One of the best things about overlanding is the freedom that it gives you. You can make what would normally be a day trip of off-roading into a full weekend of adventure. But you need the right vehicle for the job. Some may get overzealous in what vehicle they may choose to convert into the ultimate overlander. This is when we start to see things like a Tesla Model 3 lifted and ready to take on the great outdoors. But there are more sensible and realistic options out there that can get the job done better.
With a little creativity, a lot of vehicles can proudly wear the overlanding badge. That is if you are willing to give it a little TLC and the right modifications. When this is the case, you can have a serious weekend warrior of a vehicle on your hands. Choosing the right vehicle as your canvas can be tricky. Thankfully there are a variety of cars that are available fit the bill nicely.
These vehicles span the spectrum of entry-level vehicles to technological wonders that approach a six-figure price tag. All of them can be impressive overlanders and can fit what an outdoor enthusiast specifically wants out of such a vehicle. No matter what the overlanding needs are, these vehicles are strong contenders.
Subaru Crosstrek
The Subaru Crosstrek is essentially an Impreza hatchback that is slightly lifted and more plastic body cladding to give it an off-road appearance. But the Crosstrek is not just all looks. One of Subaru’s finest qualities is that they all come with standard all-wheel-drive which can do a decent job when going off the beaten path. Many customers realize this, and Crosstreks are selling in droves.
Many overland enthusiasts will give the Crosstrek a small makeover consisting of things such as knobby rally-inspired wheels and extra lighting on the front. For extra gear, a rack on top of the vehicle can give the small Crosstrek some more functionality and give it an adventure-ready look. New Crosstreks also offer a more potent turbo four-cylinder as an option that would complement the off-road rig nicely.
Lexus GX
The GX has been in the US under the Lexus moniker for two generations now. Both generations are perfect for an overlanding overhaul, whether it be large or small. In stock form, the GX is already impressive as an off roader given that it is based off of a version of the Toyota Land Cruiser sold in other parts of the world. This means that the GX sports a body-on-frame platform and part-time 4WD with a transfer case.
Search for a Lexus GX on the internet or even on Instagram, and you will see the impressive potential that this vehicle has for being a capable overlander. Some of the most popular mods include a lift kit and a steel front bumper that improves the approach angle. The behemoth of a grille on the newer GX’s undermines some of the SUV’s ability off-road because of how low it goes. A lift and a sturdy front bumper do marvel at making the GX shine as an overlander.
Toyota RAV4
The RAV4 was initially introduced and marketed as an “adventure vehicle” when it debuted in the late '90s. RAV4 even stands for “Recreational Active Vehicle” and the 4 obviously denoting 4WD. Although it was not a hardcore off-roader to begin with, the generations after the first one did not reinforce its namesake much.
This is until the most recent RAV4, which has brought some more off-road flair. The trail ready TRD Off Road trim is a great place to start for an overlander. Some comparisons have shown it’s as capable in some situations as a Jeep Wrangler. This trim has off road tuned suspension and optional skid plates along with a stance that can make a suitable overlanding candidate.
Rivian R1T
The Rivian has not been fully integrated into overlanding culture yet due to the fact that orders are barely starting to be fulfilled. The R1T is the first fully electric truck to hit production. What makes it a valid candidate for overlanding are the options already offered by Rivian. They’re positioned as an outdoor adventure brand and what is already offered is very impressive.
Accessories such as a tent mounted to the top of the truck are perfect for the extended overlanding trip. One unique feature is a pass-through compartment between the bed of the truck and the rear seats. This compartment can be optioned to contain a mobile cooking station. Things like these ensure that drivers are well-equipped when going off the grid.
Of course, there is also standard all-wheel drive to give the extra traction that is needed. Modifications can be tricky when it comes to electric vehicles, and Rivian knows this. Thankfully they cover a lot of bases on their own in terms of what overlanders need.
With the market growing daily for vehicles that can take you beyond the pavement, many vehicles provide good bones for an overlander. The mix of accessories standard and the options available aftermarket for these vehicles can fulfill your overlanding dreams and more.