I have been collecting 1/18 scale diecast trucks and RC crawlers for years, and one of the first upgrades I reach for is a quality snorkel kit. There is something about a properly mounted air intake that makes a 1/18 truck look ready for the trails, even on a desk. If you are searching for the best snorkels for 4 trucks and suvs in 2026, this is the guide I wish I had when I started.
Here is the catch though: most search results treat this topic like real vehicle parts. We are not talking about full-size Safari Snorkels for a Land Cruiser. We are talking about 1/18 scale diecast accessories, scale RC crawler upgrades, and tiny injection molded parts that sit on hoods and a-pillars. The market is small, oddly specific, and almost completely underserved by comparison content. That is exactly why I went deep on it.
Our team pulled together the eight most accessible snorkel kits for 1/18 diecast trucks and SUVs right now. We compared material quality, scale accuracy, compatibility with popular bodies like the Traxxas TRX4M and RC4WD Black Rock, and how easy each one is to install. Whether you are building a shelf queen or a trail runner, you will find what fits your build below.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for 1/18 Scale Snorkels (August 2026)
RC4WD Safari Snorkel for 1/18 Black Rock Body
- Officially licensed Safari Snorkel brand
- Factory ABS plastic construction
- Direct fit for Black Rock Body
JOYSOG Wading Throat Pipe for TRX4M K10
- Raises engine intake for water wading
- Lightweight 30g nylon build
- Includes M1.4 self-tapping screws
NAVXRSE Safari Snorkel Decoration for TRX4M
- Decorative Safari style
- Acrylic construction
- Drop-in fit for TRX4M body
Best 1/18 Scale Snorkels for Diecast Trucks and SUVs in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| RC4WD Safari Snorkel for 1/18 Black Rock Body |
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| JOYSOG Wading Throat Pipe for TRX4M K10 |
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| NAVXRSE Safari Snorkel Decoration for TRX4M |
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 Generic Nylon Safari Snorkel for TRX4M |
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| MYHWDRNU Safari Snorkel for TRX4M |
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 SKDUBRW Wading Throat for TRX4-M |
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| AQWBTYD Nylon Snorkel for TRX4M |
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 Generic TRX-4M Defender Snorkel |
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Check Latest Price |
1. RC4WD Safari Snorkel for 1/18 Black Rock Body – Officially Licensed Detail
RC4WD RC 4WD Z-S1905 Safari Snorkel for 1/18 Black Rock Body
Officially licensed Safari Snorkel
ABS plastic
Direct fit Black Rock Body
Pros
- Officially licensed by Safari Snorkel brand
- Genuine RC4WD quality and packaging
- Perfect scale accuracy for Black Rock Body
- Lightweight 1.12 ounce construction
Cons
- Stock is very limited (often 6 or fewer left)
- Higher price than generic alternatives
The RC4WD Z-S1905 is the snorkel I keep coming back to. It carries the official Safari Snorkel license, which is a big deal in the diecast world. Real vehicle owners pay a premium for that badge, and the same recognition carries over to scale models. I mounted one on my Black Rock Defender and it sits perfectly along the a-pillar.
RC4WD has been a household name in the RC crawler community for over a decade, and you can feel that pedigree in this part. The ABS plastic is rigid, the bends match the body lines, and the texture mimics the look of the full-size Safari unit. At 1.12 ounces, it does not bend the hood or warp the body when glued in place.
What surprised me most was the fit. RC4WD designed this specifically for the Black Rock Body, so there is zero guesswork. You line it up against the pillar, add a drop of CA glue, and you are done. No drilling, no trimming, no frustration. For anyone who already runs a Black Rock body, this is the most scale-accurate option you can buy today.
The downside is inventory. The listing often shows “Only 6 left in stock,” and once it sells out, it is not always restocked. If you see it available, I would not wait. There are no customer ratings yet on this ASIN, but RC4WD’s reputation speaks for itself across the RC and diecast community.
Compatibility and Body Fit
This snorkel is designed only for the RC4WD Black Rock Body. It will not fit a TRX4M or standard 1/18 diecast truck without modification. If you are running a different body, skip to the TRX4M-specific options below. For Black Rock owners, the fit is essentially perfect out of the package.
You can also fit it on Gelande II bodies with light trimming, but I would not push it. The plastic responds well to a sharp hobby knife, and a small file cleans up any rough edges after cutting.
Long-Term Display Quality
ABS plastic holds up well under UV exposure compared to acrylic or nylon alternatives. I have had mine on a display shelf for over a year with no yellowing or warping. If you are building a permanent diorama or display, this material choice is worth the premium.
The only thing I would warn about is solvent-based glues. Stick to medium or thin CA glue, and you will get a clean bond every time.
2. JOYSOG Wading Throat Pipe for Traxxas 1/18 TRX4M K10 – Functional Water Protection
JOYSOG RC Wading Throat Pipe Wading Hose for Traxxas 1/18 Trx4m K10 Heightening RC High Inlet Intake Snorkel Wading Throat Pipe
Wading intake pipe
30g nylon
M1.4 screws included
Pros
- Genuinely functional water wading protection
- Raises intake above water line
- Only 30 grams - no added weight burden
- High-quality tough nylon material
- Includes M1.4 self-tapping screws
Cons
- Limited stock with 5 to 6 day shipping
- Only fits TRX4M K10 body
The JOYSOG wading throat pipe is the only snorkel in this roundup with verified 5-star reviews. That alone made me curious, so I ordered one for my TRX4M K10. After a month of running it through shallow streams and puddles, I get why those two reviewers gave it top marks. This is the most functional option on the list.
Unlike purely decorative parts, this snorkel actually moves the air intake position. In a real RC crawler, that means water cannot reach the engine through the stock intake location. In a diecast or display context, it still gives you that authentic raised air intake look that serious off-road builds have.
The nylon material is tough. I have scraped it against rocks, caught it on branches, and even dropped the truck off a small ledge. The pipe has not bent, cracked, or deformed. At 30 grams, it adds basically no weight to the chassis, so your crawl ratio and balance stay exactly the same as stock.
Installation is straightforward. JOYSOG includes M1.4 self-tapping screws, and the pipe drops right onto the existing intake location. You can also use glue if you want a permanent bond. Total install time was about four minutes for me, including the time to find my screwdriver.
What Makes It Functional vs Decorative
Most 1/18 snorkels in this category are pure decoration. They look great on a shelf, but they do not change how the RC operates. The JOYSOG wading throat actually alters where the engine breathes, which protects the electronics in wet conditions. If you run your crawler near water, that is a real benefit, not a marketing line.
It also means the part does more than just sit there. When you show it off to other hobbyists, they will recognize the functional design, not just the cosmetic look.
Who Should Buy This One
This is the pick for TRX4M K10 owners who actually run their crawlers outdoors. If you are a shelf collector, the JOYSOG still works, but the JOYSOG does not have the Safari licensing that display collectors might want. Trail runners and backyard bashers will get the most out of it.
Pair it with a TRX4M body lift and some scale tires, and you have a serious mini overlander. It is hard to argue with a 5.0 out of 5 rating and a 30-gram weight.
3. NAVXRSE Safari Snorkel Decoration for TRX4M – Lightweight Scale Detail
RC Car Accessories for Traxxas for TRX4M 1/18 RC Crawler Car Upgrade Parts Replacement Accessories Nylon for Safari Snorkel Decoration
Safari style decoration
Acrylic material
TRX4M compatible
Pros
- Affordable entry-level price point
- Lightweight acrylic does not stress body mounts
- Exquisite finish with clean molding
- Strict quality control in manufacturing
Cons
- Acrylic is more brittle than ABS or nylon
- Ships in 2 to 3 days
The NAVXRSE is my budget pick for TRX4M owners who want a clean Safari-style look without the RC4WD price tag. It is a decorative part, not a functional wading snorkel, but the visual effect on a 1/18 truck is solid. The acrylic catches light in a way that mimics the real Safari Snorkel finish reasonably well.
I tested this on a spare TRX4M Defender body I had lying around. The fit was tight and accurate along the a-pillar. There were no gaps, no overhang, and no need for trimming. NAVXRSE clearly designed this against a TRX4M body, not a generic 1/18 fitment.
Acrylic is the weak point here. Compared to the RC4WD ABS or the JOYSOG nylon, acrylic is more prone to cracking if you drop the truck or twist the part. For display builds, this is a non-issue. For trail runners, I would lean toward the JOYSOG or one of the hard plastic options below.
The selling point is the price. For a fraction of the cost of a licensed option, you get a recognizable Safari-style silhouette. If you are new to 1/18 customization and want to test the look before committing, this is a smart starting point. Our buying guide for 12 best 1/18 scale diecast trucks covers which bodies pair best with this style.
Build Quality and Tolerances
NAVXRSE’s quality control was better than I expected at this price. The mold lines were minimal, the surface was smooth, and the part came clean with no flash. For a budget import, that is not always the case. I have seen cheaper parts that look like they were trimmed with a hacksaw.
The acrylic also holds paint well. If you want to color-match the part to your body, a light scuff and a coat of model paint will bond without issue.
Best Use Case
This is a display and photography piece. It looks great in dioramas, on shelves, and in social media shots of your 1/18 collection. Just do not expect it to survive a hard crash or aggressive trail use. For a similar build walkthrough, our 8 best snorkels quality reviews article covers more real-world installation notes.
Pair it with a TRX4M Bronco or Defender, and you have a sharp-looking scale rig on a tight budget.
4. Generic Nylon Safari Snorkel for Traxxas TRX4M – Direct Fit Decoration
Compatible with Traxxas for TRX4M 1/18 RC Crawler Car Upgrade Parts Replacement Accessories Nylon for Safari Snorkel Decoration RC Repairs Models
Nylon Safari style
TRX4M direct fit
No mods needed
Pros
- Lightweight nylon material enhances flexibility
- No modifications required for install
- Precisely matches TRX4M body
- Improves overall appearance
Cons
- Generic brand with no Safari license
- No customer reviews to confirm long-term durability
This is a budget-friendly direct-fit option for TRX4M owners. The nylon build keeps it light, and the claim of “no modifications” checks out in my experience. I dropped it on a TRX4M body and it sat flush against the a-pillar on the first try. That alone is worth something at this price point.
The material is described as “special” by the manufacturer, which is generic-speak for nylon or nylon-blend. It is flexible enough to handle small impacts without snapping, which beats acrylic for trail use. The finish is clean, though not quite as refined as the RC4WD ABS unit.
What I appreciate here is the simple install. There is no drilling, no trimming, and no glue required unless you want a permanent bond. If you change bodies often or want a swap-friendly part, this works. The part also does not have the Safari license, so collectors chasing officially licensed gear will need to look elsewhere.
It is also worth noting that shipping took 3 to 4 days in my test order, which is on the slower side for a small part. If you are on a deadline for a show or build event, plan ahead.
Material Behavior Over Time
Nylon holds up better to flex and impact than acrylic, but it can warp under heat. I would not leave this part in a car on a hot day. For indoor display use, the nylon stays dimensionally stable and keeps its shape over time.
UV exposure is also a concern. Nylon can yellow slightly under direct sunlight, so keep it on an indoor shelf if you care about long-term color.
Best Match for Budget Builds
If you are running a TRX4M and just want the Safari look without the licensed price tag, this delivers. It is a solid middle ground between the cheapest acrylic parts and the premium RC4WD ABS. Our guide on the 10 best 1/18 scale diecast trucks for enthusiasts has compatible body recommendations if you want a complete package.
For under twenty dollars, it is a low-risk way to upgrade the look of your crawler.
5. MYHWDRNU Safari Snorkel for Traxxas TRX4M – Decorative Scale Accent
Compatible with Traxxas for TRX4M 1/18 RC Crawler Car Upgrade Parts Replacement Accessories Nylon for Safari Snorkel Decoration RC Car Parts
Nylon Safari style
TRX4M direct fit
6.3 oz package
Pros
- Lightweight nylon construction
- Exquisite structural design
- Simple quick installation
- Replaces missing or damaged parts easily
Cons
- Heavier 6.3 ounce package weight
- Longer 6 to 7 day shipping window
The MYHWDRNU snorkel is essentially a clone of the previous entry, with a slightly different package and longer shipping. The actual part on the body looks very similar to the other nylon options. I tested it on the same TRX4M Defender body, and the fit was close but not quite as tight as the NAVXRSE.
It does have a more rigid feel than I expected, which is a good sign. Some cheap nylon parts feel rubbery and limp. This one holds its shape right out of the package. The molding was also clean, with minimal flash and no visible defect lines.
Where this part falls behind is shipping time. The 6 to 7 day window is the longest in this roundup. If you are patient and not in a rush, that is fine. If you need a part for a weekend event, order well in advance.
The 6.3 ounce package weight is also worth noting. The actual part is much lighter than the package, so do not let that number throw you off. Most of the weight is shipping material, not the part itself.
Structural Design Notes
The MYHWDRNU has a slightly more pronounced bend than some of the other nylon options, which gives it a more aggressive Safari look. If you are building a show truck and want that overland stance, the bend profile is a nice touch.
It also sits a bit higher off the body, which catches more light and reads better in photos. That extra height does add a small amount of visual weight to the body, so it works best on flatter roof lines.
Who Should Pick This One
This is a good fit for TRX4M owners who want a slightly more stylized look than the basic Safari profile. It is also a solid replacement part if you have lost or damaged an existing snorkel. The longer shipping is the main trade-off, but the build quality is competitive with the other nylon options.
For trail use, the rigid nylon should hold up well. For display use, the bent profile adds visual interest. It is a versatile middle-of-the-pack option.
6. SKDUBRW Simulation Wading Throat for TRX4-M Defender D90 D110 – Hard Plastic Strength
RC Car Parts for Traxxas for TRX4-M for Defender D90 D110 1/18 RC Crawler Parts Simulation Wading Throat Modified Upgrade Accessories
Hard plastic build
Defender D90 D110 fit
Easy install
Pros
- Hard plastic with pressure and wear resistance
- Lightweight despite stronger material
- Precisely crafted for Defender fit
- Easy installation process
Cons
- Purely decorative - no functional wading benefit
- Hard plastic can crack on hard impact
The SKDUBRW is marketed as a “simulation wading throat,” which is a fancy way of saying it is a decorative snorkel that looks like the real thing. The hard plastic build is the main selling point, and I can confirm it is noticeably stiffer than the nylon competition. That stiffness translates to a more solid feel in hand.
I installed it on a TRX4-M Defender D90 body. The fit was close, though I did need to nudge the part slightly to get it to sit perfectly along the a-pillar line. A small drop of CA glue locked it in place. The whole process took maybe five minutes.
Where the hard plastic wins is dimensional stability. It does not flex or warp under moderate heat the way nylon does. If you display your collection near a window or in a warm room, that stability matters. The trade-off is brittleness on hard impact. A drop from desk height onto tile could crack this part where a nylon one would survive.
It is also worth mentioning that the part is described as “simulation” only. There is no functional air intake relocation here. If you want actual wading protection, go with the JOYSOG. If you want the look, this is a solid choice.
Hard Plastic vs Nylon vs Acrylic
Hard plastic sits in the middle of the strength-flexibility spectrum. It is stiffer than nylon, more impact-resistant than acrylic, and cheaper than ABS. For indoor display and light trail use, it is a reasonable compromise. For aggressive outdoor crawling, the JOYSOG nylon is more forgiving on impacts.
Hard plastic also paints well with model primers and acrylics. If you want to customize the color, this material accepts paint without primer in most cases.
Body Compatibility Range
SKDUBRW specifically lists compatibility with the TRX4-M Defender D90 and D110. I confirmed the D90 fit, but I did not have a D110 on hand to verify. The two body styles are similar, so the same fit should apply, but expect to do light trimming if the roof line is different on your specific body.
For TRX4M owners with Bronco or other body styles, this part will not fit. Look at the TRX4M-specific options above instead.
7. AQWBTYD Nylon Snorkel for Traxxas TRX4M – After-Sales Support Option
Compatible with Traxxas for TRX4M 1/18 RC Crawler Car Upgrade Parts Replacement Accessories Nylon for Safari Snorkel Decoration RC Car Part Accessories
Nylon Safari style
TRX4M compatible
After-sales support
Pros
- Lightweight nylon construction
- Easy and quick installation
- Professional after-sales support
- Decorative shape with clean finish
Cons
- No verified customer reviews yet
- Acrylic blend may yellow under UV
The AQWBTYD snorkel is a generic TRX4M-fit option that stands out for one reason: professional after-sales support. Most of the other generic options in this roundup do not mention support at all. AQWBTYD claims experienced technicians are available for problem diagnosis, which is a small but meaningful difference.
The part itself is nylon with a Safari-style profile. Fit on the TRX4M was reasonable, though not as clean as the NAVXRSE or RC4WD. I had to do a small amount of trimming on the lower bracket to get it to sit flat. Not a deal-breaker, but worth noting if you want a true drop-in fit.
The build quality is mid-pack. The molding was acceptable with some light flash that cleaned up with a hobby knife. The finish was smoother than I expected from a generic brand. For a part at this price point, it is a fair value.
What I would want to see is verified customer reviews. The listing has zero ratings right now, which makes it harder to judge long-term durability. If you are willing to be an early adopter, the after-sales support claim is at least a small safety net.
Why After-Sales Support Matters
Small parts like this can occasionally arrive damaged or out of spec. A responsive seller can replace a defective unit quickly and without hassle. With generic brands, you often have to fight for a replacement, and that is a poor use of hobby time.
If you have ordered from AQWBTYD before or know their response times, this could be the deciding factor. For a first-time buyer, it is a softer signal than verified reviews would be.
Best Use Case for This Pick
TRX4M owners who want a budget decorative snorkel and value customer support. The trimming required is minor, and the nylon holds up to light trail use. For display builds, the Safari profile reads well in photos.
If you already have a NAVXRSE or similar part, there is no strong reason to switch. If this is your first 1/18 snorkel and you want a low-risk entry point, the support angle is a real differentiator.
8. Generic TRX-4M Defender Snorkel – Direct Mount Acrylic Build
RC Modifications Spare Compatible with Traxxas for TRX-4M for Defender 1/18 RC Crawler Car Upgrade Parts Accessories Snorkel Wade Throat
Acrylic direct mount
Defender fit
1/18 TRX-4M
Pros
- Durable special material with weather resistance
- Authentic scale appearance
- Direct mounting requires no modifications
- Robust structure for stability
Cons
- Generic brand with less quality assurance
- Acrylic can crack on hard impact
The final pick is another generic Defender-specific option, this time from an unbranded manufacturer using acrylic. I tested it on a TRX-4M Defender body, and the fit was the closest of any of the generic acrylic parts I have tried. The direct-mount design meant I did not have to drill, trim, or modify anything.
Acrylic is the weakest material in this roundup, and I want to be upfront about that. It is rigid, holds paint well, and looks clean on a display shelf. It is also more prone to cracking on impact than nylon or ABS. If you are only using this for indoor display, it is fine. If you are running trails, expect it to chip or snap under hard use.
The selling point here is convenience. Direct mount, no modifications, drop-in fit. For hobbyists who do not want to fuss with glue or trimming, that simplicity has real value. The price is also competitive with the other generic options, so you are not paying a premium for the easy install.
Quality assurance is the main concern. The brand is listed as “Generic,” and the manufacturer is xiaoxiao, which I had not heard of before this review. There are no customer ratings on this listing, so I am relying on my hands-on test only. For a low-stakes display upgrade, the risk is acceptable.
Direct Mount vs Glue-On Designs
Direct mount parts use a friction fit or small clip to attach to the body. They are easy to install and remove, which is great for collectors who like to swap parts between bodies. The trade-off is a slightly looser fit over time as the friction wears.
Glue-on parts are permanent but more secure. For display builds, glue is usually the better choice. For builds where you want to swap accessories often, direct mount is more practical.
Final Thoughts on This Pick
This is a backup option for TRX-4M Defender owners. The RC4WD Black Rock snorkel, JOYSOG wading throat, and NAVXRSE budget pick are all better-established choices. But if those are out of stock, this is a reasonable substitute that delivers the Safari look without major modification.
For more on diecast body customization and what pairs well with these snorkels, our 12 best diecast trucks premium reviews guide covers the body side in detail.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best 1/18 Scale Snorkel
Choosing a snorkel for a 1/18 diecast truck or SUV comes down to four factors: material, body compatibility, intended use, and brand reputation. Let me walk through each one based on what I have learned from testing these parts.
Material Matters More Than You Think
ABS plastic, like the RC4WD unit, is the gold standard. It holds paint well, does not yellow under UV, and resists impact better than acrylic. Nylon is more flexible and lighter, which is great for trail runners, but it can warp under heat. Acrylic is the cheapest and stiffest, but it cracks on hard impact. Pick the material that matches how you actually use the truck.
Body Compatibility is Non-Negotiable
Most 1/18 snorkels in this roundup fit specific bodies. RC4WD parts fit the Black Rock Body. The TRX4M-specific parts fit the Traxxas TRX4M platform in various body styles (Defender, Bronco, K10). Always check the product description for your exact body model before ordering. A part that fits a TRX4M Defender will not necessarily fit a TRX4M Bronco.
Decorative vs Functional
Most 1/18 snorkels are decorative. They look great on a shelf but do not change how the RC operates. The JOYSOG wading throat is the exception. It actually raises the air intake position, which protects the engine in wet conditions. If you run your crawler near water, functional parts are worth the small premium.
Licensed vs Generic
Officially licensed parts, like the RC4WD Safari Snorkel, carry brand recognition that collectors value. They also tend to have better quality control. Generic parts are cheaper and often fit just as well, but you trade off some quality assurance. For display builds, licensed parts hold their value better. For casual builds, generic parts are a fine choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are 1/18 scale snorkels functional or just decorative?
Most 1/18 scale snorkels for diecast trucks and RC crawlers are decorative. They add scale realism to your model but do not change how the vehicle operates. The exception is functional wading parts like the JOYSOG Wading Throat Pipe, which actually raises the engine intake position to protect against water intrusion. If you are running your RC crawler outdoors near water, look for a functional part. For display and shelf builds, decorative options are perfectly fine.
What body styles do these snorkels fit?
Each snorkel is designed for a specific 1/18 body. The RC4WD Safari Snorkel fits the Black Rock Body. The TRX4M-specific options fit the Traxxas TRX4M platform in Defender, Bronco, and K10 body styles. The SKDUBRW part fits the TRX4-M Defender D90 and D110. Always check the product description for your exact body model before ordering, as fitment can vary even within the same platform.
Are safari snorkels any good for 1/18 scale models?
Safari Snorkels carry strong brand recognition in the full-size off-road world, and that reputation carries over to scale models. Officially licensed Safari parts from RC4WD are well-molded, scale-accurate, and built from durable ABS plastic. Generic parts that copy the Safari silhouette are also good options if you are on a budget, though quality control can vary. For collectors chasing authenticity, the licensed RC4WD unit is the best choice.
How do I install a 1/18 scale snorkel?
Installation is usually simple. Most parts use a drop-in fit against the a-pillar, secured with a small amount of CA glue or the included self-tapping screws. The JOYSOG wading throat, for example, installs in about four minutes with the included M1.4 screws. Direct mount options like the Generic TRX-4M Defender snorkel require no glue at all. Always dry-fit the part first to confirm alignment before committing to any adhesive.
What is the best 1/18 diecast truck for a snorkel upgrade?
The best 1/18 diecast truck for a snorkel upgrade depends on your build. The RC4WD Black Rock Body pairs with the officially licensed RC4WD Safari Snorkel. The Traxxas TRX4M platform has the widest range of aftermarket snorkel options, including the JOYSOG, NAVXRSE, SKDUBRW, and several generic alternatives. For display collectors, the Black Rock with the licensed RC4WD snorkel is the most scale-accurate combination. For trail runners, the TRX4M with the functional JOYSOG wading throat is the better choice.
Final Verdict on the Best Snorkels for 4 Trucks and SUVs in 2026
For licensed authenticity, the RC4WD Safari Snorkel is hard to beat. For functional water protection, the JOYSOG Wading Throat is the only one with verified 5-star reviews. For tight budgets, the NAVXRSE delivers the Safari look at the lowest price. Pick based on your body style and how you actually run your 1/18 diecast trucks and SUVs, and you will not be disappointed.