Hey everyone! I recently joined the Telluride family, and we are planning our first big cross-country road trip this summer. I’m quickly realizing that even with the extra cargo space, we’re going to need a solid roof rack for our luggage carrier and maybe a couple of kayaks. I’m a bit torn between the Kia OEM crossbars and aftermarket options like Thule or Yakima. My main concerns are wind noise at highway speeds and making sure the rack doesn't interfere with the panoramic sunroof operation. For those of you who have added one to your Telluride, which brand offers the best balance of easy installation and durability for the flush rails?
Respectfully, I'd consider another option because while everyone is talking about wind noise, we reallyyy need to talk about SAFETY and load ratings first! Honestly, I'm a total nerd for weight limits after a scary experience where a cheaper setup almost failed on me during a turn. If you're planning on luggage AND kayaks, you're gonna be pushing the limits of those flush rails. I actually suggest a different approach—don't just look at the OEM or the big names mentioned already.
In my experience, the Yakima SkyLine Towers with Landing Pad 27 and JetStream Bars is basically the gold standard for security. Most people don't realize that the Kia rails have specific weight capacities that can be tricky when you're adding dynamic loads like kayaks catching the wind. The Yakima setup is amazing because it uses a fixed-point attachment that feels way more SOLID than a simple clamp. Plus, the Yakima JetStream Aerodynamic Bar Black 60 inch has a T-slot system that makes mounting kayak carriers sooo much safer.
I mean, yeah, it's a bit more expensive, but for a cross-country trip? The peace of mind is worth it. I've literally driven 80mph with a full cargo box and two boats on top using these and they didn't budge. Also, regarding the sunroof, as long as you use the Yakima Landing Pad 27, the height is perfect and wont interfere with the glass at all. Just my two cents tho... safety first!! gl with the trip!
Sooo, I've been through a bunch of different setups over the years, and I'm a total gear nerd when it comes to this stuff. Honestly, the wind noise issue is real! In my experience, even the high-end ones can whistle if you don't get the positioning just right. One thing I learned the hard way is that sometimes the aero bars actually get louder if they're too far forward over that sunroof.
You might find this useful—check out the 'Rack Attack' website or even 'eTrailer'. They have these awesome fit-guide tools and videos where they actually test the clearance on the panoramic sunroofs for specific vehicles like the Telly. It saved me a ton of cash because I realized some of the budget-friendly options work just as well as the pricey ones if you use a wind fairing. I've tried many combos, and a solid fairing basically kills the noise for like 50 bucks. Definitely worth looking into before you drop big money on the main brands!! Good luck with the trip! 👍
Honestly, jumping in here from a market research perspective, I'd highkey recommend looking at Rhino-Rack Vortex StealthBar Black 2 Bar Roof Rack. It's literally one of the lowest-profile options out there, which is AMAZING for keeping wind noise down and ensuring your sunroof clears without any issues. While Thule is great, Rhino-Rack is basically the gold standard for durability and safety ratings. Just make sure you double-check the load limits for your specific gear, right? Safe travels tho! 👍
Honestly, I was in the exact same boat when I first got my Telly. For your situation, I would suggest just going with the Kia OEM crossbars. I know people love to rave about the big name aftermarket brands, and don't get me wrong, they're great, but for the flush rails on this car? The factory ones are basically perfect. I've had mine on for over a year now and I'm super satisfied with how they've held up through multiple road trips.
Price-wise, you're looking at around $300-$350 depending on the dealer, which is a total steal compared to some setups that'll run you $600+. Plus, the installation is a breeze—took me maybe 20 minutes tops. My biggest worry was the panoramic sunroof too, but these sit high enough that there's NO interference at all. You can tilt or slide it back without worrying about hitting the bars, which is a huge relief when you're cruising.
As for the wind noise, it's pretty minimal tbh. You might hear a tiny whistle if you're really pushing it at 80mph, but with the radio on? You won't even notice it. I've hauled a massive luggage box and two kayaks (not at the same time lol) and they felt rock solid. Just get the Kia ones and save your money for the actual trip. Seriously, you won't regret it... they just work well and look like they actually belong on the car. Hope that helps and have an awesome trip!! 👍
> I would suggest just going with the Kia OEM crossbars.
Respectfully, I'd consider another option because I had a bit of a wierd experience with the factory ones. Honestly, the wind noise was kinda loud for me at highway speeds. I ended up switching to the Thule WingBar Edge for Kia Telluride Flush Rails and it's been sooo much quieter. They're definitely more expensive - like basically double the price - but the low profile design means I dont have to worry about the sunroof hitting them. Make sure to double check the clearance, but the Thule setup is realy solid for heavy kayaks! 👍