SUVs and crossovers have become some of the most popular vehicle models in North America thanks to their spacious passenger room and cargo, their higher driving position, their towing capacity, and their stellar safety ratings. They’ve become the go-to family vehicle, outpacing sedan sales and quickly dominating the roads thanks to better safety, more space, and better value compared to sedans by the same manufacturers.
That said, not all SUVs these days were made with the off-roading capacity that initially helped distinguish them from smaller vehicles.
Powerful off-roading SUVs have likewise grown in popularity thanks to a variety of factors:
- They’re great for cheaper vacations that involve camping or heading to a cabin on dirt roads.
- Despite off-roading capabilities, they still make a practical everyday vehicle that can get you and your family around town.
- Off-road SUVs help you tackle road conditions in an unpredictable climate. As issues like floods, hurricanes, and wildfires become more common, it never hurts to have a vehicle that you can rely on to handle tough conditions.
If you’re in the market for an off-road SUV, these are five of the most popular off-roaders on the market.
#1 Jeep Wrangler
Jeep is one of the strongest brands in off-road vehicles, thanks in no small part to its origins as a vehicle in the United States military during World War II. That reputation for tackling tough terrain carries into its contemporary vehicles, like the Jeep Wrangler.
When it comes to pure off-road capabilities, the Jeep Wrangler is in contention to stand at the top of the mountain, but when it comes to everyday use, the poor gas mileage can catch up with you.
#2 Ford Bronco
Back after 25 years off the market, the Ford Bronco re-launched in 2021 and immediately took aim at the Jeep Wrangler. The Ford Bronco revives a brand known for its off-roading capabilities, and it comes with a number of improvements, including a sleeker design and more customizable features.
The Bronco provides open-top driving for thrill-seekers, and with both high ground clearance and wide tours (37 inches on the Bronco Raptor), it’s made to go off the pavement.
#3 Chevrolet Tahoe
The Chevrolet Tahoe provides a competitive 8-inch ground clearance and body-on-frame construction that gives it the capability to get off the beaten path. The Chevrolet Tahoe also offers adult-sized third-row seating, and this model is surprisingly agile.
#4 GMC Yukon
The 2024 GMC Yukon is one of the more luxurious offerings in the GMC lineup, offering spacious family accommodations and a 5.3-liter or 6.2-liter V-8 engine. If you’re planning on taking a GMC Yukon off-road, the AT4 trim is likely the model you’re going to want to buy. The AT4 trim also adds front-mounted tow hooks and a front fascia that improves the approach angle.
#5 Land Rover Range Rover
The Range Rover is the perfect combination of luxury and capability, providing an adaptive all-wheel-drive system and air suspension that helps it tackle difficult road and weather conditions. This is one of the more expensive options for off-roading, but you’ll feel like royalty going wherever you need to get, no matter the conditions.
Also Read: Five Best Cars for First Time Buyers.
Take advantage of the best in off-road SUVs and tackle any kind of conditions.