For the Off-road Enthusiasts
If you can't wait to hit the trails or you just need something capable of tackling mud, rocks and rough backroads, choosing the right off-roader is important. Some make you smile every time you start them up; others are all bark and no bite. Here's a guide to the off-roaders worth your money and the ones to avoid if you plan to get dirty.
1. Jeep Wrangler Rubicon
Off-roading is what the Wrangler was made for. Locking differentials, solid axles, you name it and this thing can handle gnarly terrain with confidence. You can also customize as much as you like with its aftermarket support.
2. Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro
The TRD Pro is as proven as they come in terms of reliability. It’s got more than enough going on under the hood to power through any obstacle. It’s also rugged without feeling like a truck on your daily commute.
3. Ford Bronco Badlands
You’ll see these trucks all over the trails and for good reason. It can often hold its own against some of the most popular off-road machines. With the help of G.O.A.T. modes, you’ll nail the perfect amount of traction on any surface and enjoy your drive whether on- or off-road.
4. Land Rover Defender
The Defender is a breath of fresh air as a go-anywhere, do-anything SUV. It’s poised and poised in a way very few others can match. It mixes luxury and capability in a package that’ll leave you feeling safe no matter the conditions.
5. Chevrolet Colorado ZR2
It might seem like a weird one, but the Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 is here to surprise and impress. Don’t let the size fool you, the ZR2 turns the unassuming midsize truck into a trail-beater. It rides on Multimatic DSSV dampers that can plow through a gnarly trail like they’re a Sunday drive and you’ll love it.
6. Toyota Tacoma TRD Off-Road
When you invest in the TRD Off-Road edition, you are saving money compared to most other off-roaders, without losing out on the thrill. It packs a capable arsenal to make those trail sections easier with features like Crawl Control and locking rear diff. With Toyota being such a reliable brand, you can’t go wrong with this one.
7. Ram 1500 TRX
If you want to combine massive power and capability you can’t go wrong with the TRX. Ram has a supercharged V8 on hand to blast you through those dunes with authority. It both looks and performs like a beast.
8. Subaru Outback Wilderness
The Outback Wilderness is one to keep in mind if you aren’t planning on doing some serious trail grinding but still want to explore the dirt roads. It can still hold its own thanks to raised suspension and all-terrain tires to tackle those gravel trails and have a bit of fun. While a bit more tame than some other off-roaders, it’s not one you want to overlook.
9. Toyota FJ Cruiser (Used)
The Toyota FJ Cruiser’s already legendary off-road ability is only further accented by its retro styling. It might be discontinued, but these trucks are very much still worth searching for as used cars. It gives off a retro feel while not caring about any obstacles under its tires.
10. Nissan Xterra (Used)
The Nissan Xterra is simple, and that’s a lot of the appeal. But don’t be fooled as it’s also surprisingly competent as well. It’s also built to last with body-on-frame construction to better handle all the punishment you throw at it.
These cars are the go-to vehicle for a more enjoyable off-road experience, but there are some that feel like a good off-road choice, but are just shy of fulfilling that role.
1. Subaru Crosstrek (Non-Wilderness)
The non-Wilderness version of the Crosstrek handles some light dirt roads okay, but it is not meant for serious trails. It lacks the ground clearance and traction of true off-roaders, and you will feel out of place after a short time. Simply put, it will not perform as well as you might expect.
2. Honda CR-V
While it can make a great daily driver, the CR-V was not meant for serious off-road use. It is more focused on comfort than crawling through ruts and rocks. You will see plenty of wheel spin before your tires get traction.
3. Toyota Highlander
The Highlander’s AWD system is more focused on slick streets than rugged trails. It is missing the hardware that true off-roading demands. You are better off sticking to paved adventures with this one.
4. Mazda CX-5
The Mazda CX-5 is a fun car to drive on the street. Going off-road with it is not something it would handle quite as well as other cars though. The lower ride height and road-biased tires hamper its capability, and trails will soon expose its weaknesses.
5. Hyundai Tucson
Its impressive tech and comfort do not carry over to the trails with the Tucson. The AWD system can easily get outmatched off pavement. It will make you realize that it lacks capability when the going gets rough.
6. Chevrolet Equinox
The Equinox is built more for errands and highway cruising than rock crawling. The suspension and traction systems are not meant for serious trails. It will put you out of your comfort limit sooner than later.
7. Ford Escape
The Escape faces the same problem. A good AWD system in rain but not for rugged terrain. The lack of ground clearance is the biggest hold back, which can feel a bit underwhelming for what this car looks like it can do.
8. Jeep Renegade
The Renegade wants you to think it is a rugged trail beast. The truth, however, is that its off-road prowess is very limited outside of the Trailhawk trims. Even then, it is more tentative than aggressive in rough terrain, and trails that thrill other Jeeps will humble this one.
9. Nissan Rogue
The Rogue is all about efficiency and comfort, not trail capability. The chassis and tires are not designed for harsh terrain. If you are headed for back-country trails, it is better suited for road trips.
10. Kia Sportage
Sportage has great value for your dollar but does not offer much off-road bite. The AWD system is not nearly as aggressive as it needs to be for demanding surfaces. This is the crossover that is happiest on pavement.
