If you’ve decided to go on an overland adventure, the first thing you might be thinking about is the vehicle you want to use. Overlanding usually requires a lot of driving, especially on rough terrains and the back roads. Overlanding involves traveling to destinations with the focus on the journey. Thus, we have compiled the top overland trucks you can use to kick start your adventure.
Why You Need an Overland Truck
Keep in mind that although you can modify your vehicle for overlanding, this isn’t always the best idea. Many off-roaders and overlanders like to modify their truck, but except you’re getting it done by a competent and skilled automotive engineer, you shouldn’t do it.
If you plan on driving off road with your vehicle and you modify it yourself, any little mistake can leave you stranded on the beaten path. In the worst scenario, you can completely destroy the way your vehicle originally worked.
This is why you need to purchase a good and dependable overland truck that is ready to go off the road from the moment you purchase it. Asides from their driving capabilities, they come fitted with other features for a comfortable experience.
Top 6 Overland Trucks
1. 2022 Ford F-150 Raptor
The Ford F-150 is well-known for starting the desert cruising trend among off-roaders, and the 2022 Raptor is highly capable as an overland truck. Although it has a large size so much that it needs clearance lights, it comes with several components that would power it through your overland adventure.
It is powered by a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V-6 engine making 450 horsepower and comes fitted with sturdy tires and Fox shock absorbers which are electronically adjustable and Baja-optimized. With its off-road features, the truck is fun to drive with little pressure. You can also customize the 2022 Raptor by adding other features you want.
Pros
- Powerful engine.
- Fun to drive.
- Fitted with off-road drive modes.
- The Trail Control feature makes driving easier.
Cons
- Too large for narrow trails.
- Unimpressive payload at 1,200 pounds.
2. 2020 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon
It’s not surprising that the 2020 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon is on this list for overlanders, as it gained the 2019 SUV of the year and does better than other off-road vehicles in the competition. There aren’t a lot of vehicles that can work perfectly well on rough and normal roads right out of the factory like this truck. It is usually compared to the Gladiator Rubicon as they are made from the same hardware, but it is more manoeuvrable and fun to drive.
It is powered by a 3.6-liter V-6 engine with 285 horsepower and standard, and you’ll have to pack light with this truck, as the payload capacity is below 900 pounds. There are two other optional engines depending on your off-road needs.
Pros
- Capable on all types of rough terrains.
- Multiple engine choices available.
- Highly capable and reliable.
- Comes with a well-liked package right from the factory.
Cons
- Noisy cabin.
- Payload capacity is very low.
3. 2020 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro
The 4Runner is very popular among those who go on overland journeys a lot, so you won’t be making a mistake if you choose this truck. It is known for its reliable aftermarket support and durable construction that can drive smoothly on the roughest of terrains since the TRD Pro trim was introduced in 2017, it has continues to be a fantastic out-of-the-box truck for off-roaders and overlanders.
The 2020 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro is powered by a 4.0-liter V-6 engine which is a rather outdated choice, but impresses with its high payload capacity and 270 horsepower. It is also fitted with different standard features like locking rear differentials, Multi-Terrain Select, snorkel and more.
Pros
- Fantastic ride quality.
- High payload capacity.
- Rugged construction that can take a beating.
- Robust drivetrain.
Cons
- Interior is cramped.
- Engine choice is outdated.
4. 2020 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro
Another popular overland truck is the 2020 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro, and it also promises the trademark reliability that Toyota is known to offer. It has a lot of upsides to offer, like the Fox Shox, snorkel, Multi-Terrain Select system, neat dimensions and pretty decent payload capacity.
Under the hood of this truck is a 3.5-liter V-6 engine giving off 278 horsepower. Although the engine is a bit underpowered compared to other overland trucks, it is widely liked because of its good qualities.
Pros
- Neat dimensions.
- Average payload.
- Capable off-road.
- Great ride quality and handling.
Cons
- Cabin is cramped for tall drivers.
- Weak power calibration.
5. 2020 Land Rover Defender 110
Some might overlook the 2020 Land Rover Defender 110 because of its independent air suspension and exterior look. But regardless of all its modern features, it has proven to be a comfortable and capable overland truck. The Defender offers a very small learning curve for anyone new to overlanding, with the Terrain Response software, four-wheel drive and automatic locking centre and rear differentials.
The 2020 Defender 110 features a standard 3.0-liter turbocharged and electrically supercharged I-6 engine under the hood. This gives you beefy power as you drive through rough terrains. The payload ratings are also set at 2,100 pounds, which is super impressive. You can enjoy your adventure even more with the Explorer package from Land Rover.
Pros
- Modern and unique overland design.
- Spacious cabin for eight passengers.
- High payload capacity.
- Very capable and comfortable.
Cons
- Brakes are sometimes touchy.
- Hybrid engine makes it expensive.
6. 2020 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2
Anyone who knows anything about the 2020 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 will know that this is a capable overland truck. The truck offers incredible manners when you drive on and off road, and electronic full-locking front and rear differentials for low traction situations.
The standard engine on the 2020 ZR2 is the 3.6-liter V-6 engine with 308 horsepower and a payload capacity of 1,100 pounds. If you want to enjoy even better overlanding with steel skid plates and bumpers, you can go for the AEV Bison package.
Pros
- Versatile for on and off road.
- Ideal for Baja and rock climbing.
- Exceptional and fun to drive.
- Decent payload capacity.
Cons
- Interior material feels cheap.
- Poor fuel economy.
Enjoy Your Overland Experience
With the right overland truck and your driving skills, you’re ready to take on the world, especially the roughest of terrains. You should consider how long you would be journeying and the types of terrains you would be driving on before purchasing your truck. You can do even better by purchasing off-road packages from the manufacturer, so you can enjoy a fantastic overland truck straight from the factory line.
