I was not pleased when the Volcano sub-theme was revealed - bright green vehicles that are totally removed from reality (who drills open lava rocks to find precious minerals?). However this set changed my mind and opened the flood-gates.

Box/Instructions

Typical bright City box showing play features and minifigs.

Parts

Some cool parts here, particularly the parts that make up the roll cage in the front and on the windshield. Also at least 16 1x1 clips allows you to customize the vehicle easily by moving things around. And I love the big chunky tires that come with this vehicle.

Minifigures

Two standard Volcano explorer minifigs. Nothing special here but just right for the set. One suited up for exploration and one dressed to drive.

The build

While rather typical to other 6-wide City vehicles, it also has some interesting aspects that allow you to build the roll cage parts. I don't mind the stickers but the Volcano logo is a bit corny.

The completed model

This is where the set shines. It is a rugged, realistic though futuristic looking 4X4 that appears dependable and tough. The drill piece swivels easily and looks cool in a number of non-working positions. You also can put a black bar piece (included as extra) on a clip on the side of the vehicle to let a figure ride standing on the runner and holding on.

Overall opinion

Excellent vehicle that will be a steal on sale at $20 USD. I do wish City would have an overarching "Explorers" sub-theme that would encompass the arctic, deep sea, etc... so the sets and figures would all be a bit more compatible.