These are the best starting vehicles in Expeditions: A MudRunner Game
After the massive success of SnowRunner and MudRunner, Expeditions: A MudRunner Game is the latest addition to Saber Interactive’s lineup of slow-paced, off-road driving simulation games. Much like its predecessors, this game promises an authentic trucking experience for those who enjoy a challenging experience.
With 20 vehicles available at launch and nine separate maps for you to explore, choosing the right starter vehicle has a massive impact on how much you enjoy the game. Each vehicle feels completely unique, with its own set of complexities and strengths that the players must utilize to get the most out of it.
To help you navigate the early stages of the game with ease, we’ve done the research for you. If you plan on picking up Expeditions: A MudRunner Game on launch day, here are the best starter vehicles that you can get for a smoother journey ahead.
1. Loadstar 1700 SE
The International Loadstar 1700 is a delivery truck that can handle most scouting and cargo-hauling tasks with ease.
- Power: A+
- Strength: B
- Fuel Consumption: A-
- Inventory Space: 6 slots
- Extra Cargo Room: No
If we had to pick favorites, the Loadstar 1700 SE would be the one that we choose over and over again. With excellent Power and Fuel Consumption ratings at A+ and A- respectively, there’s not much that the Loadstar can’t do.
The downside to this vehicle however is the lack of any Extra Cargo Room. With some modifications, this vehicle gets even better. It’s also pretty expensive, so even though it’s a starter vehicle, you would have to save up a bit before you can buy it.
Pros:
- Doesn’t need a trailer to carry repair and fuel points
- Differential Lock is always On
- Excellent Torque
Cons:
- Expensive for a starter vehicle
- Can get flipped when driving at high speeds
2. TUZ 16 Actaeon
The Tuz 16 Actaeon was first introduced in the SnowRunner DLC and is included in the base game of Expeditions: A MudRunner Game.
- Power: A-
- Strength: B
- Fuel Consumption: A-
- Inventory Space: 6 slots
- Extra Cargo Room: Yes
If the Loadstar 1700 seems a bit expensive and you don’t want to save up, the Tuz 16 Actaeon might be right up your alley. Its power rating stands at A-, which is a bit lower than the Loadstar, but the fuel consumption is pretty much the same. The fact that it also comes with six inventory slots makes it a no-brainer as one of the best starting vehicles in the game.
One thing that the Actaeon does better than the Loadstar is providing some extra cargo room. However, the biggest drawback of the Actaeon is its small fuel tank. But since it’s light and has excellent fuel efficiency, it can easily compete with other scout vehicles in terms of distance coverage.
Pros:
- Great for hauling small cargo in hard to reach locations
- Supports equipping autonomous winch and active suspension
- Big tires and lighter weight make it a better scout than most scout vehicles
Cons:
- Not suitable for rougher terrain with the base suspension
- Pulling trailers can be difficult because of it’s lighter weight
3. Step 310E
The Step 310E is an off-road military truck that is perfect for hauling cargo over long distances.
- Power: A-
- Strength: B
- Fuel Consumption: B+
- Inventory Space: 7 slots
- Extra Cargo Room: Yes
With the same power rating as the Tuz 16 Actaeon and a light body, the Step 310E is not messing around when it comes to hauling capacity. It comes with seven inventory slots along with extra space in the flatbed to carry anything you could ever want.
Back in SnowRunner, the Step 310E was an extremely fuel-efficient truck thanks to its LAZ 6T173 “Voin” engine. However, in Expeditions, the default engine in the truck is changed to Azov AM-8 1080, making it consume more fuel. Still, the B+ rating in fuel consumption isn’t bad for its size.
Pros:
- Excellent top speed
- Powerful base engine in its vehicle class
- It can equip a wide variety of attachments and add-ons.
Cons:
- Low traction without load due to its lighter weight
- Can struggle with heavier loads
4. DON 71
The DON 71 is an off-road car that first appeared in SnowRunner. Because of its extreme popularity, it’s making a reappearance in Expeditions!
- Power: B-
- Strength: B-
- Fuel Consumption: S
- Inventory Space: 3 slots
- Extra Cargo Room: No
We’ll say it right away – if you’re looking for carrying capacity or long-distance travel, the DON 71 just won’t cut it. However, the early parts of the game will mostly have you explore the map, and for that, this car is the undisputed champion. This is the main reason why this vehicle is so good when you’re starting the game.
With an S rating in fuel consumption, even the small 42L fuel tank will get you decent mileage. It can also tackle a bit of snow and mud, which is great when you’re exploring. However, it doesn’t come with any cargo room and can struggle if the mud and snow get too thick.
Pros:
- Highly fuel efficient engine
- Can navigate tight areas easily
- Can handle a decent bit of off-roading.
Cons:
- Not suitable for deep mud and snow
- Can’t pull trailers easily
5. Cotco Canyon SR-i
Based on the Iveco Massif, the Cotco Canyon SR-i is a utility car that will be featured as part of the Cotco Canyon DLC in Expeditions: A MudRunner Game.
- Power: B-
- Strength: B-
- Fuel Consumption: A+
- Inventory Space: 4 slots
- Extra Cargo Room: No
As a lightweight, scout-class vehicle, the Cotco Canyon SR-i is pretty much on par with the Don 71. It’s not as fuel efficient, but its A+ fuel consumption combined with a higher 80L fuel capacity ends up giving you more mileage per refill. As for the Power and Strength, it’s pretty much the same as the Don 71.
Of course, the main downside of this vehicle is that it won’t be available to anyone. If you haven’t bought the Cotco Canyon SR-i expansion, then you’re out of luck; you’ll have to settle with the Don 71.
It can handle mud and snow better than the Don, but it’s still not on par with the top 3 trucks on this list. As an exploration-centered scout vehicle, the Cotco is a great one. But it doesn’t do much else.
Pros:
- Can fit a variety of add ons
- Excellent fuel capacity and efficiency
- Comes with four inventory slots
Cons:
- Not suitable for deep mud or snow
- Can’t carry heavy cargo
Best Starting Vehicle in Expeditions a MudRunner Game – The Final Verdict
Expeditions is shaping up to be the perfect successor to SnowRunner, offering you complete freedom and flexibility in the vehicles you choose. The vehicles that we listed are great for the early parts of the game, but as you keep playing, you’ll get access to many other upgrades.
If you want to explore the map, the Don 71 or the Cotco Canyon SR-i is the obvious pick at the start. For heavier tasks, the Loadstar 1700 SE, the Step 301E, or the TUZ 16 Actaeon will give you a better experience. Good luck!