Budget Off Roaders --SUVs $5k -$10k Can You Guess What They Are?
About this episode
Exploring budget-friendly off-road SUVs priced between $5,000 and $10,000, the hosts dive into various models that serve as excellent platforms for adventure without breaking the bank. They discuss the Mitsubishi Montero's competitive edge against the Land Cruiser, share personal experiences with their own budget SUVs, and highlight the importance of service history in used vehicles. The conversation also touches on the rarity of certain models in the U.S. market and the fun of guessing vehicle hints from a Motor Trend article, making for an engaging and informative episode.
The GM Guru Justin returns to go up against mainstay Dylan to see who can guess the top 5 budget off roaders from 5 years ago. Which SUV has gone up in value since then? Dylan bought a new budget off roader and it's a luxury british SUV. Justin got his eyes set on a Suzuki you probably forgot about. And I got my eyes set on another Montero, a generation I never owned. We talk 90’s Jeeps, XJ, TJ, ZJ and YJ. Spring time is upon us which means it is off road season, which budget off roader would we buy?
budget cars
"...budget off rotors. Uh, what I mean by that is we're talking cars that let's just say five to 10 grand, right?"
Budget cars are inexpensive vehicles that you can buy for around five to ten thousand dollars. They're great for people who want to customize or improve them without spending a lot of money upfront.
Budget cars refer to vehicles that are affordable, typically priced between five to ten thousand dollars. These cars are often considered good options for enthusiasts looking to modify or build upon a base platform without a large initial investment.
lift kit
"...to buy a car and then put tires, do a lift kit, right?"
A lift kit is a set of parts that makes a car sit higher off the ground. This helps the car drive better on rough roads and lets you put bigger tires on it.
A lift kit is an aftermarket modification that raises the height of a vehicle's suspension. This allows for increased ground clearance, which can improve off-road capability and accommodate larger tires.
Toyota Land Cruiser
"Cause we, we were talking about a good comparable SUV to the Land Cruiser."
The Toyota Land Cruiser is a big, tough SUV that's great for off-roading and has been around for a long time. It's also seen as a luxury vehicle.
The Toyota Land Cruiser is a large SUV known for its off-road capability and durability. It has a long history and is often considered a luxury vehicle that can handle tough terrains.
Mitsubishi Montero
"Cause I could feel Vic's excitement. Just like building is like somebody mentioned a Montero in the positive light."
The Mitsubishi Montero is a mid-sized SUV that can handle rough roads and off-roading well. It's built tough, similar to the Land Cruiser.
The Mitsubishi Montero is a mid-size SUV known for its off-road capabilities and rugged design. It has a body-on-frame construction, similar to the Land Cruiser, making it suitable for tough terrains.
Mitsubishi Pajero
"...re. So right now live on bring a trailer is a 99 Mitsubishi Pajero three door. So we didn't get these. We got the t..."
chicken tax
"if you had a two door SUV, it was considered like a light heavy duty truck or light duty truck. And it was hit with a chicken tax."
The chicken tax is a tax that makes it more expensive to import certain types of trucks and SUVs into the U.S. It was created because of trade issues with other countries.
The 'chicken tax' refers to a 25% tariff imposed by the United States on light trucks, which affected the import of certain vehicles, including SUVs. This tax was enacted in response to a trade dispute with European countries over chicken exports.
Jeep XJ
"I'm imagining the Jeep XJ has to be on here. We'll see."
The Jeep XJ is a type of Jeep Cherokee that was made for many years. It's popular for off-roading because it's small and can handle rough terrain well.
The Jeep XJ refers to the Jeep Cherokee model produced from 1984 to 2001. It is known for its off-road capabilities and compact size, making it a popular choice among four-wheel drive enthusiasts.
Land Rover Range Rover
"Something I told myself I would never get. 2008 Range Rover Sport Supercharged. Nice."
The Land Rover Range Rover is a fancy SUV that can drive on rough roads and is very comfortable inside. The 2008 model is known for being fast and fun to drive, which is why some people really like it.
The Land Rover Range Rover is a luxury SUV known for its off-road capabilities and premium features. The 2008 Range Rover Sport Supercharged variant is particularly significant for its powerful engine and sporty performance, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts.
2008 Range Rover Sport Supercharged
"...What did you just buy? Something I told myself I would never get. 2008 Range Rover Sport Supercharged. Nice."
The 2008 Range Rover Sport Supercharged is a fancy SUV that can go off-road and has a really powerful engine. It's a popular choice for people who want both luxury and performance.
The 2008 Range Rover Sport Supercharged is a luxury SUV known for its powerful performance and off-road capabilities. It features a supercharged V8 engine, providing a blend of power and luxury that appeals to many buyers.
4.2 liter
"It's a 4.2 liter Supercharged 400 horsepower. And it's 4x4, right?"
The 4.2 liter number tells you how big the engine is. Bigger engines usually have more power.
A 4.2 liter engine refers to the engine's displacement, which is the total volume of all the cylinders in the engine. This measurement is often used to indicate the size and power potential of the engine.
Supercharged
"It's a 4.2 liter Supercharged 400 horsepower. And it's 4x4, right?"
A supercharger helps the engine get more air, which means it can burn more fuel and produce more power. It's like giving the engine a boost.
Supercharging is a method of forced induction that increases an engine's power output by forcing more air into the combustion chamber. This allows for more fuel to be burned, resulting in greater horsepower.
400 horsepower
"It's a 4.2 liter Supercharged 400 horsepower. And it's 4x4, right?"
Horsepower tells you how powerful the engine is. 400 horsepower is a lot, which means the vehicle can go fast and perform well.
Horsepower is a unit of measurement that indicates the power output of an engine. 400 horsepower means the engine can perform a significant amount of work, making it suitable for high-performance vehicles.
4x4
"And it's 4x4, right? Yep."
4x4 means that all four wheels of the vehicle can get power, which helps it grip the road better, especially in tough driving conditions.
4x4 refers to a four-wheel drive system where power is sent to all four wheels of the vehicle. This setup enhances traction and stability, especially in off-road or slippery conditions.
low range
"Is it got a low range? Yeah, right?"
Low range helps the vehicle go slower but with more power, which is useful for driving off-road or up steep hills.
Low range is a feature in four-wheel drive vehicles that allows for increased torque and better control at low speeds, making it ideal for off-road driving or steep inclines.
drive modes
"It has all the drive modes."
Drive modes let you change how the car drives, like making it faster or more fuel-efficient, depending on what you need.
Drive modes are settings in a vehicle that adjust how the engine and transmission behave, allowing drivers to optimize performance for different conditions, such as sport, eco, or off-road driving.
ground clearance
"...because they were too expensive. And a lot of them don't really have that much great ground clearance."
Ground clearance is how high a car is off the ground. It matters for off-roading because higher cars can go over rocks and bumps more easily.
Ground clearance is the distance between the lowest point of a vehicle's body and the ground. It is an important factor for off-road vehicles as it affects their ability to navigate obstacles without getting stuck or damaged.
Land Rover Defender
"I feel like if you had to pick one vintage Land Rover that you see off-road, obviously the Defender is one that, you know, but it's so."
The Land Rover Defender is a tough vehicle designed for off-road driving. It's popular for its ability to handle rough terrains and is often seen in outdoor adventures.
The Land Rover Defender is a rugged off-road vehicle known for its durability and capability in challenging terrains. It has a long history and is often associated with adventure and exploration.
Land Rover Discovery
"The disco. Yeah. The discovery I was going to say."
The Land Rover Discovery is a type of SUV that can go off-road but also has a lot of comfort features for everyday driving. It's good for families and adventures.
The Land Rover Discovery is a versatile SUV that combines off-road capability with luxury features. It is designed for both rugged terrain and comfortable family use.
Land Rover P38
"Or like the P38 as well. Yeah."
The Land Rover P38 is a version of the Range Rover that combines luxury with the ability to drive off-road. It has some advanced features for its era.
The Land Rover P38 refers to the second generation of the Range Rover, known for its blend of luxury and off-road capability. It features advanced technology for its time and a comfortable ride.
Mercedes-Benz G-Class
"But like I just feel like they're not G wagons, but I feel like people are afraid to put them to take them out."
The Mercedes-Benz G-Class, or G-Wagon, is a fancy SUV that looks very strong and can go off-road. It's popular among celebrities and is known for being expensive.
The Mercedes-Benz G-Class, commonly known as the G-Wagon, is a luxury SUV known for its boxy design and off-road capabilities. It is often seen as a status symbol due to its high price and luxury features.
suspension fault
"It's weird because it has a suspension fault, which is like, Oh, terrifies people with Range Rovers. But the suspension works perfectly."
A suspension fault means there's a problem with the part of the car that helps it ride smoothly. It can make the car feel bumpy or hard to control, and it often worries drivers.
A suspension fault refers to a problem detected in the vehicle's suspension system, which can affect ride quality and handling. In vehicles like Range Rovers, this can trigger warning lights or alerts, causing concern for the owner.
self leveling
"It self levels. If you put a heavy load when I put my dirt bike on the back, it leveled out on its own."
Self leveling is a system that keeps the car balanced, even if you add weight, like when you put something heavy in the back. It helps the car stay smooth and stable while driving.
Self leveling is a feature in some vehicles that automatically adjusts the suspension height based on the load in the vehicle. This ensures that the vehicle maintains a level stance, improving handling and ride comfort.
oil changes
"...the last owner, you know, brought it in for oil changes every like three or 4,000 miles. Like they had three in the last three oil changes in the last 10,000 miles."
An oil change is when you replace the old oil in a car's engine with new oil. This helps keep the engine running well and can prevent problems.
Oil changes are routine maintenance tasks where the old engine oil is replaced with new oil to ensure the engine runs smoothly and efficiently. Regular oil changes help prolong the life of the engine and maintain performance.
wheel bearings
"...They brought in new wheel hubs and all four wheel bearings. They replaced all four wheel bearings, all new hubs."
Wheel bearings are parts that help the wheels turn smoothly. They support the weight of the car and make it easier for the wheels to spin without getting stuck.
Wheel bearings are crucial components that allow the wheels to rotate smoothly with minimal friction. They support the weight of the vehicle and enable the wheels to turn freely, which is essential for safe driving and handling.
wheel hubs
"...They brought in new wheel hubs and all four wheel bearings. They replaced all four wheel bearings, all new hubs."
Wheel hubs are the parts that connect the wheels to the car. They help the wheels turn and hold everything in place.
Wheel hubs are the central part of a wheel that connects it to the axle. They house the wheel bearings and allow for the wheel to rotate freely while supporting the vehicle's weight.
Suzuki Vitara
"...What about you, Pitner? What are you getting? Attempting to get a 2002 Suzuki Grand Vitara."
The Suzuki Grand Vitara is a small SUV made by Suzuki. The 2002 version is popular for its ability to handle rough roads and is available with different engine options.
The Suzuki Grand Vitara is a compact SUV that was produced by Suzuki, known for its off-road capability and practicality. The 2002 model features a rugged design and a choice of either a four-cylinder or V6 engine, making it versatile for various driving conditions.
Suzuki Sidekick
"It's like a four door side kick basically."
The Suzuki Sidekick is another small SUV that was made in the 1990s. It's known for being affordable and good for driving both in the city and on rougher roads.
The Suzuki Sidekick is a compact SUV that was popular in the 1990s. It is known for its affordability and versatility, often used for both city driving and light off-roading.
flat towing
"...it has all the hookups for things called flat towing is the name of it. Where you just like put a car into like, or a transfer case in a neutral and they just can tow them anywhere."
Flat towing means you can pull a car behind another vehicle without lifting it off the ground. It’s often used for RVs towing smaller cars, and some cars are designed to be towed this way.
Flat towing refers to towing a vehicle with all four wheels on the ground. This is commonly done with vehicles that have a transfer case allowing them to be put in neutral, making them easier to tow without causing damage to the drivetrain.
Jeep Wrangler
"...Like the Wranglers are super popular for it. And this one has that hookup."
The Wrangler is a tough Jeep vehicle that can go off-road and is popular for towing behind RVs. It’s built to handle rough terrain and is great for adventure.
The Jeep Wrangler is a compact and mid-size four-wheel drive off-road vehicle known for its ruggedness and versatility. It's particularly popular among off-road enthusiasts and is often used for activities like flat towing due to its design.
Italian tune up
"...you know what? I'm going to give it an Italian tune up."
An 'Italian tune up' is when you drive a car really fast to help clean the engine and make it run better. It's a way to fix problems by pushing the car hard for a short time.
An 'Italian tune up' refers to a method of cleaning out an engine by driving it hard, typically at high RPMs, to burn off carbon deposits and improve performance. This term is often used informally among car enthusiasts.
Nissan Pathfinder
"...arly 2000s where like you saw it in four runners, Pathfinders, Zuzu, Rodeos, Tahoe."
The Nissan Pathfinder is a roomy SUV that can fit a lot of people and their stuff. It's a good option for families who need space and want a reliable vehicle.
The Nissan Pathfinder is a mid-size SUV that has been a family favorite for its spacious interior and strong performance. It has undergone several redesigns, adapting to changing consumer preferences for comfort and technology.
Ford Explorer
"Yeah. Like the Explorer did in like 91. They went to electronic four whe..."
The Ford Explorer is a family-friendly SUV that offers a lot of space for passengers and cargo. It became popular in the 1990s and has since added new features to make it easier to drive and more comfortable.
The Ford Explorer is a mid-size SUV that has been popular since its introduction in the early 1990s. Known for its spacious interior and versatility, it has evolved over the years to include advanced technology and improved fuel efficiency.
Suzuki XL7
"...it sounds like that's what's in your Vitara. The XL7, I think, came and replaced the Gran Vitara. The..."
The Suzuki XL7 is a bigger SUV that can fit more people and is good for families. It's designed to be practical and comfortable for everyday use.
The Suzuki XL7 is a mid-size SUV that was designed to offer more space and versatility than the smaller Suzuki models. It features three rows of seating, making it suitable for families.
Suzuki X90
"...looks like the Stretch Cappuccino. Oh, yeah, the X90. Yeah, X90."
The Suzuki X-90 is a small SUV that looks sporty and can handle some off-road driving. It's not very common, which makes it interesting to some people.
The Suzuki X-90 is a unique compact SUV that combines sporty styling with off-road capabilities. Its distinctive design and small size make it a rare find among SUVs.
Suzuki Samurai
"... platform of the two-door one. It's based on the Samurai. Yeah."
The Suzuki Samurai is a small SUV that is very good at driving on rough roads. It's popular among people who like to go off-roading.
The Suzuki Samurai is a compact SUV known for its lightweight design and off-road prowess. It has a loyal following due to its simplicity and capability in rugged terrains.
Hyundai Venue
"...s just an HRV. Yeah, HRV, Corolla Cross, Hyundai Venue, Kia... I mean, those little ones are getting di..."
The Hyundai Venue is a small SUV that is easy to drive around the city and has a lot of modern features. It's a good choice for people looking for a stylish and affordable car.
The Hyundai Venue is a subcompact SUV that offers a blend of style, practicality, and affordability. It is designed for urban driving, providing a comfortable ride and modern features.
Toyota Corolla
"The ADX is just an HRV. Yeah, HRV, Corolla Cross, Hyundai Venue, Kia... I mean, those littl..."
The Toyota Corolla is a small car that many people buy because it's dependable and doesn't use a lot of gas. It's a great option for anyone looking for a simple, easy-to-drive vehicle.
The Toyota Corolla is one of the best-selling cars in the world, known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and affordability. It has a reputation for being a practical choice for everyday driving.
Suzuki Jimny
"...d everything off-road based. I'm like, dude, the Jimny would fucking kill it here right now. They come ..."
The Suzuki Jimny is a small SUV that can go off-road really well. It's popular because it's tough and can handle rough trails.
The Suzuki Jimny is a compact SUV known for its exceptional off-road capabilities and rugged design. It has a cult following due to its small size and ability to tackle tough terrains.
Jeep Cherokee
"...s just like bumbling in his head. I was thinking Cherokee XJ and I was thinking the Goonies. But I was lik..."
The Jeep Cherokee is a smaller SUV that can go off-road and is also good for everyday use. It's a popular choice for people who want a mix of adventure and comfort.
The Jeep Cherokee is a compact SUV known for its off-road prowess and practicality. It has evolved over the years, balancing rugged features with modern technology and comfort.
Porsche 911
"Oh, yeah. It's almost it's the it's the 996 911 of Wranglers. And I'm sorry, I like the square h..."
The Porsche 911 is a famous sports car that many people dream of owning because it's fast and looks great. The 996 model is special because it changed the way the engine works, making it different from older versions.
The Porsche 911 is an iconic sports car known for its distinctive design and exceptional performance. The 996 generation, in particular, is often discussed for its unique styling and the introduction of water-cooled engines.
Subaru Outback
"Oh, Subaru Outback?"
The Subaru Outback is a type of car that can drive well on different types of roads, including rough ones. It's good for people who like to go on adventures or need a reliable car for various conditions.
The Subaru Outback is a popular crossover SUV known for its all-wheel drive capabilities and off-road performance. It's designed for both on-road comfort and off-road adventures, making it a versatile choice for many drivers.
head gasket
"...they just get parked when the head gaskets give up. I was about to say that to the head gaskets."
The head gasket is a part of the engine that helps keep oil and coolant separate. If it breaks, it can cause big problems for the engine.
The head gasket is a critical component that seals the engine block and cylinder head, preventing coolant and oil from mixing. When it fails, it can lead to serious engine problems and overheating.
coolant flush
"...you need to do probably more common coolant flushes and you need to change your oil in like less extended intervals..."
A coolant flush is when you change the liquid that cools your engine. It's important to do this to keep your engine from getting too hot and to help it run better.
A coolant flush is a maintenance procedure that involves draining the old coolant from a vehicle's cooling system and replacing it with fresh coolant. This helps to prevent overheating and ensures the engine runs efficiently.
Nissan XTerra
"This car has a bulge in the rear liftgate. XTERRA. Good job."
The Nissan XTerra is a tough SUV that can handle rough roads and outdoor adventures. It's a good choice for people who like to explore off the beaten path.
The Nissan XTerra is a mid-size SUV designed for off-road enthusiasts, known for its rugged construction and practical features. It was popular for its durability and ability to handle tough conditions.
Land Rover Freelander
"...d of neat. It kind of reminds me of a Land Rover Freelander too. Oh, God, you made the XTERRA worse just now..."
The Land Rover Freelander is a smaller SUV that can drive on rough roads and is also good for city driving. It's a more affordable option from the luxury Land Rover brand.
The Land Rover Freelander is a compact SUV that offers a blend of off-road capability and urban practicality. It was one of Land Rover's more affordable models, appealing to those who wanted a taste of luxury without the high price tag.
Nissan Murano
"... seen the new Pathfinders? They look more like a Murano than a Pathfinder. I look at the XTERRA back the..."
The Nissan Murano is a stylish SUV that is comfortable to drive and has a lot of space inside. It's a great choice for families or anyone who wants a nice-looking vehicle.
The Nissan Murano is a mid-size crossover SUV known for its stylish design and comfortable ride. It offers a blend of luxury and practicality, making it a popular choice for those seeking a family vehicle.
Honda Passport
"...nder. I look at the XTERRA back then as like the Passport Honda today. It's like that more rugged."
The Honda Passport is a sturdy SUV that can be used for both city driving and outdoor trips. It has a lot of space inside and is built to handle rough roads.
The Honda Passport is a mid-size SUV that emphasizes ruggedness and versatility, making it suitable for both urban and outdoor adventures. It has gained popularity for its spacious interior and off-road capabilities.
Jeep Grand Cherokee
"...angler that was affordable. Because they had the Grand Cherokee, but those got kind of big, those got kind of lux..."
The Jeep Grand Cherokee is a tough SUV that can handle rough terrain while still being comfortable inside. It's a good choice for people who want both adventure and luxury.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee is a mid-size SUV that combines off-road capability with luxury features. It has been a popular choice for those seeking a rugged vehicle that also offers comfort and technology.
Jaguar Xjs
"... what I mean? Like you can find videos online of XJs just being completely abused and they just keep, ..."
The Jaguar XJ-S is a fancy sports car that many people admire for its beautiful looks and smooth driving. It's a classic car that collectors really like.
The Jaguar XJ-S is a luxury sports car produced in the 1970s through the 1990s, known for its elegant design and performance. It has a dedicated following among classic car enthusiasts due to its unique styling and driving experience.
Jeep Wagoneer
"...rill look, like looks to it. I always wanted the Wagoneer one. Yeah."
The Jeep Wagoneer is a large SUV that is both fancy and tough, great for driving on rough roads or taking the family out. It's known for its classic look and modern comforts.
The Jeep Wagoneer is a full-size SUV that combines luxury with off-road capability, making it a standout in the Jeep lineup. It has a rich history and has been reintroduced with modern features and technology.
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