Creating the ultimate list of the best off-road vehicles of all time is no small feat. With countless trucks and SUVs worthy of inclusion, narrowing it down is a challenge.
Some models have stood the test of time as classics, while others are newer but equally impressive.
The selection ranges from purpose-built extreme off-road machines to more subtle street vehicles with exceptional off-road capabilities.
What follows is a collection of 10 vehicles that have made a significant impact whether through capability, popularity, or influence.
Arranged in alphabetical order, this list serves as a foundation. If you believe a vehicle deserves to be included, let us know. Without further delay, here are the greatest off-road vehicles of all time.
1. Chevy K5 Blazer
Chevrolet’s full-size K5 Blazer was produced from 1969 until 1994, when it was eventually succeeded by the Tahoe.
Featuring a solid front axle, powerful V-8 engine options, and a removable top, this tough SUV quickly became a favorite among off-road enthusiasts across the country.
In 1976, Chevy partnered with recreational vehicle manufacturer Chinook to develop the Blazer Chalet. Produced for only two years, this rare variant stands out as one of the most elusive Blazers ever built.
2. Chevy Colorado ZR2
The versatile Colorado ZR2 was introduced for the 2017 model year.
Chevy’s midsize off-road-ready truck came equipped with an impressive combination of front and rear locking differentials, steel rock rails, durable off-road tires, and the remarkable Multimatic Dynamic Suspension Spool Valve dampers.
In 2023, a second-generation Colorado ZR2 arrived, accompanied by its new sibling, the GMC Canyon AT4X. Additionally, GM has collaborated with American Expedition Vehicles (AEV) to develop even more capable versions of these rugged midsize off-roaders.
3. Chevy Silverado ZR2
In 2022, Chevrolet applied the knowledge gained from the Colorado ZR2 program to create the all-new Silverado ZR2.
Like its smaller counterpart, the Silverado ZR2 comes equipped with front and rear electronic locking differentials, aggressive off-road tires, a full set of skid plates, and high-clearance bumpers.
That same year, GMC also launched the Sierra AT4X, featuring similar off-road capabilities and hardware.
4. Ford F-150 Raptor
The Ford F-150 Raptor pioneered the segment of high-performance, high-speed desert-focused off-road trucks when it debuted for the 2010 model year.
Equipped with long-travel suspension, Fox internal bypass dampers, and a powerful 6.2-liter V-8 engine, the Raptor was a groundbreaking innovation.
Now in its third generation, the F-150 Raptor boasts a more powerful engine, increased wheel travel, and upgraded Fox LiveValve internal bypass dampers, further enhancing its off-road prowess.
5. Ford Bronco
Few off-road vehicle nameplates are as legendary as Ford’s Bronco. First introduced in 1966 as a compact SUV, the Bronco retained this form until 1977.
In 1978, Ford launched the second-generation, full-size Bronco, built on the F-100 pickup chassis. These rugged two-door SUVs featured a removable top, solid front and rear axles, powerful engine options, and bold styling.
The Bronco remained popular until its discontinuation in 1996. Ford revived the Bronco name in 2021 with a new Ranger-based off-road SUV, introducing several extreme trims since including the high-performance Bronco Raptor.
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6. Hummer H1
Few vehicles are as instantly recognizable as the AM General HMMWV, better known as the Humvee. This four-wheel-drive military vehicle has been in service since the early 1980s.
However, from 1992 to 2006, a civilian version known as the Hummer H1 was available.
Massive in size and unmatched in capability, the Hummer H1 could ford 30 inches of water, climb a 22-inch vertical step, and boasted 16 inches of ground clearance.
It also featured a 72-degree approach angle, portal axles, and a central tire inflation system. In 2006, the final model year, the H1 Alpha was introduced, equipped with a powerful Duramax diesel engine and a five-speed Allison transmission.
7. Hummer H3T
As the Hummer H1 entered its final year, GM expanded the lineup by introducing the smaller, Colorado-based Hummer H3 SUV. In 2008, a pickup variant called the H3T was added.
When equipped with the Alpha trim, these trucks featured front and rear electronic locking differentials, a 4.0:1 transfer case, steel rock rails, and a 5.3-liter V-8 engine.
Unfortunately, GM shut down the Hummer brand in 2009, shortly after the H3T’s debut. With only around 2,700 units sold, the H3T remains one of the rarest and most highly sought-after Hummers.
8. International Harvester Scout
International Harvester had been manufacturing trucks since 1907, but it wasn’t until 1961 that the company introduced the Scout 80.
Designed to rival Jeep’s popular CJ model, the International Scout was a two-door, off-road-focused SUV with a removable top.
Over the years, International produced Scouts in various sizes and configurations until production ended in 1980.
Now, more than four decades after the last Scout left the assembly line, these rugged vehicles have experienced a resurgence in popularity.
9. Isuzu VehiCROSS
The uniquely styled Isuzu VehiCROSS compact SUV has built a dedicated cult following over the years. Sold in the United States for a short period between 1999 and 2001, Isuzu only moved about 4,000 units in total.
The VehiCROSS shared several components with the larger Trooper, including a pair of lively V-6 engine options.
However, its standout feature was the advanced computer-controlled “Torque-on-Demand” all-wheel-drive system, which incorporated a true low-range gear for enhanced off-road capability.
10. Jeep Cherokee
No, we’re not referring to the Fiat-based 2014–2023 Jeep Cherokee we’re talking about the legendary Jeep Cherokee XJ, produced from 1984 to 2001.
Originally a pioneer in the transition to modern body-on-frame SUVs, the Cherokee XJ has since become one of the most coveted off-road vehicles of all time.
It was offered with multiple engine choices, including Jeep’s renowned 4.0-liter inline six-cylinder, and paired with both automatic and manual transmission options.
While some rear-wheel-drive models were available, the majority featured four-wheel drive, a solid front axle, and a manually shifted transfer case, making them highly capable off-roaders.
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