Off-Roaders – Which is the Right One for You?
Off-roaders are a breed unto themselves, the kind of folks who travel well off the beaten path and mix things up in the dirt and mud just for fun. From weekend warriors to daily riders, the off-road vehicle you choose depends entirely on your budget and your adventurous spirit!
The Choice Is Yours
Just how dirty do you want to get? Do you need a vehicle that can crawl through a three-foot rushing river, or do you need something that can climb boulders and rocks en route to a mountainous summit? Are you one of those crazy mudders? Answer these questions, and the vehicle choice for off-road mayhem becomes clear.
What The Truck? (Or SUV)
Trucks and SUVs with off-road performance packages are a practical choice since they can handle day-to-day driving as well as four-wheeling adventures. A diesel engine, especially one decked out with high-end diesel performance parts, yields more power for hauling big loads, while a gasoline engine is easier to fuel up and maintain. Whatever your choice, you’ll want an off-road vehicle with high ground clearance, short rear overhangs, and steep approach angles. Which truck or SUV is the best?
You can’t go wrong with any of the following:
• Jeep Grand Cherokee EcoDiesel — It’s a Jeep thing. Old school off-roaders know what I’m talking about. Jeeps have been blazing trails through the wilds for decades, and the new Grand Cherokee EcoDiesel is the most technologically advanced diesel-powered Jeep ever built. Its 3.0-L V-6 delivers an impressive 240-hp and 420 lb-ft. of torque. Equally comfortable on-road or off-, the Grand Cherokee EcoDiesel can also tow up to 7,400 lbs. Only in a Jeep!
• Nissan Titan XD Diesel — Sometimes you need a vehicle that can haul a heavy load while conquering backwoods trails and old logging roads. The Nissan Titan XD Diesel might be your best bet. The Cummins 5.0-L V8 Turbo Diesel engine is a true monster, delivering heavy-duty performance and torque in an affordable and efficient package.
• Chevrolet Colorado Diesel — The Chevy Colorado Diesel is a compact diesel-powered pickup with an amazing amount of power. The 2.8-liter Duramax engine is a powerhouse, and various off-road equipment packages can turn the Colorado into a mountain climber.
ATVs and UTVs To The Rescue
All-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and utility vehicles (UTV) are designed for sportsmen, farmers, ranchers, and trail lovers. These vehicles can take you to remote locations that a truck or SUV could never reach. Most major vehicle makers offer ATVs, including specialty manufacturers like John Deere and Bobcat.
The three vehicles listed below can take you way off-road—and do it in high style!
1. Kawasaki Brute Force 750 4x4i EPS Camo — A potent V-twin engine throws power to all four wheels, and the double wishbone front suspension and fully-independent rear help manage all types of terrain. Hauling heavy gear? The Kawasaki Brute Force 750 4x4i EPS Camo can pull well over a thousand pounds!
2. Polaris Sportsman XP 1000 Pursuit Camo — A twin fuel-injected 952cc Prostar engine generates a roaring 88-hp. It’s huge 11.5 inches of clearance dwarfs others in its class and ensures you can get over almost anything. Plus, the Active Descent Control (ADC) and Engine Braking System (EBS) work harmoniously to provide smooth and safe descents down steep grades.
3. Yamaha Viking FI 4×4 EPS — Bring a couple friends! The Viking’s bucket seats fit three people in a single row. Power comes from a 686cc single-cylinder 4-stroke engine that has enough torque to tow a whopping 1,500 pounds. Optional 2WD, 4WD or 4WD front differential lock ensures you’ll get great traction anywhere. Three-point seat belts keep passengers safe when jumping bogs and logs.
Off-road mayhem can take you anywhere, but the right vehicle will get you out of tight spots and over rugged terrain. Decide what type of off-road fun you’re looking for, pack your ride, and go get dirty!
Bio –
This guest post contribution is courtesy of Dirt Toys Magazine, offering the latest news, articles and equipment reviews such as the “bad boy intimidator”. Print and digital subscriptions are available.
Do you own an off-roader? If no, which one is the best fit for your needs? If yes, would you chose a different one next time?