Photo Source/Copyright: Shutterstock via photographer Volodymyr TVERDOKHLIB
Mudding, rock climbing, whatever terrain your off-road adventure takes you, choosing the right vehicle to get the job done is just as fun an experience as tackling the road ahead. Whether it’s a truck or SUV with the best-in-class towing or suspension and springs, a smooth but rocky and adventurous ride is what matters out in the wild. With that in mind—Driver’s Auto Mart has made its Top Picks for Off-Roading Vehicles.
Jeep Wrangler
No surprises with this choice.
It can be argued that the Jeep Brand is the most well-known off-roading automotive brand in totality. With tons of 4×4 options and trail-rated trims, Jeep knows what it’s doing with the off-road path.
But, no off-road list is quite complete without the mention of the iconic Jeep Wrangler in specific. A trailblazer in the off-road community, this vehicle is synonymous with off-road adventures. Like other Jeep models, this SUV looks like it was specifically designed to take the hard route home, and its customizable features allow any day or path to become an adventure.
Jeep Wrangler trims come standard with a well-equipped 4×4 drivetrain built to provide safe but rugged trips. The four-wheel-drive system has many capabilities, such as a Command-Trac part-time 2-speed transfer case, Selec-Trac 2-speed transfer case with full-time 4-wheel drive, and the Rubicon’s Rock-Trac 2-speed transfer case with 4.0:1 low-range gear, disconnecting front sway bar, and front and rear electric locking differentials.
Subaru Crosstrek
Yet another pick that most wouldn’t think of is the Subaru Crosstrek. This vehicle was made for off-roading, and it’s evident considering all it offers. Let’s begin with the almost 9-inch ground clearance and standard all-wheel-drive system. The available hybrid motor drivetrain also provides an extra kick when gas just isn’t cutting it.
Pair the small and compact sizing of the Crosstrek and the vehicle’s agility, and drivers can virtually squeeze through even the tightest of routes with ease. It’s not a truck or big SUV. However, it still manages to fit 5 passengers and provide a smooth ride for any adventure, and thanks to its EyeSight Safety driver-assist system, drivers can always feel in control and reduces rear-end collisions with injuries by up to 85%, according to the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety).
Toyota 4Runner
This one is a bit of a sleeper pick that often gets overlooked. The Toyota 4Runner SUV shares similar drivetrain and systems as the Jeep Wrangler, such as 4×4 capability, Crawl Control, and Multi-Terrain Select, which allow the driver to be in command of the ride type they want depending on the conditions they are in.
Aside from manipulating its off-road capabilities, this mid-sized SUV is great for everyday use and accommodates up to 7 passengers in a spacious ride. The cargo space in this vehicle is also spectacular. Any off-road adventure can be taken to the next level thanks to its storage capacity.
Driver’s Auto Mart
Did this make you want to grab some friends and go off-roading? If so, look no further than Driver’s Auto Mart. They have a wide range of pre-owned vehicles that can fit any budget and provide up-to-date features for all drivers. Not limited to just these cars, Driver’s Auto Mart also features hundreds of cars from many other brands, including the ones on the list. Those who are interested in any of these cars can view their online pre-owned inventory and chat with a representative for further assistance.
Terry is an avid Nascar fan who grew up attending races at Charlotte Motor Speedway in Concord, North Carolina, just down the road from his hometown of China Grove, NC. Terry currently resides in Wellington and has been writing for 15 years. He also enjoys watching the Road Runner Looney Tunes cartoon with his two sons in his spare time.