Best Dynamic Off Roaders Money Can Buy
Originally intended to cross deserts, mountains and thick forest, SUVs have grown a lot versatile and dynamic over the years. Now these 4x4s can take on paved roads and rough terrains with equal ease and proficiency. Almost all mainstream players now include vehicles with off road capability, without compromising on in-city drive, comfort and performance. Since the competition is tough and choices are numerous, selecting a suitable SUV tends to get troublesome. To save you from this trouble, we have created a who’s who list of some of the very best off-roaders currently available in market. They all stand out from the clutter and offer superior maneuverability in very dynamic terrains.
Jeep Wrangler:
Most people must be wondering why this iconic Jeep is at number 5, well there is a very good reason for that. As its name suggests, it can handle very rough terrains without breaking a sweat, but sadly that’s the extent of its expertise. Though it has the steepest approach and departure angles with an amazing 10ground clearance, when it comes to city roads and ride comfort, its performance is only mediocre. Noisy cabin, thirsty engine and plasticy interior don’t make it fun to drive on regular basis. Our verdict: stay clear of it if you are looking for an everyday use vehicle but if you are looking for an inexpensive, rugged off-roader for summer camps, then go with it.
Toyota FJ Cruiser:
If you have overlooked FJ then reconsider. It is as good off-roader as they get, with definite head turning looks. Its urban drive is not shabby by any means and the only hitch in its all-round performance is its rear seats and poor visibility, so parking and driving in streets will be messy.
Nissan Xtrail:
Though Nissan is not much of a looker, it performs exceptionally well in very diverse landscapes. There is loads of space so it won’t disappoint during out door camps and its comfortable ride, coupled with balance interior, makes it even better to drive on regular basis. If it’s that good, then why is it at 3rd spot? Because of its look, there’s nothing exceptional about its exterior, unlike FJ and our top two picks.
Jeep Grand Cherokee:
2012 Grand Cherokee offers perfect balance of economy, off and on-road performance. Interior appears posh and high quality, exterior makes it one of the good looking and distinct SUVs and its performance on urban and extra urban terrain is remarkable. The only reason its not on first place is because of Range Rover Evoque.
Range Rover Evoque:
There’s an unwritten rule in ranking books that top most spot should go to Range Rover, well this time the compact SUV from Land Rover grabs that spot. Its powerful engine and futuristic looks, make it an instant eye candy. It is beautiful to look at from inside and out and performs like a true Range Rover on road and off. It not only threatens supremacy of reliable Japanese off-roaders but also challenges luxury SUVs from German automakers.
Honorable Mention: Toyota Land Cruiser and Range Rover:
Land Cruiser and Range Rover weren’t included in the list because we wanted to give room to new entrants. Land Cruiser has reinvented itself over the years and like, British Range Rover, offers exceptional comfort and luxury with an uncompromised all-terrain driving experience. Though Cruiser extends some lead in reliability, Rover surpasses it in luxury, neutralizing Toyota’s advantage.