Mercedes Lilienthal
As a contributor for The New York Times and several automotive outlets, I create award-winning content involving vehicular adventure travel, the automotive industry, and inspiring women in it. My husband and I own two customized right-hand-drive turbo diesel 4x4 Mitsubishis: a Delica Space Gear and a Gen 2 Pajero. We also own a pair of modified Subarus. A dual citizen of the United States and Germany, my work includes writing, photography, and various PR/marketing services. Follow me: Facebook @crankshaftculture and @mercedeslilienthal, Instagram @crankshaftculture and @mercedes_lilienthal, and Twitter @crankshaftcult and @writerwithgrit.
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MotorsportsThe 2025 Thunderbird Rally: Snow, Precise Timing, and Car Culture
Join the Lilienthals in the 2025 Thunderbird Rally, a snow-packed TSD competition through British Columbia. Precision, teamwork, and car culture at its finest!
MotorsportsTackling the TransAmerica Trail: The Lilienthals are Piloting a 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness Off-Road Across the Entire U.S.!
Join the Lilienthals as they conquer the 4,253-mile TransAmerica Trail in a 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness, testing its off-road prowess with key upgrades.
Food, Beverages, CookingFull Windsor Magware: Tested, Tough, and Magnetic
Discover the Full Windsor Magware Magnetic Bowls, Plates, and Cutlery Double Set—durable, lightweight, and perfect for overlanding. Read our full review on its stackable design, high-quality materials, and real-world performance in the wild.
First Look2025 Volkswagen Taos: Is VW’s Compact Crossover Up for Adventure?
Discover the refreshed 2025 VW Taos AWD: improved power, off-road capability, spacious interior, and standout features for light-duty adventures. Is it right for you?
ActivitiesExperiencing Bronco Off-Roadeo Tennessee
Experience Bronco Off-Roadeo Tennessee is the latest hands-on driving adventure for Ford Bronco and Bronco Sport owners. Learn off-road skills, recovery techniques, and vehicle features while navigating the scenic Smoky Mountains.
Pocket GearORTLIEB 34L Duffle RG Review: Waterproof, Durable, and Perfect for Adventure Travel
ORTLIEB has long been known for its durable wares like waterproof backpacks, bags, camera bags, and luggage—and the 34L Duffle RG is no exception. Let’s see if its smaller size stands up to the demands of cross-country multi-weeklong travels.
GearCotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack Review: Redesign, Features, and Performance
Cotopaxi’s backpacks aren’t the least expensive on the market. But you get what you pay for. Our Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack review reveals why it may be a great fit for your needs.
First LookReal-Life Comparison: 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz EV from North America vs. the 2024 ID. Buzz Pro German-Market Model
Being a traditionalist, one might spring for a new Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro, Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, or an INEOS Grenadier as their ideal adventure rig.
First LookFull-Size Adventurers: 2025 Chevrolet Suburban and Tahoe SUVs
We traveled to Dallas, Texas to test Chevrolet’s latest full-size truck-based SUVs, the refreshed 2025 Suburban and 2025 Tahoe.
First Look2024 Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness First-Drive Impressions
Subaru’s Smallest SUV Gets a Big Personality Upgrade: I drove the Crosstrek Wilderness on- and off-road across southern Utah and through Zion National Park to test its capabilities.
Food, Beverages, CookingTested: Sea to Summit Frontier Ultralight Collapsible Dinnerware Set and Frontier Ultralight Cutlery Set
We spent the summer with Sea to Summit’s Frontier Ultralight Collapsible Dinnerware Set and Frontier Ultralight Cutlery Set to see how they stack up against the competition.
ReviewReviewed: BioLite Charge 100 Max Portable Power Bank
We test the new BioLite Charge 100 Max Portable Power Bank to see how it stacks up against an old favorite.
ReviewTested: Women’s Oboz Sawtooth X Low Hiking Boots
The Oboz Sawtooth X Low Hiking Boots have been around for a while, but needed a refresh. So, after 10 years, the company revamped its popular model’s styling and improved its strength, traction, and comfort. We try the latest model for women.
MotorsportsWe’re Going Global: Rallying an All-Electric Volkswagen ID. Buzz Van in the 2024 Baltic Sea Circle Rally
Fresh off the heels of our class win with the 2024 Alcan 5000 Rally, we’re neck deep in prep for our first major overseas competition: the Baltic Sea Circle Rally, the northernmost rally in the world.
Buyer's Guide8 Innovative Items from 2024 Overland Expo West
With over 400 registered exhibitors at 2024 Overland Expo West, there was no limit to the innovative gear that was showcased at the show. These are 8 new standout products that we are excited about.
ActivitiesPushing Beyond Boundaries: Piloting Can-Am Maverick X3s for International Female Ride Day
It’s about pushing beyond boundaries and trying something different. I put myself out there recently and drove a 2024 Can-Am Maverick X3 RS in the Sonoran Desert to help celebrate the 18th-annual International Female Ride Day, held May 4, 2024.
Outdoor GearThe Latest Arc’teryx Jackets: His-and-Hers Alpha SV Jackets and Cerium Hoodys
Living in the Pacific Northwest and traveling to tons of far-flung remote places has taught me that wearing durable gear is critical, especially when it comes to rainproof and windproof wares. Which companies are the best? Would Canadian-based Arc’teryx jackets make the cut?
Start HereLeave No Trace: How to Tread Lightly
There are important “tread lightly” principles overlanders and campers should adhere to treat surrounding areas (and people) with respect to preserve the environment and the planet for years to come.
Buyer's GuideWinter Gear Round-Up: 5 Cold-Weather Clothing and Camping Items Reviewed
We review 5 of the latest cold-weather clothing and camp gear that can keep you enjoying your time with Old Man Winter.
EventsRebelle Renegades: What Does a Day in the Life of a Rallier Look Like?
What happens when you put 65 two-women teams together and toss them into the desert to fend for themselves? Welcome to the Rebelle Rally.