BuildsTop 5 Most Practical Overland Build Platforms

The Toyota Tacoma is a staple in the off-road world and for good reason. Maybe the most well supported of these midsized trucks is the second-generation units that span from 2005 to 2015. Thanks to an extremely robust powertrain, these trucks are known to go the distance. To get even more potential out of this platform, consider adding on one of Rough Country’s 3.5-inch suspension systems. This, along with a slightly larger tire, will give you a truck that can get you to remote destinations in absolute comfort on the road and off.

We love the Jeep Wrangler platform, but when it comes to Overlanding, the Gladiator gets the edge up. This is primarily due to the bed, which can easily be outfitted with racks and bed covers to expand your gear storage. Sure, the Mojave and Rubicon models have the most to offer when it comes to out-of-the-box off-road performance. However, depending on your off-road needs, it may be smarter to start off with one of the less expensive Sport models. In fact, for the cost difference between a Rubicon and a Sport, you can pick up a Rough Country 2.5-inch suspension lift, 35-inch-tires and still have money to spare for additional upgrades. 

If forest service roads are most of what you’ll come across, we say it’s worth checking out the Subaru Outback. The 2015 to current models have a rapidly growing aftermarket and plenty of powertrain options to fit a variety of needs. The symmetrical all-wheel drive works very well on-road and off and excels in winter conditions. The one area these cars primarily need help is with ground clearance and tires. Rough Country offers a 2-inch-lift for the Outback. This is enough lift to increase ground clearance and open up your tire options into the field of more durable all-terrain tires.

Something new to the automotive world is the Ford Maverick pickup. These extremely affordable trucks are proving that there is a major demand for a compact pickup capable of excellent fuel economy. Out of the gate, these trucks sit a little low, which can be a real issue when you leave the tarmac. An easy way to create room for large tires and increase ground clearance is with the addition of a small lift. Rough Country offers a 1-inch level and 2-inch full suspension upgrade for the Maverick. This is enough to create more ground clearance and allow room for larger treads.

When Chevy brought back the Colorado in 2017, it had its sights aimed directly at the Toyota Tacoma. Offered with an extremely powerful gas-powered V-6 or an amazingly efficient inline-four diesel engine, the Colorado has become a great platform for overland enthusiasts. While the ZR2 models have a stance and off-road appointments out of the gate, it comes with a nearly $13,000 price jump over the LT when equipped with a diesel engine. For a quarter of that investment, you can opt for an LT model, equip it with a 3.25 suspension system from Rough Country, new tires, and wheels.