iBestTravel’s $2,500 4×4 Shootout: Suburban vs. Durango
The pandemic is still raging, and iBestTravel isn’t taking a break. However, what are David Freiburger and guest host Steve Dulcich to do when they must social distance, can’t stay in hotels, eat in restaurants, or even drive in the same car? Go camping, of course! Since they have to be in separate vehicles anyway, why not have a shootout to increase the fun and adventure? Welcome to the iBestTravel $2,500 4×4 shootout! Will Freiburger’s go-anywhere ’94 Suburban triumph over Dulcich’s beloved ’99 Durango?
Adventuring in Central California
Freiburger and Dulcich trekked out to the Central California region east of Bakersfield, near the Mojave Desert, to put their inexpensive 4x4s to the test. They explored Bonanza Gulch, the Burro Schmidt Tunnel, Jawbone Canyon OHV Area, abandoned pumice mines, old mining cabins, and everything in between. While their vehicles aren’t serious off-roaders, there were plenty of sandy washes, whooped-out trails, and dusty hill climbs to pit the cheap 4x4s against each other and determine a victor.
Freiburger’s 1994 Chevrolet Suburban 2500 4×4
Freiburger has serious off-road genes; he was the editor for Petersen’s 4-Wheel & Off-Road before working for HOT ROD. He has been a jeeper just as long as he’s been into muscle cars. While he doesn’t fully love the independent front suspension in his ’94 Suburban 4×4—he’s a solid-axle man for serious off-tarmac adventures—he considers the Chevy Suburban the best all-around, do-everything vehicle. This 2500 model boasts a 454 big-block, 4L80 overdrive transmission, and a robust 14-bolt rear end.
According to Freiburger, the Suburban is the perfect adventure vehicle. Its spacious interior provides acres of room to get comfortable if you need to sleep in it. Additionally, the barn doors on the back are vastly superior in his opinion, making it easier to load and unload items. When it’s time to enjoy the great outdoors with a cold brew, you can stand fully upright in the cargo area and soak in the scenery!
Dulcich’s 1999 Dodge Durango 5.9L V8 4WD
Steve Dulcich has been a fan of the Dodge Durango since 2003. He has accumulated enough miles across his various Durangos to travel to the moon and back, which may be a slight exaggeration. Nevertheless, in Dulcich’s opinion, the Dodge Durango is the greatest SUV ever made. This first-generation model features a 5.9L Magnum V8 engine and torsion bar independent front suspension that offers a smooth ride over rough terrain. Moreover, it has the capacity to fit a 32-inch tire without a suspension lift.
While Freiburger dislikes independent front suspension, Dulcich appreciates its ability to absorb bumps and ruts effortlessly. The Durango’s lighter weight, nimble handling, and compact size—over 2 feet shorter than the Suburban—make it feel like a trophy truck that you can sleep in. Nonetheless, he experienced an uncomfortable first night due to an air mattress leak—definitely not the truck’s fault!
Competing for Pink Slips!
As the trip progresses, the rivalry intensifies, culminating in a serious wager: a winner-takes-all off-road obstacle course challenge for pink slips! Will Freiburger take his Suburban home, or will Dulcich claim victory and potentially add the Suburban to his collection, alongside his existing Durango? While these mall-crawlers might not be the rugged 4x4s you’re used to seeing on iBestTravel, they prove that it’s possible to have a blast with affordable vehicles.
