Tommy Campervans Makes One of the Coolest and Most Affordable Camper Trucks We’ve Ever Seen

by Gabrielle DeSantis

At this point, most people have noticed the sharp increase in interest in overlanding camper vans, specifically, and also RVs across the board. Currently, 600+ registered custom “upfitters” in the U.S. turn vans and trucks into overlanding campers. The problem with this industry is that to get anything comfortable and big enough for a family, the price of entry is often well north of six figures. However,  Tommy Campervans is serious about building the most affordable campers that are actually really high quality.

Hotshot Adventure truck | Justin wade Orton

What is the most affordable overlanding camper? 

Overlanding camper rigs came from a purely DIY community for many years. The rapid increase in interest has led to many people wanting one but lack the skill or time to build an overlanding rig themselves. This has made way for many custom builders to take advantage of the high demand and low supply. 

According to Expedition Portal, Arizona-based Tommy Campervans was formed as an answer to the insanely inflated cost of custom upfitter van and truck conversions. The founder believes that the van life should be accessible to more than just the very wealthy. This is why the base price for a Tommy Campervans Hotshot Adventure Truck conversion starts at an unbelievable $69,000. This price includes the truck and the build. This is easily one of the most affordable camper truck conversions on the market.

Tommy campervans is a special company

Hotshot Adventure Truck profile shot in the desert
Hotshot Adventure truck | Justin wade Orton

RELATED: This Toyota Tacoma Overlanding Camper Screams EarthRoamer For Half the Price

The founder of Tommy Campervans, Mikey Rudman, was driven to start this company for two main reasons: the wild prices and the extremely long wait times for these expensive overlanding camper builds. Not only does Tommy Campervans have options as cheap as $30,000, but they shoot for no longer than a three-month wait on builds. 

Even more incredibly, unlike most overlanding camper upfitters who expect payment in full upon delivery of a camper, Tommy Campervans offer lenient financing to make camper ownership more equitable. But, wait; there’s more. 

Not only are all of the aforementioned things incredibly cool on their own, but a large chunk of the proceeds of Mikey’s sales go to St. Judes Children’s Hospital as donations. Eat your heart out! 

Are these affordable campers any good? 

inside of the Tommy Campervans Hotshot Adventure Truck
Hotshot Adventure truck | Justin wade Orton

The Hotshot Adventure Truck is the upfitter’s bread and butter. Mikey gets lightly used Hotshot buggies from the forestry department and BLM workers. These are typically built of Ford F-550 or Dodge 5500 platforms and sometimes other similar HD truck platforms. 

He uses these trucks because they are inexpensive to get second-hand from the forestry dept. The bonus of the boxiness lends to easier builds and more interior room than the curved insides of most vans. These reasons are part of how he can build one of the most affordable campers in the game.

Unfortunately, official spec sheets aren’t available for the Hotshot Adventure trucks just yet. However, the website will have that feature soon. In the meantime, looking through the photo gallery on the website shows a charming cabin adorned with wood, a modern kitchenette, plenty of storage, a sizable bed, and a beautiful shower. 

As we await more information from this philanthropic overlanding camper builder, shop around the many custom camper van builders out there, and you will quickly find out how unique Mikey’s approach is. This is something the overlanding camper and camper van market has sorely needed.

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Not 1 Japanese Crossover Model That Earned the ‘Best Buy’ Badge Is a Toyota

by Gabrielle DeSantis

In a class that’s overflowing with options, it’s notable when certain models stand out. This year, Consumer Guide only awarded the ‘Best Buy’ badge to four different compact crossover SUVs. Each one that earned the title is made by a Japanese car manufacturer. 

It’s not exactly surprising that Honda, Mazda, Nissan, and Subaru are the brands with the Consumer Guide ‘Best Buy’ models. These Japanese brands are often noted for their reliability. However, it is a little surprising that not one of them is a Toyota. 

2021 Honda CR-V Hybrid | Honda

The 2021 Honda CR-V is a compact crossover SUV segment staple

Consistently topping lists by critics across the board, the 2021 Honda CR-V is one of the best compact crossover SUVs on the market. Consumer Guide writes that “the CR-V offers excellent passenger and cargo versatility, polished driving manners, and an outstanding Hybrid model.” 

The 2021 Honda CR-V gets up to 40 mpg. This compact crossover SUV starts at $25,350. While it does enjoy top-of-class status, it is worth noting that hybrid models offer about 6 cubic feet smaller cargo space. In addition, Consumer Guide says the standard acceleration is a bit lackluster. The 2021 Honda CR-V is also less customizable than the other Japanese crossover models on this list. 

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 offers premier performance

A red 2021 Mazda CX-5 parked, the 2021 Mazda CX-5 is one of the most reliable new SUVs under $30,000
2021 Mazda CX-5 | Mazda

Congruent with the opinion of nearly every critic in the industry, Consumer Guide praises the 2021 Mazda CX-5 for its “excellent steering feel” and “nimble handling.” When I had the 2021 Mazda CX-5 for review, I also was impressed by the dynamic road manners and decadent brown leather interior. 

The range-topping Signature trim approaches luxury standards in terms of fit and finish. This compact crossover SUV starts at $25,370. It gets up to 31 mpg, and it’s one of the most well-rounded crossovers on the market for anyone that doesn’t need the increased space or towing power of a midsize SUV.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue just got a full redesign

A blue 2021 Nissan Rogue parked in a suburban driveway with a basketball hoop
2021 Nissan Rogue | Nissan Motor Corporation

Another one of the Japanese crossover models that earned a ‘Best Buy’ badge is the newly redesigned 2021 Nissan Rogue. Consumer Guide appreciates the pleasant driving dynamics of the Rogue. The new model also offers a host of new features like a wireless charging station and updated infotainment tech. 

The 2021 Nissan Rogue gets up to 35 mpg. It’s the most expensive on this list, starting at $25,850. Still, that’s lower than the 2021 Toyota RAV4, which has a starting price of $26,250. 

However, it only has one powertrain available and it’s not exactly punchy. That said, I felt that it is plenty for most drivers in a recent test of the 2021 Nissan Rogue at the Texas Auto Roundup. I liked the general layout of the cabin and the interior finish is nice. Consumer Guide also notes this compact crossover SUV for its updated driver assistance and safety suite. 

The 2021 Subaru Forester is a crossover that exemplifies practical versatility

a red 2021 Subaru Forester crossover SUV driving on a scenic wooded road
2021 Subaru Forester | Subaru

This Japanese crossover, like many from the Toyota lineup, received acknowledgment for its practicality. In fact, the 2021 Subaru Forester earned the ‘Best Buy’ badge from Consumer Guide because it “stands out as one of the most practical, spacious, versatile, off-road-capable, and easy-to-see-out-of vehicles in its class.”

The 2021 Subaru Forester gets some “sporty touches” on the Sport trim. It’s also a favorite of the Consumer Reports critics. However, it’s worth mentioning that the acceleration leaves a little to be desired. 

It gets up to 33 mpg and starts at $24,795. The 2021 Subaru Forester is also the only compact crossover SUV here that comes standard with all-wheel drive. 

‘Best Buy’ badges from Consumer Guide for Japanese crossover models

While it may feel a little strange seeing a list of bests like this without a Toyota model on the list, these ‘Best Buy’ badge awards do make sense. Each of these Japanese crossover models is well-rounded offering an accessible starting price. In addition, they possess enough versatility to satisfy the needs of most households. 

RELATED: These 2021 Midsize SUVs Earned the ‘Best Buy’ Badge From Consumer Guide

The post Not 1 Japanese Crossover Model That Earned the ‘Best Buy’ Badge Is a Toyota appeared first on MotorBiscuit.

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Consumer Reports Road Test Showdown: 2021 Nissan Armada vs 2021 Ford Expedition

by Gabrielle DeSantis

If you’re wondering which is better, the 2021 Nissan Armada or 2021 Ford Expedition, you may look at the Consumer Reports ratings. Perhaps you’ll want to see which is Consumer Reports recommended? (The Ford Expedition). Or you’ll be interested in the safety ratings. (The Nissan Armada hasn’t been tested.) Let’s take a look at the road test results so you can decide if the Nissan Armada or Ford Expedition is right for you.

2021 Ford Expedition | Ford

What is the Consumer Reports Road Test?

Consumer Reports has an enormous facility in Connecticut where they test cars they’ve purchased. The Consumer Reports road test uses more than 50 tests and other criteria to evaluate cars.

Some of these assessments include emergency handling, braking, comfort, ride and fuel economy. Let’s see which large SUV Consumer Reports found better, the Nissan Armada or Ford Expedition.

Does the 2021 Nissan Armada handle well?

A black 2021 Nissan Armada against a white background.
2021 Nissan Armada | Nissan

The 2021 Nissan Armada comes with a 5.6-liter V8 engine capable of 400 hp. It has a surprising max tow capacity of 8,500 pounds, which may make it desirable to those who will regularly tow heavy things, like boats. 

Consumer Reports found that while the Nissan Armada was very quiet, it also offered a bumpy ride. Taking corners in the Armada required slow, deliberate driving. The Armada accelerated relatively quickly for a large SUV, getting to 60 MPH in 6.7 seconds.

Does the 2021 Ford Expedition handle well?

The Consumer Reports recommended Ford Expedition has a twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6 engine. It’s capable of 375 hp and can tow 6,000 pounds. If you need to tow more, you can purchase the heavy duty package, which allows you to tow 9,300 pounds. 

Consumer Reports said the Expedition’s ride was stiff but secure. Like the Armada, the Expedition didn’t handle turns very well. This is unsurprising, considering how long and tall these SUVs are. The Expedition reached 60 MPH in 7.3 seconds. 

Which is more reliable, the Nissan Armada or Ford Expedition?

A white 2021 Nissan Armada as night sets in.
2021 Nissan Armada | Nissan

Consumer Reports gave the Nissan Armada a 2 for reliability and the Ford Expedition a 3. The Expedition did better in owner satisfaction too, scoring a 4 to the Armada’s 2. Owner satisfaction is how happy people are with what they got for what they paid for their vehicle. 

You may be looking at these massive SUVs and wondering if they’re gas guzzlers. Well, they are. Which is better, the Armada or Expedition? The Expedition has a slight edge here, at 16 mpg compared to the Armada’s 14 mpg. 

Comfort is similar, except in the third row

Both the Nissan Armada and the Ford Expedition scored 4s for front seat comfort, and the Armada scored a 4 for rear seat comfort as well. The Expedition, on the other hand, scored a 5 for rear seat comfort. It’s the third row where there’s a larger difference: while the Expedition scored a 3, the Armada scored only a 1. The Expedition’s cabin is slightly roomier too, as is the trunk space.

So which is better, the Armada or Expedition?

A beige 2021 Ford Expedition races through the city.
2021 Ford Expedition | Ford

Overall, Consumer Reports gave the 2021 Nissan Armada a 69 out of 100 in its road test and the Expedition a 73. Both the Armada and Expedition scored only a 2 in each the routine handling and emergency handling categories. The Armada had a better max speed avoidance test result, at 50.5 mph compared to the Expedition’s 46.5. 

Additionally, the Armada did better with braking. The 2021 Nissan Armada was able to stop from 60 MPH on dry pavement in 133 feet, while the 2021 Ford Expedition took 143 feet. On dry pavement the Armada was able to stop in 147 feet while the Expedition took 157 feet.

Still, Consumer Reports preferred the Ford Expedition due to a combination of other factors like comfort, headlights and controls. Safety testing hasn’t been done on the Nissan Armada yet, so it’s hard to safe which is the safer choice.

The SUV you choose will likely come down to your priorities. While the Consumer Reports recommended Ford Expedition did slightly better in the overall road test, the Nissan Armada took home wins in all of the handling categories. This may mean that the Armada is a better choice for you. 

RELATED: Three Full Size SUVs Loaded With Advanced Safety Systems

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5 Ways to Make an Underpowered Car More Fun to Drive

by Gabrielle DeSantis

Do you currently own an underpowered Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, or perhaps even an older Nissan Sentra and wish that it was more fun to drive? If so, we don’t blame you. And while you can easily add engine modifications like an intake, exhaust, or even turbocharger, those modifications can be expensive if you’re on a strict budget.

Also, making a car more fun to drive doesn’t necessarily mean giving 100 more horsepower. Instead, doing a few budget-minded modifications can effectively make driving your underpowered car a much better experience when driving it normally or on a track. Here are five modifications that you make to turn up your car’s fun factor.

Lowering your car can make it handle better

A slightly lowered Honda Civic | Wikimedia Commons

While lowering your small car might sound cliché, doing it right can actually make it more fun to drive. No, you don’t necessarily need to slam it to the ground to the point that you can’t even get into some parking lots.

Instead, you can settle on a lowering spring and shock combination that will drop your car’s ride height by only an inch or so and improve its overall handling characteristics. Lowering a car subtly can also make it look better in some cases as well, especially if the car is matched to a set of well-fitting wheels.

Adding larger, wider wheels will improve traction

An S2000 with aftermarket wheels
An S2000 with aftermarket wheels | Joe Santos

To go along with lowering your car, you can also include a set of larger, wider wheels. Larger wheels will require larger tires as well, and although they can get pricey, larger tires can provide a larger contact patch with the ground. Thus, making your car grip better in the corners.

Improving your car’s handling will make it a lot more fun to drive every day, despite its lack of horsepower. Also, a nice set of wheels can do much to complement the overall look of the car.

Upgrading, or changing, the steering wheel can make driving more enjoyable

A Momo steering wheel installed on a 90 Honda Civic
A Momo steering wheel installed on a 90 Honda Civic | Bring a Trailer

Moving into the interior of the car, changing the steering wheel can actually make it more fun to drive. How? Well, considering the steering wheel is the main part of the car that you touch the most, upgrading it to an aftermarket leather-wrapped one can make your car’s interior a more fun place to be.

Also, having a smaller steering wheel can make the car feel more go-cart-like. However, if your car is newer and has a bunch of steering wheel buttons and an airbag, then we suggest possibly leaving it alone for safety and functional reasons.

Installing sportier seats will hold you in better

Recaro Seats installed in a car
Recaro Seats installed in a car | Recaro

If you want to make your car feel even more racecar-like, then changing its front seats to a pair of sport buckets can do the trick. A new pair of racing-style seats can make your car more fun to drive because they usually have more bolstering than the stock seats and sit lower, giving you a sportier and more supportive feel.

Clean your car

Lastly, cleaning your car can make it more fun to drive. Don’t believe us? Try taking turns quickly with those empty Coke bottles and other trash floating around the cabin. Trust us, it’s not very fun and in some cases, it can be dangerous. The trash in your car can get all over the place, more specifically, underneath your brake or gas pedal, which could be hazardous.

If you clean your car, its interior will feel – and smell – much better, making it better to drive every day. Also, your passengers will grateful as well.

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