As we approached a section on Black Bear Pass in Colorado known as The Steps, the views leading down toward Telluride were stunning and, at the same time, harrowing. I had concerns. Not only had a light drizzle lingered throughout much of the day, causing the mix of granite and loose rock to become slick, the A-TRAC system – Active Traction Control – in our 100 Series Land Cruiser wasn’t functioning properly. All of this culminated into a journey that depended on nothing but 4-low, a bit of skill and a relatively new set of 275/70/18 BFG KO2 tires. This was going to be interesting.
Read MoreThere’s a reason the Toyota brand has consistently been the largest auto manufacturer in the world. Their products excel in comfort, driveability, and build quality. So much so, my own garage features a 2003 Land Cruiser I’ve driven all over the continental United States and performs just as well now as it did when it rolled off the assembly line.
Toyota’s 2016 RAV4 Limited continues this heritage in a smaller package that’s been slightly updated on the exterior that’s attractive yet not too bold. I’ve found the RAV4 Limited to be comfortable and an excellent platform for those seeking a smaller SUV with plenty of cargo space and features that compliment around the town driving or cross-country roadtrips.
Read MoreMid-size trucks have become a popular platform within the overland realm because of their versatility, cargo space, and capability. As a matter of fact, every time I have gotten into a nicely built mid-size truck I’ve asked myself, “Why haven’t I gotten one of these?” and after enjoying two weeks in Nissan’s latest Frontier PRO-4X, that question still lingers.
On the inside, the Frontier PRO-4X is comfortable, with an intelligent, efficient layout, simple dash panel, and lumbar seating designed for long stretches on pavement. The materials don’t look cheap as has been the case with other comparably sized trucks I’ve tested. There’s plenty of room to comfortably seat four adults or even a young family of five, though space will eventually be an issue as children grow. That said, it’s the standard equipment, particularly for off-road travel, that most anyone reading this article will be particularly interested in.
Read MoreFreedom. Excitement. Purpose. Adventure. Icon.
For seventy years no singular word has more fully encompassed the impact of the Jeep Wrangler than that of "Icon". It has carried heavy artillery through combat zones, has served as a purpose vehicle for America's heartland, and has led expeditions into the unknown. The iconic Jeep Wrangler has entrenched itself as a symbol of freedom in all its forms and with the launch of the new 2012 Jeep Wrangler, the convergence of past and future has made the present an exciting time.
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