Table of contents
Introduction
Off-road SUV enthusiasts seek vehicles built to overcome any terrain. These vehicles need durability and power to tackle obstacles and the environment. The best off-road cars are designed to handle everything from rocky trails to muddy bogs. In this article, we’ll cover our five awesome off-road SUV that stand out for their performance, reliability, and heritage in the off-road world. Join us as we break down these vehicles and why they are so loved on and off-road.
What Does An Off-Road SUV Need?
As we covered in the introduction, the best off-road cars can handle the elements, rugged terrain, and reliably do it time and time again. Typically, these vehicles are simple in design, allowing them to be easily maintained and reliable. To perform in the worst conditions, these vehicles need to be able to have good ground clearance, low-end power, and be able to articulate across different ground levels. Along with that, you can’t forget to do a pre-trip inspection when going off-road. Ensuring you have a well-maintained off-road vehicle is key. With all of these factors taken into consideration, this is our list of the best five off-road cars you should buy for your overland project!
Jeep Wrangler
When it comes to off-road legends, the Wrangler is an automatic choice. From the factory, the Jeep Wrangler comes with an amazing four-wheel-drive system and exceptional ground clearance. Heavy duty axles, locking differentials, and a strong suspension come stock with the car, making the Jeep Wrangler truly “trail-rated”. Not only is it a capable machine, but it’s body style has grown into a cultural icon.
While the newer generations of Wranglers offer diesel-powered, turbocharged, and V6 engine options, I prefer the older 4.0 liter inline six for its insane reliability. I have seen the reliability of this motor first hand with our Jeep Wrangler. As a whole, the Jeep Wrangler is a user-friendly and simplistically designed off-road vehicle and has huge aftermarket support. All things considered, the Jeep Wrangler is always a great choice for your off-road SUV project.
Toyota Land Cruiser
The Toyota Land Cruiser has earned its reputation as one of the best off-road vehicles. This rugged SUV withstands the harshest conditions, making it a popular choice for off-road adventures globally. Throughout it’s lifespan, the Land Cruiser shows why it is so popular with its extreme high mileage examples as well as it’s timeless exterior.
Featuring a powerful V8 engine, excellent ground clearance, and an endless supply of aftermarket parts, the Land Cruiser will forever be a solid choice for a 4×4 build. While the Land Cruiser is typically higher in price, this car will outlast its owner’s lifespan with no problem.
Suzuki Jimny
The tiny-but-mighty Suzuki Jimny is an unassuming off-road beast! This lightweight kei-car is very familiar to mud and trails! The Jimny is an affordable option for anyone to getting into the off-road world. However, just know this car is not a powerhouse with its two-cylinder, three-cylinder, or four-cylinder options. Some may look at the power shortage as a problem, but the sub-2500 pound footprint overcomes this.
I first learned of the Suzuki Jimny from Mighty Car Mods. In their series, Marty and Moog took on off-roading with this miniature overland machine. The Jimny proves that size is not everything and is not a bad looking car either! For me, I admire the humble nature of the car and its capabilities as an off-road SUV. All things considered, the Suzuki Jimny is definitely one of the best off-road cars available!
Hummer H1
The Hummer H1 is a childhood dream of mine. When the H1 was introduced to the civilian market, I absolutely wanted one. At the time, The Hummer H1 sported the most ground clearance of any vehicle, 16 inches! The H1 naturally runs on 37-inch tires and is more than capable for tough terrain. While it is a huge car, the Hummer H1 has a reputation for finding a way.
One of my favorite features on the H1 is the on-board air compressor which comes from the factory. You can pump the tire pressure up or down with little to no effort. The best part about this vehicle is you can get into them cheap in the form of a decommissioned military vehicle!
Ford Bronco
The Ford Bronco is in my eyes, one of the best 4×4 vehicles ever made. From its early introduction in the 1960’s, Ford has ensured the Bronco is at the head of the pack with a roaring V8 engine and robust suspension. Now a resurrected legend, The Ford Bronco has made a comeback to the off-road SUV scene. Throughout its life, this rugged SUV is known to handle rough terrains and extreme trails. This is due to the sturdy axles and reliable locking front and rear differentials.
While the new Ford Bronco has a 2.3 Liter 4 cylinder and a 2.7 Liter 6 cylinder at its disposal, the older models will sport a V8. Personally, I would build a 1995 Bronco with the 5.0 Liter V8 as the full-size platform and legendary 5.0 V8 are a recipe for success. Luckily, there are plenty of Broncos in the stable for anyone to get into!
Conclusion
Choosing the best off-road car depends on a variety of factors. Personal preference, intended use, and terrain requirements will guide you towards the right vehicle. Any of these cars will get you through even the toughest of trails. These off-road SUVs offer a unique blend of performance, reliability, and versatility. Whether you’re a seasoned off-roader or a newcomer to the trails, these vehicles provide the ultimate ticket to adventure!
Affiliate Disclaimer
If you need to take your off-road SUV project to the next level, beef it up with new wheels, tires and suspension from Custom Offsets!
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