Recent content by clarence2

  1. clarence2

    Mazda CX-5 GTR/Signature or Toyota Rav4 Adventure/TRD

    Really perfect for my use. Only 21mpg - hurt by the rooftop box. The CX-50 Meridan would be my choice today: https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a40770533/2023-mazda-cx-50-meridian-edition/
  2. clarence2

    2023 Porsche 911 Dakar

    No car I'd rather drive across the country. Love. https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a41955264/2023-porsche-911-dakar-revealed/ https://www.autoblog.com/2022/11/16/2023-porsche-911-dakar-first-look/
  3. clarence2

    Mazda CX-5 GTR/Signature or Toyota Rav4 Adventure/TRD

    Couldn't be happier with it. Just back from golfing in AZ (30hrs RT): fast, stable, smooth, quiet. And should be fine driving the TX coast beaches in a couple weeks. Really looking forward to visiting family in MN next winter and driving in snow.
  4. clarence2

    Mazda CX-5 GTR/Signature or Toyota Rav4 Adventure/TRD

    Only slightly larger OD (235/55 > 225/55). Could have gone with a smaller wheel (I know some CX-5 owners who have), but wasn't willing to give up any sidewall performance. I went with 235/55 because I wanted the V (149mph) and XL (Extra Load) ratings over H (130mph) and SL (Standard Load)...
  5. clarence2

    Mazda CX-5 GTR/Signature or Toyota Rav4 Adventure/TRD

    Visited Terlingua/Big Bend several weeks ago. Did great on the washboard gravel roads. Even better on the highway. Really happy with the balance.
  6. clarence2

    Volvo XC70 a good overlander?

    What's your ground clearance, XCvagn? If your SUV ownership vision board includes rutted fire roads and lumpy trails to the campsite, the XC90 is the best Volvo for the job. Ground clearance is rated at 8.8 inches on the standard suspension and as much as 9.9 inches if you go for the optional...
  7. clarence2

    Volvo XC70 a good overlander?

    Yeesh. I think overland travel, if I can define it, is vehicle-based adventure travel. It doesn’t need to include 4×4 off-roading, nor camping. Overlanding means you’re getting in a vehicle or getting on a motorcycle and you’re off exploring some new locations, some new country, some new state...
  8. clarence2

    Torsus Praetorian

    https://jalopnik.com/the-giant-torsus-praetorian-off-road-bus-would-make-an-1847991271 Sweet!
  9. clarence2

    Volvo XC70 a good overlander?

    Really like this car.
  10. clarence2

    Mazda CX-5 GTR/Signature or Toyota Rav4 Adventure/TRD

    That's good to hear, Blije. Unfortunately, the 2017+ cars lost an inch of clearance (to 7.5"). Did gain "Off-Road Traction Assist" (essentially an electronic rear differential lock) in 2020 though.
  11. clarence2

    Mazda CX-5 GTR/Signature or Toyota Rav4 Adventure/TRD

    By "all-road," I mean all roads (paved, gravel, Forest Service/logging, two-tracks, trails rated 1-3), not off-road (except beach, salt flats). A touring car that'll get me to the trailhead and allow me to explore a bit...
  12. clarence2

    Mazda CX-5 GTR/Signature or Toyota Rav4 Adventure/TRD

    I did (see Signature), thanks. My goal is more "all-road." Still hoping H&R will offer their Adventure Raising Springs (1-1.5" lift) for the CX-5.
  13. clarence2

    Road Warriors (Is it an adventure if you drive a touring car?)

    A sports car might not take you as far off the grid as overlanding mainstays like the Toyota 4Runner or Jeep Wrangler, but have you ever tried to hustle one of those barges up a twisty road? “People are missing out by putting rooftop tents on their trucks and their SUVs,” Keen says. “Find a way...
  14. clarence2

    Road Warriors (Is it an adventure if you drive a touring car?)

    A long time bucket list item for me. RIP
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