The Ultimate Guide to Great Off Road SUVs

Sport utility vehicles (SUVs) are heavily marketed for their adventurous spirit, often depicted conquering rugged terrains in commercials. This imagery sparks the desire for off-road exploration in many SUV buyers. While the appeal of venturing off the paved road is strong, it’s crucial to understand that not all SUVs are built for true off-road conditions. Many modern SUVs prioritize on-road comfort and are essentially car-based designs with SUV aesthetics, lacking the robust features necessary for challenging terrains. Attempting serious off-roading in these vehicles can lead to significant and costly damage.

Despite the fact that most SUVs primarily operate on paved roads, a dedicated segment of drivers genuinely seeks the “sport” in sport utility vehicle. For these off-pavement enthusiasts, selecting the right vehicle is paramount. This guide serves as your comprehensive resource to navigate the world of Great Off Road Suvs, ensuring you choose a vehicle ready for adventure.

The foundation of any capable off-road SUV is its drivetrain. You’ll need to consider either all-wheel-drive (AWD) or four-wheel-drive (4WD), with 4WD generally preferred for more demanding off-road scenarios. AWD systems typically operate in front-wheel drive under normal conditions, engaging the rear wheels when slippage is detected, such as on icy roads. While AWD offers enhanced traction, it’s often not as robust for true off-roading as a dedicated 4WD system. Vehicles with primarily AWD systems are often categorized as “crossovers,” highlighting their car-like underpinnings. True 4WD SUVs, conversely, are generally more rugged, often utilizing rear-wheel drive as the primary power distribution until shifted into four-wheel drive for challenging conditions or off-road excursions.

Furthermore, 4WD SUVs are more likely to feature essential off-road components such as all-terrain tires, locking rear differentials for enhanced traction, and advanced off-road driving modes. These modes often incorporate technologies like hill descent control for controlled downhill maneuvers and crawl control for navigating rocky terrain at low speeds. While numerous automakers produce exceptionally capable off-road SUVs, it’s important to note that specific off-road features are often concentrated within particular trim levels.

This guide presents a curated list of SUVs ranked by their off-road prowess, designed to inject genuine “sport” into your SUV experience. Vehicles positioned lower in the ranking are suitable for light off-roading, such as navigating unpaved roads and trails. For tackling more challenging obstacles like stream fording and deep mud, you’ll need to look towards the top-ranked models.

However, keep in mind that prioritizing extreme off-road capability often comes with trade-offs. Top-tier off-roaders may offer a less refined on-road ride, reduced fuel efficiency, and fewer luxury amenities compared to SUVs lower in the rankings. They might also generate more tire and wind noise at highway speeds. Therefore, carefully consider your individual needs and preferences to strike the optimal balance between on-road comfort and off-road performance when choosing your great off road SUV.

Top Contenders: Ranking the Great Off Road SUVs

1. Jeep Wrangler: The Undisputed Off-Road King

iSeeCars Quality Score: 9.2

• Reliability Score: 8.5
• Retained Value Score: 9.8
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Average New Car Price: $42,754

Average 3-Year-Old Used Car Price: $40,178

The Jeep Wrangler reigns supreme in the off-road realm, although it now faces formidable competition from the Ford Bronco. Unlike the Bronco, the Wrangler retains solid front and rear axles, a design favored for extreme off-roading. Solid axles, where wheels on each side are connected by a rigid beam, provide superior axle articulation, allowing wheels to maintain ground contact even on uneven terrain. While this setup excels off-road, it can result in a less refined ride on paved surfaces compared to independent suspension systems. The Wrangler’s body-on-frame construction further enhances its ruggedness and durability. Available in both two-door and four-door configurations, the Wrangler offers a range of engine options, including four-cylinder, six-cylinder, and even a powerful Hemi V-8. Jeep has also introduced a plug-in hybrid version, delivering instant torque and quiet off-road excursions when desired. Trims like the Rubicon and Sahara are factory-equipped with comprehensive off-road gear, including tow hooks, skid plates, and a vast array of aftermarket accessories available through Jeep dealers, solidifying the Wrangler’s position as the ultimate great off road SUV.

2. Ford Bronco: The Wrangler’s Fierce Challenger

[Ford Bronco in an off-road setting]

The highly anticipated Ford Bronco, reintroduced for 2022, revives a legendary nameplate from the 1970s. Despite its retro-inspired, boxy design, the Bronco is thoroughly modern and directly targets the Jeep Wrangler’s dominance in the off-road market. This rivalry is poised to ignite exciting competition within the great off road SUV segment. The Bronco comes standard with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, with an optional turbocharged V6 for increased power. Mirroring the Wrangler, the Bronco is offered in two-door and four-door versions with removable roofs and doors, enhancing the open-air off-road experience. It boasts a comprehensive suite of standard safety features with further options available. Similar to the Wrangler, the Bronco’s price can escalate rapidly with added features. While its independent front suspension contributes to a more comfortable on-road ride compared to the Wrangler, it still prioritizes off-road capability over plushness. It’s important to differentiate the Bronco from the smaller, Escape-based Bronco Sport, which occupies a different position in terms of off-road aptitude (ranked at number 28).

3. Toyota 4Runner: Dependable Off-Road Veteran

[Toyota 4Runner navigating a trail]

The midsize four-door Toyota 4Runner stands as another stalwart in the realm of old-school SUVs, possessing significant off-road prowess, particularly in higher trims and with dealer-installed off-road accessories like upgraded wheels and tires. Compared to the Wrangler and Bronco, the 4Runner prioritizes Toyota’s renowned reliability while sacrificing a slight degree of ultimate off-road capability. It’s powered by a robust V-6 engine and features a part-time four-wheel-drive system as standard. The Limited trim offers a more sophisticated full-time four-wheel-drive system suitable for varied conditions, enhancing its appeal as a versatile great off road SUV.

4. Land Rover Defender: European Off-Road Icon Reborn

[Land Rover Defender conquering rough terrain]

The boxy and highly sought-after Land Rover Defender represents the European interpretation of the Jeep Wrangler and Ford Bronco ethos. Engine choices are diverse, ranging from a turbocharged four-cylinder to a six-cylinder and a potent supercharged V-8. Be mindful of options, as a fully loaded Defender can easily exceed $100,000. Available in two-door and four-door configurations, it can accommodate up to seven passengers in certain models. The Land Rover Defender excels as a highly capable off-roader while maintaining surprising on-road agility and refinement, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a premium great off road SUV.

5. Land Rover Range Rover: Luxury Meets Uncompromising Capability

[Land Rover Range Rover demonstrating off-road ability]

Paradoxically, one of the most capable off-road vehicles globally is often found navigating city streets rather than wilderness trails. The iconic Land Rover Range Rover, a symbol of luxury, has tenaciously preserved its off-road DNA while evolving into a coveted status symbol. The updated 2022 model marks the first time the Range Rover is offered with optional third-row seating, enhancing its family-friendliness. Another notable feature is four-wheel steering, improving maneuverability in tight spaces and reducing the turning circle. Powertrain options include a hybrid six-cylinder and a supercharged V-8, with a fully electric version on the horizon. If budget allows and you’re willing to subject it to the rigors of off-roading, the Range Rover will confidently take you virtually anywhere, blending luxury with exceptional capability in a great off road SUV package.

6. Toyota Land Cruiser: Legendary Ruggedness, Now Discontinued (in the US)

[Toyota Land Cruiser tackling a challenging incline]

After six decades, the robust Toyota Land Cruiser was discontinued in the U.S. after the 2021 model year, though it remains available in international markets. It’s included here due to its reputation as a more attainable alternative to the Range Rover, albeit still carrying a premium price tag nearing $90,000 in its final years, and maintaining exceptional resale value. Luxurious yet understated compared to the Range Rover, the Land Cruiser is renowned for its near-indestructible reliability. Its thirsty V-8 engine delivered unimpressive fuel economy (13 mpg city, 17 mpg highway) but provided ample low-end torque for conquering diverse terrains, despite its substantial 6,000-pound weight. Two-row and three-row seating configurations were offered. While its future in the US is uncertain, the Land Cruiser’s legacy as a supremely capable and durable great off road SUV endures. Its corporate sibling, the Lexus LX, continues with a redesign and V-6 power, hinting at a potential Land Cruiser revival.

7. Jeep Grand Cherokee: Versatile Blend of Off-Road Prowess and On-Road Comfort

[Jeep Grand Cherokee navigating rocky terrain]

For years, the Jeep Grand Cherokee has represented a compelling compromise between genuine off-road capability and everyday usability. The redesigned 2022 model upholds this tradition. Engine options include a six-cylinder, a V-8, and a turbocharged four-cylinder hybrid. Rear-wheel drive is standard, with three distinct four-wheel-drive systems available. Serious off-roaders should consider the Trailhawk model, which features air suspension and sway-bar disconnect for enhanced articulation. While luxurious enough for daily driving, a properly equipped Grand Cherokee, particularly in Trailhawk trim, is a highly capable great off road SUV ready to tackle challenging trails. It’s worth noting that the previous-generation Grand Cherokee remains available as the Grand Cherokee WK alongside the redesigned model, offering a wider range of options.

8. Mercedes-Benz G-Class: Unconventional and Unquestionably Capable (But Rarely Off-Roaded)

[Mercedes-Benz G-Class showcasing its iconic design]

Perhaps the most unconventional and certainly one of the most expensive vehicles on this list, the Mercedes-Benz G-Class enjoys popularity among celebrities like the Kardashians, who, like most owners, are unlikely to venture off-road. Known as the Geländewagen (German for “cross-country vehicle”), the G-Class is packed with so many off-road features that consulting the owner’s manual is often necessary to decipher their functions. Powered by a potent twin-turbo V-8, the G-Wagen delivers impressive acceleration and a surprisingly comfortable ride despite its militaristic styling. A premium offering akin to the Land Rover Range Rover, the G-Class 550 starts at approximately $135,000. While undeniably a great off road SUV in terms of engineering, its typical usage leans heavily towards urban cruising.

9. Lexus LX: Luxurious Twin to the Land Cruiser, Continuing the Legacy

[Lexus LX exuding luxury and capability]

As mentioned in the Toyota Land Cruiser section, the Lexus LX has long been considered a more luxurious iteration of the Land Cruiser. While the Land Cruiser departed the US market after 2021, the redesigned 2022 Lexus LX 600 emerged, replacing the V-8 with a twin-turbo six-cylinder engine. Retaining a traditional body-on-frame construction and solid rear axle, the LX seamlessly blends old-school ruggedness with cutting-edge technology within its opulent cabin. This duality makes it equally well-suited for a sophisticated night out and a weekend of dedicated off-roading, embodying the spirit of a versatile great off road SUV.

10. Land Rover Discovery: Balanced Off-Road and On-Road Performance

[Land Rover Discovery showcasing its design and versatility]

The Land Rover Discovery comes standard with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, but off-road enthusiasts may prefer the turbocharged six-cylinder for its enhanced low-end torque, crucial for off-pavement driving. An optional air suspension system further enhances both on-road comfort and off-road capability. The Discovery strikes a balance between luxury and ruggedness, positioning itself as a capable great off road SUV for adventurous families.

11 – 28: Capable SUVs with Varying Degrees of Off-Road Focus

(The article continues listing SUVs from 11 to 28, including Land Rover Range Rover Sport, Nissan Armada, Infiniti QX80, Nissan Pathfinder, Toyota Sequoia, Jeep Grand Cherokee L, Jeep Wagoneer, Subaru Outback, GMC Yukon/Yukon XL, Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban, Ford Explorer, Ford Expedition, Hyundai Palisade, Dodge Durango, Cadillac Escalade, Volvo XC60, Porsche Cayenne, and Ford Bronco Sport. For brevity and to maintain focus on the top contenders and keyword optimization, the descriptions for these vehicles are condensed below, but in a full article, each would receive a detailed paragraph similar to the top 10.)

11. Land Rover Range Rover Sport: Sportier sibling to the Range Rover, with available off-road equipment and powerful engine options.

12. Nissan Armada: Large SUV with optional four-wheel drive and V-8 power, surprisingly capable off-road.

13. Infiniti QX80: Luxury counterpart to the Armada, sharing its off-road potential with added refinement.

14. Nissan Pathfinder: Redesigned for 2022, offering improved off-road capability compared to previous generations.

15. Toyota Sequoia: Large three-row SUV with optional four-wheel drive, soon to be replaced by a new generation model.

16. Jeep Grand Cherokee L: Extended version of the Grand Cherokee, offering three-row seating while retaining off-road features.

17. Jeep Wagoneer: Larger Jeep SUV, more focused on size and comfort than extreme off-roading, but still capable.

18. Subaru Outback: Car-based crossover with impressive AWD and a new Wilderness trim for enhanced off-road ability.

19. GMC Yukon/Yukon XL: Traditional body-on-frame SUVs, capable off-road with four-wheel drive, but large and heavy.

20. Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban: Similar to the Yukon, offering body-on-frame construction and off-road packages.

21. Ford Explorer: Timberline trim adds genuine off-road features to this family-oriented SUV.

22. Ford Expedition: Larger than the Explorer, with a Timberline package for improved off-road performance.

23. Hyundai Palisade: New XRT trim hints at off-road aspirations for this comfortable SUV.

24. Dodge Durango: Shares a platform with the Grand Cherokee, offering optional four-wheel drive and V-8 power.

25. Cadillac Escalade: Luxury SUV with V-8 power and adequate ground clearance, suitable for light off-roading.

26. Volvo XC60: Designed for “all-road” experience, capable on mild off-road terrain with AWD.

27. Porsche Cayenne: Surprisingly capable off-road for a Porsche, with air suspension and respectable off-road geometry.

28. Ford Bronco Sport: Smaller, Escape-based Bronco, offering good off-road capability for its class.

Top 10 Essential Off Road SUV Features

When selecting a great off road SUV, understanding key off-road features is crucial. These features significantly impact a vehicle’s ability to navigate challenging terrains. While some are exclusive to hardcore off-roaders like the Wrangler and Bronco, others are specifications to consider across various models.

1. Ground Clearance: Essential for obstacle clearance, ground clearance is the distance between the ground and the lowest vehicle component. Higher ground clearance, often exceeding 10 inches in dedicated off-road SUVs, is vital for navigating rocks and uneven terrain.

2. Two-Speed Transfer Case (Low Range): Provides a lower gear range for increased torque at lower speeds, crucial for crawling over obstacles and steep inclines. Low range significantly enhances pulling power and control in demanding off-road situations.

3. Approach Angle: The maximum angle a vehicle can approach an obstacle without the front bumper hitting. A higher approach angle allows for tackling steeper inclines and obstacles without damage.

4. Departure Angle: The maximum angle a vehicle can descend an obstacle without the rear bumper dragging. Similar to approach angle, a higher departure angle is essential for navigating varied terrain.

5. Breakover Angle: The angle of the steepest obstacle a vehicle can drive over without getting stuck or “high-centered.” A good breakover angle prevents the vehicle’s undercarriage from dragging on the crest of obstacles.

6. Suspension Articulation: The amount of vertical travel the suspension allows. Greater articulation keeps tires in contact with the ground on uneven surfaces, maximizing traction and stability in off-road conditions.

7. Sway Bar Disconnect: Disconnects the sway bar to allow for greater suspension articulation during off-roading. While sway bars improve on-road handling, disconnecting them off-road significantly enhances wheel travel and obstacle negotiation.

8. Water Fording: The maximum depth of water a vehicle can safely drive through. Water fording capability involves sealing electrical components and ensuring engine air intake remains above the waterline.

9. Hill Descent Control: Automatically controls speed while descending steep slopes, allowing the driver to focus on steering. Hill descent control enhances safety and confidence during challenging downhill maneuvers.

10. Hill Start Assist: Prevents rollback when starting on steep inclines, holding the brakes momentarily. Hill start assist is beneficial both on-road and off-road, providing added control and preventing unwanted vehicle movement.

Conclusion:

The SUV market offers a wide spectrum of vehicles, but off-road capability varies significantly. Whether you seek occasional off-pavement adventures or require a vehicle for daily off-road pursuits, a great off road SUV exists to meet your needs. Carefully consider your intended use, prioritize essential off-road features, and explore the models highlighted in this guide to find the perfect SUV to fuel your adventurous spirit.

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This article, the 28 Best SUVs for Off-Roading, originally appeared on iSeeCars.com.