Hello from Loudoun County, Virginia! I'm happy to see so many other OB members in Virginia. I want to thank the OB leaders and everyone who writes articles and forum posts. You've taught me a lot. And I really appreciate the open overland community you've created. Before I ask my vehicle question, I want to provide some context.
My once reliable 15-year-old sedan is not aging gracefully this year. Some recent issues require pricey repairs that go far beyond my DIY skills and our family budget, so there's a good chance I'll have to replace it in the next 3-6 months. I don't want to get rid of it–or have a car payment–but there's a silver lining: the next vehicle could be capable of overlanding (our other vehicle is a minivan, so that doesn't cut it).
As I think about replacement options, I'm using the following criteria. Whatever I buy next will be my daily driver. My commute to work is 25 miles (~1 hour) each way, so it has to be safe, reliable, and comfortable. It has to get good gas mileage (minimum 22+ combined MPG). We'll definitely use it for camping and getting outdoors, so it has to fit five people (me, wife, 3 kids, and gear) and be capable of basic off-roading and general overlanding (no rock crawling or need for major modifications). Last but not least, it has to be affordable ($25K or less). I'll probably look for something coming off a multi-year lease. Side note: Thank you to whoever wrote in a post that the best vehicle for overlanding with family is the one you can afford. Very wise advice! It would be nice to tow a small, lightweight camper trailer in the future but that's not a necessity.
Here's my question: What are strong vehicle options based on that criteria? So far, my research turned up a few contenders. First, the Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk checks most boxes, but it's size may be a problem because my kids are growing fast. Second, the Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo is appealing, so long as it has 4WD high and low. Third, the Subaru Outback seems to check the most boxes (with new tires and roof rack/rails).
Are these good options based on your experiences? Are there any vehicles I should add to the list? Thanks so much for any advice you can provide (and for reading this long post)!
My once reliable 15-year-old sedan is not aging gracefully this year. Some recent issues require pricey repairs that go far beyond my DIY skills and our family budget, so there's a good chance I'll have to replace it in the next 3-6 months. I don't want to get rid of it–or have a car payment–but there's a silver lining: the next vehicle could be capable of overlanding (our other vehicle is a minivan, so that doesn't cut it).
As I think about replacement options, I'm using the following criteria. Whatever I buy next will be my daily driver. My commute to work is 25 miles (~1 hour) each way, so it has to be safe, reliable, and comfortable. It has to get good gas mileage (minimum 22+ combined MPG). We'll definitely use it for camping and getting outdoors, so it has to fit five people (me, wife, 3 kids, and gear) and be capable of basic off-roading and general overlanding (no rock crawling or need for major modifications). Last but not least, it has to be affordable ($25K or less). I'll probably look for something coming off a multi-year lease. Side note: Thank you to whoever wrote in a post that the best vehicle for overlanding with family is the one you can afford. Very wise advice! It would be nice to tow a small, lightweight camper trailer in the future but that's not a necessity.
Here's my question: What are strong vehicle options based on that criteria? So far, my research turned up a few contenders. First, the Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk checks most boxes, but it's size may be a problem because my kids are growing fast. Second, the Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo is appealing, so long as it has 4WD high and low. Third, the Subaru Outback seems to check the most boxes (with new tires and roof rack/rails).
Are these good options based on your experiences? Are there any vehicles I should add to the list? Thanks so much for any advice you can provide (and for reading this long post)!
