For many years, SUVs were built to be taken off-road as this was their man purpose. However, somewhere along the way, people have started to use these practical vehicles in a completely different way, forcing car manufacturers to change their priorities.
Today, many of us are proud SUV owners but have never even taken ours off-road. This is because many SUVs have evolved to become reliable, practical, and safe cars, without any off-roading capabilities. So, today, we’ve compiled a list of 10 SUVs that you should stay away from, as well as 5 adventurous SUVs that love to be taken on even the most rugged of terrains.
One of the best off-road performers might just be the Chevy Colorado ZR2, but of course, it depends on your preferences. The Porsche Macan, on the other hand, is a luxury SUV that’s best kept on even highways. Anyway, let’s get right to it!
13. 2016 Ford Explorer
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The Ford Explorer is one of the most popular models offered by the American automakers, but if you’re looking for a reliable SUV that is comfortable off-road, stay away from the 2016 model as it suffers from far too many problems. However, the 2020 Explorer has improved in that department.
12. 2013 Audi SQ5
motorauthority.com
Although the SQ5 is relatively high-priced, it did have some modest success in the United States due do its high performance and practicality. However, when it comes to off-roading, it is a terrible SUV. This one is way more suited to high speeds on the highway than adventures in rugged terrains.
11. 1983 Ford Bronco II
hagerty.com
The original Ford Bronco is a legendary American SUV, and it is quite capable off-road. However, the Bronco II, its successor, came in rear-wheel drive only and had problems with stability, and it was terrible off-road. Also, the suspensions were trimmed, which makes things even worse. If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it!
10. 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLS 63 AMG
netcarshow.com
The GLS was originally the Mercedes-Benz GL, until it was re-branded and given the AMG package. It is an absolute beast when it comes to power, with an engine able to produce 577 horsepower, and the ability to zip from 0 to 60 miles per hour in only 4.5 seconds. However, although it is very powerful, don’t try taking it in the mud as you will probably regret it.
9. 2003 Hummer H2
24carshop.com
The Hummer H2 is an intimidating SUV that scores a lot of points in the looks department. Also, it features many great options and a powerful V8 engine. However, it’s way too big to manage any off-road terrains and those who bought it to go on adventures were very quickly disappointed.
8. 2018 BMW X6
thecarconnection.com
The BMW X6 is styled pretty controversially, and it’s either you hate it or love it. This monster is full of power, as it is equipped with a 4.4-liter engine able to produce almost 600 horsepower, but this expensive SUV is not meant to be taken off-road. Just save yourself the embarrassment.
7. 2016 Porsche Macan
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In the midsize SUV segment, the Macan offers one of the best driving experiences. It is a Porsche, after all. However, it would be a mistake to take this one off-road as it is sure to lead to an unfavorable experience. Recently, it has been said that newer models have improved in that department.
6. 2013 Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG
autoblog.com
The boxy G Class was once a military vehicle before it was reinvented to become a luxury SUV. It comes equipped with a powerful twin-turbo 5.5-liter engine able to produce 536 horsepower, and it is filled with luxury. However, today, it is more of a status symbol than a capable off-road performer.
5. 2018 Range Rover
thecarconnection.com
In recent years, the Range Rover has seen tremendous success, leading its segment for a long time. Once upon a time, Range Rovers were great off-road performers, but somewhere along the way, it turned into a big, expensive wagon that is best kept on roads and highways. It still has great sales though!
4. Choose Instead: 2019 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon
motor1.com
Ahh, the Jeep Wrangler. If you’re an adventurer, you can’t go wrong with this iconic SUV by the American automakers. The 2019 Wrangler Rubicon is more capable off-road than ever before, and that’s saying something. However, it’s not the cheapest SUV out there, and if you are looking for a practical one, look elsewhere.
3. Choose Instead: 2019 Jeep Renegade
thecarconnection.com
In the crossover SUV market, the Jeep Renegade may just be the best off-road performer there is. With its all-wheel-drive system and amazing off-road features, it can conquer even the most rugged of terrains. It features Hill Start Assist, Hill Descent Control, a high air intake, among many other features.
2. Choose Instead: 2019 Toyota Land Cruiser
toyota.com
Ask any Toyota fan and they’ll tell you the Land Cruiser is one of the most legendary SUVs ever created. Many argue that to really understand what a Land Cruiser is about, you must first take it off-road for a little adventure. Unfortunately, as this iconic car rarely sees any marketing, sales have been dwindling in the recent past.
1. Choose Instead: 2020 Lexus GX
via The Globe and Mail
Recently, the Lexus GX has started to become a big deal in the off-roading community. The GX 460 is like a Lexus version of the Land Cruiser Prado, but with more luxury. You basically get the ruggedness of a 4Runner and the luxury of a LX 570 – what more could you ask for?
