Coleman RoadTrip LXE

Bottom Line

Campers and RV enthusiasts take note: The Coleman RoadTrip LXE is designed with you in mind. Many owners say it's extremely versatile, especially if you buy the griddle and stove-grate add-ons, it will cook your morning pancakes and coffee as well as a hearty steak dinner. Still, some complain that it fires up too hot, so you can't cook with the lid down, and some say it's hard to clean.

Performance

Versatile but heat is problematic. Reviewers say the LXE is perfect for most cooking chores, especially if you buy the griddle and stove-grate add-ons. Many owners say they use it for pancakes, hash browns, scrambled eggs and coffee in the morning, and later enjoy steaks or other meats for dinner. Nevertheless, we did find some complaints about the grill's performance. Editors of Good Housekeeping say that it cooks unevenly, and some users report hot and cold spots. Some reviewers also say the grill's heat is so intense that food burns easily.

Ease Of Use

Easy to transport, hard to clean. One of the features reviewers like best about this portable Coleman grill is how easily and compactly it folds up. Many also say the grill is simple to set up, taking just seconds, according to one user. The pullout shelves and built-in hooks for utensils also earn praise. Nevertheless, some say that the top-locking mechanism is poorly designed, and grates can spill out when you move the grill. In addition, a majority of users say the grill is difficult to clean. Several recommend lining the base of the grill with foil to make cleaning easier.

Safety

Heat intensity sparks concerns. Many users find the LXE's heat level excessively high. In fact, one user calls the three heat settings "high, extra high, and nuclear." Many report that cooking with the lid down resulted in a melted handle or warped lid. Some also say grease fires have occurred, and one reports a propane leak that resulted in flames coming out the front of the grill. The owners manual lists several safety instructions, which include opening the lid when lighting; regularly checking for gas leaks and blockages in the burner tubes; and making sure the grease pan is empty at startup.

Cost Of Ownership

No complaints about price. The LXE's $150 price tag draws neither praise nor complaints from reviewers; nevertheless, the durability of the grill and its components is a common topic for discussion. Many users say the LXE is strong and durable, and they compliment its heavy-duty construction. A few, however, report rusting. Maintenance includes cleaning the grates and drip tray after every use. Coleman also recommends not leaving the grill outside in inclement weather. The LXE carries a three-year warranty.