Top 10 Off-Road SUVs for Adventure and 4x4 Thrills

For outdoor enthusiasts seeking rugged SUVs to conquer backcountry trails, this guide covers the most capable options available from 2023 models.

Off-roading has surged in popularity recently. More drivers want SUVs able to handle tough terrain with confidence when leaving pavement behind.

We evaluated critical factors like ground clearance, suspension articulation, traction aids, drivetrain hardware, and approach/departure angles to rank the 10 best off-road SUVs.

Whether tackling Moab slick rock, climbing rocky passes, or traversing muddy two-tracks, these vehicles have the credentials to keep you moving through the most difficult challenges nature throws at you.

Key Considerations When Choosing an Off-Road SUV

Before hitting the trails, determining your priorities helps narrow the multitude of off-road SUV choices:

Budget - MSRP for top-rated 4x4 SUVs ranges from the low $30Ks into the $80Ks and above. Consider insurance/maintenance costs too.
Passenger Space - Do you need seating for up to 6 or 7 for family, or just space for 2 plus gear? There are capable off-roaders in all sizes.
Types of Terrain - Will slow technical rock crawling or high-speed desert running be your primary activities? This changes ideal attributes.
Capability Level - Assess how difficult the trails you plan to tackle will be to determine ground clearance, gearing, and traction components required.
Comfort Features - If the vehicle will double for highway trips and family use, available luxury features may help justify the investment.

Once determining your must-have priorities and ideal specifications, the right off-road SUV for your needs becomes clear.

1. Jeep Wrangler Rubicon

MSRP: $41,700

Engine: 3.6L V6

Ground Clearance: 10.8 inches

Since its WWII origin as the go-anywhere Willys MB, the Wrangler has been an off-road icon. The Rubicon model takes capability to the extreme with specialized components tailored for backcountry exploration.

Why It's Great Off-Road:

Front/rear locking differentials - Maximizes traction by evenly splitting torque between both wheels at each axle. Critical for climbing or muddy conditions.
4:1 low range gearing - Provides tremendous crawl control for slowly negotiating technical obstacles like large rock steps.
33-inch all-terrain tires - Increased sidewall armor and aggressive tread pattern enhances traction.

Proven and refined over decades, the Wrangler Rubicon exemplifies off-road prowess in a compact and affordable 4x4 package.

2. Ford Bronco Badlands Sasquatch

MSRP: $45,000

Engine: 2.3L Turbo 4-Cylinder

Ground Clearance: 11.6 inches

Reviving the legendary 1966-1996 Bronco, Ford aimed squarely at Jeep by packing robust off-road hardware into two- and four-door Bronco variants. The Badlands Sasquatch provides extreme capability concessions.

Why It's Great Off-Road:

35-inch Goodyear tires - Among the largest available direct from the factory. Provides ground clearance near 12 inches.
Front/rear locking differentials - Both axles can be fully locked for max traction. Ideal for scaling large obstacles or slippery surfaces.
High-clearance fender flares - Allow fitting huge tires while protecting bodywork from trail damage. Give aggressive look.

The Bronco channels Ford's desert racing heritage into a thoroughly modern package with high-tech interior and smart ergonomics tailored for off-roading.

3. Toyota Land Cruiser

MSRP: $89,030

Engine: 3.5L Twin-Turbo V6

Ground Clearance: 9.1 inches

Don't let its luxury SUV pedigree fool you - the Land Cruiser is one of the most astonishingly capable vehicles ever produced. This multigenerational legend has been conquering the harshest environments for 70 years.

Why It's Great Off-Road:

World-class durability - Meticulous engineering and robust components allow it to shrug off conditions that would destroy lesser vehicles.
Array of tech features - Crawl Control, Multi-Terrain Select, Downhill Assist Control, and trick suspension maximize traction.
Proven prowess - Often chosen by scientific, photographic, and expeditions where failure results in catastrophe. The reliability is unsurpassed.

With room for 8 passengers, the Land Cruiser is equally suited as a family hauler or expedition vehicle. Its comfort and competence instill confidence tackling far-flung trails rarely explored by others.

4. Jeep Gladiator Rubicon

MSRP: $46,000

Engine: 3.6L V6

Ground Clearance: 11.1 inches

The Gladiator melds Wrangler's impressive off-road credentials with a versatile 5-foot truck bed, delivering a supremely capable 4x4 midsize pickup. The Rubicon model takes its prowess even further.

Why It's Great Off-Road:

Removable top/doors - Open-air freedom provides outstanding visibility for spotting obstacles on the trail ahead.
Steel front/rear bumpers - Integrated recovery points give you a place to attach winch straps or tow ropes when stuck.
Protection upgrades - Rock rails shield the side sills from boulders and debris while underbody skid plates protect critical components.

The Gladiator Rubicon conquers almost any obstacle while providing added cargo versatility. It's essentially a four-door Wrangler on steroids.

5. Ford F-150 Raptor R

MSRP: $109,145

Engine: 5.2L Supercharged V8

Ground Clearance: 13 inches

Designed for high-speed desert domination, the Raptor R expands on Ford's proven Raptor formula by swapping in a muscular 700+ hp Predator V8 pumping out vicious torque. This menacing truck devours whooped-out trails.

Why It's Great Off-Road:

Trophy truck suspension - Extra-long travel fox shocks with remote reservoirs handle massive compressions off huge jumps.
Beadlock-capable wheels - Specialized 37-inch tires can be mounted to wheels with outer rings that clamp the tire bead in place for low-pressure desert running.
Immense power - The supercharged V8 provides seemingly unlimited thrust to attack steep dunes and blast through deep sand at blistering speeds.

The Raptor R is purpose-built for desolate landscapes where high speeds and huge air is the name of the game. It's a Baja race truck for the street.

6. Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro

MSRP: $55,150

Engine: 4.0L V6

Ground Clearance: 9.6 inches

While the 4Runner lacks the supple ride of car-based crossovers, its rugged body-on-frame construction and V8 power translates to impressive durability and capability ideal for off-road use.

Why It's Great Off-Road:

Advanced multi-terrain tech - Crawl Control, Multi-Terrain Select, and Downhill Assist help drivers navigate obstacles and slippery terrain.
Nimble dimensions - Midsize length and width allows maneuvering technical trails versus larger SUVs.
Aftermarket support - As a popular platform, accessory and upgrade options abound from vendors specializing in boosting 4Runner's skills.

A properly equipped 4Runner enjoys exploring far from civilization as much as daily kid hauling duties. This balance of family utility and off-road talent make it hugely popular.

7. Land Rover Defender

MSRP: $51,000

Engine: 2.0L Turbo 4-Cylinder

Ground Clearance: 11.5 inches

The iconic Defender returns to the US for 2020 by combining its innate ruggedness with modern connectivity and comfort. Two- and four-door versions offer flexible configurations for off-road entry and expedition use.

Why It's Great Off-Road:

State-of-the-art traction aids - All-wheel-drive system intelligently apportions torque. Electronic center differential lock improves grip.
Composed handling - Sophisticated independent suspension provides a supple ride over rough terrain that defies its impressive capability.
Powerful line-up - Choices range from a 296 HP turbo-four up to a 395 HP inline six-cylinder. Hybrid model coming soon.

While refined and roomy inside, the reborn Defender retains the soul of past versions - stellar anywhere off the beaten path.

8. Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk

MSRP: $45,160

Engine: 3.6L V6

Ground Clearance: 10.8 inches

Jeep infused the family-friendly Grand Cherokee with increased off-road talent, resulting in the Trailhawk model. It provides an intriguing combination of luxury and impressive capability.

Why It's Great Off-Road:

Quadra-Lift air suspension - Adjustable ride height increases maximum ground clearance up to 11.3 inches for traversing obstacles.
Selec-Terrain System - Optimizes 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 provides plenty of comfort and premium features.

The Trailhawk proves Jeep's 4x4 experience can create an off-road vehicle ideally suited for family adventures without sacrificing comfort or luxury.

9. Land Rover Discovery

MSRP: $55,250

Engine: 3.0L Turbo 6-Cylinder

Ground Clearance: 11.1 inches

Land Rover's stretch of capability into a three-row family hauler results in the Discovery, equally at home on school runs or remote trails. The interior matches Range Rover luxury.

Why It's Great Off-Road:

Surprisingly nimble - Advanced suspension with active anti-roll bars provides a supple ride yet secure handling over rugged terrain that belies its size.
Potent powertrain - 354 HP turbocharged inline six-cylinder drives all four wheels through a two-speed transfer case and intelligent differentials.
Legending branding - Carries theinherent credibility of renowned expeditions relying on Land Rovers dating back decades.

Discovery delivers supreme off-road talent, flexible family utility, and trademark Range Rover sophistication - a compelling combination.

10. Jeep Gladiator Mojave

MSRP: $50,090

Engine: 3.6L V6

Ground Clearance: 11.6 inches

The Gladiator Mojave morphs Jeep's pickup into a high-speed desert runner courtesy of specialized suspension upgrades and hardware optimized for blasting across open sand dunes and loose terrain.

Why It's Great Off-Road:

Desert-tuned suspension - Bespoke Fox shocks provide absorbed immense hits and ruts at speed while retaining wheel travel.
Beefy tires - 17-inch beadlock-capable wheels wrapped in 33-inch Falken Wildpeak all-terrains with reinforced sidewalls.
Functional body mods - Revised approach angle from the front bumper, racing-style fender flares, and skid plates for protection.

With its Baja race truck vibe and credentials for high-speed blasting in open desert, the Mojave takes the Gladiator formula to exciting new extremes.

Essential Off-Road Features for Tough Trails

When researching capable off-road SUVs, prioritize these features to ensure your 4x4 can conquer the most demanding trails:

Two-Speed Transfer Case - Provides low range gearing for precise slow-speed rock crawling or tremendous pulls up steep inclines.
Locking Differentials - Locks both axles to evenly split torque between all wheels, maintaining momentum if wheels start slipping.
Increased Ground Clearance/Suspension Travel - Allows climbing over larger rocks and logs while preventing underbody strikes. Long suspension arms keep tires planted on uneven terrain.
Underbody Skid Plates - Protects sensitive components like the engine oil pan, fuel tank, and transmission from impacts. Essential armor.
All-Terrain Tires - More aggressive tread patterns improve traction on mud, gravel, sand, snow, and slickrock. Larger tire diameter raises ground clearance.

The most difficult off-road trails bring unpredictable terrain. Having capabilities like these allows your 4x4 SUV to meet each challenge and keep moving forward.

Expert Off-Road Driving Techniques for Beginners

Once you have a properly equipped SUV, developing smart off-road driving skills takes you further safely:

Pick proper lines - Analyze obstacles and terrain ahead. Choose a path your SUV can handle based on approach angle, wheel placement, and traction.
Maintain momentum - Stopping mid-obstacle often leads to getting stuck. Approach ascents with enough speed to crest the peak. Letting gravity help your SUV's capabilities.
Use spotters - Having friends outside the vehicle direct you provides awareness of hazards and your position that narrow visibility obscures.
Air down tire pressures - Softer tires conform to terrain better, increasing traction. Reinflate back to highway pressures when returning to pavement.
Straddle ruts/rocks - Positioning tires on either side of obstructions provides stability versus having wheels caught in them and exposed to impacts underneath.
Bring recovery tools - Winches, straps, shovels, and boards can extract you from sticky situations where otherwise you'd need a costly tow. Trail buddies with these items make great allies.

Mastering techniques like these through experience exploring diverse trails instills driving skills to handle any terrain.

Top 5 Off-Road & Overland Modifications for More Extreme Trails

While serious enthusiasts invest in engine swaps and heavy suspension customization, these 5 modifications give nearly any stock SUV vastly improved off-road talents:

Lift Kits - Increasing ground clearance allows fitting larger tires with more traction and improves approach/departure angles. Icon and Old Man Emu kits are popular options.
Armor/Skid Plates - Protect vital mechanical components like steering, fuel tanks, transfer cases and differentials from obstacle strikes. Can be DIY or bought pre-made.
Traction Boards - Provide grip when stuck in mud by giving tires firm surface to regain momentum. Easy to carry and fast to deploy. MaxTrax are a top choice.
Rock Sliders - Heavy duty bars protect rocker panels and bodywork from scraping on rocks, stumps, and debris on the trail. DIY fabrication possible for experienced builders.
Winches - Electric or hydraulic-powered winches pull your rig free when stuck. Highly recommended for remote expeditions far from help. Warn and Smittybilt are trusted brands.

Equipping your SUV with upgrades like these enables exploring more technical and challenging terrain versus staying limited to easier trails.

Top 5 Beginner Off-Road Trails Across the Country

Once equipped with a capable SUV, these beginner-friendly trails provide thrilling backcountry adventure accessible to novice drivers while building experience:

Pink Jeep Hell's Revenge - Moab, Utah

Guide service provides Jeep rentals and leads you through a scenic 12 mile route in the Eastern Utah desert. Moderate rock ledges and slickrock.

Alpine Loop - Colorado

62 miles of high-altitude mountain scenery across three passes topping 12,000 feet. Stunning overlooks and natural terrain.

Smoky Mountain Trail - Tennessee

Lightly challenging long distance route through the Volunteer State with river fordings, overgrown two-tracks, and rolling lush green mountains.

Rubicon Trail - California

Historic 22 mile trail across the Sierra Nevada range with granite walls, loose rock, and picturesque streams. Requires extensive preparation. Permit limited entry.

Black Bear Pass - Colorado

Steep shelf roads on the side of mountains bring gorgeous panoramic views. Reaches 12,840 feet summit. Many bypasses available if uncomfortable.

Off-Road Driving Laws, Permits, and Etiquette

While off-roading provides exciting freedom, obeying laws ensures continued access to trails on public lands:

Acquire permits - Many trails require special passes or stickers when crossing State/National Forest or BLM boundaries. Research ahead of time.
Stay on designated routes - Avoid venturing cross-country or creating new paths, causing damage and erosion. Stick to established trails.
No trespassing on private property - Unlike out West, much land in the Midwest and East is privately owned. Secure express permission from land owners before entering.
Leave No Trace - Pack out all trash and waste. Don't disturb vegetation or wildlife. Leave campsites pristine.
Respect trail difficulty ratings - Only attempt terrain within your current experience level. Progress gradually.
Yield right of way - Pull over and allow faster vehicles to pass if appropriate. Uphill vehicles have priority over those downhill.

Following some simple courtesies ensures public lands remain open so we can continue responsible off-pavement recreation. Tread Lightly principles enhance everyone's experience.

Off-Road SUV Accessories for Overlanding Adventures

Since overland excursions involve extended self-supported travel far from supplies, carrying equipment to handle emergencies and self-rescue is essential:

Winches - Used with tree trunk savers, winches provide a way to self-recover if stuck. Warn and Smittybilt are trusted brands. Can be vital for remote expeditions.
Rooftop Tents - Hard shell deployable tents mount to roof racks for camping above ground safely away from wildlife. Provides shelter from weather and elements.
Onboard Air Compressors - Allows re-inflating tires after airing down for trails. ARB and Viair are popular 12V powered choices. Critical for overlanding.
CB Radios - Long range communication with other vehicles in your party via CB radio provides safety and coordination in the backcountry.
Portable Power Stations - Compact lithium batteries from Jackery, EcoFlow, and Goal Zero recharge devices without shore power and run accessories off-grid.
Refrigerators/Freezers - ARB, Dometic, and others make 12V fridges keeping food fresh for extended periods while avoiding grizzly encounters at campsites.

Whether tackling overland routes like the Trans America Trail or exploring local trails, gear like these items transform your 4x4 for self-reliant adventures via enhancing utility and safety.

Common Off-Road Driving Mistakes to Avoid

Learning from the mistakes of veteran off-roaders helps you avoid these common blunders as a beginner:

Attempting terrain beyond your vehicle's capability or comfort level
Neglecting to air down tire pressures for increased traction
Insufficient recovery gear in the event of getting stuck
Not using spotters to warn of obstacles obscured from the driver's vision
Incorrect winching techniques like unspooled winches and synthetic line shock loads
Forgetting the basics like inspecting brakes and fluids before trips
Not planning fuel stops in remote areas without services
Overloading cargo weight reducing ground clearance
Lacking navigation skills to monitor position on unfamiliar trails

Continuous learning and analyzing decisions after each trip helps instill wisdom. Recognizing potential mistakes before encountering them prevents damage, injury, and costly errors.

FAQs

What are the best SUVs for overlanding and off-road adventures?

The Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro, Ford Bronco Badlands, and Land Rover Defender excel with a blend of capability, durability, interior space, and aftermarket accessories supporting extended overland travel.

What gear is essential for overlanding?

Equipment like roof top tents, onboard air compressors, 12V refrigerators, high-lift jacks, traction boards, and emergency communication devices increase self-reliance and safety during overland trips far from outside help.

Do I need special driver's training for extreme off-road trails?

Proper 4x4 operation techniques, vehicle dynamics, and winching procedures can be learned via a training course like those offered by Off-Road Success in Moab, UT. Highly recommended before tackling demanding trails.

How much do extensive modifications to make an SUV more capable off-road cost?

The sky's the limit, but expect a budget of $5,000 minimum for starters. Things add up fast with lift kits, armor, wheels/tires, suspension, skids, bumpers, and engine upgrades.

Are off-road trails safe for stock vehicles without modifications?

Lighter trails are fine for unmodified SUVs, but increased ground clearance, skids, and traction aids become necessary as trails get more extreme. Easy trails help hone skills before spending big on mods.

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