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In this episode of RVing with Joe and Kait, we dive into our recent experience with the 2024 GXV Hilt by Storyteller Overland. For 10 days, we lived and traveled in this formidable expedition vehicle, and we’re excited to share our thoughts, insights, and adventures. Discover why this beast of a camper might just be the ultimate off-road RV and if it’s worth its $446,322 price tag.
GXV HILT by Storyteller Overland
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Resources Mentioned in this Episode
- GXV HILT Full Tour
- GXV HILT Travel Video
- We’re the Russos YouTube Channel
- Newsletter sign up
- Book 1: Take Risks
- Book 2: Tales From the Open Road
Key Highlights
- GXV HILT Overview: we share our 10 day experience living and traveling in a 2024 GXV HILT by Storyteller Overland along with our first impressions.
- Price Breakdown: cost of the Ram 5500 chassis, military tires, Liquid Spring suspension, and the extensive hours involved in its construction.
- Interior Layout: a cab over bed, kitchen galley, U-shaped dinette that converts into a second bed, and wet bath, all designed for maximum comfort and functionality.
- Exterior Durability: the bed liner coating protects the exterior, while the hail-proof, walkable solar panels on the roof add to the vehicle’s rugged durability, designed to withstand harsh conditions.
- Practical Considerations and Limitations: we address the practical aspects of living in the GXV Hilt, including its spacious interior and ample storage, which make it ideal for long-term travel. However, we also discuss some limitations, such as the lack of a dedicated garage space for larger items, the absence of a roof ladder, and the attention it attracts in public places due to its unique and imposing appearance.
- Battery System and Electrical Capabilities: explore the battery system of the GXV HILT, featuring a 16.8 kWh system that powers the AC, induction cooktop, microwave, and other appliances without needing to plug in to shore power. The 1,320 watts of solar on the roof ensure a constant energy supply, allowing us to run the AC all night and still have plenty of power left over. This robust system supports off-grid living and enhances the overall comfort and convenience of the expedition vehicle.
- Exterior Features and Utility: the rugged exterior features a high pressure spray-on bedliner, which provides resistance to scratches and abrasions. The vehicle is equipped with 41-inch tires for enhanced off-road capability, and its hail-proof, walkable solar panels ensure long-lasting durability. We discuss how the vehicle’s robust design allows it to handle tough terrains and narrow trails effortlessly.
- Driving Experience: we cover the driving experience of the GXV HILT, noting its surprisingly smooth handling despite its size. Built on the Ram 5500 chassis with a Liquid Spring hydraulic suspension, the HILT maneuvers like a large pickup truck, making it easier to navigate through tight campgrounds and rough terrains. The GXV HILT averages 10.5 MPG, even when fully loaded and traveling through varied terrains, demonstrating impressive fuel efficiency for such a large and capable vehicle.
- Practical Usage and Lifestyle Adaptability: the spacious interior, with its large U-shaped dinette and ample storage, allows for comfortable living and working conditions. The pass-through storage and accessibility between the camper and truck cab add to its practicality. However, we also discuss some limitations, such as the lack of a dedicated garage space for larger items. Despite this, the GXV Hilt proves to be highly adaptable for various lifestyles, offering a perfect blend of comfort and functionality for those seeking adventure on the road.
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My wife and I have a GXV Turtle, bought new in 2019. We ordered it customized to our specifications and it took a year to build.
We’re extremely happy with it; it’s built more to marine standards than RV standards and hasn’t suffered the annoying and frequent issues we had with our previous Airstream travel trailer and Airstream Interstate.
We went overboard with some of the specifications: for example a 135 Gal fresh water tank, 1 Kilowatt of Solar, and a 4000 Watt inverter. So we can dry camp for up to up to 3-4 weeks if we have enough supplies.
The insulation is amazing, and with the glass double glazed windows and a cab-to-cabin door, we are very cosy inside even in the Arizona heat.
We have a CruiseNComfort 12 Volt AC system that lives under one side of the dinette and is far quieter than a roof-top AC; this allows us to have an additional solar panel on the roof, plus I can (only just) squeeze the vehicle into our 11’ garage!
It does have some drawbacks: it’s not as big inside as it appears from the outside; it just appears that way. Also it’s quite a climb up into both the cab and the cabin. And the military split-rim wheels with beadlock inserts are a challenge for most tire shops, even to rotate the tires. It also gets attention everywhere – no stop is a five minute stop!
This vehicle is more than just a camper: it allows us to travel anywhere, even to visit family and friends in cities where we can simply park outside with our own accommodation, no hookups needed!
Expensive but highly recommended!
Sedona, Arizona