I'm really sorry about that, I felt terrible when I heard about it. Some other automakers put the EVAP canister in the same place, like in KIA/Hyundai and in the Ford Bronco Sport.
How did it do before that point? We have a '22 RAV4 Hybrid. I've always wondered how capable it is. My wife would kill me if I put even a single pinstripe on it 🤣.
Started to watch your channel a few weeks back because you overland on a unibody AWD, and there is a big audience that have families or just for comfort and road manners prefer a Honda Passport/Toyota Highlander/Subaru, etc to occasionally overland, with few modifications try a moderate trail, and enjoy nature, without having to invest in a dedicated 4WD. Haters will be haters, please keep putting out content, thanks.
I’m honest in this video, I talk about the weaknesses of an AWD platform. If anyone is “hating”, I don’t think they watched the video. They just get triggered by the question “can my AWD keep up with 4WD?” Not like it was a statement “MY AWD KEEPS UP WITH THEDE 4WDs” 🤣
Transfer case and gear reduction huge advantage over awd using momentum because they can’t crawl . Had a Subaru before and made all the same justifications to myself for it just like in this vid. Then I got a body on frame vehicle with transfer case , rear locker and at least one solid axle . The articulation and by nature the ability to run bigger tires then unibody awd makes a huge difference . It’s better to start with something more designed for off-roading then make a Gravel road unibody awd into an off roader . The light comes on upstairs when one makes the switch from awd to four wheel drive . But awd Subarus ect def have a place for sure .
For sure! It’s a huge difference switching from the Subaru to the Honda too. Check out 17:45, I have a graphic that illustrates the gearing difference between a 4Runner in 4Hi vs. the Honda. In 4Hi the 4Runner is geared like a Subaru at 13.1:1. The Honda is geared Like a 4Runner in 4Lo 2nd gear at 20.4:1. But, I also point out that a transfer case (or mechanical center diff lock) has a forward / back rotational lock, which provides better balance and traction compared to a center clutch pack system. I do have experience in a body on frame 4WD. I use to drive a 2008 FJ cruiser. I remember popping it into 4Hi to drive in the snow, and the crazy drop in engine power compared to 2Hi.
@@JonDZ_Adventuring drop jn engine power? You sure that wasn’t traction control cutting power ? The later models have a button u can turn traction control off in 2wd and 4hi . I have experience driving the same vehicle and never felt like I lost engine power in 4 wd . Only in one instance in 4 lo I needed wheel spin but had atrac on and it cut all my power cause I was trying to gun it . Turned atrac off the next time and got all the wheel spin I needed .
@@Ttya-bm4gk Good question, I covered it in earlier videos. The two main issues was MPGS. This was a 2008 FJ Cruiser TRD with oem roof rack (made up of 2" round tube). It didn't have the efficiency upgrade that came in later model years (I believe it was dual VVT-i), so I was getting about 10 mpg with my driving style. It only had a 19 gallon gas tank, and a drive up to the local ski resort (in big bear, ca) would have me running on fumes, so I'd have to fill up at the top of the mountain to make it back home). At the time in 2010 gas was about $5 a gallon. Off-roading wasn't even on my radar, so admittedly, I never took the FJ off-road, it was just this vehicle that wasn't good on gas, handled poorly on-road and I really disliked the steering deadzone, a few degrees left or right off from the center and the FJ would just track straight. I eventually got myself into a 2010 Subaru WRX, and I enjoyed that vehicle for many years until I discovered the idea of snow camping in a vehicle so that I could spend multiple days near a ski resort. Then the whole overlanding boom hit and the rest is history.
I appreciate your videos. I like that you comment on how each vehicle gets through different obstacles. I also like being able to see how different vehicles get through the same obstacles. I have a Ridgeline,and know that its pretty capable, so when its highlighted in some of your vehicles its always fun to see. Youre one of the few on this platform who actually show how capable hondas can be, and you give actual evidence. Theres some major content creators who will talk about the Ridgeline or pilot not being capable at all, then praise vehicles that really arnt nearly as good off road. Keep up the great content!
Thanks Dewie!!! Hey! A group of us will be meeting in Colorado again on July 22ish. Suppose to be in Eastern Colorado by then. We should link up if you’re free.
Great vid as usual. I faced that same choice of 4WD vs AWD and as my daily ride, my passport provides amazing comfort and mileage. Those are more important than capability. I figure just 10% of my ride is off pavement and I get where I want to go with modest modifications. Just one tow and a few control arms in five years. Still happy with my choice. Would love to have front winch capability and full-size spare storage. Looking forward to your next vid.
These are some proper cool trails, I've done a Lippincott pass in LC200 as well as a Steel pass, it was fun and relatively challenging, but LC had no issues.
Its good to see the few like yourself who show what an AWD type system can do on stock form to wild. I just got a 2024 grand cherokee with the standard quadra trac 1 system which can still get to many of places, but with the most comfy roomy ride getting to and from lol. Only bummer for AWD year pending people have is the after market world product wise. But keep on rockin, and you need to add trips up to WA and more PNW, your travel map is lacking this area of greatness and adventure lol haha
Thanks! I really like how they made the Grand Cherokee so much bigger. Washington will be on the to do list. I think I’d like to continue on to Vancouver and British Columbia too!
Nice video as always Jon👍 I cant wait to finally go out with your group in August! Been watching your videos for years and finally joined your Facebook group. I wanted to join your last 2 trips to death valley and big bend but we just became brand new parents. We recently got rid of our 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness for something more capable. With the cargo box we had, it was averaging 16-18MPGs. It was stock and we made the decision to just get something more capable instead of putting a ton of money into it to make it more capable (bigger tires, lift kit, rear locker, deleting the front and rear bumpers for better approach and departure angles, etc..) Now our new overlanding rig averages about 15 MPGs. I was willing to give up a couple MPGs for a lot more capability. Also the Subaru couldn't fit both my wife and I, plus our 2 dogs and our new baby anymore(we car camp in the back). I say keep the Honda til the wheels fall off! Its definitely a part of your brand now. New rigs will always come and go. 👍 Luckily for me we also drive a prius prime to balance out the amount of gas our new rig gets lol.
Hello 👋, thanks for sharing your story! And looking forward to meeting you. The August dates aren’t set in stone, but it’s looking like Mid August on the weekend of the 16th. So, that’s the sad thing about car manufacturers going with turbo chargers. They look good on paper, and in practice they will work out when unloaded with nothing on the roof, but throw an aerodynamic carbo box and add extra friction from all terrain tires and a small displacement 4 cylinder turbo is going to always be in boost. It works for city driving, but suffers on the highway. Windstorms are going to be the worst. I had a friend with an Ascent that was getting 8 mpg driving into a strong head wind. They barely made it to a gas station. So what vehicle did you end up going with? I have a few vehicles on my radar. New Nissan frontier or a gen 1 Tundra. But, I really don’t have any reasons to switch. Happy Nissan is seeing a boost in Frontier sales and hopefully it gets Toyota to bring back the V6.
@@JonDZ_Adventuring We ended up getting a Ford Raptor. We lifted it another 3 inches and switched out the KO2 for wildpeak M/Ts, still 35's. I just revealed it on my RUclips page. Lots of people left some toxic comments when I made the switch... I know its still turbo but even with those upgrades, im still averaging 14-16 mpgs which is almost the same as our Wilderness and thats with all the gear we carry too. Of course when I put at the hammer down, ive seen it as low as 10 mpgs lol When I adventure alone, I usually just fold the rear bench seats up and sleep in the back. The super crew has such a huge interior space. We are in the market right now for a truck cap camper. Something along the lines of a GFC, Topo Toppers, Harker or Project M. Out of all those, Softroadingwest recommended the Topo Topper so were leaning towards that one. With the new baby, we want the most size to keep everyone comfortable in whatever weather we may camp in. I say run your rig until it gives out on you which in your case, might never happen. It is a Honda after all. And the IVTM system is probably the best AWD system around in my opinion 🙂As per your channel, it can do trails that people think you need a 4x4 to do!
@@youraveragejoeadventures baller!!! There’s this one camper that has hard pop up walls, and it’s not terribly expensive. Two companies make them (I think), Oru designs and this other company that I can’t think of right now. I’d say go for those, because wind and cold weather won’t be as much of an issue.
@JonDZ_Adventuring wow! This one is dope too! Man there are so many good options and they are all around the same price with the way we want to spec them out. I really like how the Harker has a Tent Annex that allows you to utilize your trucks tailgate to give you another 2 feet of floor space. I'm gonna see if I can find a video of all these toppers on a Raptor while doing Baja! I would hate for any camper I get fly off while doing a high speed desert run 😅😂
*Offroading is not what you drive. Offroading is what you do* and you're an excellent offroader! When I hear "Lift, locker, lightbar" prattle it's like pig-latin for "I don't offroad much"... when I hear "lines and tire placement and positive encouragement" it's about the be real ❤
Thanks Mr. Lexus GX! After I did the final edit, I realized that I didn’t mention how helpful Chris was as a spotter and a friend to make sure the “new to off-roading guys” didn’t damage their vehicles. I couldn’t camp out with the crew because I left my trusty CPAP machine at home, and the following day they tackled Phillips loop going the hard way. Way for these guys to LEVEL UP!
@JonDZ_Adventuring excellent! My father-in-law uses that CPAP machine... he says it works great... hopefully it's working for you... love your offroad skills.. I learn alot from you! ✌️
As a Subaru owner, my question is why modify your AWD unibody rig vs just buy something more truck like? Has your modified passport retained the good ride or MPG performance that normally differentiates these vehicles?
Thanks Rudy! I even answer Huddleen’s question at the end of this video. And for the record, I’ve made atleast 5 dedicated videos about this subject 😉. The best answer would be the “why I’m not trading in the Honda for a 4WD”. With the new Toyota Turbo line up rolling out, I feel like the only viable option would be the Nissan frontier, one of the 2 rigs I mentioned in my old video that I said I would upgrade to. A lot of other people agree and Frontier sales are up 16%, Tacoma sales are down 60%. I made this decision a year ago, well before any of the news as of late 😃.
Huddleen, if you are asking in regards to modifying a Subaru, I think you either build yours out like Matthew Heiskill or get something bigger with a more robust platform to carry the extra gear. My Passport is rated for 24mpg, but with my 3” taller tires and 1000 lbs. of gear, at 65 mph I’m able to get 24 mpg, at 70 mph and that drops to 18.5 to 20. I have this info posted up at the end of the video. I had a 2015 Subaru Forester XT, and all I did was mount a cargo basket and my MPGs at 80 mph (with geolander G015 tires) went from 27 mpg to 19. I adjusted my driving style to cruise at 70 mph, and I was able to get 28 mpg, but with the basket re-installed I was getting 22.5.
Mr. Deez is dropping more facts! I still say you need a SG3. I know, you don't want another bright screen. It's easy to dim it with a pinch motion. You need one for two reasons. The most important is the screen, multiple screens increase your Broverlanding score! The second and real reason is, I can spot a fellow numbers geek. It is so much more than the SG2 ever was. I've been rocking a SG2 since like '07ish. It was hard for me to switch, I'm telling you bro, it's worth it. Dude, stop denying your inner geek. Have you downloaded the manual and checked it out?
So, using terms like “Body lift” I can tell you’re knowledgeable about how 4WDs lift, but probably not so much for Unibody AWD, and forgive me if I’m mistaken. My unibody Honda (body on subframe with no way to flex), it’s basically one piece. To keep suspension geometry, there’s a 1.75” subframe drop, this lowers the engine and transmission. This keeps the axle angles nice and straight. The engine and transmission are not the lowest point of the vehicle (like in some other AWDs), so in the Honda platform, I benefit from much of that lift. In the front I have longer springs and longer struts. In the rear I have adjustable Bilstein 5100s. Also, the suspension system is much less weight than in a body on frame 4WD platform. Check out this video I’ll link below to give you an idea about what I’m talking about. Basically a Honda Ridgeline, 3rd gen Tacoma TRD offroad and Nissan Titan XD drove down a 26 mile washboard road. All four shocks melted and exploded in both the Tacoma off-road and Nissan Titan, the Ridgeline has all four in tact. I know, all this stuff defies the laws of physics, but the explanation from Edmunds is that because the suspension is so much lighter in the Ridgeline, there’s so much less stress.
El Dusty, I’ll apologize before time. I’m able to see your previous comments and see that you use to drive an Outback 3.6R. So yes, the Honda lifts different than Subarus multi point rear suspension. Also, the midsized Honda platform is not based on a passenger vehicle, but rather Hondas light truck platform, AKA minivan 😂😂😂, but hey! It’s heavier duty than a Honda Accord. I know that the reason people typically don’t go with something like a ADF 4” kit is because you really only gain 2” of minimum clearance.
I’ve seen one out on the Mojave road and that guy dipped down a very rutted hill. I’d love to meet up with Montero group. Wish they would offer new 4WD options here.
@JonDZ_Adventuring would have been great if they did. Good comparison of how a full size does, because they are very capable. I have first hand experience lol
So do you think all those mods were worth the capability, or not really? I remember a guy talking about a similar situation with his Subaru. He basically saod it wasnt worth it because the limiting factor was the transmission
That’s a great question! So a Midsized Honda is NOT a Subaru. I drove both a 2008 FJ cruiser and a 2015 Subaru Forester XT. Subarus are on a car platform, the Honda is on their version of a unibody light truck platform. The Honda also has the most aggressive gearing of all AWDs. Did you watch the video? I explain that my 1st gear is more aggressive than the 4Runners 2nd gear in 4LO.
@@tuckerhiggins4336 here’s a video that shows the increase in rear articulation. Should be kind of similar to the setup in this video. ruclips.net/video/2X7ug5j9ISM/видео.htmlsi=9O4xHw384qZYyMJT 4 days ago, with the new 3rd gen tundra rear shocks, it appears articulation went up a bit, at least another inch.
@@tuckerhiggins4336here’s a good example of really modified Subarus (with rear lockers and high end coil over systems) and my Honda Passport driving up to 13.1K feet on Imogene pass. It’s not a very technical trail, but a steep high elevation trail. I was able to drive up where ever I wanted. I could stop mid hill and continue on not problem. I lead the convoy so that I could spot ahead for oncoming traffic. 2 out of the 4 Subarus did not make it up under their own power, and the 2 that did barely made it. Since then, one of the owners upgraded to a Forester wilderness with better gearing, and the others figured out how to regear their rear differentials. Right now, Subaru gearing tops off at 16.7:1 (but CVT), Honda gearing tops off at 22.8:1, 5th gen 4Runner gearing is 33.7:1 ruclips.net/video/z_XLevEOD5M/видео.htmlsi=11VHbnC0cDEJ1stz
They're only hating because they have never even driven one. Theyre so use to 4x4 and 2WD their whole life so for them to see a vehicle that isnt built for rock crawling or tackling difficult road condition. And to see one of them making out to where they are at. They're just in shock for such a small vehicle to make it all out there. With the right setup any vehicle can do it.
Efficiency is a real thing but I don't understand the comfort thing when comparing to an IFS Toyota. Not that much difference in comfort. Now a Jeep I undestand. There is a significant difference.
There's a massive difference between the onroad handling between a 4runner and a midsized Honda (Passport, Pilot, Ridgeline). First of all, in a 4runner you have a 5 degree steering dead zone, it tracks straight until you take it off center, it does NOT handle like a car. I use to drive a FJ Cruiser and a Subaru WRX, a midsized Honda drives more like the WRX. Second thing is "float", an IFS Toyota will float around and you have to make micro adjustments to compensate. Now imagine added roof modifications like a roof top tent, the vehicle becomes top heavy. a 4runner for example has a track width of 64.1" in the rear, a stock Honda Passport is 67.1". A solid rear axle and body on frame is designed with off-road capability in mind, it's not going handle like a midsized unibody with a twinclutch differential that has yaw control to help turn the vehicle. Now lets talk about interior size. A midsized Honda has interior closer to a half ton truck than most other midsized vehicles. Hope that clears things up for you. Thanks for stopping by to comment.
LOL, what an idiot! The only music in this video is the part that literally says "Musical Intro, use the chapter links to skip to the part you want to see". Aahhhahhahahahaahhaahhaahah
I can see all your old comments. You keep insisting on driving up hills in 2WD and not in 4Lo. I hope no one listens to you, because as I told you in all your other comments, your transmission is getting fried unless your driving up in one of the newer 4WDs with a modern 8 or 10 speed transmission with 4:1 axles or better.
@Yoyomanmanholla I have 160K miles on my Honda, no suspension parts have ever broke. Your comment is from waaaaay outer space man. You’re the first to comment about this in the 5-1/4 years of ownership, and there’s some seriously knowledgeable guys commenting. Haha!
I mean, I understand that you can press these types of vehicles into off-road service, but the question is why? I just looked and a Honda passport cost about the same as a Trd off-road 4runner. And once you modify the passport, it probably performs worse on the road than the 4runner does. So you end up with a vehicle that’s worse on the street, worse off road, and more prone to breakage and failures. Just doesn’t make any sense to me. I see quite a few of these Subarus with mild lifts and slightly bigger aggressive tires around, and if you’re just looking to go camping and not bottom out on simple trails to get to your spot, I guess it makes sense. But if you’re looking to run 33s and run the vehicle on real off-road trails, I just don’t understand this. Maybe I’m missing something.
great content! For what it's worth, if a vehicle is relying on traction control going offroad, I actually had personal experience with my 4th gen 4runner that adding bigger size tires will tend to delay the responsiveness of ATRAC at least for toyotas, I am not sure how but it took longer time for ATRAC to kick in and less effective due to the larger tire size it needed to turn. Just my 2 cents. Cheers!
Thanks Cong! I always appreciate your comments and helpful input. I can also definitely improve my throttle control. Since I haven’t been doing as many harder trails, I feel like I’m getting rusty.
larger tire = longer lever = more torque for the brakes to stop to re-route power. The updated ATRAC on the new TNGAF stuff might account for this now.. but that's just speculation... through the large GX550 OT tires give a hint 😉
The guy driving the Taco with his caution lights on the whole trip would get kicked from the group if he did not shut them off, there is NO reason for that. Meh!
Why would wheel travel reduce with a lift? I have longer springs and struts, lol. The rear is even longer as of 3 days ago. I’m now running 3rd gen Tundra TRD Off-road rear shocks, so gained at least 1” more travel than the setup here.
@@JonDZ_Adventuring Imagine you have 8in of total wheel travel. 4in up, and 4in down. You then do a 3in lift. Now you have 7in of up travel and 1in of down travel. Longer shocks, mid/long travel lower control arms can claw some back. Sometimes the swaybar delete. Kinda depends on a lot of stuff. Basically, you don't get something for nothing
@@JonDZ_Adventuringyou are limited by the suspension arc determined by the upper and lower control arms. Unless you do a long travel kit, you aren't really gaining much if anything. Lifting an IFS just places it further down the total travel, thus reducing the amount of down travel.
Issues with a unibody AWD: No low range. Low to no crawl ratio. AWD systems (clutches) can overheat, and will wear with heavy use. Can't handle bigger tires. Way less good aftermarket suspension options Way less articulation Can't fit big tires No, to extremely limited regear options Weaker drive line. AWD are designed for on road, and do a much better job on pavement than a 4WD. AWD can handle a gravel road easy, but this low speed, articulating, low traction situations will punish the AWD system. Just because you can, doesn't mean you should.
A lot of what you say is true. Quite honestly, I feel like the Honda light truck platform is one of the only AWDs that can reliable do these trails. 163K miles right now, and cruising towards 200K and beyond.
Oh crap!!! If I ever get a new rig it will probably be a 2025+ Nissan Frontier Pro4X!!! On April fools, I joked about purchasing one, and there were some hateful comments 😂. Why do you think this is?
Rocker clearance isn't an issue if I cut them off! I like my Subaru for Highway cruiser that excels at fire roads. I have a half ton van and a one ton truck depending on the need.
Glad you mentioned that Bruceyyyyy. I thought to myself, “why am I not mentioning Bruceyyyy?” And then I answered myself “because he has 8 car or trucks and a farm!”
@@JonDZ_Adventuring Hey I'm filming a lot of videos for when I have some free time and can edit them! Let me know if you know a good editor. Since it's mostly my vlogs these days they're pretty low priority.
@@bruceyyyyy I just use Filmora. It’s not fancy, but it’s easy to use. I purchased early and I’m grand fathered into all the free updates for life 😃. You’re living the dream!
Watching the ending , where you talk about why you stick with the Honda. I get what you're saying about on-road comfort, I have a 4Runner and quite frankly I'm sick of driving it. It's not bad at all, I just do way too many highway miles to really enjoy it. I do think there is a middle ground though, the last generation Jeep Grand Cherokee is available with a low range, but has a very car-like driving experience. I drove my brother-in-law's 2014 Grand Cherokee and was blown away at how smooth it was compared to the 4Runner. I do a little research, they were available with the Hemi V8, can be lifted about 2.5 in, and can fit 33-in tires. They also have a 39 to 1 crawl ratio, which is better than the 4Runner. They can also tow 50% more than the 4Runner, if that is important to people.
![[Limbus Company - Teaser] Season5 - Oblivion](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/8anKuEeZLeI/mqdefault.jpg)
Thanks for the shout out. I was the guy with the late model Rav4 that destroyedhis EVAP canister. lol I sold it at got an MDX.
I'm really sorry about that, I felt terrible when I heard about it. Some other automakers put the EVAP canister in the same place, like in KIA/Hyundai and in the Ford Bronco Sport.
How did it do before that point? We have a '22 RAV4 Hybrid. I've always wondered how capable it is. My wife would kill me if I put even a single pinstripe on it 🤣.
@@takenpictures did great. Only time I’ve been stuck was Pismo sand dunes.
Started to watch your channel a few weeks back because you overland on a unibody AWD, and there is a big audience that have families or just for comfort and road manners prefer a Honda Passport/Toyota Highlander/Subaru, etc to occasionally overland, with few modifications try a moderate trail, and enjoy nature, without having to invest in a dedicated 4WD.
Haters will be haters, please keep putting out content, thanks.
I’m honest in this video, I talk about the weaknesses of an AWD platform. If anyone is “hating”, I don’t think they watched the video. They just get triggered by the question “can my AWD keep up with 4WD?” Not like it was a statement “MY AWD KEEPS UP WITH THEDE 4WDs” 🤣
Transfer case and gear reduction huge advantage over awd using momentum because they can’t crawl . Had a Subaru before and made all the same justifications to myself for it just like in this vid. Then I got a body on frame vehicle with transfer case , rear locker and at least one solid axle . The articulation and by nature the ability to run bigger tires then unibody awd makes a huge difference . It’s better to start with something more designed for off-roading then make a Gravel road unibody awd into an off roader . The light comes on upstairs when one makes the switch from awd to four wheel drive . But awd Subarus ect def have a place for sure .
For sure! It’s a huge difference switching from the Subaru to the Honda too. Check out 17:45, I have a graphic that illustrates the gearing difference between a 4Runner in 4Hi vs. the Honda. In 4Hi the 4Runner is geared like a Subaru at 13.1:1. The Honda is geared Like a 4Runner in 4Lo 2nd gear at 20.4:1. But, I also point out that a transfer case (or mechanical center diff lock) has a forward / back rotational lock, which provides better balance and traction compared to a center clutch pack system.
I do have experience in a body on frame 4WD. I use to drive a 2008 FJ cruiser. I remember popping it into 4Hi to drive in the snow, and the crazy drop in engine power compared to 2Hi.
@@JonDZ_Adventuring drop jn engine power? You sure that wasn’t traction control cutting power ? The later models have a button u can turn traction control off in 2wd and 4hi . I have experience driving the same vehicle and never felt like I lost engine power in 4 wd . Only in one instance in 4 lo I needed wheel spin but had atrac on and it cut all my power cause I was trying to gun it . Turned atrac off the next time and got all the wheel spin I needed .
@@Ttya-bm4gk I just noticed that going from 2Hi to 4Hi was a difference. Figured it was parasitic loss.
@@JonDZ_Adventuring why did you get rid of your FJ?
@@Ttya-bm4gk Good question, I covered it in earlier videos. The two main issues was MPGS. This was a 2008 FJ Cruiser TRD with oem roof rack (made up of 2" round tube). It didn't have the efficiency upgrade that came in later model years (I believe it was dual VVT-i), so I was getting about 10 mpg with my driving style. It only had a 19 gallon gas tank, and a drive up to the local ski resort (in big bear, ca) would have me running on fumes, so I'd have to fill up at the top of the mountain to make it back home). At the time in 2010 gas was about $5 a gallon. Off-roading wasn't even on my radar, so admittedly, I never took the FJ off-road, it was just this vehicle that wasn't good on gas, handled poorly on-road and I really disliked the steering deadzone, a few degrees left or right off from the center and the FJ would just track straight.
I eventually got myself into a 2010 Subaru WRX, and I enjoyed that vehicle for many years until I discovered the idea of snow camping in a vehicle so that I could spend multiple days near a ski resort. Then the whole overlanding boom hit and the rest is history.
I appreciate your videos. I like that you comment on how each vehicle gets through different obstacles. I also like being able to see how different vehicles get through the same obstacles.
I have a Ridgeline,and know that its pretty capable, so when its highlighted in some of your vehicles its always fun to see.
Youre one of the few on this platform who actually show how capable hondas can be, and you give actual evidence.
Theres some major content creators who will talk about the Ridgeline or pilot not being capable at all, then praise vehicles that really arnt nearly as good off road.
Keep up the great content!
Great vid man! Really cool seeing the vehicles get through the trail and your commentary.
Thanks Dewie!!! Hey! A group of us will be meeting in Colorado again on July 22ish. Suppose to be in Eastern Colorado by then. We should link up if you’re free.
@@JonDZ_Adventuringsounds good man, I’ll be going on off days on the 27th, but I may be able to get a personal day in before then.
Great comparison man! Couldn't agree more!
Thanks Ian!!! Looking forward to Nolorado year 4!!!
Great vid as usual. I faced that same choice of 4WD vs AWD and as my daily ride, my passport provides amazing comfort and mileage. Those are more important than capability. I figure just 10% of my ride is off pavement and I get where I want to go with modest modifications. Just one tow and a few control arms in five years. Still happy with my choice. Would love to have front winch capability and full-size spare storage. Looking forward to your next vid.
The camera work (editing?) from 1:38 to 2:08 is boggling my mind.
These are some proper cool trails, I've done a Lippincott pass in LC200 as well as a Steel pass, it was fun and relatively challenging, but LC had no issues.
Its good to see the few like yourself who show what an AWD type system can do on stock form to wild. I just got a 2024 grand cherokee with the standard quadra trac 1 system which can still get to many of places, but with the most comfy roomy ride getting to and from lol. Only bummer for AWD year pending people have is the after market world product wise. But keep on rockin, and you need to add trips up to WA and more PNW, your travel map is lacking this area of greatness and adventure lol haha
Thanks! I really like how they made the Grand Cherokee so much bigger. Washington will be on the to do list. I think I’d like to continue on to Vancouver and British Columbia too!
Do you even Mall Crawl Bruh? Haha great video 😁
As a matter a fact…. I DO 😂
Like the Australian guys say, Wranglers are trail weapons. The Yotas flex well in the rear, but you notice the front doesn't do too much with the IFS.
Nice video as always Jon👍 I cant wait to finally go out with your group in August! Been watching your videos for years and finally joined your Facebook group. I wanted to join your last 2 trips to death valley and big bend but we just became brand new parents. We recently got rid of our 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness for something more capable. With the cargo box we had, it was averaging 16-18MPGs. It was stock and we made the decision to just get something more capable instead of putting a ton of money into it to make it more capable (bigger tires, lift kit, rear locker, deleting the front and rear bumpers for better approach and departure angles, etc..) Now our new overlanding rig averages about 15 MPGs. I was willing to give up a couple MPGs for a lot more capability. Also the Subaru couldn't fit both my wife and I, plus our 2 dogs and our new baby anymore(we car camp in the back). I say keep the Honda til the wheels fall off! Its definitely a part of your brand now. New rigs will always come and go. 👍
Luckily for me we also drive a prius prime to balance out the amount of gas our new rig gets lol.
Hello 👋, thanks for sharing your story! And looking forward to meeting you. The August dates aren’t set in stone, but it’s looking like Mid August on the weekend of the 16th.
So, that’s the sad thing about car manufacturers going with turbo chargers. They look good on paper, and in practice they will work out when unloaded with nothing on the roof, but throw an aerodynamic carbo box and add extra friction from all terrain tires and a small displacement 4 cylinder turbo is going to always be in boost. It works for city driving, but suffers on the highway. Windstorms are going to be the worst. I had a friend with an Ascent that was getting 8 mpg driving into a strong head wind. They barely made it to a gas station. So what vehicle did you end up going with? I have a few vehicles on my radar. New Nissan frontier or a gen 1 Tundra. But, I really don’t have any reasons to switch. Happy Nissan is seeing a boost in Frontier sales and hopefully it gets Toyota to bring back the V6.
@@JonDZ_Adventuring We ended up getting a Ford Raptor. We lifted it another 3 inches and switched out the KO2 for wildpeak M/Ts, still 35's. I just revealed it on my RUclips page. Lots of people left some toxic comments when I made the switch... I know its still turbo but even with those upgrades, im still averaging 14-16 mpgs which is almost the same as our Wilderness and thats with all the gear we carry too. Of course when I put at the hammer down, ive seen it as low as 10 mpgs lol When I adventure alone, I usually just fold the rear bench seats up and sleep in the back. The super crew has such a huge interior space. We are in the market right now for a truck cap camper. Something along the lines of a GFC, Topo Toppers, Harker or Project M. Out of all those, Softroadingwest recommended the Topo Topper so were leaning towards that one. With the new baby, we want the most size to keep everyone comfortable in whatever weather we may camp in.
I say run your rig until it gives out on you which in your case, might never happen. It is a Honda after all. And the IVTM system is probably the best AWD system around in my opinion 🙂As per your channel, it can do trails that people think you need a 4x4 to do!
@@youraveragejoeadventures baller!!! There’s this one camper that has hard pop up walls, and it’s not terribly expensive. Two companies make them (I think), Oru designs and this other company that I can’t think of right now. I’d say go for those, because wind and cold weather won’t be as much of an issue.
@@youraveragejoeadventurescheck this out. $8499 and 300 lbs. for the hard walled bruin. www.orudesignsusa.com
@JonDZ_Adventuring wow! This one is dope too! Man there are so many good options and they are all around the same price with the way we want to spec them out. I really like how the Harker has a Tent Annex that allows you to utilize your trucks tailgate to give you another 2 feet of floor space. I'm gonna see if I can find a video of all these toppers on a Raptor while doing Baja! I would hate for any camper I get fly off while doing a high speed desert run 😅😂
*Offroading is not what you drive. Offroading is what you do* and you're an excellent offroader! When I hear "Lift, locker, lightbar" prattle it's like pig-latin for "I don't offroad much"... when I hear "lines and tire placement and positive encouragement" it's about the be real ❤
Thanks Mr. Lexus GX! After I did the final edit, I realized that I didn’t mention how helpful Chris was as a spotter and a friend to make sure the “new to off-roading guys” didn’t damage their vehicles. I couldn’t camp out with the crew because I left my trusty CPAP machine at home, and the following day they tackled Phillips loop going the hard way. Way for these guys to LEVEL UP!
@JonDZ_Adventuring excellent! My father-in-law uses that CPAP machine... he says it works great... hopefully it's working for you... love your offroad skills.. I learn alot from you! ✌️
As a Subaru owner, my question is why modify your AWD unibody rig vs just buy something more truck like? Has your modified passport retained the good ride or MPG performance that normally differentiates these vehicles?
He has a couple of videos that answers that question. This is one of them: ruclips.net/video/dmPRZs6H5VU/видео.htmlsi=moRxkh_yQiAXQ7ae
Thanks Rudy! I even answer Huddleen’s question at the end of this video. And for the record, I’ve made atleast 5 dedicated videos about this subject 😉. The best answer would be the “why I’m not trading in the Honda for a 4WD”. With the new Toyota Turbo line up rolling out, I feel like the only viable option would be the Nissan frontier, one of the 2 rigs I mentioned in my old video that I said I would upgrade to. A lot of other people agree and Frontier sales are up 16%, Tacoma sales are down 60%. I made this decision a year ago, well before any of the news as of late 😃.
Huddleen, if you are asking in regards to modifying a Subaru, I think you either build yours out like Matthew Heiskill or get something bigger with a more robust platform to carry the extra gear. My Passport is rated for 24mpg, but with my 3” taller tires and 1000 lbs. of gear, at 65 mph I’m able to get 24 mpg, at 70 mph and that drops to 18.5 to 20. I have this info posted up at the end of the video. I had a 2015 Subaru Forester XT, and all I did was mount a cargo basket and my MPGs at 80 mph (with geolander G015 tires) went from 27 mpg to 19. I adjusted my driving style to cruise at 70 mph, and I was able to get 28 mpg, but with the basket re-installed I was getting 22.5.
there's a unique feeling with a unibody offeoad... more connected... light... agile... plus mpgs 😊
Mr. Deez is dropping more facts! I still say you need a SG3. I know, you don't want another bright screen. It's easy to dim it with a pinch motion. You need one for two reasons. The most important is the screen, multiple screens increase your Broverlanding score! The second and real reason is, I can spot a fellow numbers geek. It is so much more than the SG2 ever was. I've been rocking a SG2 since like '07ish. It was hard for me to switch, I'm telling you bro, it's worth it. Dude, stop denying your inner geek. Have you downloaded the manual and checked it out?
Do you have a video somewhere showing your roof rack that the RTT is attached?
I have it on an instagram story. I get this question a lot, so I’ll make a RUclips short about it, that way people can find it when the search.
@@JonDZ_Adventuring Thanks Id appreciate it
Hi Jon, just curious how did you get to 4” lift? Body lift and suspension? Seems like a lot for an ifs / irs. What components did you swap?
So, using terms like “Body lift” I can tell you’re knowledgeable about how 4WDs lift, but probably not so much for Unibody AWD, and forgive me if I’m mistaken.
My unibody Honda (body on subframe with no way to flex), it’s basically one piece. To keep suspension geometry, there’s a 1.75” subframe drop, this lowers the engine and transmission. This keeps the axle angles nice and straight. The engine and transmission are not the lowest point of the vehicle (like in some other AWDs), so in the Honda platform, I benefit from much of that lift. In the front I have longer springs and longer struts. In the rear I have adjustable Bilstein 5100s. Also, the suspension system is much less weight than in a body on frame 4WD platform. Check out this video I’ll link below to give you an idea about what I’m talking about. Basically a Honda Ridgeline, 3rd gen Tacoma TRD offroad and Nissan Titan XD drove down a 26 mile washboard road. All four shocks melted and exploded in both the Tacoma off-road and Nissan Titan, the Ridgeline has all four in tact. I know, all this stuff defies the laws of physics, but the explanation from Edmunds is that because the suspension is so much lighter in the Ridgeline, there’s so much less stress.
Here’s that video I was talking about: ruclips.net/video/CWYqEinNGUM/видео.htmlsi=Ov5vmp3Glg5KdOho
El Dusty, I’ll apologize before time. I’m able to see your previous comments and see that you use to drive an Outback 3.6R. So yes, the Honda lifts different than Subarus multi point rear suspension. Also, the midsized Honda platform is not based on a passenger vehicle, but rather Hondas light truck platform, AKA minivan 😂😂😂, but hey! It’s heavier duty than a Honda Accord.
I know that the reason people typically don’t go with something like a ADF 4” kit is because you really only gain 2” of minimum clearance.
@@JonDZ_Adventuring awesome info. Love your educational / comparison videos and was just curious. Keep it up! 👍
I wish you had some friends who own Mitsubishi Monteros. It would be nice to see them out there with you.
I’ve seen one out on the Mojave road and that guy dipped down a very rutted hill. I’d love to meet up with Montero group. Wish they would offer new 4WD options here.
Where is this trail?. Looks like Nevada?
Close! This is Calico in California, near the border of Nevada.
Why didnt the f150 drive the trail?
I don’t know the exact reason, the Driver and his Wife did not join us, but had camp setup by the time we got back to shoot the video thumbnail photo.
@JonDZ_Adventuring would have been great if they did. Good comparison of how a full size does, because they are very capable. I have first hand experience lol
@@1FiftyOverland i can tell from the name 😂. I’ve been on many trips with F150s and they appear on my channel many times.
So do you think all those mods were worth the capability, or not really? I remember a guy talking about a similar situation with his Subaru. He basically saod it wasnt worth it because the limiting factor was the transmission
That’s a great question! So a Midsized Honda is NOT a Subaru. I drove both a 2008 FJ cruiser and a 2015 Subaru Forester XT. Subarus are on a car platform, the Honda is on their version of a unibody light truck platform. The Honda also has the most aggressive gearing of all AWDs. Did you watch the video? I explain that my 1st gear is more aggressive than the 4Runners 2nd gear in 4LO.
@JonDZ_Adventuring Yeah just got through that part. Still a good conceptual question
@@tuckerhiggins4336 here’s a video that shows the increase in rear articulation. Should be kind of similar to the setup in this video. ruclips.net/video/2X7ug5j9ISM/видео.htmlsi=9O4xHw384qZYyMJT
4 days ago, with the new 3rd gen tundra rear shocks, it appears articulation went up a bit, at least another inch.
@@tuckerhiggins4336here’s a good example of really modified Subarus (with rear lockers and high end coil over systems) and my Honda Passport driving up to 13.1K feet on Imogene pass. It’s not a very technical trail, but a steep high elevation trail. I was able to drive up where ever I wanted. I could stop mid hill and continue on not problem. I lead the convoy so that I could spot ahead for oncoming traffic. 2 out of the 4 Subarus did not make it up under their own power, and the 2 that did barely made it. Since then, one of the owners upgraded to a Forester wilderness with better gearing, and the others figured out how to regear their rear differentials. Right now, Subaru gearing tops off at 16.7:1 (but CVT), Honda gearing tops off at 22.8:1, 5th gen 4Runner gearing is 33.7:1
ruclips.net/video/z_XLevEOD5M/видео.htmlsi=11VHbnC0cDEJ1stz
@@JonDZ_Adventuring Very cool thanks. I do wish the 4runner gearing was better. I got a obs ford with that lovely granny gear. Can walk beside it
Hey Jon where do you get your music? I'm trying to get some too.
Do a video on the NV3500 please. 😊
They're only hating because they have never even driven one. Theyre so use to 4x4 and 2WD their whole life so for them to see a vehicle that isnt built for rock crawling or tackling difficult road condition. And to see one of them making out to where they are at. They're just in shock for such a small vehicle to make it all out there. With the right setup any vehicle can do it.
Efficiency is a real thing but I don't understand the comfort thing when comparing to an IFS Toyota. Not that much difference in comfort. Now a Jeep I undestand. There is a significant difference.
There's a massive difference between the onroad handling between a 4runner and a midsized Honda (Passport, Pilot, Ridgeline). First of all, in a 4runner you have a 5 degree steering dead zone, it tracks straight until you take it off center, it does NOT handle like a car. I use to drive a FJ Cruiser and a Subaru WRX, a midsized Honda drives more like the WRX. Second thing is "float", an IFS Toyota will float around and you have to make micro adjustments to compensate. Now imagine added roof modifications like a roof top tent, the vehicle becomes top heavy. a 4runner for example has a track width of 64.1" in the rear, a stock Honda Passport is 67.1". A solid rear axle and body on frame is designed with off-road capability in mind, it's not going handle like a midsized unibody with a twinclutch differential that has yaw control to help turn the vehicle. Now lets talk about interior size. A midsized Honda has interior closer to a half ton truck than most other midsized vehicles. Hope that clears things up for you. Thanks for stopping by to comment.
Ohhh yeahhh
Engine sound is always better than this pride month celebration music.
Hey dude, I hope you enjoy your month 👍
LOL, what an idiot! The only music in this video is the part that literally says "Musical Intro, use the chapter links to skip to the part you want to see". Aahhhahhahahahaahhaahhaahah
You can do all that in a 2wd
I can see all your old comments. You keep insisting on driving up hills in 2WD and not in 4Lo. I hope no one listens to you, because as I told you in all your other comments, your transmission is getting fried unless your driving up in one of the newer 4WDs with a modern 8 or 10 speed transmission with 4:1 axles or better.
Those LCAs on the pilot look sus af..
As sus as a rear differential pumpkin?
@@JonDZ_Adventuring all of the shots of the pilot at ground level shows these skinny sticks at each wheel, protruding
@Yoyomanmanholla I have 160K miles on my Honda, no suspension parts have ever broke. Your comment is from waaaaay outer space man. You’re the first to comment about this in the 5-1/4 years of ownership, and there’s some seriously knowledgeable guys commenting. Haha!
@@JonDZ_Adventuring perhaps… I’m simply going by appearance .
@Yoyomanmanholla you are
Taco got a widdle wadder… 🥹
Haha. Cool vid Jon!
Haha! I one the widdle wadder, I want to get one myself 😂
I mean, I understand that you can press these types of vehicles into off-road service, but the question is why? I just looked and a Honda passport cost about the same as a Trd off-road 4runner. And once you modify the passport, it probably performs worse on the road than the 4runner does. So you end up with a vehicle that’s worse on the street, worse off road, and more prone to breakage and failures. Just doesn’t make any sense to me. I see quite a few of these Subarus with mild lifts and slightly bigger aggressive tires around, and if you’re just looking to go camping and not bottom out on simple trails to get to your spot, I guess it makes sense. But if you’re looking to run 33s and run the vehicle on real off-road trails, I just don’t understand this. Maybe I’m missing something.
You didn’t watch the video. You were triggered by the thumbnail and typed out a paragraph of a comment 😂
@@JonDZ_AdventuringNo
@Holden-McGroin 22:28, everything you brought up, and many things you never thought about is addressed there.
I feel like Honda is missing an opportunity. Your vehicle looks great, imagine a factory option lift and lockers.
great content! For what it's worth, if a vehicle is relying on traction control going offroad, I actually had personal experience with my 4th gen 4runner that adding bigger size tires will tend to delay the responsiveness of ATRAC at least for toyotas, I am not sure how but it took longer time for ATRAC to kick in and less effective due to the larger tire size it needed to turn. Just my 2 cents. Cheers!
Thanks Cong! I always appreciate your comments and helpful input. I can also definitely improve my throttle control. Since I haven’t been doing as many harder trails, I feel like I’m getting rusty.
larger tire = longer lever = more torque for the brakes to stop to re-route power. The updated ATRAC on the new TNGAF stuff might account for this now.. but that's just speculation... through the large GX550 OT tires give a hint 😉
Nice!! I thought I saw you in the 405 the other morning! Rig looks meaner in person!
Thanks!! Was driving to work on the 405, what were you in!
@@JonDZ_Adventuring Pushing a Silver Xterra; yeah I commute to Newport couple days during the week. Love the rig man, nicely built.
The guy driving the Taco with his caution lights on the whole trip would get kicked from the group if he did not shut them off, there is NO reason for that. Meh!
Awesome video! Is there something you can put on your camera's mic? Hopefully to reduce the wind noise?
Thanks for the reminder!!! Haha. I really should get some kind of rig for my iPhone 15 pro max. It’s my favorite thing to record video wirh
@@JonDZ_Adventuring I'm enjoying watching the video, and I'm sure with a cleaner audio it will be much enjoyable!
Im curious how much downtravel you have left. After a 4in lift, I can't imagine it's that much
Why would wheel travel reduce with a lift? I have longer springs and struts, lol. The rear is even longer as of 3 days ago. I’m now running 3rd gen Tundra TRD Off-road rear shocks, so gained at least 1” more travel than the setup here.
@@JonDZ_Adventuring Imagine you have 8in of total wheel travel. 4in up, and 4in down. You then do a 3in lift. Now you have 7in of up travel and 1in of down travel. Longer shocks, mid/long travel lower control arms can claw some back. Sometimes the swaybar delete. Kinda depends on a lot of stuff. Basically, you don't get something for nothing
@@JonDZ_Adventuringyou are limited by the suspension arc determined by the upper and lower control arms. Unless you do a long travel kit, you aren't really gaining much if anything.
Lifting an IFS just places it further down the total travel, thus reducing the amount of down travel.
@@remembermorrison the front is Mac Pherson, the rear is Upper/Lower.
@@JonDZ_Adventuring I realize that. My comment is still the truth.
But you doing bunny hills stuff
What brand of tire carrier is on your Honda Passport
Issues with a unibody AWD:
No low range.
Low to no crawl ratio.
AWD systems (clutches) can overheat, and will wear with heavy use.
Can't handle bigger tires.
Way less good aftermarket suspension options
Way less articulation
Can't fit big tires
No, to extremely limited regear options
Weaker drive line.
AWD are designed for on road, and do a much better job on pavement than a 4WD.
AWD can handle a gravel road easy, but this low speed, articulating, low traction situations will punish the AWD system.
Just because you can, doesn't mean you should.
A lot of what you say is true. Quite honestly, I feel like the Honda light truck platform is one of the only AWDs that can reliable do these trails. 163K miles right now, and cruising towards 200K and beyond.
If you think Hondas get hate you should drive a nissan on the trails. Lol
Oh crap!!! If I ever get a new rig it will probably be a 2025+ Nissan Frontier Pro4X!!! On April fools, I joked about purchasing one, and there were some hateful comments 😂. Why do you think this is?
Nice info/video
Fantastic video….music on point
Always love the videos!
Thanks for the support!
What did you guys air down to?
About 25 PSI
❤
🫶
Always keeping it real 💯
Rocker clearance isn't an issue if I cut them off! I like my Subaru for Highway cruiser that excels at fire roads.
I have a half ton van and a one ton truck depending on the need.
Glad you mentioned that Bruceyyyyy. I thought to myself, “why am I not mentioning Bruceyyyy?” And then I answered myself “because he has 8 car or trucks and a farm!”
@@JonDZ_Adventuring Hey I'm filming a lot of videos for when I have some free time and can edit them!
Let me know if you know a good editor. Since it's mostly my vlogs these days they're pretty low priority.
@@bruceyyyyy I just use Filmora. It’s not fancy, but it’s easy to use. I purchased early and I’m grand fathered into all the free updates for life 😃. You’re living the dream!
Watching the ending , where you talk about why you stick with the Honda. I get what you're saying about on-road comfort, I have a 4Runner and quite frankly I'm sick of driving it. It's not bad at all, I just do way too many highway miles to really enjoy it. I do think there is a middle ground though, the last generation Jeep Grand Cherokee is available with a low range, but has a very car-like driving experience. I drove my brother-in-law's 2014 Grand Cherokee and was blown away at how smooth it was compared to the 4Runner. I do a little research, they were available with the Hemi V8, can be lifted about 2.5 in, and can fit 33-in tires. They also have a 39 to 1 crawl ratio, which is better than the 4Runner. They can also tow 50% more than the 4Runner, if that is important to people.