Many vehicle enthusiasts who go through the less-traveled roads enjoy the rugged nature of off-road vehicles. But, these vehicle types have evolved over the years as the manufacturers keep improving on them for different terrains and purposes. Read on to see the best off-road vehicles 2021 and 2022.
Trucks and SUVs serve great purposes. However, they are not as great and rugged as real off-road vehicles. When it comes to traveling off of a paved surface where there are larger obstacles such as debris, rocks, hills, and branches, these trail-ready beasts are what you need.
Best Off-Road Vehicles 2022 and 2023
Choosing the right off-road vehicle that is best for you may not be easy. The reason is that there are lots of them out there that promise a level of adventure and ruggedness that they fail to deliver.
So, here is a list of trusted off-roaders that are made adventure-ready. The nature of any trail does not restrict them as they can go just anywhere you take them without leaving you stranded.
Toyota Land Cruiser
Toyota Land Cruiser is one of the best off-road vehicles of all time. It has a four-wheel-drive system with much high-tech digital equipment to go through any terrain.
It comes with skid plates for the underbody, a Torsen locking center differential, and a standard 381-hp, 5.7-liter V-8 engine that pairs well with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It can also tow about 8100 pounds and has a 14-speaker JBL audio system.
This Toyota is equipped with an Off-Road Turn Assist feature. This feature makes turning better when using a low-speed adaptive cruise control like Crawl Control. It also has the Multi-Terrain Monitor, which lets you view the truck’s surroundings at about 360 degrees.
This off-roader has four-zone climate control, a leather-trimmed interior, wireless charging, and ventilated seats. Its 2021 model comes with a third-row seat option, making it even better to accommodate more passengers.
| Highlighted Features | |
| Price | $87,030 |
| Engine | Regular Unleaded V-8 |
| Horsepower | 381 |
| Combined mpg | 14/ 13/ 17 |
| Layout | Four Wheel Drive |
| Torque | 401 |
| Towing Capacity | 8100 pounds |
| Wheelbase | 112.2 inches |
Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro
The Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro comes with a slick camera system that enables the driver to look well around the car to spot obstacles. It has a four-wheel-drive system that features an electronic locking rear differential and an electronic dual-range transfer case.
A set of TRD-specific springs lifts this vehicle with the support of 2.5-inch Fox internal-bypass dampers. The new Tacoma has a body-on-frame platform that includes a better coil-spring rear suspension.
Its engine is four-cylinder-based and an optional V-6 with a 2.4 liter that makes 317 pound-feet of torque and 275 horsepower. Also, it comes with an 8.0-inch touchscreen for infotainment, and the new version is expected to have something bigger, like a 14.0-inch touchscreen.
This vehicle’s exterior looks blocky and rugged, making it appear off-road ready. Its 16-inch wheels in Kevlar-reinforced Goodyear tires for all terrains will go anywhere with you.
| Highlighted Features | |
| Price | $27,615 |
| Engine | Regular Unleaded V-4, V-6 |
| Horsepower | 275 |
| Combined mpg | 21/ 20/ 23 |
| Layout | Rear Wheel Drive |
| Torque | 317 |
| Towing Capacity | 3,500 pounds |
| Wheelbase | 127.4 inches |
Ram Power Wagon
Ram Power Wagon is for off-road travels both in looks and efficiency. Getting its name from the days of World War 2 as military trucks that were repurposed for civilian duty, Power Wagon has been available for a long while.
Ram Power Wagon has a 410-hp 6.4-liter engine that is V-8 gas-fed. It comes with a lifted suspension that enables ground clearance, departure angles, and a greater approach. The winch mounted at its front can handle up to 12,000 pounds if need be.
It is equipped with a disconnecting front anti-roll bar and locking front and rear differentials for a better off-road experience. It has a massive towing ability of up to 37,100 pounds with a Cummins diesel up to 1075 lb-ft torque.
This luxurious vehicle which has tremendous capability rises above many other heavy-duty trucks. It has excellent ride quality and plush interiors that make it comfortable while traveling through those rough roads.
| Highlighted Features | |
| Price | $37, 120 |
| Engine | Premium Unleaded V-8 |
| Horsepower | 410 |
| Combined mpg | N/A |
| Layout | Four Wheel Drive |
| Torque | 429 |
| Towing Capacity | 37, 100 pounds |
| Wheelbase | 160.5 |
Ram TRX
The Ram TRX off-roader pickup can jump very high to escape obstacles. It has 18-inch wheels and 35-inch tires with ground clearance. The vehicle has an excellent speed of approximately 60 mph in about 3.7 seconds, making it one of the best off-road vehicles in 2021.
It has low fuel consumption as its EPA estimated combined is 12 mpg and can tow up to 8100 pounds. Its 6.2 liter Hemi V-8 is supercharged and can generate up to 702 horsepower and 650 pound-feet of torque.
Ram TRX comes loaded with features that make it more comfortable while you drive. Those features include a steering wheel wrapped with leather and microsuede, ventilated front and rear seats, sturdy materials, and many more.
It has a steel frame and has a suspension that is beefed up to bend and bound with over 13 inches of travel. It also has good underbody plating that serves as protection for the Brink’s truck.
| Highlighted Features | |
| Price | $75, 275 |
| Engine | Intercooled Premium Unleaded V-8 |
| Horsepower | 702 |
| Combined mpg | 12/ 10/ 14 |
| Layout | Four Wheel Drive |
| Torque | 650 |
| Towing Capacity | 8,100 pounds |
| Wheelbase | 145.1 inches |
Nissan Titan XD Pro-4X
The Nissan Titan XD Pro-4X comes fully equipped with tuned Bilstein dampers, an electronic locking rear differential, tires for the all-terrain, a two-speed transfer case, and hill-descent control.
This standard four-wheel drive exterior has a black tow hook upfront, a bedside decal, red accents, and a distinct grille. It also has stylish 20-inch wheels and lots of driver-assistance features that make it easy to use.
It comes with a standard 5.6-liter V-8 engine powered by gasoline and makes up to 400 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque. It can pull about 11,040 pounds which may drop a little when it pulls a conventional trailer.
The Nissan Titan XD Pro-4X has a 9.0-inch touchscreen with a Wi-Fi hotspot and Android Auto and Apple Carplay for good infotainment while riding. It also has a 5.0-inch gauge-cluster screen that can display fuel economy and diagnostics.
| Highlighted Features | |
| Price | $61, 165 |
| Engine | Premium Unleaded V-8 |
| Horsepower | 400 |
| Combined mpg | N/A |
| Layout | Four Wheel Drive |
| Torque | 413 |
| Towing Capacity | 11,040 pounds |
| Wheelbase | 151.6 inches |
Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro
This beast from Toyota is constructed for serious work. It is fully equipped with an electronic locking rear differential 2.5 inches Fox internal bypass dampers and thick underbody skid plates.
Its front springs are specially tuned to help raise its nose by 1.0 inches. It has a tachometer and speedometer digital display to monitor the vehicle’s behavior and drive with confidence.
The dash has Android Auto compatibility and an 8.0-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay at the top of its center. There’s also a Wi-Fi hotspot, a 15-speaker JBL audio system, and an inbuilt navigation system for basic infotainment.
It has a 270-hp 4.0-liter V-6 engine and a five-speed automatic transmission that is great for going through various trails, making it stand out from many other models out there. It also has a flexible cargo area and big cubbies in its front row, which can be used for hauling.
| Highlighted Features | |
| Price | $45,885 |
| Engine | Regular Unleaded V-6 |
| Horsepower | 270 |
| Combined mpg | 17/ 16/ 19 |
| Layout | Rear Wheel Drive |
| Torque | 278 |
| Towing Capacity | 5000 pounds |
| Wheelbase | 109.7 inches |
Lexus LX
The Lexus LX is a fully equipped four-wheel drive with a limited-slip center differential and two-speed transfer case. It comes with a self-leveling air suspension that has adaptive dampers that is usual with Lexus models.
This vehicle is equipped with software that enables you to manage terrain and also a hill-start assist. Its engine is a 383-hp 5.7-liter V-8 that is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Its 2022 model LX600 however, will come with a twin-turbocharged 3.4-liter V-6 engine that generates up to 409 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. It is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission.
Lexus LX has a massive hauling capability because of its 8.9 inches of ground clearance, departure angles, and break-over. Its driver-assist features include lane-keeping assist, automated emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control.
This vehicle also has a luxurious interior with quilted leather upholstery, wood trim, smoked-chrome accents, and a dashboard wrapped with leather.
| Highlighted Features | |
| Price | $88,650 |
| Engine | Premium Unleaded V-8 |
| Horsepower | 409 |
| Combined mpg | 14/ 12/ 16 |
| Layout | Four Wheel Drive |
| Torque | 479 |
| Towing Capacity | 7000 pounds |
| Wheelbase | 112.2 inches |
Land Rover Discovery
The Land Rover Discovery has an all-wheel-drive system that is great for off-road travel. It has a ground clearance of up to 11.1 inches with departure angles and a great approach.
It has two engines, one is a gasoline-powered 3.0-liter V-6 that knocks 340 horses, and the other is a 3.0-liter turbodiesel V-6 that makes 355 horsepower and a thumping 443 lb-ft of torque.
This off-roader has an advanced system for terrain management. The system monitors road conditions and offers some customizable settings. It also has a Disco that can swim in the water of about 35.4 inches and can tow up to 8200 pounds.
Its Pivi Pro infotainment features include an onboard Wi-Fi hotspot supported by a 4G LTE data connection, an 11.4-inch touchscreen display, and real-time updates on weather and traffic.
It also has up to nine USB ports and tablet-holding accessories that can be used to set up entertainment for kids at the rear seat.
| Highlighted Features | |
| rice | $63,250 |
| Engine | Intercooled Turbo Gas/Electric V-6 |
| Horsepower | 355 |
| Combined mpg | 21/ 18/ 24 |
| Layout | Four Wheel Drive |
| Torque | 369 |
| Towing Capacity | 8,200 pounds |
| Wheelbase | 115 inches |
Mercedes-Benz G-class
The Mercedes Benz G-class has been around for a long time, yet it still remains one of the best 4×4 off-road vehicles till today. This four-wheel-drive system comes with a trio of locking differentials that can be operated to climb mountains and tackle any terrain.
The ground clearance, which is about 9.5 inches, can swim through 27.6 inches of water. It has a G550 powered by a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V-8 rated at 416 horsepower that combines with a nine-speed automatic transmission.
It comes with a regular 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and new options like the new 20-inch wheels and Night Package Magno, an appearance package. It has more rooms thanks to its larger proportions and luxury interior.
The G-class also has a lot of cargo space and other features such as Nappa leather upholstery with a heated front and rear seat, a heated steering wheel, three-zone automatic climate control, and a power-adjustable column.
| Highlighted Features | |
| Price | $132,800 |
| Engine | Twin Turbo Premium Unleaded V-8 |
| Horsepower | 416 |
| Combined mpg | 18/ 17/ 19 |
| Layout | Four-Wheel Drive |
| Torque | 450 |
| Towing Capacity | 7000 pounds |
| Wheelbase | 113.8 inches |
GMC Sierra 1500 AT4
GMC Sierra 1500 AT4 comes equipped with a 2.0-inch suspension lift, Rancho monotube shocks, a two-speed transfer case, electronic-locking differential, skid plates, and hill-descent control.
It has rear or all-wheel drive and four different engines. The base has a turbocharged 2.7- liter four-cylinder that produces 310 horsepower and a torque of about 420 pound-feet pairing with an automatic eight-speed transmission.
You can choose from two V-8 options, including a 420 horsepower 6.2 liter and a 355 horsepower 5.3 liter. They pair with a 10-speed automatic transmission.
It also has special badging, 18-inch wheels, DuraTrac tires, a CarbonPro composite bed, and a black chrome finish grille surround. Other features include advanced spool-valve dampers and off-road tires with gnarls.
Sierra 1500 can tow up to 13,200 pounds and has a Super Cruise addition that lets you drive hands-free. The Denali Ultimate offers lots of leather-covered surfaces, 16-way power adjustments, and internal cubby storage.
| Highlighted Features | |
| Price | $48,875 |
| Engine | Regular Unleaded V-8 |
| Horsepower | 420 |
| Combined mpg | 19/ 18/ 21 |
| Layout | Four Wheel Drive |
| Torque | 348 |
| Towing Capacity | 13,200 pounds |
| Wheelbase | 147.43 |
Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk
The Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk is a beast off-pavement. It offers about 10.8 inches of ground clearance at the push of a button to lift its standard air-spring suspension.
It has selectable traction-control settings, including the hill-ascent and hill-descent modes that enable speed control on angled surfaces. Also, it comes with an electronic limited-slip rear differential and a two-speed transfer case with a trick all-wheel-drive system.
The engine is a 3.6-liter V-6 option or a 5.7 liter Hemi V-8. It has an all-wheel-drive system with V-8 or plug-in hybrid powertrain. The rear-wheel-drive is standard on models with the V-6, and there are up to three different all-wheel-drive systems to choose from to suit your lifestyle.
This Grand Cherokee has an 8.4 or 10.1-inch touchscreen on its dashboard. It also has an Android Auto, a standard Apple CarPlay, and a SiriusXM satellite radio for infotainment.
| Highlighted Features | |
| Price | $41,550 |
| Engine | Regular Unleaded V-6 |
| Horsepower | 293 |
| Combined mpg | 21/ 18/ 25 |
| Layout | Four Wheel Drive |
| Torque | 260 |
| Towing Capacity | 3500 pounds |
| Wheelbase | 114.8 inches |
Jeep Wrangler
Jeep Wrangler is designed to go through any terrain without leaving you stranded. It comes with a four-wheel drive and two solid axles. You can make it topless or doorless by stripping down the two and four-door body styles for optimum adventure.
The front and rear axles share a two-speed transfer case with low range gear ratios for the best traction and crawling competence. Both axles can also be fitted with locking differentials.
This off-roader has a ground clearance of 10.9 inches, a departure angle of 37 degrees, and a 44 degrees approach angle. The Rubicon trim has sturdy 33-inch BFGoodrich KM tires for all terrains and a disconnecting front anti-roll bar.
Wrangler comes with some improvement in 2022, such as a 1.5- inch suspension lift, 35-inch BF Goodrich KO2 all-terrain tires fixed on 17-inch wheels, advanced brakes, and blacked-out exterior trim making it one of the best off-road vehicles 2022.
| Highlighted Features | |
| Price | $39,160 |
| Engine | Intercooled Turbo Premium Unleaded I-4 |
| Horsepower | 270 |
| Combined mpg | 20/ 17/ 24 |
| Layout | Four Wheel Drive |
| Torque | 260 |
| Towing Capacity | 2000 pounds |
| Wheelbase | 96.8 inches |
GMC Canyon AT4
The GMC Canyon AT4 is a mid-size pickup designed to conquer all terrains. It comes with a front skid plate, 31-inch DuraTrac tires, and an off-road suspension. It also has red tow hooks that are very useful when stuck between a hard place and a rock.
This off-roader has a maximum towing capacity of 7000 lbs and can be built as a long cab using a six-foot box or a crew cab with a five-foot box. Its unique front bumper and rear electronic locking limited-slip differential give it a distinct appearance.
The engine is a standard 308 horsepower 3.6 liters V-6 mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission and has up to 22 mpg city and 25 highway.
Its other features include an Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, an 8.0-inch touchscreen, rubberized knobs for tuning and volume control, and a 4G LTE mobile hotspot for connectivity and infotainment.
| Highlighted Features | |
| Price | $41,395 |
| Engine | Regular Gas V6 |
| Horsepower | 308 |
| Combined mpg | 19/ 17/ 24 |
| Layout | Four Wheel Drive |
| Torque | 275 |
| Towing Capacity | 7550 pounds |
| Wheelbase | 128.3 inches |
Ford F-150 Raptor
Ford F-150 Raptor is one of the best off-road vehicles 2020. It is fully equipped to conquer all trails as it can jump dunes within its specified limit and clear open desert with an unmatched speed.
It is wide, has a sturdy appearance, and has a long-travel suspension. This off-roader has a 34-inch All-Terrain KO2 tires wrap standard Beadlock wheels. It has a rear electronic-locking differential with standard 4.10 gear and optional 4.10 gears Torsen limited-slip front differential.
The Raptor has a five-link coil-spring setup which is an improvement over its leaf springs. It also has a 450-hp twin-turbo 3.5-liter EcoBoost V-6 and a new 3.0-inch exhaust system that improves its V-6 soundtrack.
This vehicle’s dashboard features a 12.0-inch touchscreen that receives over-the-air updates and interacts well with Amazon Alexa. It also has a wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for basic infotainment.
| Highlighted Features | |
| Price | $55,150 |
| Engine | Twin Turbo Regular Unleaded V-6 |
| Horsepower | 450 |
| Combined mpg | 16/ 15/ 18 |
| Layout | Four Wheel Drive |
| Torque | 510 |
| Towing Capacity | 6000 pounds |
| Wheelbase | 133 inches |
Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Trail Boss
The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Trail Boss comes ready for the off roads. It has an upgraded suspension with Rancho shocks, protective skid plates, hill-descent control, an automatic locking rear differential, and a two-speed transfer case.
It has a 285 horsepower, 4.3 liter V-6, a 355 horsepower, 5.3 liter V-8, and a 420 horsepower, 6.2-liter V-8 pair with a 10-speed automatic transmission. It has a 2.0-inch suspension lift that gives it more ground clearance and approach.
The trail boss has a maximum towing capacity of 13,300 pounds, making it very useful for hauling. Its interior features adjustable front seats, vinyl seats, and manual windows. It also has a voice assistant that Google and an Amazon Alexa integration power.
This off-road car has a touchscreen system that supports Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and hotspot. It also has physical buttons, knobs, and prompt screen responses that make for easy system interaction.
| Highlighted Features | |
| Price | $37,295 |
| Engine | Turbocharged Gas 14 |
| Horsepower | 420 |
| Combined mpg | 21/ 20/ 23 |
| Layout | Rear Wheel Drive |
| Torque | 348 |
| Towing Capacity | 13,300 pounds |
| Wheelbase | 147.45 inches |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the most reliable off-road vehicle?
Many vehicles do well in rough and bumpy trails; however, the most reliable off-road SUV is the Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro. Toyota vehicles are durable as they have a sturdy build.
Toyota 4Runner has excellent ground clearance, secured body-on-frame, and superb traction control, making it an off-road vehicle you can rely on.
Q: What is the best off-road vehicle in the UK?
SUVs have become the favorite vehicle in the UK as their looks and height have made them popular. One of the best off-road vehicles in the UK is the Land Rover Discovery.
Land Rover Discovery is loved because it is spacious, large, and deals with various trails without keeping you stranded. It can take the entire family on an exciting adventure, whether in the city or off-road, thanks to its spacious nature.
Q: Can AWD go off-road?
AWD vehicles can go off-road as they can go through light-duty off-road circumstances. However, it is best not to ride too far off-road with them because they are lower and lighter than 4WD vehicles, better equipped for off-road.
AWD vehicles do better for driving along formed trails, gravel tracks, and other off-road adventures that are not intense. So, you can use AWD for some light off-roading but apply common sense when you do.
Q: What are the best off-road vehicles for 2021?
Many SUVs and trucks are designed for off-road traveling, but it is best to consider the vehicle’s suspension, skid plates, low range, and ground clearance.
It is also necessary to consider if the vehicle has four-wheel or all-wheel drive and if it’s fitted with the right all-terrain tires that’ll go anywhere with you. Here are some of the best off-road vehicles for 2021:
- Toyota Land Cruiser
- Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro
- Ram Power Wagon
- Ram TRX
- Nissan Titan XD Pro-4X
- Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro
- Lexus LX
- Land Rover Discovery
- Mercedes-Benz G-class
- GMC Sierra 1500 AT4
- Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk
- Jeep Wrangler
- GMC Canyon AT4
- Ford F-150 Raptor
- Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Trail Boss
Q: What is the number one off-road vehicle?
The Jeep Wrangler contends for the title of the number one off-road vehicle. It comes fully equipped for adventure as its look reminds you of the jeeps available during World War 2. It is spacious and will take you anywhere you decide to go.
Wrangler gets even better with its removable doors and a convertible top that lets you explore nature without limits. This ultimate off-roader has ground clearance, break angles, and an approach that enables it to climb over obstacles with ease.
Final Word
Whether it’s a mid-size SUV loaded with rugged off-road abilities, a full-size truck with more towing power, or a heavy-duty vehicle with extra torque, whatever your choice and style, there is an off-road vehicle for you.
Deciding which vehicle is best for your off-road adventure may be overwhelming, but this list of some of the best off-road vehicles in 2021 and 2022 will help you narrow down your choice.
