Gravel Express‑O: Built by Molly Taylor
Across the Gravel Express‑O series, Molly Taylor and Dan transform a well‑kept 2007 Subaru Forester XT from a humble marketplace find into a capable, go‑anywhere adventure machine—prioritising reliability, usability and real‑world performance over trends or extremes.
Episode 1
The Blank Canvas
Finding the right base is everything.
Molly and Dan source the perfect starting point for the Gravel Express‑O. The Marketplace Forester XT is tidy, well cared for and ready for a second life—making it an ideal foundation for what’s to come.
Watch Episode 1: Sourcing the perfect Forester XT
Episode 2
Reliability First
Strong foundations before upgrades.
Before any modifications begin, the Forester receives a full inspection and service. Fluids, filters, brakes and wear items are addressed to ensure the car is dependable before it’s pushed further.
Watch Episode 2: Inspection and essential servicing
Episode 3
Turning Back the Clock
A glow‑up that sets the tone.
With the mechanicals sorted, attention turns to presentation. Tired paint is refreshed, small faults are fixed, and the Forester starts to feel younger, sharper and closer to its intended purpose.
Watch Episode 3: Restoration and refinement
“This wasn’t about building the fastest Forester — it was about building one we’d actually want to use.”
Episode 4
Becoming the Gravel Express‑O
Where purpose takes over.
The transformation is completed as the Forester evolves into the Gravel Express‑O—built to stay fast when the road runs out. Practical upgrades prioritise control, confidence and capability on loose surfaces.
Watch Episode 4: Completing the transformation
Episode 5
Proof of Concept
The real‑world test.
The finished Gravel Express‑O is put to the test off‑road. Gravel, dirt and rough terrain answer the final question: do the mods deliver on their promise?
Watch Episode 5: Testing the Gravel Express‑O
The Gravel Express‑O Philosophy
The Gravel Express‑O isn’t about extremes. It’s about balance—reliability, usability and performance working together to encourage exploration. Because the best project cars aren’t built to sit still.
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