to me via the combustion engine? It sounds painful to be driving a 5000 lb vehicle with only 185 HP ....

[@drivingsports]

So it’s possible that there is a scenario where you’ll notice that, in most daily use that will never be an issue. I’ve driven hundreds of these things and I’ve never noticed it “going dry.”

[@armaniusmaximus]

@@drivingsports Thanks Ryan! I hope you get a CX90 to test soon!!

[@llineedsadragstrip4089]

I'm sure you sat down with Kia USA in orchestrated this whole road test ....good product ion..... A real good test for this car would be to drive it on a Sandy Beach and add the tires down to 15 20 PSI and see how it does on SAND.........

[@franciscoorengo11]

How well would it do on long road trips? My optima engine just blew. And I might just try to get a telluride.

[@diannaray100]

we take long trips in ours a few times a year with teens, and dogs and it's awesome to us. plenty of room, everyone is comfortable and we like the way it drives.

[@mohammedtariq9048]

The biggest Kia Telluride problem is related to the windshield. Drivers would notice cracks and chips before accruing 7,500 mile.. NHTSA complaints show that 2023 owners have other problems too, including issues with the accelerator malfunctioning..

[@diannaray100]

I loved the review and the track. I just bought my second Telluride yesterday, going from the 21 SX to the 23 XPro- I'm not really ever off roading, I occasionally tow a trailer with a few side by sides or 4 wheelers on (which the 21 was only so so at- take off was not fantastic but once you were up to speed it was gravy) and occasionally have to get through some mud at hunt camp or campground, but in general, I'm not really using the off road features much. I like having SOME ability for those times when it happens, which this seemed to offer in limited capacity, but wasn't as focused on that as how much I just enjoy driving the Telluride. I just really love this thing- it's just about as simple as that. It's roomy enough for passengers and long family trips, has a great cargo space with 3rd row down, is peppy enough (for me) and still feels like a roomy sturdy ride- a lot of crossovers just feel too light or cramped to me. For the price point, it feels like a good middle - the range rovers and yukons are great but pricey and I feel like this is easily just as nice to drive. I like trucks, but they just aren't practical for me at this point- so this is a great compromise for me.

[@truth959]

It needs a rear diff locker. What's that beeping sound it keeps making?

[@mickeybrumfield764]

I don't know how you can design an off road oriented vehicle with a multiple mode selector and not include an off-road mode.

[@drivingsports]

Right?!

[@haroldbeauchamp3770]

Kia doing Kia things

[@sachilee1]

for some reason they don't give us mud or sand mode in america but canada has it

[@0HOON0]

@@haroldbeauchamp3770 Agree, but at least it did better than previous KIAs Ryan had on the channel. Lol. They were hopeless.

[@JimSpence]

Why leave the tiny front sunroof just to keep the temp controls in rear on the top

[@rd4k04]

This is the awesome xpro. How could it not make it through a easy trailhead?

[@terryburgau7792]

Anyone who wants to do that will buy a jeep or a bronco. The Telluride is the best bang for the buck in the family suv market.

[@dirtsurf1]

Any idea how this would compare to a toyota grand highlander in regards to those traction qualities ?

[@bobgomavitz1330]

Great stuff! Can’t wait till you test the EV9

[@martinr8278]

Terrible for the environment. When on fire, they are so hot that they are left just to burn out, great for the chemicals they spew in the air, also the amount of gallons of water used just to keep the fire from spreading. Wonderful for the environment on how lithium is obtained. Seven years from now it’ll be interesting to see what kind of recycling problems they have. electricity is obtained, manufactured if you will from coal. Icing on the cake. There was absolutely no data to show that electric vehicles are going to help with climate. It’s just for those who are completely brainwashed. Also check out California, they’re electrical grid can’t even support EVs and they’re told at certain times they cannot charge them, that’s wonderful if you need your vehicle in an emergency. Enjoy

[@daryoushborja5115]

keep killing it man.

[@djfitzgerald2193]

i don't think that's a true representation of a road in Washington there no coffee shop along the road 🤣

[@jorgeneves1334]

I have seen many Kia and Hyundai, and their "grip and slip" systems go nowhere on an icy city street here in Canada... and their salesmen tell potential buyers that their AWD is as good as Subaru's

[@natewagner3165]

Does Android Auto work with/come up using the SBC port

[@PrecisionRifleNetwork]

what's the annoying beeping noise I'm hearing while you're driving on the offroad course?

[@drivingsports]

Parking sensors.

[@PrecisionRifleNetwork]

@@drivingsports ok thanks, that's what i figured. Can those be turned off while driving?

[@drivingsports]

@@PrecisionRifleNetwork yup!

[@damien7881]

COULD U DO THE HONDA PILOT TRAILSPORT -VS -THE NISSAN ROCK CREEK EDITION...(Because HAY WHY Not Lol)

[@AB2ski2]

Pretty sure this is the Prestige X-Pro line based on the terracotta leather interior trim, no?

[@davidtavares4509]

Love your videos!!! 🎉

[@zogadwoe]

New Kia telluride xpro, New Honda pilot, New ascent. How will you rate their off-road performance based on their awd systems? I am checking out the new Mazda cx90 rear wheel based awd system. Which one has the best capable awd system for me to pick? Any recommendations?

[@drivingsports]

We haven't tested the CX-90 yet, but it is in our schedule for later in May, so I don't have an opinion on it. The Honda Pilot Trailsport has an excellent AWD system. Possibly one of the best in the category (mid-size unibody crossovers.) Ascent is second. Telluride is 3rd. Given the options you listed.

[@zogadwoe]

@Driving Sports TV thank you. I will wait for your review of the cx90 Mazda and make my décision. I currently drive a 2021 ascent limited but I am beginning to look elsewhere because beside the awd system and the awesome crash safety of the ascent, subaru is underwhelming in the luxury features for the same price range as a telluride or a palisade

[@karsaorlong4391]

@@zogadwoe From what I have seen from reviews the cx90 is a nice mid size 3 row but for off road it won't beat the Pilot trailsport. It won't have the features of the Kia / Hyundai but it will have better build / reliability.

[@timberlinecline3667]

Ford explorer has a much better AWD system then the Mazda and kia even better then the Subaru ascent

[@ahmadalqawasmi1987]

​ No subaru is better than the honda, we need a comparsion plz

[@robertyoung8289]

I've yet to see a all wheel drive that looked at home in the dirt. I just don't get them.

[@0HOON0]

Bronco Sport Badlands comes the closest.

[@robertyoung8289]

@@0HOON0 Yes. I would agree with that. 👍

[@kayoleek20z]

2023 pilot trailsport next please

[@perpelle]

Why no mention regarding android compatibility? There are more android phones sold then apple ones.

[@MartinsLife]

Beautiful vehicle, not an ideal softroader but it looks really nice as a pavement princess! IMO, without a transfer case, it's not worth investing in for a weekend warrior, it's a nice feeling being able to tackle almost any technical obstacle with a proper 4X4 rig.

[@williampulley]

What's the missile/ammo loadout in the event of a full blown chicken horde event?

[@geosh10]

Too bad the Telluride failed the updates side impact crash test by IIHS.

[@ngoalpo]

I'd love to see a comparison of this car VS the Subaru ascent.

[@slandshark]

Last I heard is that Subaru isn't sending out Subaru Ascent test/review vehicles this year...not sure when they will resume. I got in contact with Driving Sports TV and even offered my own 2023 Subaru Ascent for his review since I live very close to him, but he declined due to insurance reasons (fair enough), then mentioned that Subaru isn't sending out Ascent's for review.

[@ngoalpo]

@@slandshark thank you for your insight. Very interesting. I wonder why Subaru would not loan their ascents? Hmmm

[@FlexRod]

Bummer and kind of disappointing when the Telluride has done so well in many areas. Definitely agree with your input as far as nameplate and packaging, if your are stamping pro on a vehicle and you mean to target off-road audiences then you need to at least be on par with the competition. The Nissan Pathfinder Rock Creek $43k, and Pilot Trailsport $48k are more appealing for people who actually need such a package with those starting prices. They have a more attainable price point, all have three rows given Kia excelling there, they have all terrain tires just like here, and skid plates except the Kia should have not missed that either. That said, the Kia excels in many things like space, has a lot of style and features, nice materials, better interior, probably more comfortable seats, digital cluster too, just didn’t bring the actual off road goodies it needed. They should also build a proper suspension, maybe work hand to hand with a company and give it the extra clearance it needs, and finally offer all the necessary proper off-road modes for challenging occasions.

[@rondail5675]

I would consider the Telluride if I needed a 3 row SUV. I wish the Tucson had the same powertrain as the Telluride.

[@user-um1us4fr9z]

I love your videos and although Kia's and Hyundai's have almost identical AWD, I would like to see you try the exact same course with the Hyundai Palisade, VW Atlas and honda Pilot. In the market for one of them.

[@mtbfambam1500]

2023 Honda CRV Hybrid review?

[@pigybak]

Plus $20k dealer mark up

[@TnTTyler]

Lack of low range, the brake lock differentials can't transfer enough torque to the wheels with traction

[@toddstewart3179]

Nice looking vehicle but I think I’ll stick with my Outback.

[@brokeboy87]

Subaru is legendary in the AWD department.

[@dallasangler]

I missed the first 1/4 of your overview due to the choice of music, but in a good way, if that is possible. Reminiscent of Tangerine Dream, I was transported to a train with Rebecca De Mornay via the 1983 Tom Cruise breakout venture, Risky Business.

[@peetfj]

Well no 4runner. Looks like it is competition for the Explorer Timberline. The Ford at least comes with tow hooks and skid plates.

[@EverythingEvo]

3 months ago? Just in time for the 2024 model which was released around that time lol.

[@IbraheemALBalushi]

Good job

[@forrest225]

I can’t imagine buying a Kia or Hyundai with all the issues they’ve been having lately.

[@cullinan18]

I'm glad they didn't go with the "glued on tablet" look.

[@djtrepound2407]

I hope Kia watches this video and uses it to improve the next model. Add skid plates, a real locker and a selectable low range or mode that can replicate it. Hopefully the new Chevy Traverse will be more offroad capable than this. Disappointing.

[@WhoWeAre1311]

The Telluride could have easily made it over that rock on the last course. In my humble opinion, I do not believe you exhausted all options. Perhaps you did not want to cause any damage? In any case, great video! Thanks for your review.

[@PlinkingLePew]

From what I saw, I have to agree. I saw no attempts of backing up and giving a tiny bump, nor any attempts to really turn the wheels(which may defeat the purpose of the test, but in a real world scenario I wouldn't just stay in the same position that clearly I'm not moving in with my current methods).

[@Fadic4]

If it had a capable AWD system it should’ve been able to send power to the rear wheel that had traction. For the price they’re charging for this vehicle, Kia should implement an actual torque vectoring rear different instead of the cheap braking method they’re using.

[@WhoWeAre1311]

@@Fadic4 I respectfully disagree. The rear tires were clearly spinning and looking for traction-it was visible on the video. The issue is the Telluride was out of kilter. You cannot expect a single wheel to grab the terrain and propel a 5,000 pound vehicle; that’s unrealistic. The issue had nothing to do with Kia’s AWD system.

[@Fadic4]

@@WhoWeAre1311 Not sure where you saw the tire with the most load on it, spinning. The tire that was lifted which has the least traction was getting the majority of the power. You can clearly see at 22:17 the tire that has most load/traction is not even getting enough power, but with a torque vectoring rear differential, that tire would’ve gotten more power.

[@PlinkingLePew]

@Fadic4 to be fair, subaru uses the same method of torque vectoring, the use of braking the wheel with least traction is a very common torque vectoring solution these days. The difference becomes the center diff styles and gearing/power. And as I said, during that test a simple bump would have made it over that rock, the tires on the ground even spun a few times so the torque vectoring was working, the vehicle didn't have the traction and gearing to pull over the obstacle.

[@johnwalker863]

Lower the tire psi for best results

[@hiucollo2402]

Love the 'Chicken Coop get off my Road' test.

[@ospf5105]

Latest land rover defender is also unibody with independent suspension, yet its off road performance is amazing, off roading is simply not in the goal/objective of Huawei/KIA, so they should stop embarrassing themselves with monikors like trail ready or xpro...etc..

[@moloono1]

I’ll be sticking to our GX460. Peace of mind, V8, real off-road chops.

[@mikefoehr235]

Keep my Tundra TRD OR...love the 5.7 v8.

[@moloono1]

@@mikefoehr235 🤘 I respect the hell out of Tundras. That legendary 5.7 is amazing. Enjoy many, trouble-free miles in that thing!

[@mikefoehr235]

@@moloono1 The Tundra is seen by many as second rate compared to.the big 3. I think the gen 2 Tundra is a killer truck. I love towing our RV with it. It is a beast. Thanks for the comment.

[@wildbill23c]

@@mikefoehr235 I had a 2008 Tundra, engine/transmission was fine, the repeated rear axle bearing and front diff bearing failures were huge negatives for me for what Toyota pretends to be a "heavy" half ton truck, it couldn't even handle light duty stuff that I occasionally needed it to do. I can't remember what year it was but I think 2012 was the year they changed bearing manufacturers and all those bearing problems were corrected, but like Toyota always is, they're way too slow at fixing anything, they had TSBs out for all the problems related to the front diff howl/growl issues (requires replacing the front diff), and rear axle bearing howling which requires pulling the axle shafts and replacing the bearings. Too bad they went to the turbo undersized engine crap, otherwise another Tundra would have been in my driveway in the near future....The only thing I noticed when towing with my 08 is it seemed to excessively hunt between gears, I just got to where I'd manually drop it to 4th and leave it there when I was towing on anything but flat ground...towed great, plenty of power....they had a TRD supercharger option for a while, but dang I'm not sure why you'd need it LOL. I wish Toyota would have left the 5.7L V8 as an option, instead of discontinuing it altogether...stupid move on their part, at least Ford still lets you get the F150 with the 5L V8. Maybe in a year or so Toyota will wake up and give us the V8 back.

[@moloono1]

@@wildbill23c Blame it on government mandates and stricter emissions rules. We got to live in the hay day of gasoline engines.

[@rayjensen4480]

You seem to be a Subaru kind of guy. Which AWD SYSTEM TO YOU LIKE BETTER.....the Ascent's or the Telluride's?

[@drivingsports]

The Subaru is much better at side-to-side power transfer than the Kia. Also, Ascent is FT AWD, the Telluride uses a part-time system.

[@dontdriveangree]

Hyundai Kia fined by Canada government for being slow on recalls. Can’t trust that company with everything I have heard about them.