A few years ago, there were limited options for buyers looking for an off-road SUV, but times have changed. A large number of SUVs come standard with all-wheel drive, and some even include four-wheel drive for tough terrain. Choosing the option that best meets your needs and way of life might be challenging because there are so many excellent options for getting off the beaten road.
We’ve ranked the top ten 4×4 SUVs in this slideshow. Naturally, the models you see here have four-wheel drive, luxurious interiors, and robust engines. Though some of these SUVs might need specific tires or additional equipment to go off-road, all of them have the potential to be very capable off-road vehicles.
1. Land Rover Defender
- MSRP: $51,000
- Engine: 2.0L Turbo 4-Cylinder
- Ground Clearance: 11.5 inches
The iconic Land Rover Defender, priced at $51,000, makes its return to the US in 2020, blending its inherent ruggedness with modern connectivity and comfort. With two- and four-door options, it offers flexible configurations for off-road entry and expedition use.
Why It’s Perfect For Off-Road:
- State-of-the-Art Traction Aids: The all-wheel-drive system intelligently distributes torque, with an electronic center differential lock enhancing grip.
- Composed Handling: A sophisticated independent suspension provides a surprisingly supple ride over rough terrain, defying its impressive off-road capability.
- Powerful Line-Up: From a 296 HP turbo-four to a 395 HP inline six-cylinder, with a hybrid model on the horizon, the Defender offers a powerful and diverse engine selection.
While boasting a refined and spacious interior, the reborn Defender retains the soul of its predecessors — excelling anywhere off the beaten path.
2. Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk
- MSRP: $45,160
- Engine: 3.6L V6
- Ground Clearance: 10.8 inches
Jeep elevates the family-friendly Grand Cherokee with the Trailhawk model, priced at $45,160, offering a compelling blend of luxury and impressive off-road capability.
Why It’s Perfect For Off-Road:
- Quadra-Lift Air Suspension: An adjustable ride height boosts maximum ground clearance to 11.3 inches, facilitating obstacle traversal.
- Selec-Terrain System: Optimizing engine, transmission, and 4WD system settings for peak performance on specific surfaces like snow, mud, and sand.
- Upscale Interior: Unlike traditional off-road vehicles, the well-appointed Grand Cherokee interior delivers ample comfort and premium features.
The Trailhawk showcases Jeep’s ability to craft a 4×4 experience, creating an off-road vehicle perfectly suited for family adventures without compromising comfort or luxury.
3. Land Rover Discovery
- MSRP: $55,250
- Engine: 3.0L Turbo 6-Cylinder
- Ground Clearance: 11.1 inches
Land Rover expands its capability into a three-row family hauler with the Discovery, priced at $55,250, seamlessly transitioning from school runs to remote trails while maintaining interior luxury akin to the Range Rover.
Why It’s Perfect For Off-Road:
- Surprisingly Nimble: Advanced suspension with active anti-roll bars delivers a supple yet secure handling over rugged terrain, defying its size.
- Potent Powertrain: A 354 HP turbocharged inline six-cylinder propels all four wheels through a two-speed transfer case and intelligent differentials.
- Legendary Branding: Carrying the inherent credibility from renowned expeditions relying on Land Rovers for decades.
The Discovery masterfully combines supreme off-road capabilities, versatile family utility, and the signature sophistication of the Range Rover, creating a compelling and well-rounded package.
4. Jeep Gladiator Mojave
![Jeep Gladiator Mojave | Designed To Be Jumped [OFF-ROAD]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/wRqHhbo-hsw/hqdefault.jpg)
- MSRP: $50,090
- Engine: 3.6L V6
- Ground Clearance: 11.6 inches
Transforming Jeep’s pickup into a high-speed desert runner, the Gladiator Mojave, priced at $50,090, features specialized suspension upgrades and hardware optimized for navigating open dunes and loose terrain.
Why It’s Perfect For Off-Road:
- Desert-Tuned Suspension: Bespoke Fox shocks adeptly absorb immense hits and ruts at speed, while retaining ample wheel travel.
- Beefy Tires: 17-inch beadlock-capable wheels paired with 33-inch Falken Wildpeak all-terrains, featuring reinforced sidewalls for durability.
- Functional Body Mods: Revised approach angle from the front bumper, racing-style fender flares, and skid plates provide crucial protection.
With its Baja race truck vibe and credentials for high-speed excursions in open deserts, the Mojave pushes the Gladiator formula to thrilling new extremes.
5. Toyota Land Cruiser
- MSRP: $89,030
- Engine: 3.5L Twin-Turbo V6
- Ground Clearance: 9.1 inches
Luxury SUV meets off-road legend – the Toyota Land Cruiser, priced at $89,030, boasts a 3.5L Twin-Turbo V6 engine and a ground clearance of 9.1 inches. Don’t be deceived by its luxurious pedigree; this vehicle has been conquering the toughest terrains for 70 years.
Why It’s Perfect For Off-Road:
- World-Class Durability: Meticulous engineering and robust components enable the Land Cruiser to handle conditions that would cripple lesser vehicles.
- Tech Features: Equipped with an array of features like Crawl Control, Multi-Terrain Select, Downhill Assist Control, and a sophisticated suspension system, maximizing traction on diverse terrains.
- Proven Prowess: Often the choice for scientific, photographic, and expeditions where failure is not an option. The Land Cruiser’s unsurpassed reliability is its hallmark.
With an 8-passenger capacity, the Land Cruiser effortlessly transitions from a family hauler to an expedition vehicle. Its comfort and competence inspire confidence on remote trails rarely ventured by others.
6. Jeep Gladiator Rubicon
- MSRP: $46,000
- Engine: 3.6L V6
- Ground Clearance: 11.1 inches
Blending the formidable off-road prowess of the Wrangler with a versatile 5-foot truck bed, the Jeep Gladiator Rubicon stands as a supremely capable 4×4 midsize pickup, priced at $46,000.
Why It’s Perfect For Off-Road:
- Removable Top/Doors: Open-air freedom enhances visibility, aiding in spotting obstacles on the trail.
- Steel Front/Rear Bumpers: Integrated recovery points offer attachment for winch straps or tow ropes during challenging situations.
- Protection Upgrades: Rock rails shield side sills from boulders, and underbody skid plates safeguard critical components from debris.
The Gladiator Rubicon, essentially a four-door Wrangler on steroids, conquers obstacles with ease while providing added cargo versatility through its truck bed.
7. Jeep Wrangler Rubicon
MSRP: $41,700
Engine: 3.6L V6
Ground Clearance: 10.8 inches
An off-road icon, the Wrangler started life as the flexible Willys MB during World War II. The Rubicon model’s specialty parts are designed for wilderness exploration, pushing capability to the limit.
Why It’s Perfect For Off-Road:
- Locking Differentials: Front/rear locking differentials evenly distribute torque, optimizing traction for climbing or navigating muddy conditions.
- Low Range Gearing (4:1): The 4:1 low range gearing facilitates precise crawl control, allowing the Wrangler Rubicon to navigate technical obstacles like large rock steps with ease.
- All-Terrain Tires (33-inch): Fitted with 33-inch all-terrain tires featuring increased sidewall armor and an aggressive tread pattern, enhancing overall traction.
- Proven Off-Road Prowess: With a legacy refined over decades, the Wrangler Rubicon stands as a compact and affordable 4×4, exemplifying unmatched off-road capability.
8. Ford Bronco Badlands Sasquatch
- MSRP: $45,000
- Engine: 2.3L Turbo 4-Cylinder
- Ground Clearance: 11.6 inches
Reviving the iconic 1966–1996 Bronco, Ford takes on Jeep with the Badlands Sasquatch, infusing robust off-road features into both two- and four-door variants.
Why It’s Perfect For Off-Road:
- 35-inch Goodyear Tires: Among the largest factory-direct options, providing nearly 12 inches of ground clearance.
- Locking Differentials (Front/Rear): Both axles can be fully locked, maximizing traction for conquering large obstacles or slippery surfaces.
- High-Clearance Fender Flares: Not only accommodating massive tires but also shielding the bodywork from trail damage, giving the Bronco an aggressive appearance.
The Bronco seamlessly blends Ford’s desert racing heritage with a modern touch, featuring a high-tech interior and ergonomic design tailored for off-road enthusiasts.
9. Ford F-150 Raptor R
- MSRP: $109,145
- Engine: 5.2L Supercharged V8
- Ground Clearance: 13 inches
Crafted for desert dominance at high speeds, the Ford F-150 Raptor R takes the proven Raptor formula to new heights with a robust 700+ hp Predator V8, priced at $109,145.
Why It’s Perfect For Off-Road:
- Trophy Truck Suspension: Extra-long travel Fox shocks with remote reservoirs adeptly handle massive compressions, making light work of whooped-out trails and huge jumps.
- Beadlock-Capable Wheels: Specially designed 37-inch tires can be mounted on wheels with outer rings, securing the tire bead for low-pressure desert running.
- Immense Power: The supercharged V8 delivers seemingly limitless thrust, allowing the Raptor R to conquer steep dunes and power through deep sands at blistering speeds.
The Raptor R is purpose-built for desolate landscapes, bringing Baja race truck prowess to the streets with high-speed capabilities and an appetite for airborne adventures.
10. Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro
- MSRP: $55,150
- Engine: 4.0L V6
- Ground Clearance: 9.6 inches
The Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro, priced at $55,150, may lack the smooth ride of crossovers, but its robust body-on-frame construction and V6 power translate into impressive durability, perfect for off-road adventures.
Why It’s Perfect For Off-Road:
- Advanced Multi-Terrain Tech: Equipped with Crawl Control, Multi-Terrain Select, and Downhill Assist, aiding drivers in navigating obstacles and slippery terrain.
- Nimble Dimensions: Its midsize length and width allow nimble maneuvering on technical trails, distinguishing it from larger SUVs.
- Aftermarket Support: Being a popular platform, the 4Runner enjoys abundant accessory and upgrade options from vendors specializing in enhancing its off-road capabilities.
A properly equipped 4Runner excels both in exploring remote landscapes and handling daily family duties, striking a balance between family utility and off-road prowess, making it immensely popular.
Frequently Asked Questions [FAQs]
Best SUVs for Overlanding?
The Land Rover Defender Excel, Ford Bronco Badlands, Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, and Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro, offer a blend of capability, durability, interior space, and aftermarket accessories for extended overland travel.
Essential Overlanding Gear?
Rooftop tents, onboard air compressors, 12V refrigerators, high-lift jacks, traction boards, and emergency communication devices are crucial for increased self-reliance and safety during overland trips far from outside help.
Special Training for Extreme Trails?
Yes, proper 4×4 operation techniques, vehicle dynamics, and winching procedures can be learned through training courses, such as those offered by Off-Road Success in Moab, UT. Highly recommended before tackling demanding trails.
Cost of Off-Road Modifications?
While the sky’s the limit, expect a minimum budget of $5,000 for starters. Expenses accumulate fast with lift kits, armor, wheels/tires, suspension, skids, bumpers, and engine upgrades.
Safety of Stock Vehicles on Trails?
Lighter trails are suitable for unmodified SUVs, but increased ground clearance, skids, and traction aids become necessary on more extreme trails. Starting with easier trails helps hone skills before investing in significant modifications.
The Bottom Line
Today off-road adventure is enriched with a diverse array of formidable 4×4 SUVs, each excelling in unique ways. From the iconic Land Rover Defender’s rugged resurgence to the versatile Jeep Gladiator Mojave’s high-speed desert prowess, these vehicles embody a perfect blend of capability, luxury, and off-road innovation.
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