Traxxas 4X4 VX3: Everything that's changing on the Slash, Rustler and Stampede

This marks a major turning point for one of the most popular manufacturers in the radio-controlled model car industry. The American brand is updating three of its legendary all-wheel-drive off-road models: the Slash 4X4, the Rustler 4X4, and the Stampede 4X4. All of these platforms now feature the brand-new brushless powertrain, dubbed the VX3 system.

Farewell to the historic combo VXL-3s / Velineon 3500, which has been a fixture on the tracks for years: Traxxas has revamped its lineup to offer more consistent, more robust machines that are perfectly optimized for 3S LiPo power. What are the real technical improvements, and which model should you choose based on your riding style? A complete breakdown.

Combo Brushless VX3: Why switch from 3500 to 3200 kV?

The major change is, of course, under the bodywork. The new generation replaces the old powertrain with the ESC electronic Traxxas VX3 and the brushless Velineon V3200 motor, which delivers 3,200 kV.

At first glance, switching from 3,500 kV to 3,200 kV might seem surprising. However, this choice is part of a carefully considered mechanical strategy:

• More torque and endurance: The new winding prioritizes torque at low and mid-range speeds, allowing for long gear ratios without straining the mechanical components.
• 5 mm reinforced motor shaft: Gone are the more fragile 3.17 mm shafts; the 5-millimeter diameter ensures flawless resistance to the stresses of 3S operation.
• Optimized cooling: The motor housing and the ESC VX3 feature a completely redesigned heat dissipation system Nitro to allow for consecutive runs on 2S or 3S LiPo batteries without excessive temperature rise.
• 100% LiPo Design: The platform fully embraces the move away from older NiMH batteries to focus on the efficiency of modern LiPo packs.

Chassis upgrades: GTR shocks and metal-gear servos

Traxxas didn’t stop at the electronics. The other excellent surprise in this upgrade concerns the suspension and steering:

All three vehicles have swapped out the traditional Ultra Shocks for composite GTR shocks. Featuring a larger oil volume for more consistent damping on rough terrain, they most notably incorporate threaded rings. No more plastic clips: ground clearance and spring preload can be adjusted down to the millimeter simply by turning the ring.

On the steering front, reliability has reached new heights thanks to the installation of the waterproof Traxxas 2057 servo, equipped with metal gears. This added sturdiness is a welcome feature for withstanding wheel impacts during hard landings.

Of course, the range’s cutting-edge standards are still present: reinforced 4WD drivetrain, TSM gyroscopic trajectory management (Traxxas Stability Management), and clip-free, quick-lock bodies.

Slash, Rustler or Stampede: Which Traxxas VX3 should you choose?

Although the powertrain is now identical, these three platforms are designed for very distinct riding styles:

1. Traxxas Slash 4X4 VX3: The versatile and realistic Short Course

With its wheels sheltered beneath wide fenders and its lowered center of gravity (Low-CG chassis), the Traxxas Slash 4X4 VX3 remains the benchmark for neck-and-neck competition. It excels on dirt tracks as well as on mixed terrain thanks to its excellent stability when cornering.

2. Traxxas Stampede 4X4 VX3: The Monster Truck off-road and bash buggy

Sitting high on its massive Talon MXT tires and boasting generous ground clearance, the Traxxas Stampede 4X4 VX3 is the obvious choice for riding through tall grass, navigating ruts, or pulling off massive jumps over rough terrain. Pure fun!

3. Traxxas Rustler 4X4 VX3: The Stadium Truck built for speed

Wider, lower, and exceptionally agile, the Traxxas Rustler 4X4 VX3 is designed for lightning-fast acceleration and high-speed cornering. It’s the ideal machine for driving on flat surfaces, parking lots, or stabilized paths.

RC Team’s review

This VX3 upgrade brings true technical consistency to the manufacturer’s three flagship 4WD models. Thanks to the torque of the V3200 motor, the adjustable GTR shocks, and the metal servo gears, Traxxas delivers even more robust machines, ready to withstand the full power of 3S without faltering.

Check out all the new products and replacement parts now on our official page dedicated to Traxxas vehicles.