XMODS

Working for 2NR has been a learning experience for me to say the least. When the editor asked me to write a story on the XMODS cars, I merely flipped the folder onto my desk and gave the proverbial head nod. I figured it for another of the many press releases I go through each month. When I finally got around to doing the story and looking at the car I was sent to go along with it, I realized how wrong I'd been.

I'm not one to give false praise, but these little cars are the best things to hit the import scene since well, Import Tuner. So you want one but you want to know more about 'em first? 2NR tested and 2NR approved, these cars come in four different starter platforms from Nissan, Acura, Honda and Toyota. Once armed with this starter kit, you can customize the look and performance of your XMOD like you did your own car. Everything from custom graphics, suspensions and body kits to upgrade motors is available. You can even start your own XMOD car club and get together to race these super-fast RCs. You can compete with up to 12 cars at once on 12 different 27-MHz frequency bands.

XMODS were designed with performance, quality, customization and control in mind. The most important factors involved in the creation of this genius were to keep price and authenticity in mind. With speeds reaching 15 mph stock and up to 20 mph with upgrades, you can be sure these will beat any of the other RC cars on your block. All cars have true-to-spec modular bodies, two-wheel drive (upgradeable to AWD if you'd like), a digital proportional steering system and precision-detailed add ons. And that's just what's in the starter kit!

When I opened up the box to the Nissan Skyline, I was amazed at the details that were thought of by its creators. The car rest in a clear toolbox-like contraption and the chassis lay separate from the body and wheels. Typical of any tuner nut, I tore into the parts and checked everything out, determined to build it on my own, without looking at the directions. Although highly intuitive, I still suggest double-checking your moves with the provided booklet. The starter kit comes with all screws, nuts and tools to put it together, including the necessary lug wrench and screwdriver. It also comes with removable side skirts, hood and rear wing so you can upgrade these at your convenience. Take it even further and customize the paint job...you know you've got a buddy at a body shop who'd love to put some graphics on your mini ride.