Best Off-Road SUVs: The Data Driven Approach

Some of these vehicles are brand new and packed with advanced technology to excel off-road. Others are classic models known for their long-standing performance and reliability.

How are we rating them?

Key Elements for an Exceptional Off-Road SUV:

1. Equipped with 4×4 or All-Wheel-Drive capability
2. Offers substantial ground clearance in its stock configuration
3. Includes differential lockers and/or traction-enhancing systems
4. Incorporates design features that enhance off-road performance, such as roomy wheel wells for larger tires, durable construction to withstand rough terrain, shorter overhangs, and a high wading depth.

The Results

• Ford Bronco Raptor – 151.5
• Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 392 – 150.6
• Land Rover Defender (new) – 132.4
• Mercedes G-Wagon – 129.5
• Toyota Land Cruiser / Lexus GX, LX – 129
• Toyota FJ-Cruiser – 128.5
• Chevy Tahoe Z71 / Suburban – 128
• Ford Expedition – 123
• Nissan X-Terra – 121.6
• Porsche Cayenne / VW Touareg MK1 – 112.7
• Jeep Grand Cherokee WK2 Trailhawk – 106
• Land Rover Discovery LR3 / LR4 – 102.5
• Jeep Cherokee XJ – 101

Source: Offroadium.com

2022 Ford Bronco: A Prime Choice for Off-Road Fans

Key Facts: 2022 Ford Bronco

• Impressive ground clearance ranging from 8.4 to 11.6 inches, depending on the trim.
• Largest stock tires available, ranging from 33 to 37 inches, with the Bronco being the only 4×4 offering 37-inch wheels in its standard configuration.
• Equipped with part-time 4WD and all necessary lockers for off-road adventures.
• Capable of accommodating up to 40-inch off-road tires with minor modifications.
• With a range of models, from the more basic Big Bend starting at approximately AED 143,000 up to the fully-loaded Bronco Raptor at AED 329,000, it caters to a wide range of budgets.
• Considered one of the best new off-road SUVs available today.
• The aftermarket support for this model is rapidly growing, allowing you to upgrade your Big Bend model to a fully-equipped rig on 37-inch tires, approaching the off-road performance of the Bronco Raptor.
• With an overall score of 151.5 points, it stands out as the top choice for off-road enthusiasts in 2023-2024.

Jeep Wrangler JK/JL: The Seasoned Off-Roading Expert

Key Facts: Jeep Wrangler JK/JL

• The highest stock ground clearance, depending on the trim, ranges from 8.4 to 12.8 inches. The Wrangler Rubicon 392 in the Xtreme 35 Package offers the second-largest clearance on the market, measuring just slightly smaller than the Bronco Raptor’s 13.1 inches.
• The largest stock tires available range from 31 to 35 inches, depending on the model.
• Equipped with part-time 4WD and all essential lockers.
• With appropriate modifications, you can fit up to 40-inch off-road tires and customize its off-road performance to suit your needs, whether it’s for weekend getaways or full-time rock crawling.
• Offering a variety of models, from the basic 2-Door Sport starting at approximately AED 117,000 up to the fully-equipped 4-Door Rubicon priced around AED 330,000, it caters to a wide range of budgets.
• Despite Ford’s strong competition, the Wrangler retains its position as the reigning champion of the off-road world, backed by a flawless reputation established over decades.
• It provides an option for open-top driving.
• When it comes to aftermarket support, it’s challenging to find a vehicle that can match the Wrangler. The range of available parts is incredibly extensive, allowing you to customize your Wrangler in countless ways.

Land Rover Defender – The Iconic Comeback

Key Facts: Land Rover Defender

• Offers a high level of comfort and luxurious features.
• Unrivaled driving dynamics and on-road performance among body-on-frame 4x4s.
• Rear lockers are an option for specific models.
• Adjustable ground clearance ranging from 7.4 to 11.8 inches for models equipped with air suspension.
• Comes standard with 31-inch wheels, and it’s relatively straightforward to upgrade to 33-inch tires.
• Many off-road enthusiasts opt for 35-inch tires for their projects.
• The expanding aftermarket market now provides numerous upgrades tailored to this model.

Mercedes G-Class – The Unparalleled Choice for Nearly Four Decades

Key Facts: Mercedes G-Class

• The G-Wagon stands as the sole off-road SUV to provide turbocharged V8s and V12 engines.
• European variants come equipped with dependable and fuel-efficient diesel engines.
• Comes with 9 inches of ground clearance and 31-inch tires in its standard configuration.
• When lifted, it can accommodate 33-inch and even 35-inch tires.
• While the aftermarket support may not match that of Jeep or Toyota, it still offers a wide range of customization options for your G-Wagon.
• Offers a unique portal axle lift option for enhanced off-road performance.

Toyota Land Cruiser and Lexus LX/GX – 60 Years of Perfection

Key Facts: Land Cruiser and Lexus LX/GX

• Celebrated Land Cruiser heritage
• Standard ground clearance ranges from 8.9 to 9.1 inches and can be easily enhanced with various aftermarket options.
• Ships with factory 31-32 inch tires and can safely accommodate upgrades to 33 and 35-inch tires. Some enthusiasts even go as far as fitting 37 and 40-inch tires for extreme off-road capability.
• Boasts one of the most advanced 4-wheel-drive systems available.
• Extensive aftermarket support and a thriving community of enthusiasts and owners.

Toyota FJ-Cruiser: A Fusion of Heritage and Modernity

Key Facts: Toyota FJ-Cruiser

• The standard ground clearance of the FJ Cruiser is 9.6 inches in its original configuration.
• It originally came with 32-inch all-terrain tires, although it’s quite common to spot these vehicles fitted with 33-inch and 35-inch tires.
• While it’s possible to install 37-inch tires with extensive modifications, this is more of an exception than a standard practice.
• It features a center TORSEN differential with a locking capability, distributing the engine’s torque at a 40:60 ratio under typical driving conditions. The TORSEN unit adjusts torque distribution based on factors like steering angle and wheel slippage.
• With its FJ40-inspired design, unique super-crew style doors, and a blend of retro and modern aesthetics, it stands out as one of the most stylish off-road SUVs available.
• Since its discontinuation in 2014, the FJ-Cruiser is only available as used vehicles, with prices ranging from approximately AED 36,700 to nearly AED 146,800, depending on factors like mileage and condition.

Chevy Tahoe/Suburban/Silverado: Going Big

Key Facts: Chevy Tahoe/Suburban/Silverado

• Depending on the trim, the ground clearance ranges from approximately 29.21 cm up to 25.65 cm.
• Comes equipped with 32-inch tires or even 33-inch tires (Z71), and can easily handle 33-inch tires without significant modifications.
• Can comfortably accommodate 35-inch tires and can even be fitted with larger 37-inch or 40-inch tires.
• The aftermarket offers a wide range of lift kits, from basic leveling kits to pre-runner-style long-travel off-road racing setups.
• Thanks to its substantial size and ample cargo space, it’s an excellent choice for overlanding and adventure projects.
• However, the size and weight can be a drawback if you plan to tackle more technical trails. In such cases, consider our top 1-3 recommendations.
• Regardless of your budget, you can find a suitable Tahoe/Suburban/Silverado that meets your needs, whether it’s a brand new truck with numerous options or a used one.

Ford Expedition: A Sturdy Choice

Key Facts: Ford Expedition

• Comes with a stock ground clearance of 10 inches and 32-inch tires.
• 33-inch tires can be added with minimal to no modifications. Further adjustments make 35s and even 37s feasible.
• Offers seating for up to 8 passengers.
• Its spacious cargo area makes it ideal for overland journeys and off-road adventures.
• This vehicle is notably large and heavy, which may not be the most suitable option for highly challenging off-road trails.

Nissan Xterra – AED-Friendly Off-Road Champion

Key Facts: Nissan X-Terra

• Stock ground clearance of 9.1 inches
• Features part-time 4WD, low range, and rear locking differentials
• Affordable and cost-effective to maintain
• Comes equipped with 31-inch tires, but can be upgraded to 33-inch or even 35-inch tires with an appropriate lift kit
• While the aftermarket support is not extensive, you can find all the necessary upgrades without the need for custom fabrication
• It’s an excellent choice for those looking to dive into serious off-roading and represents a significant leap from compact AWD crossovers in terms of 4×4 capabilities.

Porsche Cayenne – Where Luxury and Performance Converge in Off-Roading

Key Facts: Porsche Cayenne

• Offers a high level of comfort and luxury amenities.
• Exceptional driving dynamics and on-road performance surpass traditional body-on-frame 4×4 vehicles.
• Rear lockers can be found in specific models.
• Variable ground clearance ranging from 7.4 to 11.8 inches in models equipped with air suspension.
• Comes with 31-inch wheels as standard, and upgrading to 33-inch tires is relatively straightforward.
• Off-road enthusiasts often equip their Cayenne with 35-inch tires.
• The growing aftermarket market now provides numerous model-specific upgrades.

Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk

Key Facts: Jeep Grand Cherokee

• Designed with precision
• Comes with the Quadra-Drive II four-wheel-drive system
• Features an electronic rear locker for excellent traction on uneven terrain
• Equipped with the Quadra-Lift Air Suspension System
• Can accommodate 33-inch tires
• It’s worth noting that the availability of aftermarket support for this model is somewhat limited, which may make it more challenging to find accessories like off-road bumpers.

Land Rover Discovery LR3/LR4

Key Facts: Land Rover LR3/LR4

• The Terrain Response system provides multiple programmable functions to improve traction.
• Features a fully independent air suspension that cross-links during off-road excursions.
• Models equipped with air suspension offer ground clearance ranging from 7.3 to 9.4 inches.
• Comes with 30-inch stock tires and sufficient wheel well space to accommodate 33-inch tires.
• Presents an appealing choice in the secondhand car market.

Jeep Cherokee XJ – A Legendary Off-Road SUV from the 80s/90s

Key Facts: Jeep Cherokee XJ

• It offers a stock ground clearance of 8.1 – 8.3 inches and comes with 28-inch wheels, which is quite different from the ground clearance and wheel size of modern compact AWD crossovers.
• Equipped with part-time 4WD, Low range, and the availability of aftermarket lockers.
• Extremely budget-friendly, although it is more susceptible to damage, it’s also easy to repair.
• Can be safely modified to accommodate 33-inch or even 35-inch tires.
• The aftermarket support for this model is exceptionally robust.
• An ideal choice for cost-conscious drivers who admire the aesthetics of the 80s-90s era.