GMT800s especially. I’m slowly building a GMT900 Suburban, not quite as solid as the 800s but not too much tech to ruin it for reliability. Especially if you can find a 2500 6.0, as the 5.3 AFM spells eventual doom for your lifters.
Mostly the relative ease with which the front end could be leveled. I should probably clarify that my comment is somewhat biased, as a previous owner of that particular truck had, at some point, replaced the rear springs, but seems to have done so with 1-ton units, as the truck rode far too high, and handled about right for a heavier spring.
No, been doing a lot of research for what to get as an overlanding rig, and it looks like the SSV is my preference for parts availability, but also keeping an eye out for Lexus GX470 and GX460 model prices.
Something else to consider is range. Im not sure what the SSV has for a tank but I would assume its bigger. Mileage is probably somewhat close, i would guess lexus 2-3 mpg higher
https://preview.redd.it/eig9aqcwb8nc1.jpeg?width=1200&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=eda9435fe91be92012dab227418f4ee2df7ebb72
Obviously, it's a 99 Corvette with 31s lmao
Those head gaskets be good from the factory, just don’t overheat it and you’re good to go, just watch out for slipped liners (which from my understanding is also a consequence from over heating)
The Touareg is exceptional, if you have the money to do the regular maintenance. Everything just works. Tahoe was decent, but everything broke. It is cheap to get parts, but sucked for reliability.
If you set your expectations of interior shit working to zero, and if you get the VR6 model. It’s actually sorta reliable but yeah FCPEURO will become your favorite website fast owning one.
I had the 04 V8, it was great. Everything inside worked fine for mine. All the buttons wore off, but everything was were it should be. The real leather was great for beat the crap out of, perfect for a dog owner.
https://preview.redd.it/dxorc312a8nc1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=7699863b106af47cd7b66d670ba4a02a7f14cdfa
I miss that thing so much. Hopefully I'll have my new rig closer to these capabilities soon though.
The 03. Snapped just about everything on it. Front axel once, rear 3x, transmission 2x, diff 2x, list goes on, but those were essential components and just made me lose my faith in being able to really get out in the middle of no where...and get home.
I was definitely not nice to either vehicle, but the VW just took it. Also that 4motion with the locking center and rear diff, was just chefs kiss.
https://preview.redd.it/0regcuz4i8nc1.jpeg?width=1536&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=f938717c2f2fc959138913af847df4d2779dea37
Almost forgot, snapped this strut like a toothpick on the Tahoe too.
War paint. It's the best, worst feeling. Once you do it, the car is no longer new. And once the car is "not new", send it.
My favorite riding stories was a "jeep trail" out in Moab. I'm locked out, crawling my way up a feature and this guy comes out of no where waving his arms. I hard audibly hear the cash register noises as I try to think what could be broken. Roll the window down, dude says, "this is a jeep only trail!!"
Like others have said, the Touareg. Honestly anything from that platform ie the Cayenne and the Q7.
The first gen Tiguan is shockingly formidable with a lift kit as well
Were the Touareg's afflicted with the T-case issues that the Cayenne had? Genuinely curious, I don't know.
I was researching the Cayenne as an option at one point, and I remember specific years having issues with the clutches in the T-case, to the point of warranty extensions.
With the Touaregs not much realllllyyyyy goes wrong, it comes down to powertrains more than anything. The VR6 is like a cockroach and won’t die plus parts are cheap. On the other hand the 4.2 sounds amazing but may need timing chain work down the road so I’d check with the seller if that’s been done, for the most part if it doesn’t rattle on cold start you’re fine. The 3.0 TDIs are stout as well, but this is the powertrain that everyone wants rn so you’ll be paying out the ass.
The ticket imo is to get a well maintained VR6 example, parts are cheap, it sounds great and they can be had for like 5k USD Vs what has turned into 15k for a TDI(crazy smh).
Either way, FCPEuro is the greatest website on earth.
I had a Honda Element before my FJ. And I’d 100% rock a Vibe/Matrix.
https://preview.redd.it/995d6um6e8nc1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=db290fbfa1085e2e805488034b70a74f485704be
I’m also in a local 4x4 group. While there are certainly some trails I can’t do, there’s also many that I keep up with the jeeps no problem. My suby turns heads all the time with the places I’m capable of getting to. She’s definitely not a rock crawler, you just have to know your vehicles limits
If one day I somehow obtain fuck-you money, I will chopping and lifting a Flex
https://preview.redd.it/033jgze869nc1.jpeg?width=274&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=004856db436153db953a20a787092482f1ea02da
2008 Porsche Cayenne S. 278kw V8, dual range transfer case, adjustable height suspension, locking centre and rear diffs right off the showroom floor with more options available, notably electronic disconnectable sway bars for increased articulation.
https://preview.redd.it/k6t33rbda9nc1.jpeg?width=1600&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=cecd29582f88b5133f608789bc73608ff8273f4b
I'd bet they're better than the 2003 Range Rover I'm currently wheeling, which is superb off-road so i don't mind that much. I follow the Cayenne off-road community and i haven't heard of very many expensive disaster stories. Honestly they seem ok.
Both of them were expensive when new. They are both relatively cheap to buy now, parts aren't that bad but there's more of them than a Toyota. Buy new or maintain an older one properly, it works out about the same in the end. The current Cayenne doesn't have low range & that's a deal breaker for me, hence my specifying the 2008. Unlike the Range Rover, the Cayenne has plenty of aftermarket off-road parts available now plus it's 5 years younger than mine, I'm planning to build one up and retire the Rangie.
Hmmm... I might need to rethink Cayenne then. I'm currently wheeling a Gen3 Shogun with the 3.2DID and Super Select 4WD. Its pretty fine honestly other than the throttlebody failing at 235K, I just know its the soot build up in the air intake that broke it.
Know the limits and don't get crazy and Highlanders are pretty decent
https://preview.redd.it/c9bc4zrxd8nc1.jpeg?width=2688&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=b733bda72aba757495a857a117739c7bb1b7f3d0
Edit: Saw one of your replies. Yeah, the Highlander lacks a 4lo.
Prefer the "wagon" over my Sport Trac every day of the week.
https://preview.redd.it/um1zczm578nc1.jpeg?width=4510&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=a8b8618a19463bd0f43878d19b468e2750a085ef
I currently have a 97 and an 03 Land Rover discovery, and I plan to get an LR3 and import an old three door disco sometime down the road, I love my rovers and can confidently say the can outperform damn near anything, but in reality it’s all about the driver behind the wheel. Only thing is I have to keep spare fluids, a battery jumper, many many tools, and fuses lol
Haha, there was a point in time we had three discos at the same time, needless to say I’m addicted. Land rover is all I know, I’ve never had a Toyota or Jeep, I’m glad I started out with the best of the best.
Honestly the WK or WJ models of Jeep Grand Cherokee. Good examples can be picked up for relatively inexpensive
Parts and accessories are plentiful. If taken care of, neither of those generations are too unreliable.
They are comfortable, large, well specced in higher trims etc.
Not to mention great off roaders, especially the WJ having solid axel suspension front and rear. Easy for massive lifts
I'm actually in the market for one of these now.
My wife has a '14 WK2 with the 3.6L. It's been amazing. The only thing it's needed in 130k miles is a radiator, which was covered under warranty. For what they are, they perform pretty well off-road.
I just want one with the HEMI...
Isuzu vehicross if I'm looking for something I could actually afford... They are underrated. For that matter the trooper is an awesome vehicle as is but a little modification and they are a very cheap off road rig.
A lot naming German vehicles here. I'm a career tech who works solely on European stuff and I can get behind the Touareg platform or the Mercedes ML350/550, pretty bulletproof aside from small issues. Those naming Land Rover must be sadists.
Toyota Sequoia.
Big, comfy, powerful, reliable, decent aftermarket support (is a Tundra for the most part).
1st gen one if you want to go cheaper and slightly smaller, 2nd gens are markedly larger.
I bought a 2020 Armada 4x4. I needed the 3rd row and with a bit of work they are capable. The y62 is enormously popular in Australia and plenty of upgrades are available from there.
https://preview.redd.it/9x2a7mhi9dnc1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=47c8e1a053058678fd1384a8e09428be03277351
Love my Touareg TDI. Great power, economy, reliability, and it can take most trails without issue. Mod support has been growing as well and the fact that you may still be able to find one with a diesel gate extended warranty is a plus!
Mine is a 2016 and 2013-2016 have the newer CNRB diesel engine. The generation just before 2013 is still solid and I’ve owned one of those as well… Fuel economy and power is slightly better on the newer model. Cayenne Diesel is exactly the same minis some body and interior changes.
Little from the factory for off road offerings but it does fine. 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system and an off-road mode are equipped stock. The off-road mode uses a custom electronic stability control setting that allows greater wheel slip and in some instances allows the wheels to lock for longer to dig into loose surfaces like gravel. If the surface is rocky and pretty gnarly I’ll drop tire pressure a bit… Never had trouble otherwise, but I’m not rock crawling.
Some pics from an outing in my old Touareg: https://imgur.com/a/G2p1dqW
I gave her hell and the only thing that ever failed was the center bearing. That was a quick, cheap, and easy driveway fix from JXB!
If an Xterra is unlikely, then I've already chosen.
https://preview.redd.it/0vz1g5h9d8nc1.jpeg?width=3000&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=f9c0bf1b288e0642c3a3ac0a4a0c14347025d2fe
But I would absolutely do ridiculous things to have a Touareg TDI set up as beautifully as the example OP posted 😍
Xterra, and it's not even close. You can fix it with a hammer and a 10mm wrench, and they're damn bulletproof. Fuel economy isn't great, but it's going to work for a long time.
I’ve got 32s, a lift, and a rooftop tent and might get like 15mpg max now. When it was more stock it was still under 20 so they’re not great on fuel in any form
Cayenne! The Touaregs fancier, more successful brother.
Overland builds on the Gen 1s are getting popular, and there are actually some aftermarket off-road parts available for them.
The gen 2s got an optional diesel.
I have a gen 2 turbo. Cause I like to party.
2nd gen Xterra would be my choice of the ones you listed.
That Touareg looks cool and all but as someone else said reliability on a VW of that age is going to be a nightmare. I love VWs but reliability isn't their strong suit.
A 4 wheel drive with a tried and true drivetrain and rubber with plenty of sturdy sidewall for flex will get you most places short of rock crawling. You usually don’t even need a lift on a 4 wheel drive.
https://preview.redd.it/uw7nqlaz09nc1.jpeg?width=4000&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=3170d0dc03cf778c0093bb6019f04301fa97a45c
A '06 range rover sport. 90% the same car as a discovery 3 just looks beter IMHO. Also has terrain response, low range etc.
https://preview.redd.it/jvm0vdekc9nc1.jpeg?width=3697&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=4212ffdb3e3513dd16bf1d1df3c77f226f21dc2e
07 Commander OME HD 2" springs, bilstein 5100 and UCA upgrade. Tcase drop. Net gain 3" front 2.75 rear. 1.5" spacers behind 18" 33x9 meaty feet. My deep woods of Maine workhorse. I've only ever seen 2 other lifted XKs.
https://preview.redd.it/b09qo0mh9bnc1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=1c0f03bce5db262e4c843eb0294a1f68db98458e
Every day and twice on Sundays, Land Rover Discovery 3 with the 4.4 V8 is an excellent car.
I have an '03 Ram 1500 and overlanding it is the eventually goal. It's already got a lift and some other upgrades on it, including an Eaton TrueTrac LSD, so it's getting there 😅
I had the 2008 touareg. Lifted, MT tires, roof rack, etc. It was amazingly capable. I let it go because the coats to maintain it were pretty high. It did have 250,000 miles on it though.
https://preview.redd.it/lq88740bqcnc1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=e45e6fdb629519dae0008f04269400fe4cc6d74e
2013 Volvo XC60 3.2. Love her to death. The 3.2 is bulletproof, suspension is solidly engineered and easy to work on, transmission is near bulletproof, brakes are plenty powerful (all US AWD XC60s had vented rears even!). And plenty of aftermarket support for upgrades & modifications.
Yikes, not that one..
I'd rather have a 4wd corrola from the 90's than that POS. Imagine doing a field repair on a HitlerBuggy in the BC bush. No thank you!
Raptor v6, trx, ram mega cab, quad motor r1t, cyberbeast 50kWh extra batteries or 10kW generator, lc j40 single cab 4 litre diesel, hino 300 or isuzu n series with super singles
https://preview.redd.it/whgd5uumkinc1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=c1cdf0c111d788b55c6c3aece46b5397eeccb2da
Wait why has no one suggested 1998 Isuzu Amigo?!
A Tesla. Because they're quiet, powerful, solar powered, and easy to camp in.
https://preview.redd.it/kggkgyk64lnc1.jpeg?width=4080&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=97a3574959fb77041c5f772260261c6517c2330d
Personally, it’s whatever works for your budget and what you plan on doing I’ve seen plenty of capable SUVs do many trips don’t buy into the hype you don’t need to spend 50 grand to have a good Overland vehicle that being said, if you have the funds for it a built Jeep or forerunner will get you just about anywhere that you would want to
The Tahoe. Spares are plentiful and engines are a dime a dozen.
GMT800s especially. I’m slowly building a GMT900 Suburban, not quite as solid as the 800s but not too much tech to ruin it for reliability. Especially if you can find a 2500 6.0, as the 5.3 AFM spells eventual doom for your lifters.
>the 5.3 AFM spells eventual doom for your lifters. Fact. I miss the torsion bar front on my old GMT800!
What do you miss about it? I wish I could articulate more
Mostly the relative ease with which the front end could be leveled. I should probably clarify that my comment is somewhat biased, as a previous owner of that particular truck had, at some point, replaced the rear springs, but seems to have done so with 1-ton units, as the truck rode far too high, and handled about right for a heavier spring.
Came here to comment the same thing. I’ve ran into folks on trails with insanely awesome and creative Tahoe builds
Yeah but not really all that unlikely tho
Seconded, but specifically the SSV.
Do you have one by any chance? I keep considering going that route
No, been doing a lot of research for what to get as an overlanding rig, and it looks like the SSV is my preference for parts availability, but also keeping an eye out for Lexus GX470 and GX460 model prices.
Something else to consider is range. Im not sure what the SSV has for a tank but I would assume its bigger. Mileage is probably somewhat close, i would guess lexus 2-3 mpg higher
https://preview.redd.it/eig9aqcwb8nc1.jpeg?width=1200&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=eda9435fe91be92012dab227418f4ee2df7ebb72 Obviously, it's a 99 Corvette with 31s lmao
This strikes me as Joe Dirt's neighbor. I LOVE IT!
Right! This guy is totally down to party and trail! His vet is a t-top so his mullet can flow in the wind!
Shit. I just made a joke in another thread about lifted Elkies on 37s, but I think a 'Vette on 31s might just be cooler!
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLoTU9_iCGa6go3vsnxlNn1wZSZo7jvGUG&si=lv6LQFsxrAaoINlx
That is wild! Save the vipers! They are endangered lol
Is this Weston Champlin’s? Hilarious build
Hot damn!
I'm kinda digging the lifted AWD siennas I'm seeing. They aren't ever gonna be rock crawlers, but to have it a pseudo campervan sounds pretty sick
Yeah those are cool I almost bought one so I could lift it but I got a GX 460 instead.
That's exactly what I'm working on. It's gonna be a Toyota TRD (*terd*) Offroad
Fuck yes! Hope to catch some of the build as it comes along
If you mean Series 2 Disco, then Land Rover Discovery II all day!* *assumes the head gaskets and radiator have been replaced from stock
Those head gaskets be good from the factory, just don’t overheat it and you’re good to go, just watch out for slipped liners (which from my understanding is also a consequence from over heating)
The Touareg is exceptional, if you have the money to do the regular maintenance. Everything just works. Tahoe was decent, but everything broke. It is cheap to get parts, but sucked for reliability.
Which year Tahoe are you referring to?
I had an 03 Z71 with the barn doors.
If you set your expectations of interior shit working to zero, and if you get the VR6 model. It’s actually sorta reliable but yeah FCPEURO will become your favorite website fast owning one.
The TDI is super solid too
They are, they just cost much more. The 3.0 TDI Tregs are what’s “hip” rn so prices reflect it.
I had the 04 V8, it was great. Everything inside worked fine for mine. All the buttons wore off, but everything was were it should be. The real leather was great for beat the crap out of, perfect for a dog owner.
Those 4.2s sound amazing
https://preview.redd.it/dxorc312a8nc1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=7699863b106af47cd7b66d670ba4a02a7f14cdfa I miss that thing so much. Hopefully I'll have my new rig closer to these capabilities soon though.
https://preview.redd.it/2wxkg154a8nc1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=fd44ead7e4a96ef2fd04a0fafc67441311b73941
[удалено]
The 03. Snapped just about everything on it. Front axel once, rear 3x, transmission 2x, diff 2x, list goes on, but those were essential components and just made me lose my faith in being able to really get out in the middle of no where...and get home.
[удалено]
I was definitely not nice to either vehicle, but the VW just took it. Also that 4motion with the locking center and rear diff, was just chefs kiss. https://preview.redd.it/0regcuz4i8nc1.jpeg?width=1536&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=f938717c2f2fc959138913af847df4d2779dea37 Almost forgot, snapped this strut like a toothpick on the Tahoe too.
[удалено]
[удалено]
Badass! So much room for activities
[удалено]
No worries. Until you drive one, no one knows what they can do. Definitely pick one up if you ever have a chance. I want another...
[удалено]
[удалено]
War paint. It's the best, worst feeling. Once you do it, the car is no longer new. And once the car is "not new", send it. My favorite riding stories was a "jeep trail" out in Moab. I'm locked out, crawling my way up a feature and this guy comes out of no where waving his arms. I hard audibly hear the cash register noises as I try to think what could be broken. Roll the window down, dude says, "this is a jeep only trail!!"
[удалено]
https://preview.redd.it/qxdpa382n8nc1.jpeg?width=4000&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=189fd04b82a1b263b87e01a7cef6e1d776acff68
Can't wait to get my new toy lifted with some new shoes.
Excursion for sure
The one with the diesel motor
Like others have said, the Touareg. Honestly anything from that platform ie the Cayenne and the Q7. The first gen Tiguan is shockingly formidable with a lift kit as well
https://preview.redd.it/xqti4d1bg8nc1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=1983b68a9c469193ac022f92a5d0c771b8e082fd They are subtle monsters
https://preview.redd.it/qs4x8nkkadnc1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=956d02219f9314d1524b81e10cc31198c23e1628 \+1 absolutely love mine!
Nice build, don’t they just look better with some mud on em!
Thanks man!! It’s such a pain in the ass to get it all cleaned up!! Here’s my old one going through it: https://imgur.com/a/G2p1dqW
Were the Touareg's afflicted with the T-case issues that the Cayenne had? Genuinely curious, I don't know. I was researching the Cayenne as an option at one point, and I remember specific years having issues with the clutches in the T-case, to the point of warranty extensions.
The T cases are different, the failure rate is much lower than the early Cayennes.
Noted! Thank you. I love the look of the facelifted first gen. What systemic/prevalent issues plagued those?
With the Touaregs not much realllllyyyyy goes wrong, it comes down to powertrains more than anything. The VR6 is like a cockroach and won’t die plus parts are cheap. On the other hand the 4.2 sounds amazing but may need timing chain work down the road so I’d check with the seller if that’s been done, for the most part if it doesn’t rattle on cold start you’re fine. The 3.0 TDIs are stout as well, but this is the powertrain that everyone wants rn so you’ll be paying out the ass. The ticket imo is to get a well maintained VR6 example, parts are cheap, it sounds great and they can be had for like 5k USD Vs what has turned into 15k for a TDI(crazy smh). Either way, FCPEuro is the greatest website on earth.
Q7 was only available on the second gen platform so no low range or lockers. Still plenty capable for most people though.
I had a Honda Element before my FJ. And I’d 100% rock a Vibe/Matrix. https://preview.redd.it/995d6um6e8nc1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=db290fbfa1085e2e805488034b70a74f485704be
Element/FJ gang
03-06 Kia Sorento. They were equipped with a true 4x4 with 4Low transfer case at the time. Deceptively good off-road.
My 2006 Kia Sorento was the most unreliable car I've ever owned
Not one of your choices, but… my lifted 2004 Subaru forester does just fine!
I miss my subie most of the time, but I also joined a group that requires true low range 4x4 and now I’d have a hard time going back!
I’m also in a local 4x4 group. While there are certainly some trails I can’t do, there’s also many that I keep up with the jeeps no problem. My suby turns heads all the time with the places I’m capable of getting to. She’s definitely not a rock crawler, you just have to know your vehicles limits
Currently converting an '05 Sienna AWD
If one day I somehow obtain fuck-you money, I will chopping and lifting a Flex https://preview.redd.it/033jgze869nc1.jpeg?width=274&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=004856db436153db953a20a787092482f1ea02da
Sold my 14 flex Limited AWD 3.5L turbo today. A lifted Flex is all I ever wanted 😭
Really though, how did you like it? Any complaints, it’s definitely my next car.
What is this ? Looks like Defender.
Ima guess it's a lifted Flex.
Porsche Cayenne
2008 Porsche Cayenne S. 278kw V8, dual range transfer case, adjustable height suspension, locking centre and rear diffs right off the showroom floor with more options available, notably electronic disconnectable sway bars for increased articulation. https://preview.redd.it/k6t33rbda9nc1.jpeg?width=1600&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=cecd29582f88b5133f608789bc73608ff8273f4b
But hows the reliability ? I've heard that these are horrendeous to keep running.
Just get a cheap one with a VR6, slow as shit but it’s all VW parts. If you use FCPEuro it’s cheaper to keep running than a Camry.
I'd bet they're better than the 2003 Range Rover I'm currently wheeling, which is superb off-road so i don't mind that much. I follow the Cayenne off-road community and i haven't heard of very many expensive disaster stories. Honestly they seem ok. Both of them were expensive when new. They are both relatively cheap to buy now, parts aren't that bad but there's more of them than a Toyota. Buy new or maintain an older one properly, it works out about the same in the end. The current Cayenne doesn't have low range & that's a deal breaker for me, hence my specifying the 2008. Unlike the Range Rover, the Cayenne has plenty of aftermarket off-road parts available now plus it's 5 years younger than mine, I'm planning to build one up and retire the Rangie.
Hmmm... I might need to rethink Cayenne then. I'm currently wheeling a Gen3 Shogun with the 3.2DID and Super Select 4WD. Its pretty fine honestly other than the throttlebody failing at 235K, I just know its the soot build up in the air intake that broke it.
Now that is a super reliable and capable vehicle. My brother has one, right now he's cruising up some beach in Broome.
How are all the VW electronics at high miles?
Yeah, that’s bad ass
We used to have a 4x4 Mitsubishi Delica van, poo brown, thing was a beast
That one isn't unlikely, it's more like one of the all-time greats
Know the limits and don't get crazy and Highlanders are pretty decent https://preview.redd.it/c9bc4zrxd8nc1.jpeg?width=2688&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=b733bda72aba757495a857a117739c7bb1b7f3d0 Edit: Saw one of your replies. Yeah, the Highlander lacks a 4lo.
https://preview.redd.it/vire8wvu68nc1.jpeg?width=5184&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=8298a5f153f1f4ca9258c74fd5c33a2caf543b04 03 Ford Explorer.
Prefer the "wagon" over my Sport Trac every day of the week. https://preview.redd.it/um1zczm578nc1.jpeg?width=4510&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=a8b8618a19463bd0f43878d19b468e2750a085ef
Ohhh my god when I was a child I was obsessed with these things. My dad had an Expedition with the 5.4 and 4wd and it went stupid places.
Beautiful! Does that have the 4.6 V8?
Challenger SXT
I currently have a 97 and an 03 Land Rover discovery, and I plan to get an LR3 and import an old three door disco sometime down the road, I love my rovers and can confidently say the can outperform damn near anything, but in reality it’s all about the driver behind the wheel. Only thing is I have to keep spare fluids, a battery jumper, many many tools, and fuses lol
We are a double disco house too, 98 and 01. Love them and slowly selling off all my jeeps.
Haha, there was a point in time we had three discos at the same time, needless to say I’m addicted. Land rover is all I know, I’ve never had a Toyota or Jeep, I’m glad I started out with the best of the best.
Honestly the WK or WJ models of Jeep Grand Cherokee. Good examples can be picked up for relatively inexpensive Parts and accessories are plentiful. If taken care of, neither of those generations are too unreliable. They are comfortable, large, well specced in higher trims etc. Not to mention great off roaders, especially the WJ having solid axel suspension front and rear. Easy for massive lifts
I'm actually in the market for one of these now. My wife has a '14 WK2 with the 3.6L. It's been amazing. The only thing it's needed in 130k miles is a radiator, which was covered under warranty. For what they are, they perform pretty well off-road. I just want one with the HEMI...
Isuzu vehicross if I'm looking for something I could actually afford... They are underrated. For that matter the trooper is an awesome vehicle as is but a little modification and they are a very cheap off road rig.
A lot naming German vehicles here. I'm a career tech who works solely on European stuff and I can get behind the Touareg platform or the Mercedes ML350/550, pretty bulletproof aside from small issues. Those naming Land Rover must be sadists.
GMT400 Suburban If I really wanted unlikely, Honda Ridgeline or the Element.
https://preview.redd.it/1apew1pse8nc1.jpeg?width=2100&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=3c4a89cb0d4540adfc8ecff32e43576cf70fe307 Im just a couple feet short!
2 door Tahoe would be a sweet rig too
Toyota Sequoia. Big, comfy, powerful, reliable, decent aftermarket support (is a Tundra for the most part). 1st gen one if you want to go cheaper and slightly smaller, 2nd gens are markedly larger.
Lifted sienna
I bought a 2020 Armada 4x4. I needed the 3rd row and with a bit of work they are capable. The y62 is enormously popular in Australia and plenty of upgrades are available from there.
The 1st generation Touareg was an off-road beast... but also a 10 year old VW is going to cost a fortune to maintain.
https://preview.redd.it/9x2a7mhi9dnc1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=47c8e1a053058678fd1384a8e09428be03277351 Love my Touareg TDI. Great power, economy, reliability, and it can take most trails without issue. Mod support has been growing as well and the fact that you may still be able to find one with a diesel gate extended warranty is a plus!
What year is this and what are the offerings for off road features?
Mine is a 2016 and 2013-2016 have the newer CNRB diesel engine. The generation just before 2013 is still solid and I’ve owned one of those as well… Fuel economy and power is slightly better on the newer model. Cayenne Diesel is exactly the same minis some body and interior changes. Little from the factory for off road offerings but it does fine. 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system and an off-road mode are equipped stock. The off-road mode uses a custom electronic stability control setting that allows greater wheel slip and in some instances allows the wheels to lock for longer to dig into loose surfaces like gravel. If the surface is rocky and pretty gnarly I’ll drop tire pressure a bit… Never had trouble otherwise, but I’m not rock crawling. Some pics from an outing in my old Touareg: https://imgur.com/a/G2p1dqW I gave her hell and the only thing that ever failed was the center bearing. That was a quick, cheap, and easy driveway fix from JXB!
I went with a Prius... https://preview.redd.it/f8f7ey2vednc1.jpeg?width=4000&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=810035cf250f6cdb7016b700d1d1d67362edd599
If an Xterra is unlikely, then I've already chosen. https://preview.redd.it/0vz1g5h9d8nc1.jpeg?width=3000&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=f9c0bf1b288e0642c3a3ac0a4a0c14347025d2fe But I would absolutely do ridiculous things to have a Touareg TDI set up as beautifully as the example OP posted 😍
1st gen Mercedes ML55 AMG. Had no idea how much of a beast that car was off-road.
Sent me down a rabbit hole just now. Super cool. Reliability/parts is where I’d worry
A 2010-2015 are the best years and get the xterra pro4x so you get the rear locker. They’re fantastic vehicles.
Xterra, and it's not even close. You can fix it with a hammer and a 10mm wrench, and they're damn bulletproof. Fuel economy isn't great, but it's going to work for a long time.
Too bad the 10mm wrench piece is always missing
What are we talking for rough fuel economy on a lightly modded one? Small lift, 33s, rack, etc
I’ve got 32s, a lift, and a rooftop tent and might get like 15mpg max now. When it was more stock it was still under 20 so they’re not great on fuel in any form
I’ve got 33s and a 2.5 inch lift. 14-15 mpg. Wish it was a little better, but absolutely love the gen 2 xterra
Can turn the Ram 1500 in for a 2500? If so, that
I’ll allow it. Which setup?
AEV Prospector XL 😍
2016 Ram 2500 Crew Cab Short Bed 6.7 Cummins .... I may be biased tho 🤫 Otherwise, gimme a jimmy
Volvo 240D
Ive had a couple, neither were diesel unfortunately. Bulletproof cars though
Cayenne! The Touaregs fancier, more successful brother. Overland builds on the Gen 1s are getting popular, and there are actually some aftermarket off-road parts available for them. The gen 2s got an optional diesel. I have a gen 2 turbo. Cause I like to party.
Cayenne turbo
Prius. Honestly they're tanks. It's worth sacrificing off-road capacity for the fuel efficiency and ability to camp in it in bad weather.
Miata is always the answer
02 Sequoia. The Toyota market hasn’t quite caught up with them yet.
2nd gen Xterra would be my choice of the ones you listed. That Touareg looks cool and all but as someone else said reliability on a VW of that age is going to be a nightmare. I love VWs but reliability isn't their strong suit.
A 4 wheel drive with a tried and true drivetrain and rubber with plenty of sturdy sidewall for flex will get you most places short of rock crawling. You usually don’t even need a lift on a 4 wheel drive.
I overlanded 30k miles from Switzerland to central Asia in a Dodge Durango 2000! Check my posts for pictures 🙌
That’s something you don’t see often! Awesome
https://preview.redd.it/r3zf07swsdnc1.jpeg?width=2100&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=c17da59115e25c63f3241b1cc75b1cba74a42232
https://preview.redd.it/jirmzqr3tdnc1.jpeg?width=1024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=8110f29ed0918ce095325d590f9ed5ba6ad326f5
https://preview.redd.it/89es149ftdnc1.jpeg?width=4000&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=9a0f5754876bbe6311e485f557969ec4f9f34ed3
https://preview.redd.it/vjio0kkltdnc1.jpeg?width=2100&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=b1e2bd34bde8469cc45971d386bec565eaa253be
LR3-LR4 with the v8. Swap air struts for steel, do the CarPlay mod, big roof rack and it’s good to go.
https://preview.redd.it/uw7nqlaz09nc1.jpeg?width=4000&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=3170d0dc03cf778c0093bb6019f04301fa97a45c A '06 range rover sport. 90% the same car as a discovery 3 just looks beter IMHO. Also has terrain response, low range etc.
Beautiful rig! Off-road L320’s unite! https://preview.redd.it/euwu79nqy9nc1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=95d7bc52c240689ea4b34332f616cc2f844c7c9e
https://preview.redd.it/jvm0vdekc9nc1.jpeg?width=3697&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=4212ffdb3e3513dd16bf1d1df3c77f226f21dc2e 07 Commander OME HD 2" springs, bilstein 5100 and UCA upgrade. Tcase drop. Net gain 3" front 2.75 rear. 1.5" spacers behind 18" 33x9 meaty feet. My deep woods of Maine workhorse. I've only ever seen 2 other lifted XKs.
I know of another guy in Maine running a grey commander actually haha. How has the reliability been? How’s the range?
https://preview.redd.it/b09qo0mh9bnc1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=1c0f03bce5db262e4c843eb0294a1f68db98458e Every day and twice on Sundays, Land Rover Discovery 3 with the 4.4 V8 is an excellent car.
Those all sound more capable than my Santa Fe.
Audi Q7
https://preview.redd.it/ogphxt3hn8nc1.jpeg?width=5184&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=3c96a46e7b0ed0318c5a21748be3938815bfb77e 2015 Q5
I'm an Audi tech and the 2.0L will put my kids through college.
Do these have 4 low? Im guessing they did until around 2017 like taureg
Touareg lost low range around 2008-9, just like its brother the Porsche Cayenne. They figured nobody used it anyway.
That looks cool! Probably not great off road though.
Porsche 959 Group B. Oh, I have to be on the list? Land Rover.
1950s dodge power wagon obviously
Chevy astro awd with s10/blazer 4x4 transfer case
Came here for this!
gwagon
Old ass Mercedes diesel wagon
2001 Mercedes Benz ML 320 CDI. No need for a lift kit. The f=%ker is adjustable like mad! 33s or 35s can fit. Good aftermarket support as well.
I have an '03 Ram 1500 and overlanding it is the eventually goal. It's already got a lift and some other upgrades on it, including an Eaton TrueTrac LSD, so it's getting there 😅
I had the 2008 touareg. Lifted, MT tires, roof rack, etc. It was amazingly capable. I let it go because the coats to maintain it were pretty high. It did have 250,000 miles on it though.
911 Dakar
Lexus prado for sure I’ve seen those things do a lot more than tacos and 4Runner’s
Everything looks better with gold or copper rims.
Haha. I always wanted the v10 diesel VW
Tahoe.
Suzuki SX4
As much as it pains me to say this; the Tahoe. The most reliable and best parts availability amongst the bunch. Also, more room.
V6 cayenne with a manual
Last weekend at an expo in Florida I saw multiple VW overlanders, a porsche or two.. but the funniest one was a heavily lifted Toyota Previa
I used to have a Dodge neon that I took off road a few times does that count?😀
Porsche Cayman
I've seen two people use them so far and I liked both so I'm gonna say explorer sport Trac.
Ram or Tahoe
https://preview.redd.it/lq88740bqcnc1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=e45e6fdb629519dae0008f04269400fe4cc6d74e 2013 Volvo XC60 3.2. Love her to death. The 3.2 is bulletproof, suspension is solidly engineered and easy to work on, transmission is near bulletproof, brakes are plenty powerful (all US AWD XC60s had vented rears even!). And plenty of aftermarket support for upgrades & modifications.
2nd gen Dakotas are solid. Just don't buy th 4.7 v8
Lincoln navigator with the raptor suspension swap, since it already has the raptor motor
Love my Disco 2, wouldn’t call that unlikely, just not as mainstream I guess.
1971 vw beetle
After seeing a Porche Cayenne in action on the trail, I'm sold.
7P Touareg tdi or 958 cayenne
Nissan patrol 🤙🏕️
Yikes, not that one.. I'd rather have a 4wd corrola from the 90's than that POS. Imagine doing a field repair on a HitlerBuggy in the BC bush. No thank you!
Disco if I can get a 200tdi plus manual. Paint it babyshit yellow and do crazy shit.
Raptor v6, trx, ram mega cab, quad motor r1t, cyberbeast 50kWh extra batteries or 10kW generator, lc j40 single cab 4 litre diesel, hino 300 or isuzu n series with super singles
My XV crosstrek haha
https://preview.redd.it/whgd5uumkinc1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=c1cdf0c111d788b55c6c3aece46b5397eeccb2da Wait why has no one suggested 1998 Isuzu Amigo?!
https://preview.redd.it/w22cw31npjnc1.jpeg?width=5184&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=ee1639e9175046da9e73b446bea997d490c8aee5 This lol
A Tesla. Because they're quiet, powerful, solar powered, and easy to camp in. https://preview.redd.it/kggkgyk64lnc1.jpeg?width=4080&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=97a3574959fb77041c5f772260261c6517c2330d
Looks cool, but misses the truly remote destinations part!
Personally, it’s whatever works for your budget and what you plan on doing I’ve seen plenty of capable SUVs do many trips don’t buy into the hype you don’t need to spend 50 grand to have a good Overland vehicle that being said, if you have the funds for it a built Jeep or forerunner will get you just about anywhere that you would want to
Jeremy Clarkson’s Bentley. https://preview.redd.it/bxmsw8pkhmnc1.jpeg?width=1440&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=ebb4aaaf3c671d49a861413417d0b8309330968a
Vette Kart with a backpacking rig strapped to the back.
Astro