Americas Best Overland Vehicle - 2016 [Update]

"HammerheadFistpunch" (hammerheadfistpunch) 06/23/2016 at 13:30 • Filed to: Americas best 4x4, Overland, Touring, Truck Yeah, HHFP

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!!!error: Indecipherable SUB-paragraph formatting!!! , its the vehicle based equivalent to backpacking, only without the smell or the half sized toothbrushes and for the people that do it that’s exactly the appeal: All the nature you can handle, with a modicum (or more) of comfort. As a curator on the kinja !!!error: Indecipherable SUB-paragraph formatting!!! as well as in my own personal experience I’ve seen the popularity of the sport explode in the last few years...and its showing no signs of stopping. Gas is cheap[er], SUV’s are coming back into style and even the midsized truck market is picking up again. With that being said, who offers the best vehicle to adorn with your favorite new overland trimmings and which ones aren’t fit to cross a cattle guard?

{NOTE: Updated 9-25-2016 to include the final pricing for the Nissan Armada}

!!!error: Indecipherable SUB-paragraph formatting!!! there were 17 candidates, now 19 with several reworked or replaced models including different engine options and one not for sale vehicle yet. These include

URJ200 (Land Cruiser/LX570) - New 8 speed transmission and updated interior

Tacoma TRD - An “all new” Tacoma for 2016

Chevy Colorado - New since the last published list, including the 2.8 duramax version

Nissan Armada SV - This is the Nissan Patrol in other markets, and although its technically not on sale yet there is enough published information to get a baseline on it...take the price and value with a grain of salt. Its now on sale and less expensive than thought.

Land Rover Discovery Sport - Replaces the unloved LR2 (eventually)

Range Rover TD6 - A new diesel engine option

Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo E - Replaces the Overland trim 3.6 gas model from 2014's comparison to give the grand Cherokee more diversity by dropping features to gain value.

In addition the pricing on several of them have changed as well as the methodology I used for comparison in an effort to better weight the right things. You can read more about the methodology and see all the scores and detailed specs heading !!!error: Indecipherable SUB-paragraph formatting!!! .

Now overlanding, expedition travel, heavy touring whatever you call it, has different requirements that what you might consider for a traditional “4x4”, and I ranked the vehicles based on these requirements and not according to which one is the best “off roader” since that means so many things to so many people. All categories are 1-5 with 5 being score all the rest are curved to with the exception of trail score which is normalized at 10 in an effort to weigh that aspect above the others. The categories are:

Load Capacity

Fuel Economy/Range

Trail Worthiness

Reliability

Durability

Value

Only the top 10 make the list, however, the bottom 9 with their rank will be included at the bottom.

#10 Lexus GX460 - The GX is an oddball car, its a competent off roader wrapped up in a fancy outfit. It’s based on a “light duty” Land Cruiser called the Prado sold in other markets (related to the FJ cruiser and 4Runner) only here as a Lexus it’s far removed from its honest roots. Still, there is enough of the Prado in here to make it a competent choice for a comfortable long haul cruiser.

Pros: A quiet, competent on road performer with a solid foundation for many years of touring

Cons: Range is poor, angles are poor and body damage is going to be pricey. The existence of the 4Runner.

Verdict: “ !!!error: Indecipherable SUB-paragraph formatting!!! ”

MSRP as equipped: $51,730

#9 Nissan Armada SV - Like the GX, the Armada is a legend reskinned for American consumption. The Armada is known elsewhere as the Y62 Patrol, which is a name akin to Land Cruiser and has been crossing continents reliably nearly as long. The Current Y62/Armada is a little soft compared to its fore-bearers but it’s still a solid touring machine with unmatched payload and volume.

MSRP as equipped:$48,295

Pros: Lots of room inside and the payload to take it, as well as a solid tow rating, this would be the machine you would hitch up a trailer too and take the entire family into the wilderness. Amazing value for money.

Cons: It’s easily the largest vehicle on the list, and although the angles and clearance are sufficient, its going to struggle on tighter trails.

Verdict: On patrol with uncle chuck.

#8 Cherokee Trailhawk - Due to a change in the way the numbers were run this year, this also-ran from years past has moved onto this list as others more traditional choices (Land Cruiser) fell off. Basically...it’s hard to beat the price. The load and range scores are among the lowest, and it doesn’t fair well in the reliability department but its high trail score and low price secure it a spot on this list.

MSRP as equipped: $32,235

Pros: Plenty capable. Small and nimble. Cheap.

Cons: Poor range and payload limit the scope of your tours to weekends, which is probably good because you wont want to be too far away from a dealer.

Verdict: small, light and surprisingly capable.

#7 Grand Cherokee Laredo E 3.6 - One step up from the bottom of the rung in the Grand Cherokee lineup is the best of the bunch in the Laredo E with the off road package; Everything you need in an overlander and very little you don’t. This is as close to the fabled “stripper” off road SUV as can be found on this or any US list. If you are looking at a Cherokee Trailhawk, you owe it to yourself to see if you can scrounge up another couple of grand on this great blank canvas.

MSRP as equipped: $34800

Pros: Range and cargo in spades, the 3.6 is a reliable performer, comfy on the road, capable off the road.

Cons: The WKII Grand Cherokee isn’t known as a particularly well screwed together vehicle, doesn’t include the nicer 4wd systems in the pricier models. Feels like a stripped Jeep inside.

Verdict: The Cheap Jeep to buy.

#6 Chevrolet Colorado Duramax Z71 (quad cab short bed) - A small diesel pickup in America?! Yup, and it’s not a bad little performer as well. Diesel is coveted in overlanding circles for its effortless power, especially at low speeds and under load, as well it’s the range you get from the increased economy of the cycle. The trouble with the Colorado is that it’s less off road runabout and more 5/8th’s Silverado and while this makes it a great little truck, its poor off road credentials compared to the Tacoma hamstring it in this trail score weighted competition. However, if less sever trails are on your list or you don’t mind building it up, it could be a very competent performer.

MSRP as equipped: $40050

Pros: Great range, great payload, that diesel grunt matters when you’ve added up all that weight.

Cons: Angles, ground clearance, mechanical and electronic traction, etc are all well below the trail focused Tacoma. Cost of the diesel is pretty high.

Verdict: Like a big truck, but a little smaller.

#5 Chevrolet Colorado 3.6 Z71 (quad cab short bed) - The gas powered version of the truck above nets you most of the great things about the diesel, but without the high diesel tax. Less range, sure, but more power for highway passing as well at that $4000 discount are hard to pass up. Overall the Colorado’s are a decent choice and a welcome option in a marketplace that’s heating up.

MSRP as equipped: $35900

Pros: Range is still quite good and there will be plenty of cargo capacity to bring more if needed. A great small sized truck with excellent towing and payload and decent off road ability.

Cons: It’s just not setup for off road work like it could be.

Verdict: “I won’t buy a Tacoma, that’s for sure!”

#4 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon - The Legend. This vehicle deserves a spot on any 4x4 list by virtue of the fact that it may be the most capable off-road vehicle you can buy off the lot today and it’s a relative bargain in the process. However, over-landing is less about rock crawling and trail work and more about the occasional tough spot while traveling heavy and in making the Rubicon as good as it is in the crawling department, Jeep has sacrificed those other considerations.

MSRP as equipped: $40035

Pros: The most trail capable vehicle on the list by a comfortable margin. Full locker package (shared only with the g-wagons) and all the hardware and armor an overlander would need. A great value.

Cons: Poor interior volume. Really poor payload. Only average reliability and durability (a consequence of its mission coupled with its value)

Verdict: If you can travel light, need to do tougher trails or only wave at other jeeps, there is only one.

#3 Nissan Frontier Pro 4X (quad cab short bed) - Yeah, it’s old and outdated, but its a BARGAIN! It’s a proven truck with a track record of reliability, it’s got all the right hardware underneath and while the payload, range and trail scores are only midpack, its 2nd lowest price in this comparison means you get a lot for your money.

MSRP as equipped: $34290

Pros: Good construction. A dated..uh...proven design mean it’s in it for the long run and won’t leave you stranded. Very good value. All the Off-road goodies you need to get there.

Cons: Relatively poor payload. A thirsty but powerful V6 limits your range.

Verdict: Built like a tank, in both a good and bad way.

#2 Toyota 4Runner Trail - The #1 spot used to belong to the 4Runner and for great reasons; Great angles, traction systems, and clearance as well as a stout frame for payload. Its near tops in all the categories on the list and is renowned for being reliable and durable. If you want a touring wagon, a 4Runner should be on your shopping list. The only thing keeping the 4Runner off the top spot is price.

MSRP as equipped: $39210

Pros: Right sized, reliable, rugged and capable. It ticks off all the basic boxes if not tops in its categories then near the top.

Cons: More expensive this year, uglier this year, still a little thirsty and not the most refined long distance machine on this list (though hardly the least).

Verdict: The 4Runner shows that no one understands the off road touring wagon market like Toyota.

#1 Toyota Tacoma (Quad cab TRD short bed) - The Tacoma has been the gold standard for people who want a small off road truck for decades and while the “all new” model leaves a little to be desired in terms of keeping up with the new and strong competition as a whole, its missions specific dominance remains unchallenged. The Tacoma is right blend of capability and cost for maximum value to the overland traveler, which is probably why it has been and will likely continue to be the vehicle of choice in the convoys of so many overland travelers, sponsored or amateur.

MSRP: $35640

Pros: A proven formula, not reinvented but refined. For the money, you simply can’t find a better touring companion, unless you want a wagon, not a pickup.

Cons: Payload is poor (worse this year) and the new 3.5L engine isn’t as thrifty as its loss of mid-range torque would suggest. Love or hate looks. Drum brakes, I guess.

Verdict: Still the standard bearer for off road light trucks, wrinkles and all.

Below is the complete list, you can read more about the scoring system and my methodology here, but at the end of the day it was money vs merit and many of the losers on this years list are simply too much money to fair well here. However, if money is no object and you don’t mind pin-striping 100 grand+ skip the “value score” and go strait to the “merit score” which are the categories minus the pricing equation. Best in category is marked with bold

If you want to read about the scoring methodology or see the entire data set, !!!error: Indecipherable SUB-paragraph formatting!!!

Milky > HammerheadFistpunch 06/23/2016 at 13:43

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I don’t know how Jeep hasn’t stuck a Hemi in the Wrangler. Hopefully the diesel next gen fixes any of its issues.

HammerheadFistpunch > Milky 06/23/2016 at 13:45

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They are counting on the aftermarket to take care of that niche customer.

Saracen > HammerheadFistpunch 06/23/2016 at 14:03

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I have a feeling the next gen diesel wrangler pickup will be an amazing overland vehicle.

E92M3 > HammerheadFistpunch 06/23/2016 at 14:08

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But I don’t want any of those. I’d rather have an old school FJ60.

umesh > HammerheadFistpunch 06/23/2016 at 14:13

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Whatever the UN is using in the Middle East?Africa is the one to use.

HammerheadFistpunch > Saracen 06/23/2016 at 14:14

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Yeah, could be really good. I mean is still an fca so reliability isn’t likely to be stellar but capability should be up

HammerheadFistpunch > umesh 06/23/2016 at 14:15

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Prado and 200 series land cruisers

Saracen > HammerheadFistpunch 06/23/2016 at 14:38

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Personally, as having grown up with diesel vehicles I will take a diesel truck first over gas. If I were looking at new I’d go Colorado Duramax Z71 and make it more off-road worthy.

Realistically though, on the heels of the VW announcement next tuesday I’m looking at used trucks and SUV’s. Still not sure what I want, but overlanding ability would be nice. My friends go on rock climbing expeditions and I’d like to be able to join them.

HammerheadFistpunch > Saracen 06/23/2016 at 15:11

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Thing about overlanding is that its less about pure ability and more about a solid rounded performer. The Chevy trucks are quite good in that regard. The jury is still out as to how they will hold together compared to the Toyota’s but i remain hopeful.

Daily Drives a Dragon - One Last Lap > HammerheadFistpunch 06/23/2016 at 16:12

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I badly want a 5th gen 4runner

SWITAWI > HammerheadFistpunch 06/23/2016 at 16:32

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Well done, Hammer!

Unfortunately this list makes me nostalgic for the days when convertibles were less expensive than their hardtop brethren and 4x4s were cheap and simple for the most part.

Oh well. The years have given vehicles capabilities that would have appeared to be automotive witchcraft 30yrs ago. Imagine taking a trip back in time to 1987 and giving a Jeep Wrangler YJ owner a ride in any of these. Progress marches on...

HammerheadFistpunch > SWITAWI 06/23/2016 at 16:38

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I think about that going back in time bit a lot. particularly going back to the 40's in a Japanese built cruiser...

nermal > HammerheadFistpunch 06/23/2016 at 16:42

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An AEV Prospector kinda sorta counts. It will go pretty much anywhere that it will fit. And it has that sweet snorkel.

HammerheadFistpunch > nermal 06/23/2016 at 16:43

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Love the prospector

SWITAWI > HammerheadFistpunch 06/23/2016 at 17:00

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1940s USA with a current model Land Cruiser or a G-Wagen, especially either the twin-turbo G65 AMG or the 4x4²?

You would have been burned at the stake for sure, lol.

HammerheadFistpunch > SWITAWI 06/23/2016 at 17:03

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the good news with the G63 4x4^2 would be that it wouldn’t be hard to ourun most pursuers.

SWITAWI > HammerheadFistpunch 06/23/2016 at 17:06

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Pursuers in light aircraft even, lol.

Nothing > HammerheadFistpunch 06/23/2016 at 17:26

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We’re a poser family...2 vehicles on the list, and the most they’ve seen offroad this far is a dirt parking lot. *Looks away* Granted I got mine because I wanted to haul small loads, she got hers because she liked how it looked.

mtdrift > nermal 06/23/2016 at 17:36

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There are a couple of them running around my hometown (AEV has one of its headquarters here) - they are huge . It’s like you’re standing next to Gravedigger, or something.

Definitely bad-ass, but a little too big for my tastes.

HammerheadFistpunch > Nothing 06/23/2016 at 17:37

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I’m not that guy that’s judges your rig based on if you “use it like you’re supposed to”or not...except bro dozers with 20 light bars...

mtdrift > HammerheadFistpunch 06/23/2016 at 17:47

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Excellent work here - this is a fascinating group of vehicles, some with a serious case of identity crisis. Does the 200 series Cruiser score so low on the trail index primarily because of its girth?

HammerheadFistpunch > mtdrift 06/23/2016 at 17:48

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bad angles, bad clearance, no lockers...its a great base to build up, but its not that great from the factory floor. However, it would easily handle 90% of the stuff I do with way more grace and comfort than my 80. The other issue with the 200 of course is the price. On merit alone it its the 2nd best choice.

Poleczechy > nermal 06/23/2016 at 18:08

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and you can buy them from straight from the dealership!

LongbowMkII > HammerheadFistpunch 06/23/2016 at 20:16

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Well, until you needed to fill up with 93 octane.

Hmmm Was the use of premium fuel a consideration? I figure that 93 won't be available in every gas station if you go so far out.

LongbowMkII > HammerheadFistpunch 06/23/2016 at 20:19

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On an aside. How are GMT400/800’s for this sort of thing? Might make the 4x4 premium (in purchase and running costs) more palatable.

HammerheadFistpunch > LongbowMkII 06/23/2016 at 20:48

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It wasn't but honestly in the US, it’s not a huge consideration. I tour with supercharged vehicles from time to time and finding premium has never been an issue, even in some sketchy dessert gas stations

HammerheadFistpunch > LongbowMkII 06/23/2016 at 21:04

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They aren’t bad but have a few annoying quirks like a 4wd system actuated by a small heater that fails often, and the light duty transmissions are a little weak sauce...plus the squeeks and rattles would definitely get to you after a while

HammerheadFistpunch > LongbowMkII 06/23/2016 at 21:06

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Example, the white 80 in the picture above is supercharged

adamftw > mtdrift 06/24/2016 at 07:12

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Yea, they are HUGE. My buddy just picked up a ‘16 QCSB 2500 Cummins as stripped down as possible and even with the baby tires on it, it is actually taller than a friend’s dad’s early 5th gen 2500.

adamftw > Saracen 06/24/2016 at 07:14

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Doubt it. Payload is still gonna suck. Dodge needs a small pickup that shares the JK2/JL frame with leaf springs in the back... now THAT would be a performer.

adamftw > HammerheadFistpunch 06/24/2016 at 07:15

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If the Chevys weren’t so ugly they’d be my number 1. But they’ve already moved to direct injection in their new V8s, so there goes that long-term reliability checkmark.

nermal > adamftw 06/24/2016 at 07:49

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A big part of the size perception is an optical illusion. For example, a stock crew cab / short bed Ram 2500 is actually an inch shorter lengthwise and narrower than a crew cab / short bed GM 1500, and has a better turning circle. However, it’s 4 inches taller.

maximum_sarge > HammerheadFistpunch 06/24/2016 at 10:18

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I know this is a ‘new’ cars list, but I’m still not aware of another SUV offering more for the money than the (discontinued-for-2016) Xterra Pro 4X; 5,000 lbs towing, rear locker, low range, reliable, ample power, and easier to sleep in (for a 6'3" person) than any other SUV. It’s a far better choice than most of the vehicles on your list, unless you need something larger, or with better international (global) parts support.

Also, aside from the Wrangler, it’s the only SUV available with a manual transmission!

HammerheadFistpunch > maximum_sarge 06/24/2016 at 10:28

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Before it was discontinued it was included in the 2014 version of this list. It would probably do better in this test (because of the price factor) but it didn’t do really well in that other version because of its hilariously bad payload and durability issues. Not sure why but in my research the xterra was generally considered much more problem probe than the frontier

dezerthooligan > mtdrift 06/24/2016 at 12:46

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Having a 6 year old (holy cow!) 200... it’s *still* REALLY hard to take an originally 80k vehicle to places it might get damaged... that said, it has yet to leave me stuck or broken where I have taken it. ;)

SwedishChef > Daily Drives a Dragon - One Last Lap 06/24/2016 at 13:36

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Got one, loves it.

Goodeveningofficer > HammerheadFistpunch 06/24/2016 at 14:03

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Wrangler has better trail score than G wagon? take this fucking post down.

maximum_sarge > HammerheadFistpunch 06/24/2016 at 14:42

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I’ve had mine for five years, longer than I’ve kept almost any other vehicle, and the only weak area I’ve noticed is the clutch (died at 110k, but I blame my wife’s clutch slipping on the boat ramp). There are a few known issues with the automatic and cooling, too, though.

It’s the same drivetrain as the Frontier though, so I don’t know why reliability and durability would be much different. I added air springs to mine as the rear bottoms out far too easily, but with the auxiliary air springs and brake controller, it tows my 4,500 lbs boat just fine.

The biggest weak area I’ve read about is the front axle (Dana 30 IIRC), and that too is shared with the Frontier.

The 4Runner is more durable, but it’s got no manual transmission and you can’t lay the seats flat and sleep in it like you can with the Xterra (can’t remove the 4Runner rear seat bottoms without tools), and the Xterra is also more fun to drive, like a Wrangler with better highway manners, vs the more cushy, less sprightly 4Runner.

BlackDiamond925 > HammerheadFistpunch 06/24/2016 at 15:59

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I think you’re too hard on the Trailhawk. The first model year had reliability problems. The 2015+ vehicles have been pretty reliable, especially when it comes to transmission bugs. 4Wheeler had no problems with theirs and neither have I:

http://www.fourwheeler.com/vehicle-review…

Fuel range is admittedly poor as is cargo capacity.

Off road prowess needs to be re-considered. With rear lockers and front drive traction control, a Trailhawk can easily outperform lesser vehicles. It’s a small step below Rubicon, mostly because of front clearance. You rarely see people push the Traihawk though, but that’s their problem. I would put it up around 8, stock.

You could get away with 2 people overlanding the Trailhawk, but honestly, I would trade it for a 4Runner if I was serious.

HammerheadFistpunch > Goodeveningofficer 06/24/2016 at 16:09

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Check out the data...it’s all there.

HammerheadFistpunch > BlackDiamond925 06/24/2016 at 16:13

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I like the kl, but the numbers do the talking on this story and the data suggests that reliability is below average and trail score is right where it ought to be. With a ramp score in the mid 300s I couldn’t picture its trail score anywhere else. A locker is a wonderful thing but if the tire never leaves the ground is not as important. The kl is as many steps above its class as it is below a Rubicon

HammerheadFistpunch > maximum_sarge 06/24/2016 at 16:18

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I like the xterra but my experience with any of them that gets used is squeeks, rattles and issue of longevity. Great little trucks though, especially for the money. Are you referring to 5thn green 4runner seats? I can’t image they don’t fold flat. ..I’ll have to check it out. Then again I can’t lay flat in my cruiser with the middle row in

maximum_sarge > HammerheadFistpunch 06/24/2016 at 16:36

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This is how the Xterra works. You slide the front seats forward (pax flips flat), remove the second row bottoms, fold down the seatbacks, and use these rubbermaid tubs to fill the void. A 12 pack box or oil boxes fill the center void. I’ve never seen another car with as much space for sleeping without any actual mods to the vehicle.

HammerheadFistpunch > maximum_sarge 06/24/2016 at 16:45

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Pick a minivan, any minivan. Joking aside that looks really great and I’m jealous. As I said I have to physically unbolt my middle row to fit laying down

BlackDiamond925 > HammerheadFistpunch 06/25/2016 at 00:36

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You guys are going to have to come up with different metrics if you want to measure newer cross overs. Articulation is highly over rated.

maximum_sarge > HammerheadFistpunch 06/25/2016 at 00:50

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It really is very convenient, as a daily driver that gets used as a car. As a photographer, father, boat owner, etc, I couldn’t have a vehicle with a custom overland bed/drawer/fridge setup. For the occasional road trip, camping trip, concert venue crash pad, etc, this works very, very well.

As for squeaks and rattles, I think that was more of a problem with the first gen Xterra. Mine is a 2006 with 112k on it, and the only squeak is from the rear seatback latch post, when the Gorilla tape I put on it wears down. It gets driven on dirt roads and fire roads pretty regularly, and sees regular tow use too.

Overall, it’s nicely bolted together, and I’ve had new or near-new cars from all the various German luxury makers most of my life, so I know what a well-screwed together car is. I’ve also owned a few Wranglers and a Grand Cherokee, so I know what squeaks and rattles are, too.

All things considered, it’s been a pretty trouble-free vehicle. I itch to replace it, out of habit, but the only thing that would work is a 4Runner, but the seats are too close to the floor for my liking, and it fells heavier and softer, vs the more Wrangler-like Xterra. I am curious to see what the next Wrangler ends up looking like...

aae42 > Goodeveningofficer 06/25/2016 at 08:04

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wranglers are bonkers offroad... not sure why you’re surprised... the G has heritage but it’s not like this is the portal version...

HammerheadFistpunch > BlackDiamond925 06/25/2016 at 10:26

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Articulation is over rated? False.if push came to shove and I had to choose a high ramp score or a locker...I would choose a high ramp score, at least for my usual terrain it comes in handy way more often

OmegaLazarus > HammerheadFistpunch 06/26/2016 at 14:14

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Figured I’d leave this here, too. New Xterra? http://japhethajones.kinja.com/i-saw-these-tw…

HammerheadFistpunch > OmegaLazarus 06/26/2016 at 16:16

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Thats the new titan (non-xd) that you got shots of.

OmegaLazarus > HammerheadFistpunch 06/26/2016 at 23:05

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Awesome! Thanks for the info. I’m a car person, not a truck one, but it was still very exciting to see a new model on the road.

phatplat > HammerheadFistpunch 06/27/2016 at 06:12

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Nissan Patrol had a manual also. Very much wish I could get the setup to put in my Titan.

HammerheadFistpunch > phatplat 06/27/2016 at 10:22

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The y62 does? Or the y61?

phatplat > HammerheadFistpunch 06/27/2016 at 14:42

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Not too savvy on those model codes.

HammerheadFistpunch > phatplat 06/27/2016 at 15:03

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Sorry, y62 is the new petrol only patrol(2017 armada). Y61 is the older model they are selling concurrently with the new one

OlDirtDogg > HammerheadFistpunch 06/27/2016 at 15:42

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Yes! I knew I made the right choice!

/’16 TRD-OR

HammerheadFistpunch > OlDirtDogg 06/27/2016 at 15:43

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OR? EDIT: off road. Got it. I guess they also make the TRD sport which...lame...but yeah I gotcha now.

OlDirtDogg > HammerheadFistpunch 06/27/2016 at 15:44

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Off-Road.

The TRD comes in Sport, Off Road and Pro.

phatplat > HammerheadFistpunch 06/27/2016 at 15:44

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Seems like the Y62

SilentButNotReallyDeadly...killed by G/O Media > HammerheadFistpunch 06/27/2016 at 20:36

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It’d be interesting to apply your criteria into the Australian vehicle fleet. Obviously there’s quite a bit more choice in this market, both in terms of body styles and size classes.

HammerheadFistpunch > SilentButNotReallyDeadly...killed by G/O Media 06/27/2016 at 20:41

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That would be fun

Hi there > HammerheadFistpunch 06/28/2016 at 09:05

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Hello fellow Overlander, I know they aren’t on your list but I’ve had pretty spectacular luck overlanding in a heavily modified ‘93 Bronco and a bone stock besides BFG KO2's ‘16 F150 3.5tt fx4.

HammerheadFistpunch > Hi there 06/28/2016 at 10:23

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I’m doing the pickup version of this list right now...the f150 did way better that expected. Where did you go?

Hi there > HammerheadFistpunch 06/28/2016 at 12:28

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Based in Little Rock, AR. Been all over north america in the Bronco (6L psd, heavily modified making nearly double the power, lift, big tires, giant brakes, snorkel, etc) but not so much with the F150, just got it in January. Been all over AR with it, some Texas, Mississippi, Missouri, and Colorado overlanding in it so far.

HammerheadFistpunch > Hi there 06/28/2016 at 12:30

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Nice! Would love to see pics/stories. If you post some to your personal kinja, shoot me a link and I will get them posted up here. If you would like to be an author we can take it from there.

Hi there > HammerheadFistpunch 06/28/2016 at 12:36

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I basically do the same thing you do just not in desert conditions since my grand adventure I took on a bet with the bronco. My friend’s very wealthy dad wagered a goodly sum of money that the truck being so custom would not make it to Anchorage and back to Little Rock, drove it up there with his credit card for fuel and food and oil changes and shit, made it there with no issues and took a more circuitous route home that included a week in the desert. Not a fan of the desert, as a product of Arkansas I prefer lots of trees and not sand as far as the eye can see, only trees or Mississippi river delta as far as the eye can see ;-).

GeneralSnus > adamftw 06/29/2016 at 09:12

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Leafs have no advantage off road, why the hell would they use leafs. Only reason would be for towing, and i doubt a wrangler based truck will be doing much towing, youd be a fool to choose it over a full sized for that application

GeneralSnus > BlackDiamond925 06/29/2016 at 09:15

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how can you call a 2015+ vehicle reliable? It has had no time to prove itself. A 1 year old vehicle not breaking isnt reliable, its expected

GeneralSnus > Goodeveningofficer 06/29/2016 at 09:18

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?????? wranglers wreck stock g wagons offroad

Matt@ShiftCarBlog > HammerheadFistpunch 07/06/2016 at 17:01

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Thank you for validating my Tacoma TRD Off Road purchase of last weekend. I had a 4Runner Trail on order for months, and the Tacoma TRD OffRoad ended up being much less expensive. You can also lease a Colorado Quad Cab Z71 for about $1000 down $355/month in SoCal at the most- I think there are additional incentives since that quote and it was pre-haggling. The price almost made it a competitor- but I don’t feel like scraping that chin spoiler all over the place, the reliability sounds spotty, and the 75% residual value on the Taco is jaw droppingly good.

HammerheadFistpunch > Matt@ShiftCarBlog 07/06/2016 at 17:03

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You hit the nail on the head with the taco...It’s just too hard a value to ignore. I was surprised how well the canyorado did though and I’m sure it would make a great little truck with some work...that being said I would worry about reliability in that truck where I wouldn’t in the taco

Singletrack > HammerheadFistpunch 07/07/2016 at 15:15

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Strange list. Armada and Lexus full size SUV, but no full size pickup? The Raptor should be on this list.

Also typo in Colorado blurb - should read:

!!! UNKNOWN CONTENT TYPE !!!

HammerheadFistpunch > Singletrack 07/07/2016 at 15:20

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Pickup truck list forthcoming!

BlackDiamond925 > GeneralSnus 07/07/2016 at 20:11

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How can you call it unreliable then?

At 26K miles and zero problems, I’m one data point with my 2015. Being active in the forums, I can easily say the 2014's were a mess as they sorted out the new transmission. My 2015 has had no problems, initial defects, or recalls other than a head unit upgrade (which I did myself).

I’ve probably put 150 trail hours on it, including 24 in the last week. I’ve broken some stuff. I’ve had a couple temporary overheating problems in extreme conditions. I see where it falls in the spectrum of durability and off road ability. It always got me back home though. I just think it’s more capable than its getting credit for.

BlackDiamond925 > HammerheadFistpunch 07/07/2016 at 20:13

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I would too, but a locker and a short wheel base will get you through quite a bit regardless. If I’ve got a tire on the ground, I’m moving forward.

HammerheadFistpunch > BlackDiamond925 07/07/2016 at 20:39

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That’s asking a lot of a single small tire

Mitchell > HammerheadFistpunch 07/10/2016 at 10:38

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There are so many vehicles we get in Australia that would make this list, like the base model Prado and 70 series Landcruiser. Seriously, 180 liter (47.5 gal) tanks and front/rear lockers as standard!

MUSASHI66 > HammerheadFistpunch 08/04/2016 at 11:30

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My buddy has a 1996 Land Cruiser, and he’d sell it to me for $3000. It has like 236k miles, and he admits it is getting pretty old and bad, and that’s why is he selling it (he wants a V8 4Runner Limited for his next car). I am tempted to get it, and Slee off-road is 30 minutes away from my house.

On the other hand, I just bought a 2016 Forester XT for my two large dogs, and ended up adopting another one after that purchase. Been thinking off selling the XT and the Abarth and buying a 4Runner Pro, in Sand because that color rules, and I should have enough room for all three dogs then.

HammerheadFistpunch > MUSASHI66 08/04/2016 at 11:57

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I can’t decide if this is a question, or just internal monologue but I’ll drop my 2 cents. You want a 80 if you want an 80. They aren’t cheap to own, or easy to live with compared to other cars simply due to their age. That being said, there is absolutely nothing like one off road...they are magic. 236k isn’t a huge worry...but...the HG is probably starting to get suspect as well as other issues like axle seals, cooling system and oil seals so bear that in mind. an 80 like that could be a great car once you fix those issues (assuming the body is in okay shape) or it could be a great 3rd car with leaks and all (assuming the HG doesn’t go). The easiest check for the HG would be to borescope #6 to see if there is wash over the piston.

On the other hand, the new 4runners are identically sized to an 80, have equiv. payload, better mileage, better power to weight and are great rigs that are going to be quieter and smoother....but they aren’t 80's.

MUSASHI66 > HammerheadFistpunch 08/04/2016 at 12:24

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Thanks! I am pretty sure I am not ready to fix issues on my own due to lack of space and time, but a 80 LC for $3000 is tempting. Shit, I could spend $200 to get it very detailed and sell it for $4000

Goose > HammerheadFistpunch 08/05/2016 at 18:05

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What are your opinions on GMs choice to use an auto-locker in the Colorado (as well as their other trucks)? I’ve always heard you want a true selectable diff locker that the user can control; but will the G80 leave you any more prone to getting stuck than the electronic lockers available in trucks like the F150, Powerwagon, and Tacoma? Is the rest of the Colorado so much less off road oriented that it doesn’t matter if there was a electronic locker available, it would still only be “meh” off road? Is it better since it automatically kicks in?

HammerheadFistpunch > Goose 08/05/2016 at 18:13

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The g80 (eaton M-locker) is a solid device, but it can be easily popped if abused, plus its never has good to have reactive traction as it is to have proactive traction. The Colorado is be far less off road oriented and its hard to see why until you spend some time with either. Example, one of the biggest complaints about the Tacoma is that you “sit on the floor” as the floor is high relative to the seats, this is intentional as is keeps the floor and door sills up and away from the rocks (you can see this immediately in images, but wouldn’t really think much of it until you smash or DON’T smash a rocker panel). The Canyorado’s are great trucks, but they aren’t in the same niche as the Taco, which is adventure and leasure. The Canyorados are for people who want a 5/8th full size truck. Not to say they couldn’t be made to work, but apples to apples the Taco is the better base.

djmt1 > HammerheadFistpunch 09/25/2016 at 14:37

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Did they not sell the Discovery 4 with the diesel Stateside?

HammerheadFistpunch > djmt1 09/25/2016 at 14:43

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Nope, there is a range rover TD6 but not LR4

djmt1 > HammerheadFistpunch 09/25/2016 at 14:47

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That seems backwards. I wonder what the reasoning behind that decision was.

HammerheadFistpunch > djmt1 09/25/2016 at 15:54

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Because getting diesels to meet US emissions drives their costs up so much they are becoming options only on high dollar or luxury vehicles where their premium is a lower part of the cost equation.

DipodomysDeserti > HammerheadFistpunch 09/25/2016 at 19:14

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As someone who backpacks, overlanding is absolutely nothing like backpacking. That would be like saying “driving is like running a marathon, but without all the running.”

There are lots of places you still can’t reach with a car. Unfortunately the Forest Service has seen to it that those areas get smaller and smaller, but they still exist.

You’ll never see hardcore backpackers posting up their favorite spots on Instagram for fear that they end up being ruined.

“A man on foot, on horseback or on a bicycle will see more, feel more, enjoy more in one mile than the motorized tourists can in a hundred miles.”

E.A.

Overlanding is great, and I’ll be taking a “camping” trip to Arches next weekend with my fam. However, I do wish they never built any roads out there and I wish I was forced to hike out into that beautiful desert. RIP all that is wild.

HammerheadFistpunch > DipodomysDeserti 09/25/2016 at 19:22

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K. Btw the last quote I’ve proven untrue for me. I backpacked for years (still do it occasionally) and I’ve done horse touring and biking ALOT. They all have their place but when I overland tour I’m feeling, seeing and enjoying plenty...often way more than on foot because the volume of scenery is much greater. Hating on overland because you prefer self motive touring is like hating on self motive touring because you prefer vehicle travel.. What’s the point?. This smells of hating Mexican food because of a bad taco bell experience

AestheticsInMotion > HammerheadFistpunch 09/25/2016 at 23:01

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I don’t suppose there’s a similar list for used vehicles? I really want to go on longer, more challenging adventures than I can with my miata but don’t want to spend more than 15000...

HammerheadFistpunch > AestheticsInMotion 09/25/2016 at 23:34

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Not really...way too many variables but maybe I could help. Where are you generally and what kind of venturing do you want to do?

DipodomysDeserti > HammerheadFistpunch 09/25/2016 at 23:39

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I never hated on overlanding. My last paragraph starts with “overlanding is great”. I was just pointin out that it is absolutely nothing like backpacking. I enjoy both, but Abbey’s quote holds true. Thankfully we still have designated wilderness areas in this country where it’s illegal to drive powered vehicles. The only way to get those truly wild areas are on foot.

Like I said, I like overlanding and backpacking, they’re just nothing alike.

A better analogy would be calling Taco Bell Mexican food. I you like Taco Bell, good for you. But if you think Taco Bell is Mexican food, then you’ve probably never had Mexican food.

AestheticsInMotion > HammerheadFistpunch 09/26/2016 at 01:12

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Probably start off with 3 or 4 day trips. 1-3 people total, and we’re used to packing light. Oh and I’m in the Seattle area for most of the year.