When it comes to SUVs, most people think of city driving or family road trips. However, many SUVs packed with off-road capabilities are often flying under the radar, just waiting for someone to take them on backcountry adventures. You might be surprised by how well these vehicles can perform off the beaten path while still offering comfort and style for everyday use.
Exploring the less traveled roads doesn’t mean you have to stick to traditional off-roaders like the Jeep Wrangler or Toyota 4Runner. There are plenty of options available that can handle tough terrains and rugged trails. Get ready to discover 15 SUVs that manage to combine everyday practicality with impressive off-road performance.
Subaru Crosstrek
The Subaru Crosstrek is a compact SUV that shines off-road. With standard all-wheel drive and 8.7 inches of ground clearance, it can tackle rough terrains with ease.
If you’re looking for more capability, consider the Wilderness trim. It offers a factory lift, upgraded suspension, and rugged tires, making it even more suited for adventurous outings.
You’ll find that its 182-horsepower engine provides plenty of power for climbing steep trails. Plus, the dual X-MODE traction control helps you navigate through slippery or uneven surfaces effectively.
Jeep Renegade
The Jeep Renegade is a compact SUV that surprises many with its off-road capabilities. With a ground clearance of 6.7 inches, it can handle rough terrains pretty well.
Its available four-wheel drive gives you confidence when venturing off the beaten path. Off-road angles rival those of models like the Wrangler, making it a solid choice for adventures.
With features specifically designed for traction and control, the Renegade is perfect for weekend getaways. Plus, it’s spacious enough for your gear, whether you’re camping or hitting a dirt trail.
Jeep Compass
The Jeep Compass might surprise you as a capable off-roader. With a ground clearance of 8.6 inches, it can handle rough terrains better than many expect.
Its standard all-wheel drive helps you navigate various conditions, from muddy trails to snowy roads. You can also opt for the Trailhawk trim, which enhances off-road performance.
Although it’s better known for city driving, the Compass proves itself when adventure calls. You’ll appreciate its blend of style and practicality as you tackle outdoor challenges.
Isuzu Trooper
The Isuzu Trooper is a classic choice for those who crave adventure. With powerful four-wheel drive options, it can tackle tough terrains with ease.
You’ll find the Trooper’s ground clearance impressive, often around 8.1 inches. This feature helps you navigate over rocks and uneven surfaces smoothly.
Inside, it offers spaciousness and a sturdy build, ideal for off-road trips. The Trooper has a reputation for reliability, making it a dependable off-road companion.
With strong towing capabilities, it can handle your gear too. Check out exciting reviews like this one to see it in action!
Nissan Pathfinder
The Nissan Pathfinder is more than just a family SUV; it’s got some serious off-road chops. With features like rugged 18-inch beadlock-style wheels and available skid plates, it’s designed for tougher terrains.
You can opt for the Rock Creek Edition, which adds off-road capability to your weekend adventures. A 284-horsepower V6 engine provides the power you need for tackling challenging trails.
Inside, enjoy water-repellent seats that make cleaning up after muddy excursions a breeze. Whether you’re heading to the mountains or a campsite, the Pathfinder is ready to take you there.
Toyota 4Runner
The Toyota 4Runner has a solid reputation as an off-roader. With a starting price of around $40,000, it offers great value for those seeking adventure.
You get a rugged body-on-frame construction, perfect for tackling rough terrain. The new 2025 model features updated design elements while maintaining its traditional strengths.
The 4Runner comes with impressive off-road capabilities, especially in the TRD Off-Road trim. It’s equipped with a robust four-wheel-drive system, making it a reliable choice for your outdoor excursions.
Toyota Land Cruiser
The Toyota Land Cruiser is renowned for its off-road capabilities. With a powerful engine output of around 409 horsepower, it’s built to tackle tough terrain with ease.
This SUV features a sophisticated four-wheel drive system and adaptive suspension, which ensures a smooth ride whether on rocky trails or sandy dunes. Weighing about 5,700 pounds, it’s surprisingly nimble for its size.
Its impressive ground clearance of up to 8.9 inches allows you to traverse over obstacles without worry. Plus, with a towing capacity of approximately 8,100 pounds, you can bring your gear along for the adventure.
Jeep Grand Cherokee
The Jeep Grand Cherokee is a solid choice if you’re looking for an off-roader. With its impressive approach angle of 36.1 degrees and departure angle of 29.6 degrees, it handles rugged terrains well.
The 4×4 systems available, including Quadra-Trac and Quadra-Drive, ensure you’ll have the traction you need.
You’ll also appreciate the spacious interior loaded with tech and comfort features, making it a great daily driver too.
Plus, with a towing capacity of up to 7,200 pounds, it’s versatile enough for adventures or hauling trailers.
Isuzu VehiCROSS
The Isuzu VehiCROSS is a unique off-roading SUV that turned heads in the late 1990s. With a striking design and compact size, it offers a blend of sportiness and functionality.
This 2-door model is built on a platform that supports a robust all-wheel-drive system, making it capable on rough terrains. Its 3.5-liter V6 engine produces around 190 horsepower, giving it decent power for tackling obstacles.
You’ll appreciate the innovative suspension system, which keeps the ride smooth, even on bumpy trails. The VehiCROSS also features aggressive styling, with short overhangs that enhance its approach and departure angles.
If you’re looking for something different that performs off-road, the Isuzu VehiCROSS is definitely worth considering.
Nissan Frontier
The Nissan Frontier is a solid choice if you’re looking for a capable off-roader. With a rugged design and a strong V6 engine producing up to 310 horsepower, it can handle rough terrain with ease.
Its PRO-4X trim comes equipped with features like off-road tires and a locking rear differential. This makes it suitable for various adventures, whether you’re hitting the trails or just cruising through rocky paths.
You’ll appreciate its roomy interior and modern technology, ensuring comfort during your journeys. For a midsize truck that balances capability and style, the Frontier is definitely worth considering.
Porsche Cayenne
The Porsche Cayenne might surprise you as an off-roading option. With a powerful range of engines, including V6 and V8 options, you get plenty of grunt for tackling tough terrain.
This SUV features an advanced all-wheel-drive system and impressive ground clearance, which help navigate uneven landscapes. Plus, models like the Cayenne S Transsyberia are specifically built for adventure, showcasing off-road capabilities.
You’ll also enjoy the luxury and comfort that comes with a Porsche, making every trip enjoyable, whether it’s a daily drive or an off-road excursion.
Suzuki Samurai
The Suzuki Samurai is a compact 4×4 that’s perfect for off-roading. Weighing in at just around 1,800 pounds, it’s lightweight and nimble, making it great for tackling tough trails.
With a 1.3-liter engine, it delivers about 63 horsepower, which might not sound like much, but it’s more than enough for the Samurai’s size. Its simplicity and rugged build mean fewer worries about breakdowns when you’re out in the wild.
The Samurai has a reputation for being reliable and is often praised for its potential in off-road situations. You can find numerous forums where enthusiasts share tips and tricks to enhance its capability. Check out this Reddit discussion for more insights!
Land Rover Defender
The Land Rover Defender is a legendary off-roader that combines rugged capability with modern luxury. With options like the 2025 Defender 110, you get both style and substance.
This SUV features a powerful engine lineup, including a new variant with up to 626 horsepower. Its advanced four-wheel-drive system ensures you can tackle tough terrain with confidence.
Think you need comfort on your adventures? The Defender delivers that too, with a spacious interior packed with tech. If you’re looking for versatility, this is one SUV that fits the bill perfectly.
Ford Bronco
The Ford Bronco is a legendary choice for off-road enthusiasts. With a standard 300-hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine, it offers plenty of power for tackling rugged terrain.
You’ll appreciate the options, like the 330-hp twin-turbo V6 engine for even more performance.
Its body-on-frame construction and available four-wheel drive enhance its capability, making it a solid contender in the off-road category.
Plus, with features like adjustable drive modes and skid plates, you can confidently take on almost any adventure.
Jeep Cherokee
The Jeep Cherokee is a solid option for off-road adventures. It offers impressive capabilities with its available 3.2L V6 engine, delivering 271 horsepower.
With its Trailhawk trim, you get features like enhanced suspension, skid plates, and all-terrain tires. These elements help it tackle rough terrain with ease.
The Cherokee also comes with a robust 4×4 system, allowing you to confidently navigate challenging conditions. It’s a versatile SUV that combines daily driving comfort with off-road readiness.