From Good to Great: My Canopy Upgrade with XTS 4x4

After 8 months using my previous canopy setup from XTS 4x4, I knew I had a solid foundation. It had held up incredibly well, from sealing out red dirt to surviving the bumps and challenges of touring life.

But when I saw the latest version of their canopy — which incorporated so much feedback from customers and real-world touring experiences — I knew it was time for an upgrade.

XTS has taken on feedback and refined their product to make it even better for touring, and I wanted to get my hands on the improvements. From flush flooring with the uni-strut mounting system to upgraded drawer systems and better lighting, this new canopy takes everything I loved about my previous setup and makes it even more practical and user-friendly.

Upgrading wasn’t just about new features — it was about aligning my rig with a product that reflects the values and innovation of XTS 4x4, a brand I fully trust and respect.

Why I Upgraded:

The decision to upgrade my canopy wasn’t just about wanting something new — it was about practical improvements that make touring easier, safer, and more efficient.

XTS 4x4 have really listened to feedback from their customers, including myself, and used it to refine their product. That level of attention and responsiveness is rare, and it made upgrading to their latest canopy a no-brainer.

Some of the key reasons I made the move:

• Improved drawer system: All drawers now have a single handle across rather than two separate tabs, making them easier to open and close, even when my hands are full.

• Better lock mechanisms: Previous setups could jam if items wedged the locks. The new design prevents this, keeping the locks secure and free of obstructions.

• Flush flooring with uni-strut mounting: This provides a strong, modular base for accessories and makes the canopy floor completely level.

• Enhanced fridge cage with drawer: Previously, I didn’t have a drawer under the fridge — now I can store gear more efficiently and keep everything organised.

• Handles on canopy doors: Simple, but it makes closing the doors much easier.

• Updated lighting: The addition of orange and white lighting gives better visibility at night and keeps those annoying bugs away.

• Better storage solutions on driver’s side: Bigger drawers make storing bulky items effortless.

• Rooftop tent upgrade: The lifted model gives more room and comfort for sleeping.

• Additional solar panel: I now have two solar panels instead of one, which keeps the rig powered for longer trips.

• New stainless steel, food-grade water tank with cover: Sleek, hygienic, and protected from the elements.

Essentially, XTS 4x4 have taken everything they’ve learned about touring setups — from real users and real-world testing — and rolled it into a canopy that’s more practical, robust, and enjoyable to use.

Experience With the Previous Canopy:

Before upgrading, I had been running my original XTS canopy for 8 months, and it had proven itself in every way.

The seals held up perfectly, keeping out dust and dirt even on long outback trips, and the build quality meant it could withstand everything touring life threw at it — from rough tracks to daily use.

Having used the canopy extensively, I knew exactly what worked and where improvements could make life easier.

This experience gave me complete confidence in upgrading to the latest model, because I already trusted XTS 4x4’s quality and durability.

It’s one thing for a brand to claim their product is touring-ready — it’s another to see it perform flawlessly in the real world. The previous setup confirmed that XTS 4x4 builds not just a canopy, but a tool that’s genuinely reliable on the road.

Final Thoughts:

Upgrading to the latest XTS 4x4 canopy has completely transformed my BT-50 touring setup. Every new feature — from the flush flooring and uni-strut mounting system to the upgraded drawers, locks, and rooftop tent — has made life on the road easier, more organised, and far more enjoyable.

Having used my previous canopy for 8 months, I knew I could trust XTS 4x4’s quality and durability.

The fact that they’ve taken customer feedback and applied it so effectively shows their commitment to making products that genuinely improve the touring experience.

This canopy upgrade isn’t just about having the latest gear — it’s about function, reliability, and comfort, all wrapped into a package that’s perfectly aligned with my touring lifestyle. For anyone looking to maximise the practicality and durability of their 4x4 setup, XTS 4x4 continue to set the benchmark.

Sarah Rose Foster