A monster truck needs the right balance of grip, slip and control.

In the VX3 lineup review, I spent time on the Stampede's tire choice as well as the new power system. On a tall truck, the compound and the way it releases grip can matter as much as the amount of grip it makes.

• Do not choose tires on grip alone. I liked the way the revised Stampede tires supported a more manageable drive, rather than simply making the truck grab and roll.
• Develop the whole package. The updated four-wheel-drive range combines the revised electronics with cooling, higher-volume threaded shocks and driveline improvements.
• Start with the factory setup. Understand how the standard truck behaves on your surface before changing wheels, gearing or suspension parts.

My take: I want an entertaining monster truck that lets me use the power. The balance of the new package is what makes this refresh interesting.

Shop this model's spare parts & upgrades — see current prices and available options.

Based on my multi-model 2026 VX3 overview. Refer to this Stampede 4X4 listing for the exact specification; customer upgrades shown elsewhere in the video are optional.