Individuals looking for serious off-road performance from their sport utility vehicle have very specific requirements. While fuel-efficient, around-town, people-haulers may be great for some, these adventure and outdoor enthusiasts demand performance. They need a vehicle they can rely on to get them out of a tough spot when they get a little too deep in mud. The best off-road SUVs will have a flexible suspension, four-wheel drive with low gearing and plenty of power. If you are looking for o... (full review continues below)
Individuals looking for serious off-road performance from their sport utility vehicle have very specific requirements. While fuel-efficient, around-town, people-haulers may be great for some, these adventure and outdoor enthusiasts demand performance. They need a vehicle they can rely on to get them out of a tough spot when they get a little too deep in mud. The best off-road SUVs will have a flexible suspension, four-wheel drive with low gearing and plenty of power. If you are looking for one of these SUVs, you may have specific requirements of your own, many of which are sure to be met by at least some of the vehicles listed here.
Starting the list of best off-road SUVs is the Toyota FJ Cruiser. It is really hard to beat the off-road capabilities that this vehicle offers. With its body-on-frame design, locking rear differential, low range gearing and strong V6 engine, this SUV will get you where you want to go. Plus, the interior is made up of rubber floor covering and water repellent upholstery, so it is not scared to get a little dirty.
The unique suspension of the Jeep Grand Cherokee earns it a place on this list. A 6.6-inch ride height is easy to get into, but can be raised to 10.7 inches for those treacherous trails. It also features a drive-mode selector that allows you to tailor the suspension and powertrain based on terrain.
Although known for its athletic on-road handling, Dodge Durango actually enjoys being put to work off-road as well. An impressive 84.5 cubic feet of cargo space gives you all the room you need for your camping gear, and it features dual-range gearing, making it more than capable on challenging terrain.
Up next on the list of best off-road SUVs is the Land Rover Range Rover. This is an SUV that can virtually go anywhere. As part of the model year redesign, the Range Rover gets an all-aluminum unibody, an updated adaptive Terrain Response system and a retuned air suspension that gives it more confident cornering abilities.
Toyota Highlander is one vehicle that has it all. Although it is a popular pick for those looking for a fuel-efficient family vehicle, it's just as respected by those needing an off-road vehicles. The optional 270 horsepower V6 engine is quick and strong, and can tow up to 5,000 pounds.
Ford Explorer is next, and although some were concerned when its underlying architecture was changed 2 years ago, it has proven itself worthy of a place on the list. Although its four-wheel drive system does not feature low gearing, it does include Ford's Terrain Management System that electronically optimizes traction for various conditions.
Another one of the best off-road SUVs is the Nissan Pathfinder. This newly redesigned vehicle gets a unibody structure and the optional all-wheel drive system monitors the road to automatically distribute power to the front and rear axles appropriately. It also allows you to lock in a 50/50 ratio.
Last is the Land Rover LR4. Although it comes with a hefty price tag, you get a strong V8, luxurious interior and phenomenal off-road capabilities. Even novice trail-seekers can navigate with confidence, thanks to its Hill Descent Control, available locking rear differential and Terrain Response System.
Although Jeep Wrangler, Volkswagen Touareg, Subaru Forester, Kia Sorento and Honda Pilot did not make the list, they are worthy of a mention as well.