Most road cars are built purely for the road – as soon as you take them off the tarmac, you’ll encounter all kinds of problems from suspension damage to drivetrain issues. However, there are a few specialist models out there that are capable of taking on all terrains.
These cars are worth looking into if you own a farm, are into outdoor adventures or if you live somewhere rural with lots of nearby unpaved roads. Below are just some of the top models to consider with off-road capabilities.
Jeep Wrangler
The Jeep Wrangler is the quintessential off-roader. It’s been in production since 1986 and is one of the most popular Jeep models. The latest models have specialised 4×4 systems (like Rock-trac and Selec-trac) that are designed for rocks, mud, sand and snow. On top of this, the Wrangler is able to take on river crossings up to 76 cm deep and has solid front and rear axles for superior climbing abilities on steep hills and craggy surfaces. Find your nearest Jeep dealership and check out some of the latest Wrangler models.
Land Rover Range Rover
Land Rover is another brand known for its all-terrain vehicles. The Range Rover is a luxury SUV that combines plush comfort with impressive off-road features including a ‘Terrain Response 2’ system that automatically monitors surface conditions and adjusts the engine and chassis. You also get 22cm of ground clearance to help protect the undercarriage over rocky ground. Look into Land Rover specialists in your area to compare new and used models.
Toyota Land Cruiser
Toyota has been producing the Land Cruiser since 1951. This legendary four-wheel-drive car is renowned for its ability to operate in the most punishing conditions from the extreme heat to the freezing cold. The latest model comes with a disconnecting anti-roll bar system and ‘crawl control’ for difficult terrain. Choose from various different trims including the high-spec ‘Invincible’ model.
Ford Bronco
Another road car with amazing off-road capabilities is the Ford Bronco. After a 25-year hiatus, it was reintroduced to the market in 2021 as a direct competitor to the Jeep Wrangler. This car comes with several ‘G.O.A.T (Goes Over Any Terrain)’ modes that handle everything from sand to rock crawling. It also comes with an easy-to-clean interior and a user-friendly touchscreen that links to several outward facing cameras. The Sasquatch package is recommended for serious off-road enthusiasts – it includes 35 inch tyres and locking front and rear axles for those challenging surfaces.
Subaru Outback
It could also be worth considering the Subaru Outback – an all-wheel drive wagon-SUV that drives brilliantly off the tarmac. It’s known for being a very comfortable ride, gliding over rough roads and potholes with ease, while also sporting luxury leather seats. It also has high ground clearance and good hill descent control. On top of this, it’s one of the safest cars in its class, boasting a five star Euro NCAP rating. Take your time to compare different trim levels and variants of the Outback.