Kia Telluride SX Prestige X-Pro and the E19

[Durango1]

Hello everyone! The lifted E19 set up for boondocking ticks off a lot of items on our list. Eventually we'd get a 4 X 4 Ranger or Colorado for a TV.

However, right now Mama is gently pushing for a Kia Telluride SX Prestige X-Pro which has a higher 5500# tow rating (vs. 5000# on regular Tellurides) along a Tow Mode setting, which includes self-leveling rear suspension.

I've searched this excellent forum and not found any real-life experiences (or even opinions) on the upgraded towing capability with the Telluride's X-Pro trim. THANKS!

 

[splitting_lanes]

Just my personal opinion with no experience behind it — the Telluride has some really good reviews, and a tow mode with leveling beats most of the available tow vehicles.

Of course, your mileage may vary.

 

[Mike G]

My wife would never let me hear the end of it if I bought a Kia. She has heard too many reports of how easy they are to steal. Be sure to ask your insurance carrier if they will cover a Kia.


You mentioned self leveling suspension. I have self leveling air suspension on my Lexus GX470 (2008). I was asking my mechanic about the cost to replace the weakening rear air shocks. $970 apiece, just for the parts! Shocking. Of course that doesn't mean the Kia ones are that expensive. Just telling about mine.

 

[Chainplate]

My wife and I just recently bought an Escape 17B and we tow it with our 2016 Kia Sorento V6 and all wheel drive - similar to the Telluride. We picked up our 17B in Florida and drove it to Southern California, where we live. I towed the trailer at 60 miles per hour and in 5th gear, downshifting to 4th frequently. Going over the Laguna Mountains, I had to downshift into 3rd but it was easy to keep the engine at 3,200 RPM and at 45 mph - passing slower trucks was easy and I felt that I had power in reserve. The stock mirrors gave us an adequate view except for what was directly behind us but changing lanes wasn’t a problem. Overall, we were delighted with the Kia’s performance, the 15 mpg notwithstanding.

Safe travels.