If you’re currently planning your next 4×4 build, there’s certain to be one question on your lips during those early planning stages – should you go mild, moderate or extreme? Each overland truck build category has its capabilities, with the construction you choose having the potential to make your off-road dreams come true.
Before you start eyeing up the upgrades that’ll enable you to craft your perfect overland truck, we’re here to share our recommendations on the ideal base vehicles to use when going mild, moderate or extreme.
Going mild?
If you have your heart set on a mild overland truck build, any SUV is the ideal foundation in theory. It is however important to note that there will be almost no upgrades available for these newer models other than styling products. With this in mind, those with ambitions to delve a little deeper may want to consider a moderate or extreme build.
Still plan to go ahead with a mild build? Beware of the common pitfalls. Any mechanical changes made to newer 4WDs have the potential to invalidate the vehicle’s warranty. Remember, mild overland builds are only destined to take on easy trails and require minimal modification as a result.
Going moderate?
If the answer is “yes”, you’ll want to turn your attention to pickup trucks like the Land Cruiser Prado and Mitsubishi Shogun. The latter may have been discontinued after a 37-year production run, but there is a lot to love about this hardcore off-roader – not to mention a lot to build on. There’s a reason why the Shogun dominated the Dakar Rally scene during the 80s and 90s, and achieved 12 impressive wins!
Even a seriously iconic off-roader like the Shogun can be enhanced, making it the ideal candidate for a moderate build. Moderate builds revolve around vehicles that can be purchased and upgraded rather cheaply. Tough platforms like the Prado and Shogun are made for more. They’re also two of the top 4×4 vehicles for sale under £5K.
Going extreme?
For a blank canvas that you can really make your own, we’d recommend a Land Cruiser 76, 78 or 79 Series for your extreme build. These models can be upgraded with ease for the most rugged adventures and difficult terrains.
It’s not all about the vehicle
Any model with a ladder frame chassis can be upgraded to any extent if the upgrades exist, which means the world is your oyster when launching your own mild, moderate or extreme overland build. In fact, it’s not really so much about the vehicle model but about its intended purpose and your budget.
Overland builds can get VERY expensive without the right planning, and there are yet more considerations regarding legalities as Bridgestone explains:
“One last point is to ensure that your 4×4 is legal. Look into the GVM, towing capacity, axle ratings and put it on a weighbridge. An overweight 4×4 is a big problem. There are also limitations in how you can modify a 4×4 in terms of tyre sizes, suspension lift heights and so forth. Keep it legal, and you’ll save yourself a lot of heartache.”
Creating the ultimate 4×4 for touring is possible, with everything from your camping setup and off-grid capacity to the very reliability, capabilities and safety of your vehicle able to be defined.
Get started with your overland truck build today by browsing our quality parts and upgrades right here.
