Technically, most cars can be used for overlanding to a certain extent, but there are some options you simply can't go wrong with. Today, we're looking at ten new cars suitable for your next overlanding adventure.
If you're familiar with the camping and adventure worlds, you might've heard about overlanding. Long story short, it's several activities blended into one: exploration, off-roading, camping, and surpassing your own limits.
Suppose we were to use a single definition. In that case, we could synthesize everything in "a long-term, vehicle-supported, long-distance travel to remote locations where the journey is the main goal, and the primary form of lodging is camping."
There are several points to consider when choosing the base vehicle for your overlander project. I'll present them in no particular order and keep it as short and sweet as possible.
When it comes to overlanding, size matters. First of all, you need to figure out how many passengers you'll be carrying and how much gear you'll have onboard. A larger vehicle provides more space, yet it cannot fit in tighter spaces. On the other hand, a smaller one will offer more versatility, but you'll have to sacrifice comfort and storage space.
Payload capacity is also critical to your overlanding experience, so ensure the vehicle can support all the weight, especially if you're considering using a trailer.
What type of terrain will you be driving on? If you're heading somewhere rough and rocky, you need to ensure you have plenty of ground clearance, a durable suspension system, and a sturdy frame. If you are adventuring on tight roads and weaving through trees, a more compact vehicle will be more helpful.
All the cars you'll find on this list are capable enough to handle off-roading. Ultimately, you'll have to find a suitable balance between power, capabilities, and fuel efficiency when choosing your overlander. Those extra horses might be useful in specific scenarios, but is the extra fuel consumption worth it?
Choosing the most decked-out and off-road-dedicated might sound like the ideal solution, but more often than not, you'll be traveling on highways and other tarmac roads to get to your destination. So, drivability and comfort are also to be considered – you need something that's cozy both on and off the road.
Overlanding will take a toll on your vehicle, so going for a reliable four-wheeler is essential. Some come with factory upgrades that increase durability, while others will need some extra aftermarket modifications.
That brings us to the next point: customization. You'll find accessories and upgrades for all models in this list. However, some cars are more popular and more accessible to modify than others, so keep that in mind.
I've included both affordable and higher-end vehicles in the list. Besides the purchase price, you will have many other costs to consider. So, when choosing an overlander base vehicle, make sure to check the fuel economy and availability and price of parts.
2023 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro
Photo: Toyota
MSRP: $54,620
Passengers: 5
Towing Capacity: 5,000 lbs.
Payload Capacity: 1,700 lbs.
Ground Clearance: 9.6 inches
Fuel Range: 16/19/17 mpg (city/highway/combined)
4Runners have become known across the globe as off-road icons and staples in the world of overlanding. Although the vehicle's design is quite outdated and in need of a refresh, you can't go wrong with the 4Runner.
All models are fitted as standard with four-wheel-drive and powered by a 4-liter V6 engine outputting 270 hp and 278 lb-ft. (377 Nm) of torque. What's more, all variants can tow up to 5,000 lbs. (2,268 kg).
Toyota designed the 4Runner with travel and overlanding in mind. It has a very sturdy construction and excellent storage capabilities inside and out, with the option of offering a roof rack and other accessories.
Being such a popular option, you'll find countless aftermarket upgrade options to make this your ultimate exploration machine. In fact, if you're all about tailoring your vehicle to your exact needs, the 4Runner might be one of your best options.
If budget isn't an issue, Your best bet for overloading is the TRD Pro trim, offered for a starting price of $54,620. Toyota made this version off-road and overlanding-ready by fitting it with skid plates, TRD Fox shocks, and TRD-tuned front springs, as well as a TRD roof rack.
2023 Ford F-150 Raptor
Photo: Ford
MSRP: $76,775
Passengers: 5
Towing Capacity:
Payload Capacity: 1,370 lbs.
Ground Clearance: 12 inches
Fuel Range: 15/18/16 mpg (city/highway/combined)
You might want to skip this one if you're looking for a more compact overlander. The Ford F-150 Raptor is one beastly machine, tackling any challenger you throw at it, whether it's desert racing, rock crawling, or overlanding.
It's nearly impossible to browse the internet for an overlander and not stumble upon the Ford F-150. The F-Series remains the best-selling vehicle in the United States, and for good reason. That also means you won't struggle to find parts or accessories for it.
The high-output 3.5-liter V6 engine offers exceptional power, 450 hp and 510 lb-ft. (691 Nm) of torque. If that's not enough for you, you could look at the 2023 F-150 Raptor R, which comes with a ridiculously powerful 5.2-liter supercharged V8 with 700 hp and 640 lb-ft (868 Nm) of torque.
The truck's massive size means that you'll have a bunch of storage space for your gear. Moreover, you get plenty of towing power, up to 8,200 lbs. (4,990 kg), and a Class IV trailer hitch to attach whatever you need.
Many of the F-150's components enable it to tackle off-road terrain easily. But one worth mentioning is the 5-link rear suspension, featuring extra-long trailing arms and 24-inch coil springs.
2023 Jeep Gladiator
Photo: Jeep
MSRP: $38,775
Passengers: 5
Towing Capacity: 4,000 to 6,000 pounds (up to 7,650 pounds with the Max Towing Package)
Payload Capacity: 1,700 lbs.
Ground Clearance: 10 to 11.6 inches
Fuel Range: 16/23/19 mpg (city/highway/combined)
The 137-inch Gladiator isn't just a longer Wrangler with a bed – it deserves its own praises, especially when it comes to off-roading and overlanding. It features a reinforced body-on-frame chassis and can tow almost twice as much as the Wrange: up to more than 7,650 pounds (3,470 kg) when choosing the Max Towing Package.
You can choose between two engine options: a 3.0-liter diesel V6 engine with 260 hp and 442 lb-ft. (600 Nm) of torque or a 3.6-liter V6 engine that produces 285 hp and 260 ft-lbs (353 Nm). of torque. A nice touch is that you can opt for a manual gearbox in the base model.
Driving capability is where the Gladiator shines, ideally blending on and off-road performance. A suite of performance features, such as a two-inch lift kit and Fox shocks, are also available.
If the stock offering isn't enough, you can easily access a vast network of outfitters and aftermarket suppliers that can take your Gladiator to the next level. If you want the car ready for overlanding straight out of the box, check out the Gladiator Rubicon. It's fitted with an electronic sway bar disconnect, locking front and rear differentials, and more.
And lastly, another Gladiator upgrade that will make your overlanding experience more enjoyable is the removable roof and door kit.
2023 Ford Bronco
Photo: Ford
MSRP: $34,890
Passengers: 4/5
Towing Capacity: 2,200 to 4,500 lbs.
Payload Capacity: 1,370 lbs.
Ground Clearance: 8.4 to 11.6 inches
Fuel Range: 20/21/20 mpg (city/highway/combined)
The Ford Bronco is one of the most recognizable vehicles in American cultural history. But looks aside, this vehicle is an excellent option for overlanding. It sports a 2.3-liter turbocharged engine outputting 275 hp, paired with a seven-speed manual transmission. You can also upgrade to a 315-hp, 2.7-liter turbocharged engine with a 10-speed automatic transmission.
What makes the Bronco feel at home when off the beaten path is, among other features, a superior suspension system. All models come with HOSS (High-Performance Off-Road Stability Suspension), consisting of independent front suspension elements, ultra-articulating coil springs, and industry-leading dampers.
The Bronco's short wheelbase measurements translate to more maneuverability when hitting the dirt. Moreover, the Trail Control driving mode will keep you safe and stable.
Just like with Jeeps, you can opt for several open-air configurations on the Bronco, and you won't have to worry about keeping the interior clean as it boasts premium, weather-resistant interior materials.
There are ten trims available for the Bronco. The most decked-out one is the Raptor version, featuring HOSS 4.0 dampers and 37-inch tires. It runs on a 3.0-liter V6 engine delivering 418 hp and 440 ft-lb. (597 Nm). Price-wise, you'll have to empty a staggering $86,580 for this bad boy.
2023 Mercedes-Benz G-Class
Photo: Mercedes-Benz
MSRP: $139,900
Passengers: 5
Towing Capacity: 7,000 lbs.
Payload Capacity: 1,060 lbs.
Ground Clearance: 9.5 inches
Fuel Range: 13/16 mpg (city/highway)
Today, the G Wagon is seen more like a luxury vehicle than an off-road machine. Truthfully, it's both. Initially built as a military vehicle, this machine is still used across the globe for off-roading and remains a popular choice for military and police vehicles.
So, how about a G Wagon as an overlander vehicle? With its twin-turbo V8 and all-wheel drive, there are few places you won't reach with this beast. With the G 550 version, you get 416 hp and 450 lb-ft (610 Nm) of torque, more than enough power to get to your destination.
The vehicle comes with three locking differentials, which means you'll have excellent traction control, especially for rock climbing. Moreover, some models feature terrain management systems to adjust the shocks automatically.
There's one big downside with the G-Wagon: cost. Its six-figure price tag makes it inaccessible to a big part of the market. What's more, the signature boxy design isn't the best when it comes to aerodynamics, also impacting the vehicle's gas mileage.
When it comes to upgrades, you'll be able to find plenty of options for the G-Wagon, whether you're looking for a roof rack, lift kit, winch, or others.
2023 Subaru Forester Wilderness
Photo: Subaru
MSRP: around $35,000
Passengers: 5
Towing Capacity: 3,000 lbs.
Ground Clearance: 9.2 inches
Fuel Range: 25/28/26 mpg (city/highway/combined)
Another brand name synonymous with off-roading is Subaru. The Subaru Forester Wilderness is equipped with a 2.5-liter engine producing 182 hp and 176 lb-ft. (239 Nm) of torque, and all-wheel-drive is offered as standard.
While there are certainly more off-road-focused models, you can't go wrong with a Subaru. Your best bet for overlanding would be the Wilderness edition of the Forester. It boasts a four-wheel independent suspension and a max towing capacity of 3,000 lbs. (1,361 kg), double that of a standard model.
Several other modifications make it ideal for off-roading. The vehicle's ground clearance was increased from 8.7 inches to 9.2 inches, and a trailer stability assist was added. Furthermore, you'll find ladder rails that can support 220 lbs. (100 kg) of dynamic weight and 800 lbs. (363 kg) of static weight, enough to hold a tent for a small family.
All Foresters come equipped with the Eyesight advanced driver assistance system, which includes adaptive cruise control, automatic forward emergency braking, and more. But one feature exclusive to the Wilderness version is selectable dual models that enable the car to cross snowy and rough terrain.
If you're looking for a practical daily driver that can still handle the challenges of overlanding, the Subaru Forester Wilderness is worth a shot.
2023 Land Rover Defender 110
Photo: Land Rover
MSRP: $53,500
Passengers: 5
Towing Capacity: 7,716 lbs.
Ground Clearance: 8.9 inches
Fuel Range: 18/23/20 mpg (city/highway/combined)
Since its release in 1983, the Land Rover Defender has secured its spot in the off-roading hall of fame. The all-new Defender, launched in 2020, became popular for more urban affairs, but its off-road capabilities shouldn't be underestimated.
It sports a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine delivering 296 hp, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Of course, all-wheel-drive is standard, and you also get a stability optimization system and advanced driver assistance technologies.
If you go for a higher trim, you'll be able to choose a larger and more powerful engine, as well as more convenient features. For instance, if you add the towing pack, your Defender will be able to tow up to 7,716 lbs. (3,500 kg).
The price of your Defender will quickly add up if you opt for extras, such as the Explorer, Adventure, and Country packs.
Something unique to the Defender is the integration of the What3Words into the vehicle's navigation system. Long story short, What3Words divides the Earth's surface into 3-meter square grids and assigns 3-letter words to each. Using these unique addresses, drivers can navigate to remote or unmarked places. So, there's a real chance you might use the system if you plan on overlanding with the Defender.
2023 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro
Photo: Toyota
MSRP: $70,920
Passengers: 5
Towing Capacity: 11,175 lbs.
Payload Capacity: 1,600 lbs.
Ground Clearance: 9 inches
Fuel Range: 18/20/19 mpg (city/highway/combined)
The Tundra is hands-down one of the favorites among off-roading enthusiasts. The TRD Pro’s 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 churns out 437 hp and 583 lb-ft. (790 Nm) of torque, backed by a 10-speed automatic transmission.
This vehicle is big and bulky, meaning you'll have lots of space for your passengers and cargo. Weighing in at around 5,680 lbs. (2,576 kg), this machine can tow up to 10,200 lbs. (4,627 kg).
Another reason the Tundra deserves a spot on this list is the sheer number of aftermarket accessories – you won't have any issue modifying this vehicle for overlanding.
A Tundra SR5 with an additional TRD Off-Road package will certainly serve as an excellent base vehicle for overlanding. However, if you want a better-prepared car straight out of the factory, the TRD Pro is the best choice.
It features an off-road suspension with FOX shocks and a 1.1-inch front lift, as well as 18-inch BBS wheels with Falken Widepeak All-Terrain tires. You also get an electronically controlled locking rear differential.
2023 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro
Photo: Toyota
MSRP: $48,035
Passengers: 5
Towing Capacity: up to 6,400 lbs.
Payload Capacity: up to 1,155 lbs.
Ground Clearance: 9.4 inches
Fuel Range: 18/22/20 mpg (city/highway/combined)
Another great contender for the overlanding medal is the Tacoma. Even though it isn't as luxurious and tech-filled as other trucks on this list, it certainly gets the job done.
Again, going for the TRD Pro package will offer some off-road perks, such as Fox shocks, skid plates, bright fog lights with a wide-angle beam, and an electronically locking rear differential. Moreover, the front is lifted by 1.5 inches and the rear by 0.5 inches compared to the standard Tacoma.
The 3.5-liter V6 engine outputs 278 hp and 265 ft-lb. (359 Nm) of torque, and you can choose between a 6-speed automatic or manual transmission.
Towing capacity for the Tacoma is between 3,500 lbs. (1,588 kg) and 6,800 lbs. (3,084 kg), depending on the trim, with an average payload capacity of 1,155 lbs. (524 kg). If you go for the Tow Package, you’ll benefit from the Trailer-Sway Control feature, which applies brake pressure at individual wheels and manages engine torque to keep your trailer stable.
Besides safety systems included in Toyota’s Safety Sense package, the TRD Pro gets the Crawl Control feature. It modulates the throttle and brakes on five low-speed settings so you can focus on navigating the path ahead.
2023 Ram 1500 TRX
Photo: Ram Trucks
MSRP: $85,700
Passengers: 5
Towing Capacity: 8,100 lbs.
Payload capacity: 1,360 lbs.
Ground Clearance: 11.8 inches
Fuel Range: 10/14/11 mpg (city/highway/combined)
The Ram 1500 TRX is the most powerful four-wheeler you'll find on this list and a close competitor to the Ford F-150 Raptor. But how does this mighty beast fare against overlanding?
A 6.2-liter supercharged V8 engine provides 702 hp and 650 lb-ft. (881 Nm) of torque to all four-wheel via an eight-speed automatic transmission. It takes just 4.5 seconds to reach the 60-mph mark – I know that's irrelevant for overlanding. Still, I had to mention it for you to understand how powerful this vehicle is, especially considering it tips the scales at 5,300 lbs. (2,404 kg).
One of the critical components that enable proper off-roading inside this Ram is the exclusive Bilstein Black Hawk e2 shock system, designed to evenly distribute all horsepower to the ground.
The TRX's 11.8 inches of ground clearance, 13 inches (33 centimeters) of front suspension travel, and 14 inches (35.5 centimeters) of rear suspension travel allow the vehicle to tackle bumpy terrains comfortably. Using the Dual-Valve technology, the truck will tailor the signal sent to its eight valves and constantly adjust both compression and rebound forces at each shock absorber.
You'll have to dish out at least $85,700 for the TRX. I know that's quite pricey, but besides the off-road-focused build, you also get an interior loaded with luxurious touches and high-tech features.
Still reading? Let me know in the comments what other vehicles you feel deserve a spot on the list. After all, I couldn't fit them all in this list.
Stay tuned for the next article, where I will discuss what it takes to accessorize these cars and turn them into genuine overlanders.
Starting out with a motorcycle permit just because he could get one two years earlier than a driver's license, Mircea keeps his passion for bikes (motor or no motor) alive to this day. His lifelong dream is to build his own custom camper van. Full profile
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