Explore detailed insights into the top-ranking off-roaders below, where you’ll also find links to comprehensive reviews of each vehicle. If any of these models capture your interest, you can use our free New Car Deals service to check out how much you could save on your next purchase.
In addition to presenting the ultimate list of the best off-road vehicles, we’ve conducted a series of head-to-head comparisons between several contenders.
Our rigorous testing process took place at a specialized off-road center, designed to assess the capabilities of these vehicles in climbing, crawling, and wading. To ensure a fair comparison, we evaluated the vehicles on specific challenges.
We began with gravel slopes featuring gradients between 26% and 35%. Vehicles that excelled here advanced to sand and silt hills, known for their loose and deeply rutted surfaces. The most challenging test was the Horseshoe, a slippery, churned incline that incorporates a sharp bend at its summit.
Additionally, we tested suspension travel with offset ditches and humps, and assessed drivability on a rugged green lane, aptly nicknamed The Dragon’s Back.
1. Jeep Wrangler
Much like Bruce Springsteen or Harley-Davidson motorcycles, the Jeep Wrangler epitomizes American ruggedness. While Jeep has expanded into electric vehicles and luxury SUVs, the Wrangler remains its quintessential off-road machine.
The latest model features a robust 268bhp 2.0-liter petrol engine, coupled with an eight-speed automatic transmission, distributing power to all four wheels.
On rough terrain, you can engage the center differential lock for balanced power delivery or utilize the low-range gearbox for optimal traction. Rubicon variants even come with a detachable anti-roll bar, enhancing suspension flexibility to keep the vehicle stable on uneven surfaces.
However, on conventional roads, the Wrangler falls short of modern SUVs in comfort and composure. Its all-terrain tires generate significant noise, and its bulky axles contribute to a shimmying motion absent in competitors like the Land Rover Defender or Mercedes G-Class.
Storage varies with body style: the two-door Wrangler offers limited capacity akin to a small car, while the four-door doubles the available space. Foldable rear seats provide added utility, though they don’t create a flat loading area.
2. Ford Ranger Raptor
While the standard Ford Ranger impresses with its versatile off-road capabilities, the Ranger Raptor takes it to the next level. Though its payload capacity is slightly reduced compared to its counterparts—making it ineligible for certain tax benefits—the Raptor compensates with enhanced ruggedness.
Upgrades include specialized coil suspension for better off-road handling, protective skid plates, and a choice between powerful petrol or diesel engines. The 2.0-liter diesel option provides better long-term economy, but the 3.0-liter 288bhp V6 petrol engine stands out as our favorite.
This model not only boasts immense power but also features adaptive dampers that ensure a smoother ride, particularly over long distances—a quality that sets it apart from rivals like the Isuzu D-Max AT35.
The remainder of the list showcases equally impressive off-roaders like the Ineos Grenadier, Land Rover Defender, and Mercedes G-Class. Each model caters to different needs, blending rugged capability with unique design elements and performance highlights.
3. Ineos Grenadier
The Ineos Grenadier is not particularly refined on the road. The automatic transmission often struggles, shifting erratically between the top two gears on highways. The vehicle’s body leans noticeably during cornering, and its light steering requires constant adjustments to maintain course.
However, off-road, the Grenadier truly shines. The Trialmaster models are equipped with locking front and rear differentials and all-terrain tires, making them nearly unstoppable in challenging conditions.
The 3.0-liter turbocharged straight-six petrol engine provides ample power and torque, ensuring the Grenadier can tackle any terrain with ease. While models like the Land Rover Defender or Mercedes G-Class might offer a more comfortable ride, the Grenadier stands toe-to-toe with them in off-road capability.
Inside, the Grenadier positions you high, offering excellent visibility of your surroundings. The controls are large and easy to use, although the sheer number of buttons may feel overwhelming at first.
4. Land Rover Defender
The Land Rover Defender has long been synonymous with off-road prowess, and the latest model is even more capable than its predecessors. While the entry-level D250 engine delivers solid performance with 246bhp, the D300 engine, with 296bhp, provides additional power for those who demand more from their off-road vehicles.
The 110 version comes equipped with air suspension, which ensures a smooth and comfortable ride on both rough trails and paved roads. Despite its formidable off-road ability, the Defender remains composed and smooth, offering comfort that rivals may not match.
The D300 X-Dynamic S variant adds to the Defender’s rugged look with features like a contrasting black roof and gray wheels. While it’s available at a mid-range trim, Land Rover also offers numerous accessories, such as roof racks, off-road tires, and protective wraps, to customize your vehicle for more extreme adventures.
5. Mercedes G-Class
The Mercedes G-Class is more often seen navigating urban streets than rugged trails, yet it remains an exceptional off-roader. Equipped with a low-range gearbox, locking differentials, and long suspension, the G-Class excels at maintaining its pace through challenging terrain. Despite its celebrity SUV status, the G-Class can handle nearly any obstacle in its path.
On the road, however, it’s not as nimble as some of its competitors, such as the Range Rover or BMW iX. The G-Class’s steering is slow and heavy, which can make it feel cumbersome, especially in tight spaces. Its large turning circle also makes maneuvering through city streets more difficult than it should be.
Nevertheless, the 3.0-liter six-cylinder diesel engine in the G400d provides ample power. For those seeking even more performance, the G63 V8 petrol engine delivers greater power, but at the cost of higher fuel consumption and noise.
Inside, the G-Class offers a level of luxury that outshines many off-road-focused vehicles. The cabin is well-appointed with adjustable seating and a comfortable driving environment, making it an excellent option for long drives on both road and trail.