This was in yesterday's (Aug. 8) Wall Street Journal, what do you think? I don't think his advice is all that wrong, but I don't know if I would take a Subaru Outback on the sand, even though it is All Weel Drive -- I own one and would not do it -- but did drive when I had my jeep. Thoughts?
Finding a Good Beach Ride
August 8, 2006; Page D4
Q: I would like to buy a small SUV or wagon that handles well on the road but that can also be driven on the beach. I have thought about either the Toyota Highlander or Subaru Outback. Will these work on the beach?
A: Yes, either of those models will be fairly safe to drive on the beach without worrying about getting stuck. Indeed, many two-wheel-drive vehicles can drive on the beach if the sand is fairly well packed, though four-wheel drive offers a more secure way to traverse sandy terrain. Please remember, though, that tires are a big part of successful sand driving. Most experts recommend deflating tires for sand and driving in deep, soft sand requires specially designed tires. And, of course, steer clear of the dunes.
mecar@wsj.com