Switching from Mercedes GLE 350 to Telluride...any thoughts?

[Enjoynit]

Not sure which page or topic to put this on, I am a new member, trying to purchase my first Telluride and of course inventory is non-existent so I am reading all I can before I place an order for one. I currently drive a Mercedes 2020 GLE 350 and the one thing I am worried about, is whether I will like the ride and driveability of the Telluride after driving a mercedes. I am sold on everything else about the Telluride but wondered if anyone here can compare how the two vehicles drive. Years ago I used to have a minivan so I just don't want something that ever feels or drives like that again! Reason I am selling my Mercedes is 1) requires the premium gas 2) Didn't come with a heated steering wheel even at $68k price and 3) does not have a tow hitch or receiver for our bike rack. I was told I could get an aftermarket one put on for under $1000 but so far no one has one that will fit this vehicle; might take a couple years until they do. We take our bikes everywhere and this is a problem. Mercedes deal said they can add a tow hitch for, like 4 grand. I said no thanks. Last thing, the car is super over-sensitive to proximity warnings, constantly beeping and showing red when there is nothing near me. Several times I have backed up the car in an empty parking lot and it slammed on the brakes really hard even though there was nothing behind me. It beeps and turns red even when nothing is close. I am just getting a bit tired of all the fussiness of the GLE 350. The Telluride has everything I want and more, so that's why I am here on this forum, trying to learn so I can order the best vehicle for my needs. If you have any feedback on Mercedes vs. Telluride I would love to hear it.

 

[qwikhit]

It doesn’t drive like a minivan guaranteed

 

[Kwim]

the answer is obvious - of course not.

Ps. a few weeks ago I saw a Mercedes with a 4-piece bike rack.

 

[DarkMossJustin]

Not sure which page or topic to put this on, I am a new member, trying to purchase my first Telluride and of course inventory is non-existent so I am reading all I can before I place an order for one. I currently drive a Mercedes 2020 GLE 350 and the one thing I am worried about, is whether I will like the ride and driveability of the Telluride after driving a mercedes. I am sold on everything else about the Telluride but wondered if anyone here can compare how the two vehicles drive. Years ago I used to have a minivan so I just don't want something that ever feels or drives like that again! Reason I am selling my Mercedes is 1) requires the premium gas 2) Didn't come with a heated steering wheel even at $68k price and 3) does not have a tow hitch or receiver for our bike rack. I was told I could get an aftermarket one put on for under $1000 but so far no one has one that will fit this vehicle; might take a couple years until they do. We take our bikes everywhere and this is a problem. Mercedes deal said they can add a tow hitch for, like 4 grand. I said no thanks. Last thing, the car is super over-sensitive to proximity warnings, constantly beeping and showing red when there is nothing near me. Several times I have backed up the car in an empty parking lot and it slammed on the brakes really hard even though there was nothing behind me. It beeps and turns red even when nothing is close. I am just getting a bit tired of all the fussiness of the GLE 350. The Telluride has everything I want and more, so that's why I am here on this forum, trying to learn so I can order the best vehicle for my needs. If you have any feedback on Mercedes vs. Telluride I would love to hear it.

@Enjoynit:

I've never driven a GLE 350 but I drove a mid-80s Baby Benz 190E for a bit.

That was fun to drive fast, good cornering, no modern ABS brakes, but felt solid.

Premium gas is a reason I ditched the 2002 Lexus LS 430 V8 and shopped for a new car.

In California, paying the stupid 55 cents per gallon gas tax at the pump is basically like burning money.

Telly is pretty good on gas but the tank isn't the hugest. You'll still have to stop for gas on longer trips, but it's not any worse than most cars.

The unibody construction of modern SUVs and smaller crossovers mean they drive just like cars and you already know this.

I love driving my Telly in Sport Mode and never check MPG because I just don't care anymore, but if you're looking to move to a Telluride, here's what I like most:

#1: looks <--- handsome, rugged stance. Big, boxy, beautiful is what the designers were going for. They looked at all the automotive design, borrowed ideas from at least 20 cars that I can name, and integrated Kia's own signature "design language" into the mid-sized SUV of the year, defending champion in the category of mid-sized 3-row SUVs. Looks matter, otherwise we'd all be driving fugly Subaru Outbacks and Priuses. Every time I walk up to my car, or stare at it from afar, I'm smiling inside and out. The black SX wheels (non-Nightfall) are gorgeous. The aluminum/chrome lines make the Dark Moss body lines look perfect.

#2: comfort <--- I don't even use the 3rd row so it's a 4-seater and boy are those seats comfortable. Kia Motors has been on a roll making the interior cabin space satisfy 99% of people looking at the car. The perfect mix of comfort and support in the seat design is just right for me. Heated and cooled seats. Heated steering wheel. Heated and cooled seats in the 2nd row. If you add the excellent OEM All Weather Floor Mats, your feet and heels will be comfortable too. Check out the thread, "Warm hands, cool backs"

#3: traditional shifter <--- If a car doesn't have this, I don't care. I don't want it.

#4: sport mode <--- requires foot on pedal and so fun

#5: lock <--- when the snow and ice and slush and winter and sand and you keep it under 25mph

#6: safety <--- Perfect, bright, focused LED lights with a lot of throw, lumens, candelas, etc. Rear-cross traffic alert is awesome if you have to back out from a parking spot in a garage/lot, etc. Blind spot lights/beeps are awesome. Frontal collision alert/braking is amazing. I turn off most of the Nanny features like Lane Keep Assist because I don't ever want to fight the steering wheel to swerve to avoid stuff on the road or tree branches hanging over lanes, but those key ones I mentioned are good.

#7: infotainment tech <--- coming from a 2002 car with AM/FM, cassette tape deck and a CD-changer, this is like a whole new world of awesome features. I put my phone in the holder in front of the cup holders and plug in the USB cord and WOW !! So much fun. Kia's map and navigation is pretty good. I actually prefer the UVO to Google Maps because it integrates with the HUD and gives turn arrows lol.

#8: hidden storage well: <--- if you're a prepper, you'll love how much you can fit in this ample space. I have my battery jump pack, some basic tools, emergency food and first aid stuff, and other things. It's so spacious!

#9: compliments <--- everywhere I park, from gas stations to garages to parking lots to wherever, people ask me about my car. It also helps that I picked the flagship exterior color, Dark Moss (skipped the NFE because I like chrome/aluminum/light gray accents) and picked the amazing Dune Brown Nappa Leather Seats that pair with the dark gray premium cloth microfiber headliner that also cover the A-pillars and partially cover the B-pillars. So cozy, so upscale, so puppy-soft and stress-relieving

Dune Brown Interior Feedback

After 1 month of ownership. Still lovin’ the cozy upscale Dune Brown interior :)

tellurideforum.org

______________________________

 

[Enjoynit]

the answer is obvious - of course not.

Ps. a few weeks ago I saw a Mercedes with a 4-piece bike rack.

Thanks for your reply. Yes if you get a factory installed tow hitch then you can put a bike rack on a Mercedes GLE but if it is not factory tow hitch equipment, doing it after the fact is not yet available. I have inquired at Uhaul and 3 other places. But this is not the only reason for wanting to switch to the Telluride. For one thing it would be like getting a premium vehicle without having to put in premium gas. Also get a few perks my GLE does not have like a heated steering wheel and tow hitch, also heated and cooled seats in both rows. Finally my GLE just is too overly sensitive to any object nearby and the contant beeping and warning gets on my nerves. Especially when there is nothing nearby to warn me about! I am just over the Mercedes.

 

[Enjoynit]

@Enjoynit:

I've never driven a GLE 350 but I drove a mid-80s Baby Benz 190E for a bit.

That was fun to drive fast, good cornering, no modern ABS brakes, but felt solid.

Premium gas is a reason I ditched the 2002 Lexus LS 430 V8 and shopped for a new car.

In California, paying the stupid 55 cents per gallon gas tax at the pump is basically like burning money.

Telly is pretty good on gas but the tank isn't the hugest. You'll still have to stop for gas on longer trips, but it's not any worse than most cars.

The unibody construction of modern SUVs and smaller crossovers mean they drive just like cars and you already know this.

I love driving my Telly in Sport Mode and never check MPG because I just don't care anymore, but if you're looking to move to a Telluride, here's what I like most:

#1: looks <--- handsome, rugged stance. Big, boxy, beautiful is what the designers were going for. They looked at all the automotive design, borrowed ideas from at least 20 cars that I can name, and integrated Kia's own signature "design language" into the mid-sized SUV of the year, defending champion in the category of mid-sized 3-row SUVs. Looks matter, otherwise we'd all be driving fugly Subaru Outbacks and Priuses. Every time I walk up to my car, or stare at it from afar, I'm smiling inside and out. The black SX wheels (non-Nightfall) are gorgeous. The aluminum/chrome lines make the Dark Moss body lines look perfect.

#2: comfort <--- I don't even use the 3rd row so it's a 4-seater and boy are those seats comfortable. Kia Motors has been on a roll making the interior cabin space satisfy 99% of people looking at the car. The perfect mix of comfort and support in the seat design is just right for me. Heated and cooled seats. Heated steering wheel. Heated and cooled seats in the 2nd row. If you add the excellent OEM All Weather Floor Mats, your feet and heels will be comfortable too. Check out the thread, "Warm hands, cool backs"

#3: traditional shifter <--- If a car doesn't have this, I don't care. I don't want it.

#4: sport mode <--- requires foot on pedal and so fun

#5: lock <--- when the snow and ice and slush and winter and sand and you keep it under 25mph

#6: safety <--- Perfect, bright, focused LED lights with a lot of throw, lumens, candelas, etc. Rear-cross traffic alert is awesome if you have to back out from a parking spot in a garage/lot, etc. Blind spot lights/beeps are awesome. Frontal collision alert/braking is amazing. I turn off most of the Nanny features like Lane Keep Assist because I don't ever want to fight the steering wheel to swerve to avoid stuff on the road or tree branches hanging over lanes, but those key ones I mentioned are good.

#7: infotainment tech <--- coming from a 2002 car with AM/FM, cassette tape deck and a CD-changer, this is like a whole new world of awesome features. I put my phone in the holder in front of the cup holders and plug in the USB cord and WOW !! So much fun. Kia's map and navigation is pretty good. I actually prefer the UVO to Google Maps because it integrates with the HUD and gives turn arrows lol.

#8: hidden storage well: <--- if you're a prepper, you'll love how much you can fit in this ample space. I have my battery jump pack, some basic tools, emergency food and first aid stuff, and other things. It's so spacious!

#9: compliments <--- everywhere I park, from gas stations to garages to parking lots to wherever, people ask me about my car. It also helps that I picked the flagship exterior color, Dark Moss (skipped the NFE because I like chrome/aluminum/light gray accents) and picked the amazing Dune Brown Nappa Leather Seats that pair with the dark gray premium cloth microfiber headliner that also cover the A-pillars and partially cover the B-pillars. So cozy, so upscale, so puppy-soft and stress-relieving

Dune Brown Interior Feedback

After 1 month of ownership. Still lovin’ the cozy upscale Dune Brown interior :)

tellurideforum.org

Thank you so much for all of your helpful comments! Yes I am very sold on the Telluride, they are very hard to find here in PA and I want to test drive an SX before buying. Just want to make sure it drives nicely and handles smoothly. So none are available within 35 - 40 miles of me, and I am waiting on an SX to arrive at a local dealer so I can take it for a spin. Definitely looking for the top of the line with all the bells and whistles. Can you believe, a $68,000 Mercedes GLE does not have a heated steering wheel? Some do, some don't they just don't automatically come with it. My 2015 ML 350 had both the heated wheel and the tow hitch. I miss the heated steering wheel so much! But also miss being able to take our bikes everywhere. Dealer wanted 4 grand to put a tow hitch on. I am tired of the expensive services there and also putting premium gas in my car. Love driving it but the warnings come on constantly, really annoying that I am getting a lot of false warnings. I am going to trade in the GLE for the Telluride. Just really love this vehicle and can't wait to get one.

 

[DarkMossJustin]

Thank you so much for all of your helpful comments! Yes I am very sold on the Telluride, they are very hard to find here in PA and I want to test drive an SX before buying. Just want to make sure it drives nicely and handles smoothly. So none are available within 35 - 40 miles of me, and I am waiting on an SX to arrive at a local dealer so I can take it for a spin. Definitely looking for the top of the line with all the bells and whistles. Can you believe, a $68,000 Mercedes GLE does not have a heated steering wheel? Some do, some don't they just don't automatically come with it. My 2015 ML 350 had both the heated wheel and the tow hitch. I miss the heated steering wheel so much! But also miss being able to take our bikes everywhere. Dealer wanted 4 grand to put a tow hitch on. I am tired of the expensive services there and also putting premium gas in my car. Love driving it but the warnings come on constantly, really annoying that I am getting a lot of false warnings. I am going to trade in the GLE for the Telluride. Just really love this vehicle and can't wait to get one.

The Telly does have parking sensors that are a bit sensitive.

I ignore the yellow and inch closer to the wall, pretty much to red until I stop, hahah, but I've gotten used to it and so will everyone.

I think you'll love the Telly.

Since the engines are the same, test drive any AWD Telly you can get and just enjoy the pictures of our SX interiors until you get yours. You won't find an SX sitting on a lot unless it's at a dealership with a crazy high markup. Just pick any Telluride you can see and imagine the rest. It's for the driving feel anyway. If they let you put it in Sport Mode, do it

Are you thinking about an AWD SX P/T?

Meaning SX trim level (non-Nightfall) with the Prestige Package and the factory-mounted Tow hitch receiver + self-leveling rear shock absorbers?

If you start down the path to ultimate color combinations, may we offer you a peek at some photos of a Prestige Package exclusive, a Nappa Leather color available to no other trim level, the amazing, the awesome... Dune to the Moon:

Dune Brown Interior Feedback

Hello! I'm leaning to ordering Boss Moss with Dune Brown Interior...of course I have seen neither in person and am shooting from the hip. Wondering if people could send me pictures if they have this setup or just a rough idea of how they like their interior. I believe @jw_tx21 has this combo...

tellurideforum.org

Dune Brown Interior Feedback

Got a call from dealer today who told me the Nappa leather (I ordered Dune Brown) is having supply chain issues and my 2021 SXP will now be delayed again. This is my 3rd delay since my February order - First June, then July, then August - Now October. I am a bit of a skeptic on the delay...

tellurideforum.org

Dune Brown Interior Feedback

After 1 month of ownership. Still lovin’ the cozy upscale Dune Brown interior :)

tellurideforum.org

Dune Brown Interior Feedback

Here here! I second this post!!! DB4Life!!! I want that Dune Brown in an EXP!!!!!

tellurideforum.org

 

[Kwim]

For one thing it would be like getting a premium vehicle without having to put in premium gas.

telluride is not premium.
Any car is a compromise.

Yes, you can save on gas, but you bought a car that costs almost 2 tellurides and you are thinking about how to save 50 cents per gallon. Why then did they buy such an expensive car? You had to immediately take a Kia / Hyundai and not a Mercedes.

______________________________

 

[Husker Soze]

.... If you have any feedback on Mercedes vs. Telluride I would love to hear it.

I have an older 2012 GLK 350 4Matic (3.5 V6 /M272 engine) and a 2020 KT SX AWD.
And this is just my own personal experience driving both...

--- Handling: Benz (hands down) - the 45/55 torque split just feels and handles different. Even with the snow mode and diff lock in the KT, I still prefer driving the Benz during inclement winter weather.

--- Quality/built: Benz - this is obvious, but everything just feels solid with the Mercedes

--- Technology: KT - because it's newer...but I also think that the Korean brands had really stepped up their game

--- Maintenance: KT - cheaper and budget friendly

--- Value: KT - We wanted to move up to the GLS model at one time, but we figured we could use the money somewhere else

Not really a fair comparison, but if you're looking for good replacement for your GLE...I'd highly recommend a KT.
Just my .02

 

[Kwim]

I have an older 2012 GLK

Not really a fair comparison,

generally an unfair comparison.
8 years in the automotive industry is a huge abyss.

Here I remembered my first car ..... Lada 2003
will have to be compared.

 

[Husker Soze]

generally an unfair comparison.
8 years in the automotive industry is a huge abyss.

Here I remembered my first car ..... Lada 2003
will have to be compared.

I like how you quoted my post, but removed everything in between without context just you can try and win points with your attempted humor.
Anything else you care to contribute with this conversation? Because a Lada a long way from a Mercedes....or was that an actual joke?

 

[Kwim]

I like how you quoted my post, but removed everything in between without context just you can try and win points with your attempted humor.
Anything else you care to contribute with this conversation? Because a Lada a long way from a Mercedes....or was that an actual joke?

I don't care about points. I removed all the text to draw attention to the fact that the comparison is generally not fair, since over these 8 years the automotive industry has changed radically. Now any Korean fits the premium segment of that time.

______________________________

 

[Enjoynit]

telluride is not premium.
Any car is a compromise.

Yes, you can save on gas, but you bought a car that costs almost 2 tellurides and you are thinking about how to save 50 cents per gallon. Why then did they buy such an expensive car? You had to immediately take a Kia / Hyundai and not a Mercedes.

If you read my full post Kwim you will see it’s not simply about the gas price, it’s a combination of things. Most annoying is that we bought a $1200 bike rack about 4 years ago to put on the tow hitch receiver of my last Benz which was an ML 350. My newer 2020 GLE didn’t have a tow hitch. Aftermarket suppliers do not yet have one that fits this car. Dealer wanted $4000 to put one on - this was after the salesperson assured me it would only be about $700 for an aftermarket tow hitch. And then I also have the issue with way too sensitive proximity sensors that go off when nothing is around me and slam my brakes when backing up in a totally empty parking lot. And yes the premium gas cost is not something I love. Finally no heated steering wheel which I really miss. If I can get all the luxury features my Mercedes has and more in a Telluride, then why not make the switch? My only concern is how it drives.

 

[Kwim]

@Enjoynit
you intrigued me directly about the hitch. 1 minute and voila:

2020-2025 Mercedes GLE SUV w/AMG Exterior Line Package / 2020-2023 Mercedes GLS 580 SUV / 2022-2024 Mercedes GLS 450 SUV w/AMG Exterior Line Package

Don't settle for an ordinary hitch. Preserve the look of your Mercedes GLE SUV AMG with a Stealth hitch. Our hitches are fully hidden when not in use and customized to match your vehicle's design. No visible cutting. Maintain ground clearance. Made in the USA with a Limited Lifetime Warranty.

stealthhitches.com

as I wrote any car is a compromise. If your finances are fine, don't make stupid mistakes like me.

 

[Sal Collaziano]

Not sure which page or topic to put this on, I am a new member, trying to purchase my first Telluride and of course inventory is non-existent so I am reading all I can before I place an order for one. I currently drive a Mercedes 2020 GLE 350 and the one thing I am worried about, is whether I will like the ride and driveability of the Telluride after driving a mercedes. I am sold on everything else about the Telluride but wondered if anyone here can compare how the two vehicles drive. Years ago I used to have a minivan so I just don't want something that ever feels or drives like that again! Reason I am selling my Mercedes is 1) requires the premium gas 2) Didn't come with a heated steering wheel even at $68k price and 3) does not have a tow hitch or receiver for our bike rack. I was told I could get an aftermarket one put on for under $1000 but so far no one has one that will fit this vehicle; might take a couple years until they do. We take our bikes everywhere and this is a problem. Mercedes deal said they can add a tow hitch for, like 4 grand. I said no thanks. Last thing, the car is super over-sensitive to proximity warnings, constantly beeping and showing red when there is nothing near me. Several times I have backed up the car in an empty parking lot and it slammed on the brakes really hard even though there was nothing behind me. It beeps and turns red even when nothing is close. I am just getting a bit tired of all the fussiness of the GLE 350. The Telluride has everything I want and more, so that's why I am here on this forum, trying to learn so I can order the best vehicle for my needs. If you have any feedback on Mercedes vs. Telluride I would love to hear it.

Welcome. If you're not concerned with missing the prestige that goes along with driving an automobile made by a top tier brand, I'm confident you'll be very happy with the Telluride. I'd love to read your comparison if/when you do buy one...

 

[Cliv80]

Thank you so much for all of your helpful comments! Yes I am very sold on the Telluride, they are very hard to find here in PA and I want to test drive an SX before buying. Just want to make sure it drives nicely and handles smoothly. So none are available within 35 - 40 miles of me, and I am waiting on an SX to arrive at a local dealer so I can take it for a spin. Definitely looking for the top of the line with all the bells and whistles. Can you believe, a $68,000 Mercedes GLE does not have a heated steering wheel? Some do, some don't they just don't automatically come with it. My 2015 ML 350 had both the heated wheel and the tow hitch. I miss the heated steering wheel so much! But also miss being able to take our bikes everywhere. Dealer wanted 4 grand to put a tow hitch on. I am tired of the expensive services there and also putting premium gas in my car. Love driving it but the warnings come on constantly, really annoying that I am getting a lot of false warnings. I am going to trade in the GLE for the Telluride. Just really love this vehicle and can't wait to get one.

I just picked up my nightfall SXP Wolf Gray Monday (Ordered 12/12) here in Central PA no mark up and free tires for life of the vehicle.at my dealership. Let me know if you want details. Also I drove a mini van a few years ago and this is nothing like that. I looked at the MB GLE 350 and GLC 300 but decided like you I didn't want premium gas prices, expensive maintenance, higher car insurance etc. and this actually has more features (3rd row, HUD, 2nd row captains, cooled seats, etc.) then the MB's I looked at - no regrets!

______________________________

 

[anotherlostmonkey]

Its a been a while since I've driven a MB GLC, but I've driven a Porsche Cayenne & a older BMW X5 plenty. I'm basing my Telluride evaluation on my SX N/T/P.

If we're talking strictly comfort on a long drive, I'd place the Telluride slightly above the Cayenne & X5. The cabin feels bigger due to the boxy design, the seats are comfortable, and you have enough pockets etc to put stuff. I want to say the Cayenne's cabin is quieter, and the X5/Telluride is even. Honestly they're all quiet cabins while driving. Kia's lane keep assist is like BMW's and aims to keep you in the center of lane while other systems are reactive and makes corrections once you drift. From the long highway drives I've done so far the Telluride basically drives itself with minimal input. Kia's Nav is decent, but I still think Waze/google maps is better.

Day to day driving - I'd place them all even. I don't really think one outshines the others in day to day driving. The only thing the Telluride has going here is it take 87 octane vs premium.

Spirited driving/fun driving - The telluride is the worst of the bunch. Pedal has a lot of lag, engine is fine for normal driving, but sluggish when compared to the more preppy X5/Cayenne engines. Handles ok, but doesn't feel as refined as the others. Brakes about the same as the X5, Cayenne is a bit better.

I still think the Telluride is the best of the mid-size 7/8 seater SUVs. Sure some brands do other things better, but you can't beat the overall value/features of a Telluride. I love mine, but I'll have to get a fun car at some point.

 

[blitt]

@Enjoynit:

I've never driven a GLE 350 but I drove a mid-80s Baby Benz 190E for a bit.

That was fun to drive fast, good cornering, no modern ABS brakes, but felt solid.

Premium gas is a reason I ditched the 2002 Lexus LS 430 V8 and shopped for a new car.

In California, paying the stupid 55 cents per gallon gas tax at the pump is basically like burning money.

Telly is pretty good on gas but the tank isn't the hugest. You'll still have to stop for gas on longer trips, but it's not any worse than most cars.

The unibody construction of modern SUVs and smaller crossovers mean they drive just like cars and you already know this.

I love driving my Telly in Sport Mode and never check MPG because I just don't care anymore, but if you're looking to move to a Telluride, here's what I like most:

#1: looks <--- handsome, rugged stance. Big, boxy, beautiful is what the designers were going for. They looked at all the automotive design, borrowed ideas from at least 20 cars that I can name, and integrated Kia's own signature "design language" into the mid-sized SUV of the year, defending champion in the category of mid-sized 3-row SUVs. Looks matter, otherwise we'd all be driving fugly Subaru Outbacks and Priuses. Every time I walk up to my car, or stare at it from afar, I'm smiling inside and out. The black SX wheels (non-Nightfall) are gorgeous. The aluminum/chrome lines make the Dark Moss body lines look perfect.

#2: comfort <--- I don't even use the 3rd row so it's a 4-seater and boy are those seats comfortable. Kia Motors has been on a roll making the interior cabin space satisfy 99% of people looking at the car. The perfect mix of comfort and support in the seat design is just right for me. Heated and cooled seats. Heated steering wheel. Heated and cooled seats in the 2nd row. If you add the excellent OEM All Weather Floor Mats, your feet and heels will be comfortable too. Check out the thread, "Warm hands, cool backs"

#3: traditional shifter <--- If a car doesn't have this, I don't care. I don't want it.

#4: sport mode <--- requires foot on pedal and so fun

#5: lock <--- when the snow and ice and slush and winter and sand and you keep it under 25mph

#6: safety <--- Perfect, bright, focused LED lights with a lot of throw, lumens, candelas, etc. Rear-cross traffic alert is awesome if you have to back out from a parking spot in a garage/lot, etc. Blind spot lights/beeps are awesome. Frontal collision alert/braking is amazing. I turn off most of the Nanny features like Lane Keep Assist because I don't ever want to fight the steering wheel to swerve to avoid stuff on the road or tree branches hanging over lanes, but those key ones I mentioned are good.

#7: infotainment tech <--- coming from a 2002 car with AM/FM, cassette tape deck and a CD-changer, this is like a whole new world of awesome features. I put my phone in the holder in front of the cup holders and plug in the USB cord and WOW !! So much fun. Kia's map and navigation is pretty good. I actually prefer the UVO to Google Maps because it integrates with the HUD and gives turn arrows lol.

#8: hidden storage well: <--- if you're a prepper, you'll love how much you can fit in this ample space. I have my battery jump pack, some basic tools, emergency food and first aid stuff, and other things. It's so spacious!

#9: compliments <--- everywhere I park, from gas stations to garages to parking lots to wherever, people ask me about my car. It also helps that I picked the flagship exterior color, Dark Moss (skipped the NFE because I like chrome/aluminum/light gray accents) and picked the amazing Dune Brown Nappa Leather Seats that pair with the dark gray premium cloth microfiber headliner that also cover the A-pillars and partially cover the B-pillars. So cozy, so upscale, so puppy-soft and stress-relieving

Dune Brown Interior Feedback

After 1 month of ownership. Still lovin’ the cozy upscale Dune Brown interior :)

tellurideforum.org

Very well said....my last Mercedes SUV was a 2013 GL450 and the fully loaded Telly SX is it's equal and better in some ways for way many less dollars!

 

[Enjoynit]

The Telly does have parking sensors that are a bit sensitive.

I ignore the yellow and inch closer to the wall, pretty much to red until I stop, hahah, but I've gotten used to it and so will everyone.

I think you'll love the Telly.

Since the engines are the same, test drive any AWD Telly you can get and just enjoy the pictures of our SX interiors until you get yours. You won't find an SX sitting on a lot unless it's at a dealership with a crazy high markup. Just pick any Telluride you can see and imagine the rest. It's for the driving feel anyway. If they let you put it in Sport Mode, do it

Are you thinking about an AWD SX P/T?

Meaning SX trim level (non-Nightfall) with the Prestige Package and the factory-mounted Tow hitch receiver + self-leveling rear shock absorbers?

If you start down the path to ultimate color combinations, may we offer you a peek at some photos of a Prestige Package exclusive, a Nappa Leather color available to no other trim level, the amazing, the awesome... Dune to the Moon:

Dune Brown Interior Feedback

Hello! I'm leaning to ordering Boss Moss with Dune Brown Interior...of course I have seen neither in person and am shooting from the hip. Wondering if people could send me pictures if they have this setup or just a rough idea of how they like their interior. I believe @jw_tx21 has this combo...

tellurideforum.org

Dune Brown Interior Feedback

Got a call from dealer today who told me the Nappa leather (I ordered Dune Brown) is having supply chain issues and my 2021 SXP will now be delayed again. This is my 3rd delay since my February order - First June, then July, then August - Now October. I am a bit of a skeptic on the delay...

tellurideforum.org

Dune Brown Interior Feedback

After 1 month of ownership. Still lovin’ the cozy upscale Dune Brown interior :)

tellurideforum.org

Dune Brown Interior Feedback

Here here! I second this post!!! DB4Life!!! I want that Dune Brown in an EXP!!!!!

tellurideforum.org

I definitely want an SX with tow hitch and Prestige package but doesn't matter to me if it is a nightfall version or not. Thanks for your response about the sensors, my issue with my GLE 350 is not so much when I am parking it, (I expect the sensors to go off then) but having sensors randomly go off when I am driving it or stopped at a light. It thinks everything nearby is an object. Causes my car to brake unexpectedly especially when backing up in an empty parking area. I am going to take it back to the dealer to have this looked at but just yesterday I was stopped at a traffic light waiting for it to change and the sensors were going off on my driver side, as if I was too close to a pole or something. Anyway, I have multiple reasons for wanting to make the change but I do appreciate your reply!

 

[Enjoynit]

I definitely want an SX with tow hitch and Prestige package but doesn't matter to me if it is a nightfall version or not. Thanks for your response about the sensors, my issue with my GLE 350 is not so much when I am parking it, (I expect the sensors to go off then) but having sensors randomly go off when I am driving it or stopped at a light. It thinks everything nearby is an object. Causes my car to brake unexpectedly especially when backing up in an empty parking area. I am going to take it back to the dealer to have this looked at but just yesterday I was stopped at a traffic light waiting for it to change and the sensors were going off on my driver side, as if I was too close to a pole or something. Anyway, I have multiple reasons for wanting to make the change but I do appreciate your reply!

@Enjoynit
you intrigued me directly about the hitch. 1 minute and voila:

2020-2025 Mercedes GLE SUV w/AMG Exterior Line Package / 2020-2023 Mercedes GLS 580 SUV / 2022-2024 Mercedes GLS 450 SUV w/AMG Exterior Line Package

Don't settle for an ordinary hitch. Preserve the look of your Mercedes GLE SUV AMG with a Stealth hitch. Our hitches are fully hidden when not in use and customized to match your vehicle's design. No visible cutting. Maintain ground clearance. Made in the USA with a Limited Lifetime Warranty.

stealthhitches.com

as I wrote any car is a compromise. If your finances are fine, don't make stupid mistakes like me.

Thank you Kwim. I did this same search back in the fall and also came up with this part. Brought it to the attention of a local firm that installs trailer hitches. While the descriptive title says it is acceptable for a 2020-2021 GLE 350 AMG, my vehicle is not the AMG version. While that should not really make a difference, the firm that looked at that part researched it further and said it was the same part approved for earlier years of the GLE but not specifically for 2020. He did not feel comfortable ordering it as when he went further into the search and looked at the actual specs, it did not say it would work for a 2020. I think the specs may have said up to 2018 or 2019. This was around October or November, so I will bring it up again and see if it can be installed. Thank you. I will probably still want the Telluride though...