There’s no denying it: SUVs are the undisputed rulers of American roads. While pickups remain popular, SUVs consistently outsell all other vehicle categories in the U.S., and many buyers expect more than just a comfortable ride—they want a vehicle that can take them, their families, and their gear deep into remote terrain.
Off-roading has become increasingly mainstream, and automakers have responded by building SUVs capable of much more than just light trail driving. From rock crawling to desert runs and long-range overlanding, modern SUVs are more capable than ever.
Even more impressive, many offer this rugged performance without sacrificing luxury, bringing stylish designs and upscale interiors to the trail.
These vehicles, listed in alphabetical order, aren’t the only off-roaders worth considering—but with features like locking differentials, skidplates, aggressive all-terrain tires, custom suspension dampers, and low-range transfer cases, they represent some of the best off-road performance you can buy today.
1. 2025 Chevy Tahoe and Suburban Z71
When Chevrolet introduced the all-new Tahoe and Suburban back in 2021, they added the Z71 trim to deliver serious off-road capability.
This variant combined an independent rear suspension, magnetic ride control dampers, available four-corner air suspension, and 33-inch Goodyear all-terrain tires to create a three-row SUV with legitimate off-road chops.
Additional hardware included a high-clearance front bumper, durable skidplates, dedicated off-road drive modes like Terrain mode, and an electronic limited-slip rear differential.
Originally available only with a 5.3-liter V-8 engine producing 355 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque, the Z71 lineup was expanded in 2023 to include a 6.2-liter V-8 making 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque.
For 2025, Chevrolet has added the second-generation 3.0-liter Duramax diesel inline-six, which generates 305 horsepower and an impressive 495 lb-ft of torque. All engine options are paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission.
Along with the new diesel engine, the 2025 Z71 models also receive a refreshed front fascia and a massive 17.7-inch infotainment screen.
However, there’s one notable drawback: the Z71 trim is the only configuration in the Tahoe and Suburban lineup that doesn’t offer GM’s Super Cruise hands-free driving system.
Still, the Z71 earns high marks for its roomy third-row seating—especially in the larger Suburban—and its surprisingly refined off-road manners. On the downside, interior materials don’t quite live up to the SUV’s price tag, and the fuel economy of the V-8 models continues to underwhelm.
Ground clearance for the Z71 is rated at 10 inches, and approach and departure angles come in at 34.5 degrees and 22.5 degrees, respectively, when equipped with the optional air suspension. Pricing for the 2025 models has yet to be announced.
Also Read: 10 Off-Roading Mods That Are Legal in Most States
2. 2025 Ford Bronco
The Ford Bronco is Ford’s answer to the Jeep Wrangler, developed from the start as a rugged and highly capable off-road SUV. It comes packed with an impressive suite of standard and available features designed for serious trail performance.
These include various two-speed electronic transfer case options, electronic locking differentials on both the front and rear, a hydraulic anti-roll bar disconnect system, and a robust heavy-duty suspension setup.
The Bronco also offers a range of tire choices, substantial underbody protection, side rock rails, steel bumpers, and multiple specialized off-road driving modes.
Buyers can choose between two-door and four-door body styles, with the option of a soft top or removable hard top. The Bronco lineup is extensive, with nine different trims available.
The Wildtrak variant comes with 35-inch tires from the factory, while the Everglades edition includes steel bumpers and a Warn recovery winch.
A seven-speed manual transmission with a crawler gear is available with the 2.3-liter engine, catering to enthusiasts who prefer greater control during rock crawling.
The Sasquatch package further enhances off-road capability, building on the Bronco’s already formidable features. For 2025, Ford adds a retro twist with the new Freewheeling package, injecting a nostalgic vibe into the Bronco’s styling.
While the Bronco is praised for its rugged, retro design and customizable configurations, it isn’t without drawbacks. The interior can get noisy at highway speeds, fuel economy is subpar, and there is still the Jeep Wrangler to contend with.
Engine options include a 2.3-liter turbocharged EcoBoost inline-4 producing 300 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.7-liter twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V-6 delivering 330 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque.
Transmission options include a 7-speed manual and a 10-speed automatic. With 35-inch tires, ground clearance reaches 11.5 inches, and approach and departure angles are 43.2 and 37.0 degrees, respectively. The base price has not yet been announced.
3. 2024 Ford Bronco Raptor
At the top of the Bronco range sits the Bronco Raptor, the most off-road-capable model in the lineup.
This extreme SUV features four doors, a removable hard top, 37-inch tires, and 3.1-inch Fox Live Valve internal-bypass dampers, delivering substantial wheel travel of 13 inches in the front and 14 inches in the rear.
Under the hood is a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V-6 engine that produces 418 horsepower and 440 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission.
In testing, this setup enables the Bronco Raptor to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 6.8 seconds.
Despite its performance, some have questioned why a V-8 engine isn’t available in the Bronco Raptor, especially since the F-150 Raptor and Raptor R offer eight-cylinder power.
Ford’s answer is that a V-8 simply won’t fit under the Bronco’s hood, so the Raptor makes do with the powerful V-6 instead.
In 2024, Ford introduced the Code Orange appearance package, adding bold styling accents like orange tow hooks, unique graphics on the rear fenders, and orange beadlock rings on the Raptor’s 17-inch Dark Carbonized Gray wheels.
Interior options include Black Onyx or a two-tone Blue with Black Onyx, both featuring bright orange three-point seatbelts for a vivid pop of color.
The Bronco Raptor shines in its off-road abilities and aggressive exterior design, but it isn’t perfect. Its extremely wide track can be a challenge on narrow trails, the exhaust note lacks excitement, and its base price is steep, starting at $91,930.
Ground clearance stands at 13.1 inches, and the SUV boasts impressive approach and departure angles of 47.2 and 40.5 degrees, respectively. With its advanced engineering and bold looks, the Bronco Raptor represents the pinnacle of Ford’s off-road prowess.
4. 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Sasquatch
The 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Sasquatch marks the expansion of Ford’s popular Sasquatch package from the full-size Bronco to the more compact Bronco Sport lineup.
Available on the Outer Banks and Badlands trims, the Sasquatch package brings a host of off-road enhancements. A key highlight is the dual-clutch torque-vectoring rear-drive unit, which was previously exclusive to the Badlands trim.
For the first time, this advanced rear differential will be paired with the 1.5-liter EcoBoost engine in the Outer Banks Sasquatch, offering off-road capability in a slightly less aggressive form.
To fit class-leading 29-inch (235/65R17) Goodyear Territory RT all-terrain tires, the ride height has been raised by 0.6 inch over the base Badlands and by 1.6 inches over the standard Outer Banks trim.
Suspension upgrades are also part of the package. The Badlands model continues with its Tenneco twin-tube front dampers, while the rear now features new position-sensitive Bilstein monotube shocks with piggyback reservoirs—essentially scaled-down versions of those used on the full-size Bronco Sasquatch.
On the other hand, the Outer Banks Sasquatch keeps its standard configuration with twin-tube front and monotube rear shocks.
To better protect vital components during off-road excursions, the Sasquatch package includes newly designed steel underbody skidplates that guard the fuel tank, carbon canister, engine, and include a front bash plate.
The package also equips oversized cast-steel front recovery hooks, new rear tow hooks, and a front brush guard as standard features.
Further enhancing its capability, the Sasquatch package introduces a new Rally GOAT mode to the Bronco Sport’s terrain management system. This mode is specially tuned for sand driving and delivers sharper throttle response, longer gear holds, and improved steering feedback.
The Bronco Sport Sasquatch is praised for its “boxy throwback design,” “stylish and comfortable interior,” and being “deceptively capable off-road.”
However, it also has some drawbacks including “less than stellar fuel economy,” a “tight second row of seating,” and the fact that the “cool factor comes at a high cost.” The base price is $41,810.
Engine options include a 1.5L turbocharged EcoBoost 3-cylinder and a 2.0L turbocharged EcoBoost 4-cylinder, producing 180 hp and 238 hp respectively. Torque figures are 200 lb-ft and 277 lb-ft, with both engines mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission.
The vehicle features an open front differential and a dual-clutch torque-vectoring rear differential. Ground clearance is 8.8 inches, with approach and departure angles of 31.2 degrees and 27.9 degrees.
5. 2025 Ford Expedition Tremor
Meanwhile, the 2025 Ford Expedition Tremor is Ford’s latest step toward a true Expedition Raptor, something off-road enthusiasts have long anticipated. While the official Raptor version is still on the wish list, Ford has taken meaningful strides in the right direction.
In 2022, the Expedition Timberline debuted with rugged components borrowed from the F-150 Raptor, including underbody skidplates, a unique front bash guard, and side step roost deflectors.
The Timberline also received 33-inch all-terrain tires, an electronic locking rear differential, Trail Turn Assist, and Trail 1 Pedal Drive. It shared its powertrain with the Raptor, a high-output 3.5-liter EcoBoost V-6, though it delivered 440 hp instead of 450.
For the 2025 model year, the Timberline evolves into the Expedition Tremor, aligning with other Tremor models in Ford’s lineup such as the F-Series, Ranger, and Maverick.
The core off-road hardware remains intact, but the Expedition Tremor introduces a refreshed grille that features a wide, Cheshire Cat-like grin, integrated with LED off-road lights for enhanced visibility.
The Expedition Tremor is noted for its “large, spacious cabin,” “many standard driver assist features,” and being “packed with off-road hardware.”
However, it’s not without drawbacks, including a “price… expected to be on par with F-150 Raptor,” “historically unimpressive fuel economy,” and the absence of an “Expedition Max Tremor to compete with Suburban Z71.”
While the base price is yet to be determined, the Tremor comes equipped with a high-output twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter EcoBoost V-6, producing 440 hp and 510 lb-ft of torque.
The powertrain is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. It features an open front differential and an electronic locking rear differential. Ground clearance stands at 10.6 inches, with approach and departure angles of 28.5 degrees and 23.7 degrees.
6. 2024 GMC Hummer EV SUV
The 2024 GMC Hummer EV SUV lives up to its legendary name, bringing rugged off-road capability in a bold, electrified package. After the well-received debut of the 2023 GMC Hummer EV pickup, GMC followed up with the SUV version for 2024.
This all-electric SUV is equipped with an electronic locking front differential and a virtual locking rear differential, along with durable steel rock rails, protective skidplates, and 35-inch tires—though it has enough clearance to fit 37s for even more off-road capability.
The vehicle’s innovative rear steering system enables it to maneuver through tight and winding trails that would typically be off-limits for a vehicle of its size.
A shorter wheelbase and reduced rear overhang, compared to the Hummer EV pickup, contribute to a departure angle that rivals the iconic Wrangler Rubicon.
Performance is a highlight in the top trims—Edition 1 and EV3X—which generate an impressive 840 hp and can rocket from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds.
The Hummer EV SUV is praised for its “comfortable familiarity and luxury,” “menacing exterior aesthetic,” and “excellent off-road ride quality.”
On the downside, it’s noted as the “least efficient EV on the market,” has a “GM parts bin interior,” and exhibits the “handling characteristics of an amusement park ride.” The base price is $106,945. The powertrain includes three permanent-magnet electric motors producing 840 hp and 900 lb-ft of torque.
The SUV features an electronic locking front differential and a virtual locking rear differential, with a ground clearance range of 12.0 to 16.0 inches. Approach and departure angles measure an impressive 49.6 degrees and 49 degrees, respectively.
Also Read: 10 SUVs That Were Popular but Suddenly Disappeared
7. 2025 GMC Yukon and Yukon XL AT4 Ultimate
Meanwhile, the 2025 GMC Yukon and Yukon XL AT4 Ultimate offers a premium alternative for those seeking a luxurious three-row SUV with off-road capability.
While Chevrolet’s Tahoe is positioned as a mid-tier option, GMC’s AT4 trim sits on par with the high-end Denali line, and for 2025, the Yukon family welcomes the new AT4 Ultimate variant.
The exterior design has been updated with unique styling elements, and it now rides on new 20-inch wheels wrapped in all-terrain tires.
Inside, the AT4 Ultimate is clearly aimed at comfort and sophistication, featuring Obsidian Rush full-grain leather seats in all three rows, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and Ash Burl wood trim throughout the cabin.
Although mechanical components are shared across GM’s large SUV lineup, the Yukon AT4 Ultimate stands out with standard magnetic ride control dampers, four-corner air suspension, and an electronic limited-slip rear differential.
It’s heralded as “the most luxurious three-row off-road SUV,” and now comes with the option of a 3.0-liter Duramax diesel engine. Interior tech also sees a big leap, thanks to “massive new interior displays.”
However, the Yukon AT4 Ultimate has its drawbacks, including “20-inch wheels [that] hurt off-road performance,” limited “rear cargo space… in the standard Yukon,” and a “price [that] will likely push up against six figures.”
Engine options include a 5.3-liter V-8 with 355 hp and 383 lb-ft of torque, a 6.2-liter V-8 with 420 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque, and the 3.0-liter Duramax diesel I-6 offering 305 hp and 495 lb-ft of torque. All engines are paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission.
The Yukon AT4 Ultimate features an open front differential and an electronic limited-slip rear differential, with a ground clearance of 10 inches. Its approach and departure angles are 34.5 degrees and 22.5 degrees, respectively, when equipped with air suspension.
8. 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk
The 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk continues the legacy of off-road prowess that the Grand Cherokee line has maintained since its initial debut in 1993. Among the fifth-generation models, the Trailhawk stands out as the most capable off-road variant.
For 2024, this model is now powered exclusively by Jeep’s 4xe plug-in hybrid system, which combines a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine with electric power to deliver an impressive 470 lb-ft of torque. Additionally, it boasts an EPA-rated 56 MPGe, showcasing both performance and efficiency.
Standard on every Grand Cherokee Trailhawk is Jeep’s Quadra Trac II four-wheel-drive system, which includes a 2.72:1 low range and provides a 47.4:1 crawl ratio.
The vehicle is also equipped with a rear electronic limited-slip differential (eLSD), capable of directing 100 percent of torque to the wheel with the most traction when needed.
A standout feature exclusive to the Trailhawk is the front electronic disconnecting anti-roll bar, enhancing wheel articulation for extreme terrain. Jeep’s Quadra-Lift four-corner air suspension system also comes standard, further enhancing the vehicle’s off-road capability.
The Trailhawk offers a number of compelling advantages such as a “decent all-electric range,” being “packed with off-road hardware,” and including a “generous amount of standard tech.”
However, it also comes with a few downsides: it is “the most expensive Grand Cherokee,” has a “small cargo area,” and suffers from “excessive highway road noise.”
The starting price is $67,980. It comes powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 plug-in hybrid engine, producing 375 hp and 470 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission.
The SUV features an open front differential and an electronic limited-slip rear differential. Ground clearance measures 10.9 inches, with approach and departure angles of 35.7 degrees and 30.0 degrees, respectively.
9. 2025 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon
Moving on to the 2025 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, this legendary nameplate continues to define what it means to be a purpose-built off-road SUV.
With a well-earned reputation for rock crawling, the Wrangler Rubicon remains “one of the most capable 4×4 off-road SUV[s] on the planet.”
As the top-rated off-road SUV in MotorTrend’s Ultimate Rankings, the Wrangler received a timely refresh for the 2024 model year, and the 2025 version continues to improve upon that legacy.
The 2025 Wrangler Rubicon is designed to dominate in technical conditions—rocks, mud, slop, and ruts that would challenge or disable most vehicles.
It comes standard with a Rock-Trac transfer case featuring a 4.0:1 low-range ratio, rugged Dana 44 axles, Tru-Lok locking front and rear differentials, and an electronic-disconnect front anti-roll bar.
A wide variety of powertrains are available, including the electrified 4xe plug-in hybrid, which offers both efficiency and power.
For those seeking an even more aggressive build, Jeep now offers the Rubicon X trim. This version adds factory-installed 35-inch tires, integrated off-road cameras, durable steel bumpers, and an optional 8,000-pound Warn winch.
Off-road performance is further elevated with an available Dana 44 HD full-floating rear axle for fitting even larger tires, along with a factory-backed Jeep Performance Parts 2-inch lift kit and Bilstein remote reservoir dampers.
Despite being slated for discontinuation after the 2024 model year’s Final Edition, the high-performance 6.4-liter V-8 Wrangler 392 has been granted an extension into 2025 due to overwhelming demand.
Among the benefits of the Wrangler lineup are that the “Wrangler 392 Final Edition isn’t final,” the model offers a “six-speed manual transmission option,” and it possesses “unrivaled off-road capability.”
On the other hand, it’s noted that the Wrangler “lacks on-road refinement,” is “noisy at highway speeds with any top,” and the “Wrangler 392 blows past $100,000.”
Pricing for the 2025 Wrangler Rubicon starts at $48,850. Engine choices include a 3.6-liter V-6 producing 285 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque, a 2.0-liter turbocharged I-4 with 270 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque, the 2.0-liter turbocharged I-4 plug-in hybrid offering 375 hp and 470 lb-ft of torque, and the fire-breathing 6.4-liter Hemi V-8 generating 470 hp and 470 lb-ft of torque.
Transmission options include a 6-speed manual and an 8-speed automatic. The Rubicon features electronic locking differentials front and rear, with a ground clearance of 10.8 inches. Its approach and departure angles are 43.9 degrees and 37 degrees, respectively.
10. 2025 Lexus LX 600 Overtrail
Redesigned in 2022, the Lexus LX600 serves as the luxury counterpart to Toyota’s latest-generation Land Cruiser 300 series—a model widely praised for its off-road prowess but not yet available in the U.S.
With a starting price exceeding $90,000, the LX600 isn’t likely to be a common sight on backcountry trails, which actually works in its favor for buyers seeking something rare and upscale for rugged exploration.
Under the hood, the 2025 Lexus LX600 is powered by a 3.4-liter twin-turbocharged V-6 engine that generates 409 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque.
This power is delivered through a 10-speed automatic transmission. Off-road capability is enhanced by a suite of mechanical and electronic tools, including a locking center differential, a Torsen limited-slip rear differential, and front and rear electronic locking differentials—an all-new addition for the LX in 2025.
The vehicle rides on 33-inch all-terrain tires mounted on 18-inch wheels and is equipped with a front skidplate, dark fender flares, and all-weather floor mats to further its rugged appeal.
The Overtrail trim also comes with a two-speed transfer case, rear anti-roll bar, crawl control, Multi-Terrain Select, downhill assist control, and hydraulic suspension with active height control that helps improve ground clearance when needed.
This suspension setup allows the LX to reach approach and departure angles of 27.4 degrees and 26.3 degrees respectively, when equipped with air suspension. Ground clearance comes in at 8.27 inches.
Inside, the LX Overtrail maintains a luxurious cabin highlighted by 19.3 inches of combined infotainment and climate control screens, and it introduces a new appearance package that fuses the rugged exterior with a refined interior.
Though it’s a capable off-roader, the LX600 isn’t without its shortcomings. On-road ride quality can be a bit harsh by Lexus standards, and some interior materials don’t quite meet the expectations of a luxury SUV in this price range.
Furthermore, despite all its off-road hardware, the front bumper remains vulnerable on rough terrain. Still, as one reviewer put it: “Front and rear locking differentials… OMG!”—a statement that perfectly captures the excitement of seeing Lexus finally go all-in on off-road performance.
11. 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class
Known the world over as the G-Wagen—a shortened form of its German name Geländewagen—the Mercedes-Benz G-Class stands as one of the most iconic SUVs on the planet.
Despite its reputation as a luxury vehicle often found in celebrity garages, the G-Class was originally developed as a military vehicle at the request of King Mohammad Reza Shah of Iran, who was then a major shareholder in Mercedes-Benz.
Initially a rugged off-road machine, it became available to the public in 1979 and didn’t enter the U.S. market until 2002. Even in its current ultra-luxurious form, the G-Class retains its off-road roots with front, rear, and center locking differentials offered as standard on the AMG G63 model.
For 2025, Mercedes has refreshed the G-Class lineup, beginning with the G550, which now features a 3.0-liter inline-six engine enhanced with both an electric supercharger and a turbocharger.
This mild hybrid setup delivers 442 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque, offering 26 more horsepower than the outgoing 4.0-liter V-8.
The new engine’s broad torque band, available from 1,950 to 5,500 rpm, makes it especially effective in off-road conditions where maintaining traction across a variety of surfaces is critical.
The G550 is mated to a 9-speed automatic transmission and maintains a solid ground clearance of 9.5 inches. Its approach and departure angles are impressive as well, measuring 31.0 degrees and 30.0 degrees, respectively.
The 2025 AMG G63, meanwhile, continues to use the company’s renowned M177 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V-8 engine, which produces 577 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque.
For the new model year, the G63 also adopts a 48-volt mild hybrid system with an integrated starter-generator, similar to the G550’s powertrain. This system can contribute up to 20 additional horsepower and 148 lb-ft of torque on demand.
While it doesn’t increase peak output, it significantly boosts performance at the low end of the torque curve, helping to smooth acceleration and enhance capability on uneven surfaces.
Despite its reputation as a top-tier luxury vehicle, the G-Class remains a true off-road performer. However, this comes at a steep cost. The 2025 G550 starts at $149,400, and fuel efficiency continues to lag behind other modern SUVs.
Additionally, those waiting for the battery-electric G580 or updated AMG G63 may be disappointed by their delayed arrival.
Nevertheless, the G-Class still offers “unbelievable off-road performance,” “the pinnacle of luxury,” and “incredible customization options”—making it a singular presence in the luxury off-road segment.
12. 2025 Nissan Armada Pro-4X
The Nissan Armada has long served as the American version of the globally revered Nissan Patrol, a body-on-frame SUV known for its durability and off-road prowess.
However, the U.S.-market Armada has historically lacked the full range of off-road features found in its international sibling. That changes in 2025 with a refresh to the lineup and the introduction of the new Pro-4X trim, which finally brings serious off-road enhancements to the big SUV.
The 2025 Nissan Armada Pro-4X is powered by a 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V-6 engine that delivers 425 horsepower and a robust 516 lb-ft of torque. This marks a significant step up in power and capability.
The engine is paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission and enables the Armada to tow up to 8,500 pounds—making it as useful for work and adventure as it is for family road trips.
The new Pro-4X trim includes key trail-focused upgrades such as an electronic locking rear differential, all-terrain tires, unique bumpers, and underbody skidplates that protect critical components when driving off the beaten path.
In terms of off-road geometry, the Armada Pro-4X boasts a ground clearance of 9.6 inches, with an impressive approach angle of 33.0 degrees and a departure angle of 24.5 degrees.
These figures put it in the same conversation as more established off-roaders. While the front differential remains open, the addition of the locking rear differential marks a long-awaited step toward aligning the Armada more closely with its Patrol roots.
Styling is another strong point, as the refreshed design gives the Armada a bolder, more aggressive look.
The Pro-4X trim also introduces both luxury and utility-focused interior upgrades to match its enhanced exterior. On the downside, the vehicle still suffers from mediocre fuel economy, even with the new V-6 replacing the older V-8.
Some may also wonder how it truly compares to rivals like the Chevrolet Tahoe or Ford Expedition. Lastly, the added features are expected to come with a noticeable increase in price, with the base cost of the Pro-4X set at $75,750.
Despite those drawbacks, the 2025 Nissan Armada Pro-4X stands out for its “bold exterior styling,” “new luxury and off-road trims,” and the fact that it has “finally added a locking differential”—a long-overdue improvement that will undoubtedly attract attention from SUV enthusiasts looking for both space and trail readiness.