There are a lot of layers to building an off-road vehicle, from just getting started to flat-out intense builds. The American SuperJeep Challenge TV-series, airing on the MotorTrend Network, focused on the best of the best from all around the Country. Nic Ashby and his custom-built 1983 CJ-7 named GRDLOC took the top prize for 2019.

The Challenge started with regional winners at various events throughout the USA. A wide range of regional winners was found at events like the Florida Jeep Jam, Great Smokey Mountain Jeep Invasion, 4-Wheel Jamboree, and others. Ashby was found at the Lucas Oil Off-Road Expo in Pomona, California.

The competition was fierce, all of them are incredible builds but GRDLOC stopped the traffic and came out on top. The fully built CJ-7 is loaded with a supercharged Cadillac Northstar V8, huge axles, tuned suspension and 46-inch Mickey Thompson Baja Claw tires.

“GRDLOC is my personal build and a passion project that has involved nearly every member of the team at RPG,” said Ashby. “I’m proud to share this recognition with my team and honored that we had the opportunity to compare our work head-to-head with the work of colleagues and fellow shop owners who we all hold in such high regard.”

The regional finalists made their last stand at the 2020 King of the Hammers races in Johnson Valley, California. The builds were judged on their custom modifications, fabrication, and craftsmanship, as well as design creativity, presentation, and overall functionality.

“We scoured the country looking for some of the most exciting and unique rigs and builders in America. Our goal was to highlight the incredible skill that exists among today’s builders, who have mastered working with a uniquely American platform – the Jeep Wrangler,” said Tony May, Executive Producer, American SuperJeep Challenge. “We could not be happier with the competitors for our first series, and while all of the participants deserve recognition for their many contributions to the off-road community, GRDLOC’s marriage of form, function, and creativity ultimately earned Nic Ashby and Rockstar Performance Garage the top spot.”

Rockstar Performance Garage is a collaboration between Rockstar Energy Drink and LDRSHIP designs to build the first Lifestyle Garage. RPG is known for its unique vehicle builds and expert videography and photography services. Mickey Thompson Tires & Wheels is a recognized RPG partner.