Snow-capped mountains in the distance, beautiful PNW summer days, and thousands of awesome rigs to check out. What’s not to love?
And that’s exactly what everyone got to experience last weekend at Overland Expo PNW in Redmond, Oregon. We spent the weekend keeping an eye out for unique builds, rare imports, and other cool rigs. Presented in no particular order, here are some of our favorite rigs from Overland Expo PNW.
Shelby — Super Baja F-250
This Shelby F-250 Super Baja definitely lives up to its name. It’s super, and it’s Baja-ready. Rolling on 37-inch tires, with two extra locked down in the bed via a custom rack, obstacles should be no problem. Between the tires and the specially designed Fox suspension system, this thing would undoubtedly be a blast in the dirt. It’s a big truck, so the addition of powered steps and even folding steps for bed access makes access easy. Custom steel bumpers feature tow hooks and provide excellent clearance. Of course, it’s decked out with Shelby branding inside and out.
Overland Journal — INEOS Quartermaster
The Grenadier has been a big hit amongst the Overland Expo crowd, and now we’re starting to see a few extremely early Quartermasters pop up around the event. This example was in the Overland Journal/Expedition Portal booth, and even though their team has only had this truck for a month, it wasn’t quite stock. Two Front Runner Flat Racks, one up top and one on the bed are taking care of cargo and fuel duties. A C6 Overland tent offers a great place to sleep in a small package. Some slightly larger tires round out the build. We can’t wait to see where Overland Journal and Expedition Portal teams take this truck.
Trail Ready Subaru Crosstrek
Some of the coolest rigs at Overland Expo can be found in the campground. And that’s exactly where we stumbled upon this outfitted and modified Subaru Crosstek. Up top an FSR tent, 23 Zero awning, and a solar panel provide power and shelter. A winch-equipped front bumper also gives the Crosstrek an excellent approach angle. On the rear, another steel bumper features and swing and storage for fuel and water. Rallitek sliders, skids, and even suspension protection keep it rolling down the trail without worry. A stock Subaru is plenty capable, but this is a next-level Subi build.
74 Weld — Ranger Raptor
The new Ford Rangers are trickly out, and it should come as no surprise that the Raptor variety is popular with the overlanding crowd. 74 Weld had this Ranger Raptor on display, featuring their impressive steering rack components, Baja Designs lights, semi-gloss Method Wheels, and a GFC camper. Even though it’s brand new, the color combo and overall vibe of this truck give it a timeless look. Cheers to the 74 Weld Team. This is an extremely well-done rig.
Delta Automotive — MAN Custom Expedition Vehicle
Delta Automotive made their USA debut at Overland Expo PNW. They offer a fully bespoke vehicle build service on the customer’s choice of platform. This particular version is built on a MAN cab over and features sleeping space for four, seating for six, a full bathroom, an induction cooktop, and tons of hidden storage. It’s all built to last, with easy access to the water and power systems so that you can take care of any issues no matter where you are. We can’t wait to see more Delta builds in the future.
Rugged Destinations Photography — Nissan Patrol Fire Truck
This awesome rig is a recent import, and the owner, Rugged Destination Photography, has made some awesome upgrades: a Front Runner Rack, Baja Design lights, Threat Wheels, a rooftop tent, and a tray and canopy combo from Summit Expedition Trucks. While the original fire truck markings were covered before it was imported, there are plenty of unique details. Without a doubt, this Patrol will turn heads on the trail and in town.
Nokian Tyre — First Gen Range Rover
I love seeing a rig on display that has some years and miles on it. While there are plenty of restored retro rigs around, they tend to be well-polished and restored. We didn’t get a chance to chat with the owner of this Rover in the Nokian Tyre booth, but we know it’s from the latter part of the first generation of these legendary rigs. It’s outfitted with 16-inch steelies, bonus points for that, and rocking relatively pizza-cutter-esque 32-inch all-terrain tires. Up top, a full-length roof rack carries the spare, some jerry cans, and an awning. With just a bit of paint patina and some personal touches, this Rover stands out, and undoubtedly, it has seen some great adventures.
American Expedition Vehicles — Jeep JLU
American Expedition Vehicles has been in the Jeep business for a long time, and their expertise is evident in every build and accessory. This Rubicon was outfitted with their bumpers, integrated lights, updated Bilstein suspension, the incredible AEV steering stabilizer, Bora Dualsport wheels, a Warn winch, and custom interior touches. One of the most striking things about this Jeep, and any AEV build for that matter, is that even though it’s heavily modified and highly capable, the accessories and modifications are always incredibly well thought out and put together.