Off-roading offers an undeniable thrill, whether you’re following a convoy or blazing your own trail. It’s a chance to connect with nature and socialize in a unique way. But before you hit the trails, choosing the right 4×4 is essential—whether you’re tackling tough terrains or enjoying a more moderate adventure. Here are 13 of the best off-roading 4x4s that will keep you moving, no matter where the path takes you.
Jeep Wrangler
Jeep has preserved the much-loved design of circular headlights, seven-slatted grille, and strict geometry from the original Willy MB Jeeps for World War II. The interior is spacious, which goes hand in hand with the improved efficiency and better road manners.
The latest Wrangler has a 2.0-litre petrol engine producing 270 hp. Power is sent to all wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission. On rugged terrain, locking the center differential gives all wheels equal power.
Toyota Land Cruiser
Toyota Land Cruiser is another off-roaring beast that has historically been the workhorse of choice for many. Whether you choose the new models or the old-school cruisers with body-on-frame construction, this SUV will get the job done.
Land Cruisers are suitable for all terrains, towing, and other tough jobs. Basic-spec versions are affordable and can give you all the satisfaction you want on the track.
Ford Ranger Raptor
The original Ranger Raptor came with a 2.0-litre diesel engine that failed to meet off-roading needs. However, the newer version packs a 3.0-litre turbocharged V6 that gives enough punch when mated to the 10-speed auto transmission.
Ford’s upgraded suspension features advanced, electronically controlled Fox ‘Live Valve’ adaptive dampers, which smooth out any terrain you choose. This makes the Raptor truly impressive, especially when it tackles challenging terrains at speeds that would leave many traditional 4x4s behind.
Ineos Grenadier
The Inoes Grenadier is one of the best cars for conquering the wilderness. The Grenadier maintains the traditional 4×4 mechanical philosophy by featuring a ladder-frame chassis and a pair of live axles. It also offers a 3.0-liter six-cylinder petrol or diesel engine, a ZF eight-speed automatic gearbox, a 10.4-inch ground clearance, and a Tremac dual-range transfer box for better crawling ability.
Suzuki Jimny
Suzuki markets the Jimny as the world’s lightest off-roader. This is actually true, as the Jimny is only just over 2200 pounds and remains a no-nonsense off-roader. The car uses a ladder-frame chassis with rigid-axle suspension at each end. Additionally, it has a low-ratio four-wheel-drive transmission that enables it to grip the rocks remarkably. Surprisingly, the Jimny packs only a 1.5-litre, four-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol engine under its hood.
Land Rover Defender
Having switched from a ladder-frame construction to a monocoque, many suggested that the Land Rover Defender wouldn’t have quite the same water-fording, rock-hopping, slope-scaling, mud-plugging, and axle-twisting prowess as the older models. However, the car is capable of doing all the above.
The car boasts a height-adjustable air suspension and various drive modes to maintain the right forward momentum. It also offers an entry-level D250 diesel engine with 250 hp that has plenty of low-down grunt.
Land Rover Discovery
The fifth-generation Land Rover Discovery is a terrifically competent off-roader. The Progress Control function handles the off-road cruise control, keeping your speed precisely on point when tackling rough terrain. Recent models have been facelifted, and new six-cylinder engines have been produced in petrol and diesel varieties.
Mercedes G-Class
The G-Class recently received an update, but you’ll still find the traditional ladder-frame chassis underneath.
The car has three locking differentials, improved ground clearance, and maintains the same immense range of off-road abilities. One of the best engines is the 3.0-liter straight-six diesel, which won’t leave you short on power. Not to mention, the car offers numerous luxury features on the inside.
Chevy Colorado ZR2
The multifaceted Colorado ZR2 debuted in the 2017 model year. This midsize Chevy ZR2 truck offered powerful front and rear locking differentials, steel rock rails, rugged tires, and Multimatic Dynamic Suspension Spool Valve dampers. The second generation of the Colorado ZR2 is even more powerful and performance-ready thanks to its TurboMax engine and 8-speed transmission.
Jeep Grand Cherokee
Jeep’s Grand Cherokee is a popular and influential off-roader that debuted in 1993. Now in its fifth generation, it is the gold standard for midsize off-road-capable SUVs.
Currently, we have the hybrid plug-in Cherokee, which is capable of performing like any other off-road SUV. The car has a 2.0-litre petrol engine and electric motor, forming a pretty quick powertrain. This car comes with a standard-fit air suspension with five stages of adjustability that allow you to set the ride height to tackle various terrains.
Hummer H3T
In 2005, GM introduced the Hummer H3 SUV, based on the Chevrolet Colorado. Three years later, in 2008, the automaker launched the H3T, a pickup version of the H3. These trucks were equipped with front and rear electronic locking differentials, steel rock rails, and an optional 5.3-liter V8 engine, with a standard 3.7-liter inline-5.
Although GM discontinued the Hummer brand in 2010, the H3T was already phased out in 2009. Only about 2,700 H3T units were sold, making it one of the rarest and most sought-after off-road Hummers.
Toyota 4Runner
Toyota’s 4Runner was first introduced in 1984 and has remained among the toughest off-roaders ever. The original 4Runner was based on the Toyota Pickup platform. The current fifth-generation 4Runner was introduced in 2010 and has remained largely unchanged.
Toyota FJ Cruiser
The Toyota FJ Cruiser was introduced in 2006 as a retro-styled SUV inspired by the original Land Cruiser FJ40. It shared much of its platform and running gear with the Toyota Tacoma and 4Runner, offering a rugged off-road experience. The FJ Cruiser featured a manually shifted transfer case and an available rear locking differential for enhanced off-road capability. Production of the FJ Cruiser ended in the United States in 2014, and globally, it was discontinued in 2018.
Choose a Perfect Car for Your Off-Roading Adventure
When selecting the perfect off-roading vehicle, consider the terrain you’ll be navigating and the features that will make your journey smoother. Key features like ground clearance, skid plates, traction systems, and all-terrain tires are essential for conquering challenging paths. Keep your budget and long-term maintenance costs in mind, and don’t hesitate to seek expert advice to ensure you choose a 4×4 that will keep you moving through any adventure with confidence.
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Peterson is an automotive content writer, blogger, and copywriter who is passionate about turning automotive experiences into compelling words. He developed an interest in cars at a young age and, upon reaching adulthood, mastered the ability to simplify complex automotive topics and present them engagingly.
