Don't know much about them but Cadillac wasn't mentioned. Are they any good?
Advice wanted on 2016 or newer luxury SUV.
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I'd agree that a "proper" front engine rear drive setup is often most pleasing to drive. However, Mercedes tunes their vehicles with such awful throttle response, wonky transmission behavior and numb steering, that there is nothing proper about them.
My boss has a fleet of Mercedes SUV's including 2 diesels (which I hate) . The big GLs550 is about as numb as humanly possible and still function as a fast vehicle. I actually prefer the 350 over the 550, however the 350 seems slower than the diesels. Ugh.
I swear, the GLs550, you can floor it for 1+ second, then put your foot firmly on the brake and the engine will still be coming up to power as you are pressing hard on the brake, good god that's annoying.
My boss has a fleet of Mercedes SUV's including 2 diesels (which I hate) . The big GLs550 is about as numb as humanly possible and still function as a fast vehicle. I actually prefer the 350 over the 550, however the 350 seems slower than the diesels. Ugh.
I swear, the GLs550, you can floor it for 1+ second, then put your foot firmly on the brake and the engine will still be coming up to power as you are pressing hard on the brake, good god that's annoying.
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Originally Posted by Cujet
I'd agree that a "proper" front engine rear drive setup is often most pleasing to drive. However, Mercedes tunes their vehicles with such awful throttle response, wonky transmission behavior and numb steering, that there is nothing proper about them.
My boss has a fleet of Mercedes SUV's including 2 diesels (which I hate) . The big GLs550 is about as numb as humanly possible and still function as a fast vehicle. I actually prefer the 350 over the 550, however the 350 seems slower than the diesels. Ugh.
I swear, the GLs550, you can floor it for 1+ second, then put your foot firmly on the brake and the engine will still be coming up to power as you are pressing hard on the brake, good god that's annoying.
That's a common type complaint about the transmission on MB in the forums. The solution to that is to do a transmission reset. It basically learns the driver behavior and gets dull after a while. I've reset mine before and it's definitely more lively afterwards. Relatively simple to do, some sequence of pressing the pedals and ignition.
I'd agree that a "proper" front engine rear drive setup is often most pleasing to drive. However, Mercedes tunes their vehicles with such awful throttle response, wonky transmission behavior and numb steering, that there is nothing proper about them.
My boss has a fleet of Mercedes SUV's including 2 diesels (which I hate) . The big GLs550 is about as numb as humanly possible and still function as a fast vehicle. I actually prefer the 350 over the 550, however the 350 seems slower than the diesels. Ugh.
I swear, the GLs550, you can floor it for 1+ second, then put your foot firmly on the brake and the engine will still be coming up to power as you are pressing hard on the brake, good god that's annoying.
That's a common type complaint about the transmission on MB in the forums. The solution to that is to do a transmission reset. It basically learns the driver behavior and gets dull after a while. I've reset mine before and it's definitely more lively afterwards. Relatively simple to do, some sequence of pressing the pedals and ignition.
My in laws recently bought a CPO 15 Mercedes ML350 Bluetech. I drove it quite extensively when I visited them. It has the air suspension and in comfort mode it feels like a barge and the steering is extremely light. The suspension improves in "sport" mode and the steering becomes tighter feeling, but in all modes it feels disconnected, which seems to be a common theme in electrically assisted setups. Honestly, driving it didn't feel any different than in a FWD setup.
The diesel engine and the 7speed transmission felt good though and were quite responsive. The huge amounts of torque from basically idle speed probably helps tremendously in this heavy SUV.
The diesel engine and the 7speed transmission felt good though and were quite responsive. The huge amounts of torque from basically idle speed probably helps tremendously in this heavy SUV.
wemay
Site Donor 2023
Originally Posted by edyvw
All cars you mentioned are based on cheap platforms and I am not sure how car with transverse engine is proper luxury SUV. If you are stuck to those you mentioned, Mercedes is the one that will provide most luxurious ride and best performance.
Others mentioned CX-9. While nice vehicle I always come back to basics. True luxury cars have to have longitudinal engine and RWD platform. Everything else is just imitation.
All cars you mentioned are based on cheap platforms and I am not sure how car with transverse engine is proper luxury SUV. If you are stuck to those you mentioned, Mercedes is the one that will provide most luxurious ride and best performance.
Others mentioned CX-9. While nice vehicle I always come back to basics. True luxury cars have to have longitudinal engine and RWD platform. Everything else is just imitation.
While In Florida last month....and killing time as the missus shopped...I walked into a Lincoln dealer because I like some of their cars.
Their SUVs were very nice. My friend (in NY) bought a 2 year old (MKX ? I think...the bigger one...the one based on the Edge rather than the Escape....I'm not a fan of Lincoln's naming ever vehicle MK*, MK*, MK*… too confusing)...He really likes the vehicle and a 2 year old would probably be cheaper...
Their SUVs were very nice. My friend (in NY) bought a 2 year old (MKX ? I think...the bigger one...the one based on the Edge rather than the Escape....I'm not a fan of Lincoln's naming ever vehicle MK*, MK*, MK*… too confusing)...He really likes the vehicle and a 2 year old would probably be cheaper...
Have you considered Land Rover/Range Rover? They will have more issues than a comparable Lexus or Acura, but no more so then Jeeps...at least in my experience. Yes the older ones have a well deserved reputation for causing pain, but say 2012+ are much better. I have had three of the recent ones and they were fine.
Lots of Land Rover/Range Rover's around here. Very nice looking vehicles that I'm sure drive like a dream. Went to the San Antonio auto show yesterday....big mistake! I was like a kid in a candy store!
The Rovers are beautiful. In Silicon Valley there are tons running around.
If you talk to owners, they reply with horror stories.
That's just my experience.
Good luck.
If you talk to owners, they reply with horror stories.
That's just my experience.
Good luck.
Toyota 4Runner Limited?
Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited/Overland/Summit?
GMC Yukon?
Ford Expedition King Ranch/Platinum?
Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited/Overland/Summit?
GMC Yukon?
Ford Expedition King Ranch/Platinum?
Originally Posted by Brigadier
2018 Hyundai Santa Fe AWD Limited Ultimate.
Overloaded family SUV's don't equate to a a Luxury vehicle. They simply append features and interior and power plant. However items that make a vehicle more luxury like thicker windshields, more/better door seals, more sound deadening, improved suspension design are rarely placed into upscale family vehicles.
2018 Hyundai Santa Fe AWD Limited Ultimate.
Overloaded family SUV's don't equate to a a Luxury vehicle. They simply append features and interior and power plant. However items that make a vehicle more luxury like thicker windshields, more/better door seals, more sound deadening, improved suspension design are rarely placed into upscale family vehicles.
edyvw
$50 site donor 2026
Originally Posted by Brigadier
2018 Hyundai Santa Fe AWD Limited Ultimate.
LOL. Yes, example of luxury vehicle.
My SIenna has everything inside. Nice leather, JBL, 18" inch wheels, all buttons etc, etc. It is Limited version.
Here is the problem when one wants to make a pie out of [censored].
1. JBL sounds good, unless like I do, one wants to listen louder (in the end there is a reason why there is subwoofer and amplifier). Problem? Whole car sings. Windows are rattling, and inside the door God knows what is rattling. Rearview mirror is dancing, which prevents me to see clearly what is happening behind.
2. Seating position: while people can comfortably sit behind me (I am 6.2) my left foot is cramped because I have to move seat forward since steering wheel cannot get out that much. My foot few days ago started to hurt because I was forgetting I do not drive my beloved, never forgotten BMW. I figured I have to train myself that it is Toyota in the end of the day.
3. Noise. Not sure there is ANY sound insulation around tire compartment. But I have a feeling I can hear when car runs over 8X11 paper on the road.
4. Brakes? What brakes?
5. Torque steer although it is supposedly AWD.
Bottom line? Cannot wait to get BMW next year as my daily driver? What BMW? Anything, literally. I found one 325i on Autotrader, 2004, 90,000 miles, stick shift for $ 4,200. I am seriously thinking to pull it off to prevent further damage to my mental health. It will provide more joy than Hyundai, Toyota, Kia, Honda etc. combined.
2018 Hyundai Santa Fe AWD Limited Ultimate.
LOL. Yes, example of luxury vehicle.
My SIenna has everything inside. Nice leather, JBL, 18" inch wheels, all buttons etc, etc. It is Limited version.
Here is the problem when one wants to make a pie out of [censored].
1. JBL sounds good, unless like I do, one wants to listen louder (in the end there is a reason why there is subwoofer and amplifier). Problem? Whole car sings. Windows are rattling, and inside the door God knows what is rattling. Rearview mirror is dancing, which prevents me to see clearly what is happening behind.
2. Seating position: while people can comfortably sit behind me (I am 6.2) my left foot is cramped because I have to move seat forward since steering wheel cannot get out that much. My foot few days ago started to hurt because I was forgetting I do not drive my beloved, never forgotten BMW. I figured I have to train myself that it is Toyota in the end of the day.
3. Noise. Not sure there is ANY sound insulation around tire compartment. But I have a feeling I can hear when car runs over 8X11 paper on the road.
4. Brakes? What brakes?
5. Torque steer although it is supposedly AWD.
Bottom line? Cannot wait to get BMW next year as my daily driver? What BMW? Anything, literally. I found one 325i on Autotrader, 2004, 90,000 miles, stick shift for $ 4,200. I am seriously thinking to pull it off to prevent further damage to my mental health. It will provide more joy than Hyundai, Toyota, Kia, Honda etc. combined.
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Originally Posted by edyvw
Originally Posted by Brigadier
2018 Hyundai Santa Fe AWD Limited Ultimate.
LOL. Yes, example of luxury vehicle.
My SIenna has everything inside. Nice leather, JBL, 18" inch wheels, all buttons etc, etc. It is Limited version.
Here is the problem when one wants to make a pie out of [censored].
1. JBL sounds good, unless like I do, one wants to listen louder (in the end there is a reason why there is subwoofer and amplifier). Problem? Whole car sings. Windows are rattling, and inside the door God knows what is rattling. Rearview mirror is dancing, which prevents me to see clearly what is happening behind.
2. Seating position: while people can comfortably sit behind me (I am 6.2) my left foot is cramped because I have to move seat forward since steering wheel cannot get out that much. My foot few days ago started to hurt because I was forgetting I do not drive my beloved, never forgotten BMW. I figured I have to train myself that it is Toyota in the end of the day.
3. Noise. Not sure there is ANY sound insulation around tire compartment. But I have a feeling I can hear when car runs over 8X11 paper on the road.
4. Brakes? What brakes?
5. Torque steer although it is supposedly AWD.
Bottom line? Cannot wait to get BMW next year as my daily driver? What BMW? Anything, literally. I found one 325i on Autotrader, 2004, 90,000 miles, stick shift for $ 4,200. I am seriously thinking to pull it off to prevent further damage to my mental health. It will provide more joy than Hyundai, Toyota, Kia, Honda etc. combined.
Sounds like you should have bought the SantaFe instead of the Sienna.
But it is obvious you are a Bimmer Fanboy and nothing else will do.
Originally Posted by Brigadier
2018 Hyundai Santa Fe AWD Limited Ultimate.
LOL. Yes, example of luxury vehicle.
My SIenna has everything inside. Nice leather, JBL, 18" inch wheels, all buttons etc, etc. It is Limited version.
Here is the problem when one wants to make a pie out of [censored].
1. JBL sounds good, unless like I do, one wants to listen louder (in the end there is a reason why there is subwoofer and amplifier). Problem? Whole car sings. Windows are rattling, and inside the door God knows what is rattling. Rearview mirror is dancing, which prevents me to see clearly what is happening behind.
2. Seating position: while people can comfortably sit behind me (I am 6.2) my left foot is cramped because I have to move seat forward since steering wheel cannot get out that much. My foot few days ago started to hurt because I was forgetting I do not drive my beloved, never forgotten BMW. I figured I have to train myself that it is Toyota in the end of the day.
3. Noise. Not sure there is ANY sound insulation around tire compartment. But I have a feeling I can hear when car runs over 8X11 paper on the road.
4. Brakes? What brakes?
5. Torque steer although it is supposedly AWD.
Bottom line? Cannot wait to get BMW next year as my daily driver? What BMW? Anything, literally. I found one 325i on Autotrader, 2004, 90,000 miles, stick shift for $ 4,200. I am seriously thinking to pull it off to prevent further damage to my mental health. It will provide more joy than Hyundai, Toyota, Kia, Honda etc. combined.
Sounds like you should have bought the SantaFe instead of the Sienna.
But it is obvious you are a Bimmer Fanboy and nothing else will do.
edyvw
$50 site donor 2026
Originally Posted by Brigadier
Originally Posted by edyvw
Originally Posted by Brigadier
2018 Hyundai Santa Fe AWD Limited Ultimate.
LOL. Yes, example of luxury vehicle.
My SIenna has everything inside. Nice leather, JBL, 18" inch wheels, all buttons etc, etc. It is Limited version.
Here is the problem when one wants to make a pie out of [censored].
1. JBL sounds good, unless like I do, one wants to listen louder (in the end there is a reason why there is subwoofer and amplifier). Problem? Whole car sings. Windows are rattling, and inside the door God knows what is rattling. Rearview mirror is dancing, which prevents me to see clearly what is happening behind.
2. Seating position: while people can comfortably sit behind me (I am 6.2) my left foot is cramped because I have to move seat forward since steering wheel cannot get out that much. My foot few days ago started to hurt because I was forgetting I do not drive my beloved, never forgotten BMW. I figured I have to train myself that it is Toyota in the end of the day.
3. Noise. Not sure there is ANY sound insulation around tire compartment. But I have a feeling I can hear when car runs over 8X11 paper on the road.
4. Brakes? What brakes?
5. Torque steer although it is supposedly AWD.
Bottom line? Cannot wait to get BMW next year as my daily driver? What BMW? Anything, literally. I found one 325i on Autotrader, 2004, 90,000 miles, stick shift for $ 4,200. I am seriously thinking to pull it off to prevent further damage to my mental health. It will provide more joy than Hyundai, Toyota, Kia, Honda etc. combined.
Sounds like you should have bought the SantaFe instead of the Sienna.
But it is obvious you are a Bimmer Fanboy and nothing else will do.
My work colleague has one, that uber, super, duper, Limited Ultimate whatever. I drove it once and after drive begs a question: what did I just drive?
First issue with Santa Fa (besides being Hyundai) as luxury vehicle is that has engine wrongly positioned. Since that is fundamental of any luxury car, let's not go further.
Originally Posted by edyvw
Originally Posted by Brigadier
2018 Hyundai Santa Fe AWD Limited Ultimate.
LOL. Yes, example of luxury vehicle.
My SIenna has everything inside. Nice leather, JBL, 18" inch wheels, all buttons etc, etc. It is Limited version.
Here is the problem when one wants to make a pie out of [censored].
1. JBL sounds good, unless like I do, one wants to listen louder (in the end there is a reason why there is subwoofer and amplifier). Problem? Whole car sings. Windows are rattling, and inside the door God knows what is rattling. Rearview mirror is dancing, which prevents me to see clearly what is happening behind.
2. Seating position: while people can comfortably sit behind me (I am 6.2) my left foot is cramped because I have to move seat forward since steering wheel cannot get out that much. My foot few days ago started to hurt because I was forgetting I do not drive my beloved, never forgotten BMW. I figured I have to train myself that it is Toyota in the end of the day.
3. Noise. Not sure there is ANY sound insulation around tire compartment. But I have a feeling I can hear when car runs over 8X11 paper on the road.
4. Brakes? What brakes?
5. Torque steer although it is supposedly AWD.
Bottom line? Cannot wait to get BMW next year as my daily driver? What BMW? Anything, literally. I found one 325i on Autotrader, 2004, 90,000 miles, stick shift for $ 4,200. I am seriously thinking to pull it off to prevent further damage to my mental health. It will provide more joy than Hyundai, Toyota, Kia, Honda etc. combined.
Sounds like you should have bought the SantaFe instead of the Sienna.
But it is obvious you are a Bimmer Fanboy and nothing else will do.
My work colleague has one, that uber, super, duper, Limited Ultimate whatever. I drove it once and after drive begs a question: what did I just drive?
First issue with Santa Fa (besides being Hyundai) as luxury vehicle is that has engine wrongly positioned. Since that is fundamental of any luxury car, let's not go further.
While I don't agree with edyvw's tone, I agree with the sentiment.
A luxury car isn't a regular car with soft materials and some leather thrown in.
The only luxury vehicle in the OP is the MB GLE.
A luxury car isn't a regular car with soft materials and some leather thrown in.
The only luxury vehicle in the OP is the MB GLE.
Originally Posted by edyvw
Originally Posted by Brigadier
Originally Posted by edyvw
Originally Posted by Brigadier
2018 Hyundai Santa Fe AWD Limited Ultimate.
LOL. Yes, example of luxury vehicle.
My SIenna has everything inside. Nice leather, JBL, 18" inch wheels, all buttons etc, etc. It is Limited version.
Here is the problem when one wants to make a pie out of [censored].
1. JBL sounds good, unless like I do, one wants to listen louder (in the end there is a reason why there is subwoofer and amplifier). Problem? Whole car sings. Windows are rattling, and inside the door God knows what is rattling. Rearview mirror is dancing, which prevents me to see clearly what is happening behind.
2. Seating position: while people can comfortably sit behind me (I am 6.2) my left foot is cramped because I have to move seat forward since steering wheel cannot get out that much. My foot few days ago started to hurt because I was forgetting I do not drive my beloved, never forgotten BMW. I figured I have to train myself that it is Toyota in the end of the day.
3. Noise. Not sure there is ANY sound insulation around tire compartment. But I have a feeling I can hear when car runs over 8X11 paper on the road.
4. Brakes? What brakes?
5. Torque steer although it is supposedly AWD.
Bottom line? Cannot wait to get BMW next year as my daily driver? What BMW? Anything, literally. I found one 325i on Autotrader, 2004, 90,000 miles, stick shift for $ 4,200. I am seriously thinking to pull it off to prevent further damage to my mental health. It will provide more joy than Hyundai, Toyota, Kia, Honda etc. combined.
Sounds like you should have bought the SantaFe instead of the Sienna.
But it is obvious you are a Bimmer Fanboy and nothing else will do.
My work colleague has one, that uber, super, duper, Limited Ultimate whatever. I drove it once and after drive begs a question: what did I just drive?
First issue with Santa Fa (besides being Hyundai) as luxury vehicle is that has engine wrongly positioned. Since that is fundamental of any luxury car, let's not go further.
Like I said, you are a Bimmer fanboy. Nothing else will do. Get what you want/like. It's your money. Don't get your panties twisted over someone else's recommendation. Good grief. Take a pill man....
Just be careful outside when it rains.....
Originally Posted by Brigadier
Originally Posted by edyvw
Originally Posted by Brigadier
2018 Hyundai Santa Fe AWD Limited Ultimate.
LOL. Yes, example of luxury vehicle.
My SIenna has everything inside. Nice leather, JBL, 18" inch wheels, all buttons etc, etc. It is Limited version.
Here is the problem when one wants to make a pie out of [censored].
1. JBL sounds good, unless like I do, one wants to listen louder (in the end there is a reason why there is subwoofer and amplifier). Problem? Whole car sings. Windows are rattling, and inside the door God knows what is rattling. Rearview mirror is dancing, which prevents me to see clearly what is happening behind.
2. Seating position: while people can comfortably sit behind me (I am 6.2) my left foot is cramped because I have to move seat forward since steering wheel cannot get out that much. My foot few days ago started to hurt because I was forgetting I do not drive my beloved, never forgotten BMW. I figured I have to train myself that it is Toyota in the end of the day.
3. Noise. Not sure there is ANY sound insulation around tire compartment. But I have a feeling I can hear when car runs over 8X11 paper on the road.
4. Brakes? What brakes?
5. Torque steer although it is supposedly AWD.
Bottom line? Cannot wait to get BMW next year as my daily driver? What BMW? Anything, literally. I found one 325i on Autotrader, 2004, 90,000 miles, stick shift for $ 4,200. I am seriously thinking to pull it off to prevent further damage to my mental health. It will provide more joy than Hyundai, Toyota, Kia, Honda etc. combined.
Sounds like you should have bought the SantaFe instead of the Sienna.
But it is obvious you are a Bimmer Fanboy and nothing else will do.
My work colleague has one, that uber, super, duper, Limited Ultimate whatever. I drove it once and after drive begs a question: what did I just drive?
First issue with Santa Fa (besides being Hyundai) as luxury vehicle is that has engine wrongly positioned. Since that is fundamental of any luxury car, let's not go further.
Like I said, you are a Bimmer fanboy. Nothing else will do. Get what you want/like. It's your money. Don't get your panties twisted over someone else's recommendation. Good grief. Take a pill man....
Just be careful outside when it rains.....
OVERKILL
$100 Site Donor 2021
Originally Posted by Brigadier
But it is obvious you are a Bimmer Fanboy and nothing else will do.
He favours driving dynamics and so generally leans toward Euro cars. It isn't exclusive to BMW, I've seen he say favourable things about Audi and Mercedes as well, perhaps other marques.
I generally agree with his sentiment. A CRV with leather and navigation isn't a luxury vehicle any more than a 328i with "///M" badges on it is an M3.
But it is obvious you are a Bimmer Fanboy and nothing else will do.
He favours driving dynamics and so generally leans toward Euro cars. It isn't exclusive to BMW, I've seen he say favourable things about Audi and Mercedes as well, perhaps other marques.
I generally agree with his sentiment. A CRV with leather and navigation isn't a luxury vehicle any more than a 328i with "///M" badges on it is an M3.
edyvw
$50 site donor 2026
Originally Posted by OVERKILL
Originally Posted by Brigadier
But it is obvious you are a Bimmer Fanboy and nothing else will do.
He favours driving dynamics and so generally leans toward Euro cars. It isn't exclusive to BMW, I've seen he say favourable things about Audi and Mercedes as well, perhaps other marques.
I generally agree with his sentiment. A CRV with leather and navigation isn't a luxury vehicle any more than a 328i with "///M" badges on it is an M3.
I gave example of vehicle I own which in that model line up is apparently top model, as example how one cannot make a pie out of [censored], yet he takes it as attack on his purchase. If one thinks that vehicle they bought is a luxury vehicle, it is fine. But they are not the one buying it in this case.
It immediately turns into: who are you to question my purchase, because if I bought Santa Fe, it has to be, in this case, a luxury vehicle.
Hyundai sells OK vehicles, and they are that, OK. I highly doubt anyone at Hyundai thinks any Santa Fe trim is luxury vehicle. Otherwise Hyundai would not try to bend backward to develop Genesis, which in 20 years might become luxury vehicle.
Originally Posted by Brigadier
But it is obvious you are a Bimmer Fanboy and nothing else will do.
He favours driving dynamics and so generally leans toward Euro cars. It isn't exclusive to BMW, I've seen he say favourable things about Audi and Mercedes as well, perhaps other marques.
I generally agree with his sentiment. A CRV with leather and navigation isn't a luxury vehicle any more than a 328i with "///M" badges on it is an M3.
I gave example of vehicle I own which in that model line up is apparently top model, as example how one cannot make a pie out of [censored], yet he takes it as attack on his purchase. If one thinks that vehicle they bought is a luxury vehicle, it is fine. But they are not the one buying it in this case.
It immediately turns into: who are you to question my purchase, because if I bought Santa Fe, it has to be, in this case, a luxury vehicle.
Hyundai sells OK vehicles, and they are that, OK. I highly doubt anyone at Hyundai thinks any Santa Fe trim is luxury vehicle. Otherwise Hyundai would not try to bend backward to develop Genesis, which in 20 years might become luxury vehicle.
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