There’s no denying that SUVs reign supreme on American roads. While pickup trucks remain a favorite, SUVs consistently outsell every other vehicle category in the U.S. each year.
A significant portion of these buyers demand more than just road-going capability they expect their SUVs to transport them, their families, and their gear deep into the wilderness.
Off-roading has surged in popularity, and automakers have responded by engineering SUVs equipped for more than just dirt trails.
These vehicles can tackle rock crawling, desert racing, and overlanding with ease. Even better, some accomplish this with remarkable style and luxurious comfort.
We’ve compiled a list of 17 of the most capable SUVs available for purchase directly from a dealership, presented here in alphabetical order.
While these aren’t the only off-road-worthy models, their specialized features such as locking differentials, skid plates, all-terrain tires, custom suspension dampers, and low-range gearboxes make them among the best off-road SUVs you can buy in 2025.
1. 2025 Chevy Tahoe and Suburban Z71
When Chevrolet rolled out its fully redesigned Tahoe and Suburban SUVs for the 2021 model year, it introduced the rugged Z71 variant to the lineup.
These SUVs benefit from an independent rear suspension, magnetic ride control dampers, four-corner air suspension, and aggressive 33-inch Goodyear all-terrain tires, making them formidable three-row off-roaders.
Chevrolet has also equipped the Z71 models with a high-clearance front bumper, skid plates, off-road drive settings like Terrain mode, and an electronic limited-slip rear differential.
Initially, the Z71 trim was only available with a 5.3-liter V-8 engine. However, in 2023, Chevrolet added the powerful 420-hp 6.2-liter V-8.
Now, for the 2025 model year, the lineup also includes the second-generation 3.0-liter Duramax diesel I-6. Additional updates include a refreshed front fascia and a sizable 17.7-inch infotainment screen.
Unfortunately, the Z71 trim remains the only one in the 2025 Tahoe and Suburban lineup that does not offer GM’s Super Cruise hands-free driving system.
Pros
- Now available with the 3.0-liter Duramax diesel engine
- Spacious third-row seating and generous cargo capacity in the Suburban
- Surprisingly composed off-road performance
Cons
- Interior materials don’t match luxury expectations for the price
- V-8 models suffer from poor fuel economy
- Z71 trim is the only one without access to Super Cruise
Specifications
- Base Price: TBA
- Engines: 5.3-liter V-8, 6.2-liter V-8, 3.0-liter Duramax diesel I-6
- Horsepower: 355 hp, 420 hp, 305 hp
- Torque: 383 lb-ft, 460 lb-ft, 495 lb-ft
- Transmission: 10-speed automatic
- Differentials: Open front, electronic limited-slip rear
- Ground Clearance: 10 inches
- Approach/Departure Angles: 34.5 degrees / 22.5 degrees (with air suspension)
Also Read: Top 10 Rugged Rides That Conquer Every Landscape Going Off-Road
2. 2025 Ford Bronco
Ford’s answer to the Jeep Wrangler, the Ford Bronco, was built from the ground up to be an off-road powerhouse.
From the factory, the Bronco comes loaded with impressive standard and optional off-road features.
These include two-speed electronic transfer case options, electronic locking front and rear differentials, a hydraulic anti-roll bar disconnect, and a robust, heavy-duty suspension system.
Other highlights include multiple tire options, extensive underbody protection, steel bumpers, side rock rails, and a selection of specialized off-road driving modes.
Available in both two-door and four-door configurations, the Bronco offers a removable soft top or hardtop. Ford has further diversified the lineup with nine unique trims, each catering to different off-road needs.
The Bronco Wildtrak is fitted with 35-inch tires from the factory, while the Everglades model features steel bumpers and a Warn recovery winch.
Buyers who opt for the 2.3-liter engine can also choose a seven-speed manual transmission with a dedicated crawler gear. Meanwhile, the Sasquatch package enhances off-road performance even further.
For 2025, Ford adds a touch of nostalgia with the new Freewheeling package, bringing a distinctly retro aesthetic to the Bronco.
Pros
- Bold, rugged, and vintage-inspired exterior design
- Removable doors and roof for open-air adventure
- A wide variety of configurations, all offering serious off-road capability
Cons
- Cabin noise can be intrusive at highway speeds
- Fuel efficiency is subpar, with no hybrid option available
- The Jeep Wrangler remains a formidable competitor
Specifications
- Base Price: TBA
- Engines: 2.3-liter turbocharged EcoBoost I-4, 2.7-liter twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V-6
- Horsepower: 300 hp, 330 hp
- Torque: 325 lb-ft, 415 lb-ft
- Transmission: 7-speed manual, 10-speed automatic
- Differentials: Electronic locking front and rear
- Ground Clearance: 11.5 inches (with 35-inch tires)
- Approach/Departure Angles: 43.2 degrees / 37.0 degrees (with 35-inch tires)
3. 2024 Ford Bronco Raptor
The pinnacle of off-road capability in the Bronco lineup is the eagerly awaited Bronco Raptor.
Boasting four doors, a removable hard top, massive 37-inch tires, 3.1-inch Fox Live Valve internal-bypass dampers, and an impressive wheel travel of 13 inches in the front and 14 inches in the rear, this high-performance SUV is engineered to dominate rough terrain.
Powering the Bronco Raptor is a 418-hp 3.0-liter twin-turbo EcoBoost V-6, making it one of the most formidable off-road SUVs ever built.
Many enthusiasts have questioned why the Bronco Raptor doesn’t offer a V-8 engine. Ford’s reasoning? The Bronco’s engine bay simply doesn’t have the space to accommodate it.
While the F-150 Raptor including the monstrous F-150 Raptor R has been graced with a V-8, the Bronco Raptor makes do with a twin-turbocharged V-6.
This 3.0-liter EcoBoost is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, enabling the Bronco Raptor to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in 6.8 seconds during testing.
New for 2024 is the Code Orange appearance package, which enhances the Bronco Raptor’s aggressive styling with distinct rear fender graphics, orange tow hooks, and orange beadlock rings on the 17-inch Dark Carbonized Gray wheels.
Inside, buyers can choose between Black Onyx or Blue with Black Onyx upholstery, both of which highlight the striking orange three-point seatbelts that come standard in the model.
Pros
- Unparalleled off-road capability
- Aggressive, muscular exterior design
- Strong and powerful EcoBoost V-6 engine
Cons
- Extra-wide track width may limit maneuverability
- Exhaust note lacks excitement
- Extremely high starting price
Specifications
- Base Price: $91,930
- Engine: 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V-6
- Horsepower: 418 hp
- Torque: 440 lb-ft
- Transmission: 10-speed automatic
- Differentials: Electronic locking front and rear
- Ground Clearance: 13.1 inches
- Approach/Departure Angles: 47.2 degrees / 40.5 degrees
4. 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Sasquatch
Originally introduced as an upgrade for Ford’s full-size Bronco, the highly regarded Sasquatch package is now available on the 2025 Bronco Sport, bringing significant off-road enhancements to both the Outer Banks and Badlands trims.
At the core of the Sasquatch package is the dual-clutch torque-vectoring rear-drive unit, previously exclusive to the Badlands trim.
Now, for the first time, this advanced differential is available with the 1.5-liter EcoBoost engine in the Outer Banks Sasquatch, providing a slightly less hardcore alternative.
The ride height has been increased by 0.6 inches over the Badlands trim and 1.6 inches compared to the standard Outer Banks, making room for the largest-in-class 29-inch (235/65R17) Goodyear Territory RT all-terrain tires.
Carrying over from the Badlands trim are the Tenneco twin-tube front dampers, while the rear suspension has been upgraded to new position-sensitive Bilstein monotube shocks with piggyback reservoirs.
These rear shocks are a scaled-down version of the dampers found on the full-size Bronco Sasquatch, ensuring enhanced off-road performance. Meanwhile, the Outer Banks Sasquatch retains its standard front twin-tube and rear monotube shocks.
To complement its upgraded suspension, the Sasquatch package adds a full set of new steel underbody skid plates, offering protection for the fuel tank, carbon canister, and engine, along with a front bash plate.
Additionally, oversized cast-steel front recovery hooks and new rear tow hooks come standard. The package also includes a front brush guard for extra ruggedness.
A new feature for the Bronco Sport Sasquatch is the Rally GOAT mode, which is tailored for sand driving.
This specialized drive mode enhances throttle response, extends gear holds, and improves steering feedback, making it an invaluable addition for off-road adventures.
Pros
- Classic boxy design with a nostalgic appeal
- Well-designed and comfortable interior
- Impressively capable for its size and class
Cons
- Fuel economy leaves room for improvement
- Second-row seating can feel cramped
- The premium off-road upgrades come at a steep price
Specifications
- Base Price: $41,810
- Engines: 1.5L turbocharged EcoBoost 3-cylinder / 2.0L turbocharged EcoBoost 4-cylinder
- Horsepower: 180 hp / 238 hp
- Torque: 200 lb-ft / 277 lb-ft
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
- Differentials: Open front, dual-clutch torque-vectoring rear
- Ground Clearance: 8.8 inches
- Approach/Departure Angles: 31.2 degrees / 27.9 degrees
5. 2025 Ford Expedition Tremor
We’d be lying if we said we haven’t been eagerly anticipating the arrival of a full-fledged Expedition Raptor. While Ford has yet to make that dream a reality, the automaker is definitely moving in the right direction.
Back in 2022, Ford introduced the Expedition Timberline, which came equipped with underbody skid plates borrowed from the F-150 Raptor, along with the truck’s unique front bash guard and side step roost deflectors.
This rugged, adventure-ready SUV was also outfitted with 33-inch all-terrain tires, an electronic locking rear differential, Ford’s Trail Turn Assist, and Trail 1-Pedal Drive.
Under the hood, it shared the high-output 3.5-liter EcoBoost V-6 with the Raptor, though its power output was slightly lower at 440 hp instead of 450 hp.
For 2025, the Expedition Timberline has been rebranded as the Expedition Tremor, bringing it in line with the F-Series, Ranger, and Maverick Tremor models, all while maintaining its impressive off-road credentials.
In addition to its off-road-ready hardware, the 2025 Expedition Tremor debuts a new front grille featuring a wide, Cheshire Cat-like grin with integrated LED off-road lights for enhanced visibility on the trail.
Pros
- Expansive and roomy interior
- Comes loaded with advanced driver-assist features
- Packed with serious off-road capability
Cons
- Expected to carry a price tag similar to the F-150 Raptor
- Fuel economy has historically been unimpressive
- No Expedition Max Tremor to challenge the Suburban Z71
Specifications
- Base Price: TBD
- Engine: High-Output twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter EcoBoost V-6
- Horsepower: 440 hp
- Torque: 510 lb-ft
- Transmission: 10-speed automatic
- Differentials: Open front / electronic locking rear
- Ground Clearance: 10.6 inches
- Approach/Departure Angles: 28.5 degrees / 23.7 degrees
6. 2024 GMC Hummer EV SUV
It should come as no surprise that any vehicle carrying the Hummer name comes with serious off-road capability.
Following the success of the 2023 GMC Hummer EV Pickup, GMC introduced the Hummer EV SUV for 2024, delivering the same level of rugged performance in a more compact, SUV-style package.
The Hummer EV SUV is built to tackle extreme terrain, boasting an electronic locking front differential and a virtual locking rear differential for improved traction.
Steel rock rails and reinforced skid plates offer added underbody protection, while 35-inch tires come standard though there’s ample room to upgrade to 37s for even more off-road prowess.
Despite its massive size, the Hummer EV SUV is surprisingly maneuverable, thanks to its advanced rear-wheel steering system, which allows it to navigate tight, winding trails that would typically be inaccessible for a vehicle of its stature.
The wheelbase and rear overhang are shorter than those of the Hummer EV Pickup, improving agility and granting it a departure angle on par with the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon.
Performance is nothing short of mind-blowing. The Edition 1 and EV3X models crank out a jaw-dropping 840 hp, launching this all-electric behemoth from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds.
Pros
- Comfortable and familiar luxury interior
- Aggressive, imposing exterior design
- Exceptional off-road ride quality
Cons
- Among the least efficient EVs available
- Interior relies heavily on GM’s existing parts bin
- Handling can feel like an amusement park ride
Specifications
- Base Price: $106,945
- Motors: Three permanent-magnet electric motors
- Horsepower: 840 hp
- Torque: 900 lb-ft
- Differentials: Electronic locking front / virtual locking rear
- Ground Clearance: 12.0-16.0 inches
- Approach/Departure Angles: 49.6 degrees / 49 degrees
7. 2025 GMC Yukon and Yukon XL AT4 Ultimate
If you’re in the market for a premium three-row SUV from GM but find that the Chevrolet Tahoe doesn’t quite meet your expectations, then the GMC Yukon and Yukon XL AT4 might be the perfect alternative.
While Chevy positions the Tahoe as a midlevel trim, the GMC AT4 is more in line with the Denali luxury trim, offering a higher-end experience. For 2025, GMC takes things a step further with the introduction of the Yukon AT4 Ultimate.
For the 2025 model year, the Yukon AT4 Ultimate receives fresh exterior styling, setting it apart from the standard Yukon, along with new 20-inch wheels wrapped in all-terrain tires.
Inside, the cabin is noticeably more upscale, featuring Obsidian Rush full-grain leather seating across all three rows, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and Ash Burl wood accents for an added touch of luxury.
Mechanically, the Yukon AT4 Ultimate shares its underpinnings with its GM counterparts, but it comes standard with premium performance features, including magnetic ride control dampers, a four-corner air suspension, and an electronic limited-slip rear differential to enhance both comfort and off-road capability.
Pros
- The most luxurious three-row off-road SUV in its class
- Now available with the 3.0-liter Duramax diesel engine
- Massive new interior displays
Cons
- 20-inch wheels reduce off-road performance
- Standard Yukon model lacks adequate rear cargo space
- Expected pricing will likely push close to six figures
Specifications
- Base Price: TBA
- Engine Options: 5.3-liter V-8, 6.2-liter V-8, 3.0-liter Duramax diesel I-6
- Horsepower: 355 hp (5.3L V-8) / 420 hp (6.2L V-8) / 305 hp (3.0L I-6)
- Torque: 383 lb-ft / 460 lb-ft / 495 lb-ft
- Transmission: 10-speed automatic
- Differentials: Open front / electronic limited-slip rear
- Ground Clearance: 10 inches
- Approach/Departure Angles: 34.5 degrees / 22.5 degrees (with air suspension)
8. 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk
Since its debut in 1993, the Jeep Grand Cherokee has been a staple in the off-road SUV community. Among its fifth-generation lineup, the Grand Cherokee Trailhawk stands out as the most off-road-capable variant.
Now, for 2024, the Trailhawk is offered exclusively with Jeep’s 4xe plug-in hybrid powertrain, pairing a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine with an electric motor for a combined output of 375 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque.
The hybrid system also delivers an impressive EPA-rated 56 MPGe.Every Trailhawk model comes equipped with Jeep’s Quadra-Trac II four-wheel-drive system, featuring a 2.72:1 low-range gear ratio and an impressive 47.4:1 crawl ratio for serious off-road performance.
Its rear electronic limited-slip differential (eLSD) can distribute 100 percent of available torque to the wheel with the most traction, ensuring optimal grip in extreme conditions.
Additionally, the Trailhawk is the only SUV in its class to offer a front electronic disconnecting anti-roll bar, significantly improving articulation on rough terrain.
Jeep’s Quadra-Lift four-corner air suspension is also standard, allowing for height adjustments that further enhance off-road capability.
Pros
- Offers a decent all-electric driving range
- Comes loaded with off-road-ready hardware
- Includes a generous suite of standard tech features
Cons
- The most expensive model in the Grand Cherokee lineup
- Cargo space is limited for a vehicle in this segment
- Can produce noticeable road noise at highway speeds
Specifications
- Base Price: $67,980
- Engine: 2.0-liter turbocharged I-4 plug-in hybrid
- Horsepower: 375 hp
- Torque: 470 lb-ft
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
- Differentials: Open front / electronic limited-slip rear
- Ground Clearance: 10.9 inches
- Approach/Departure Angles: 35.7 degrees / 30.0 degrees
9. 2025 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon
If your passion lies in rock crawling, then the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon is the SUV you need.
As one of the most capable 4×4 off-road vehicles on the planet, the Wrangler continues to dominate, securing the top spot in MotorTrend’s Ultimate Rankings for off-road SUVs.
With the 2024 model year refresh, the Wrangler received much-needed updates, making it an even more formidable off-roader.
The 2025 Wrangler Rubicon remains the go-to vehicle for tackling technical rock trails, mud, ruts, and challenging terrains that would leave most other SUVs stranded.
It comes equipped with a Rock-Trac transfer case featuring a 4.0:1 low-range ratio, Dana 44 axles, Tru-Lok locking front and rear differentials, and an electronic-disconnect front anti-roll bar for superior articulation.
Jeep also offers several powertrain options, including the electrified 4xe plug-in hybrid for those seeking a balance between power and efficiency.
For those who want to elevate the Rubicon experience, Jeep now provides Rubicon X models, which include 35-inch tires, integrated off-road cameras, steel bumpers, and an available 8,000-pound Warn winch directly from the factory.
Additionally, a Dana 44 HD full-floating rear axle is available for those planning to fit even larger tires. To further enhance performance, Jeep Performance Parts offers a 2-inch lift kit with Bilstein remote reservoir dampers.
Originally slated to end production after the 2024 Final Edition, the high-performance 6.4-liter V-8 Wrangler 392 has been given a lifeline into 2025 due to overwhelming demand, keeping this powerhouse available for at least another model year.
Pros
- Wrangler 392 Final Edition isn’t actually final
- Six-speed manual transmission remains an option
- Unrivaled off-road capability in its class
Cons
- On-road refinement is lacking
- Highway noise is unavoidable with any top configuration
- Wrangler 392’s price exceeds $100,000
Specifications
- Base Price: $48,850
- Engine Options: 3.6-liter V-6, 2.0-liter turbocharged I-4, 2.0-liter turbocharged I-4 plug-in hybrid, 6.4-liter Hemi V-8
- Horsepower: 285 hp / 270 hp / 375 hp / 470 hp
- Torque: 260 lb-ft / 295 lb-ft / 470 lb-ft / 470 lb-ft
- Transmission: 6-speed manual / 8-speed automatic
- Differentials: Electronic locking front and rear
- Ground Clearance: 10.8 inches
- Approach/Departure Angles: 43.9 degrees / 37 degrees
Also Read: 15 Used SUVs That Offer the Best Reliability and Value for Long-Term Ownership
10. 2025 Land Rover Defender
The Land Rover Defender made a triumphant return in a modernized form, earning the 2021 MotorTrend SUV of the Year award for its exceptional all-around performance.
While its luxurious design might suggest otherwise, the Defender is more than just an upscale SUV it’s a serious off-road machine equipped with sophisticated terrain management technology.
The Defender’s Terrain Response 2 system is at the heart of its off-road prowess, automatically adjusting the throttle response, steering, stability control, four-wheel drive system, differential settings, and air suspension based on trail conditions.
In addition, it features auto-locking center and rear differentials, a permanent four-wheel-drive system, and class-leading breakover and departure angles, surpassing even the Wrangler Rubicon in some key areas.
Buyers can choose from three different body styles:
- Defender 90 – A two-door, compact version
- Defender 110 – The classic four-door model
- Defender 130 – An extended-length variant for maximum passenger and cargo space
Under the hood, Land Rover offers multiple powertrain options, starting with a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four and a standard 3.0-liter inline-six.
The 2025 lineup finally sees the introduction of the powerful 518-hp supercharged 5.0-liter V-8, further expanding the Defender’s performance capabilities.
While the Defender’s premium styling and refined driving experience make it a top-tier choice among off-road SUVs, it isn’t without its drawbacks.
Fuel economy remains unimpressive, software glitches have been reported in most test models, and North America still lacks a diesel engine option a downside for those who prioritize efficiency.
Pros
- Distinctive exterior and interior design with luxury touches
- Capable off-road yet smooth and refined on-road
- Multiple configurations for different needs
Cons
- Fuel economy is below average
- Software issues have been reported in test vehicles
- No diesel options available in North America
Specifications
- Base Price: $56,900
- Engine Options: 2.0-liter turbocharged I-4, 3.0-liter turbocharged I-6, 3.0-liter turbocharged I-6 hybrid, 5.0-liter supercharged V-8
- Horsepower: 296 hp / 395 hp / 493 hp / 518 hp
- Torque: 295 lb-ft / 374 lb-ft / 406 lb-ft / 450 lb-ft / 461 lb-ft
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
- Differentials: Open front / automatic locking center and rear
- Ground Clearance: 8.5 inches (all models, air suspension)
- Approach/Departure Angles:
- Defender 90: 30.1 degrees / 37.6 degrees
- Defender 110: 30.1 degrees / 37.7 degrees
- Defender 130: 30.1 degrees / 22.0 degrees