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:
- Equipped with 4×4 or All-Wheel-Drive capability
- Offers substantial ground clearance in its stock configuration
- Includes differential lockers and/or traction-enhancing systems
- 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.
