The Coleman RoadTrip Grill LXE lets you bring the "fire" to the campsite, ballpark or tailgate location of your choice.

This portable grill works so well, in fact, that it can easily substitute for a full-size grill in a pinch. Its 20,000 Btu are more than a match for burgers, hot dogs, sausage, steaks and anything else you can throw at it. We were extremely impressed at how easily the unit set up and went to work. The hardest part was attaching the wheels, which took all of 2 minutes!

The power is supplied via a portable propane cylinder, which attaches easily at the rear of the unit. The burners lit on the first try using the InstaStart electronic ignition button and each burner can be independently controlled via handy dials located on the front panel. The model tested had a vibrant red enamel coating on the grill body and hood. This model can also be found in cobalt blue or black finishes.

Like its predecessors in the RoadTrip line, the LXE is solidly built -- with all metal legs, grill body and hood. Two removable porcelain-coated cast-iron grill plates have a traditional slotted grate design that lets the foods cook over an open flame (as opposed to the griddle-like solid plate surfaces of some other models). Grease and juices drip through the grates and either vaporize or collect in the handy drip tray mounted under the grill body.

This model incorporates some truly smart features such as the two plastic side trays, which slide under the grill for compact storage and, just as easily slide out again when needed to hold buns, condiments, plates and more; three molded utensil hangers built into the front of the grill; flip-fold legs that convert to a wheeled carry handle making this model one of the easiest to transport; and two adjustable burner controls, which provide exceptional control over both the left and right burners.

The RoadTrip LXE couldn't be any easier to use or to transport to and from the grilling site. The two heavy-duty metal legs are connected via a pivot pin so they form an X when locked in the upright position and then fold flat to store or transport the grill. In its setup position, the grill stands 31 inches tall, which we found to be an efficient grilling height. The width is 31 inches from one side handle to the other and approximately 46 inches with the side shelves extended. When the legs and shelves are collapsed, the grill height compacts to a mere 13 inches tall by 36 inches wide by 22 inches deep, so it can be easily transported in a trunk or rear storage compartment.

The cooking surface of the RoadTrip LXE measures 12 inches deep by 26 inches wide and is oval in shape so a few square inches are lost at the corners but the rounded edges are a welcome characteristic when it comes time to tote the grill.

Optional accessories for the RoadTrip grill include a cast-iron flat griddle ($24.99), stove grate ($14.99), full-size aluminum griddle ($49.99) and cover ($24.99). A 5-foot adapter is also available and lets you hook the grill up to a full-size propane cylinder.

For the price ($169.99), this grill is solidly built and will deliver exceptional performance for many years to come. Its sturdy construction, powerful cooking system and versatility (to convert to a griddle or stovetop, for instance) make it an outstanding value.


Pros: All-metal construction, folds flat for easy transporting, two wheels and easy-grip handle, 20,000 Btu of power, grill plates remove for easy cleaning
Cons: Open-style grates lets dripping through, which adds to the cleanup

Warranty
5 years, limited