AT THIS YEAR’S ALWAYS-HOTLY ANTICIPATED EASTER JEEP SAFARI, ALL EYES FELL ON THE LEGENDARY OFF-ROADER’S VACATIONEER, A DIZZYING CONCEPT BUILT FOR MONTHS ON THE BACKCOUNTRY ROADS OF THE AMERICAN WEST
BY EVAN MONROE
Each spring, as Americans gleefully embark on their personal end-of-winter routines, from dusting off pastel-dipped polos and sundresses to tackling backyard to-do lists, off-road enthusiasts descend upon Moab for Jeep’s annual Easter Jeep Safari, a dizzying nine-day showcase of mouth-gaping concept vehicles from the legacy maker. Jeep’s 58th Safari kicked off on March 23, attracting 20,000 die-hard adventurists to the breathtaking backcountry trails of Utah’s high desert. This year’s slate of concepts included a souped-up Wrangler, a nod to the legendary post-war civilian Jeep, and a kitted-out Gladiator, but the scene stealer award went to the Vacationeer concept based on Jeep’s full-size Wagoneer.
Envisioned as the ultimate road tripper, the Vacationeer bridges retro style points with modern performance goodies. Its Spearmint green coating, white roof, and subtle wooden accents pay homage to the pastel fevers of yore, while the solar-powered, RedTail Overland Skyloft rooftop camper brings us into modern day. The pop-open tent features a carbon fiber base (meaning it’s both muscular but lightweight) and large, double-paned windows for stellar starry-night views while sleeping on the trails. It’s also fully insulated and climate controlled, so it’s accessible even in the throes of winter. When it’s time to hit the untamed wilderness again, the concept is decked out with beefy 35-inch BFGoodrich mud-terrain tires wrapped around 18×9-inch 701 Method racing wheels, lending a 1.5-inch lift. Armed with a front-mounted Warn winch and trio of 11-inch TYRI LED lights for maximum visibility, the nimble camper dances through difficult off-road situations with ease. A pair of front and rear skid plates are also standing by to provide underbody protection while rolling over red rocks and fallen brush.
Inside, the second and third row seats have been gutted to accommodate the Skyloft tent, and make space for long-trip luggage and camping gear. The front seats are emblazoned with classic Americana, the brainchild of New England fashion designer Kiel James Patrick. The custom fabric features a classic checked pattern accented with iconic Jeep vehicles of the past.
Route 46 Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram
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