More drivers want a vehicle that can reach the trailhead, the job site or the dunes and still be comfortable on the way home. A used off-roader gets you there for less. Here is what to look for, and five models that do it well.
Who buys an off-roader
Some people need one for work: farmers, ranchers, construction crews, and anyone in forestry, wildlife management or oil and gas who has to reach remote places. For them, reliability and a comfortable seat over long, rough miles come first.
Others go off-road for fun, rock crawling, dune bashing or desert racing on the weekend. Their vehicle has to take a beating, and it often doubles as the family car the rest of the week.
What to look for
Drivetrain and clearance
Check whether the four-wheel drive is part-time or full-time, and whether there are locking differentials at the front, the rear or both: they make a big difference in traction. A low-range transfer case lets the vehicle crawl over obstacles slowly and under control. For ground clearance, skip anything at six inches or less; seven to ten inches or more is the range to aim for.
Protection and technology
Skid plates guard the oil pan, transmission and transfer case, and a reinforced frame takes the stress of rough terrain. Terrain management systems often include hill descent control for slow, steady progress on slippery slopes, and some models add an off-road cruise control so the driver can focus on steering.
Tires, suspension and recovery points
All-terrain or mud-terrain tires, long suspension travel and factory recovery points for pulling the vehicle out when it gets stuck are the signs of a vehicle built for the trail.
Five used off-roaders worth a look
Jeep Wrangler
The benchmark for serious off-roading, and it holds its value well. The Rubicon is the one for hard trails; modern Wranglers also have far nicer cabins than the old ones without losing any capability.
| 4WD systems | Command-Trac and Rock-Trac, 2.72:1 and 4:1 low range |
|---|---|
| Ground clearance | Up to 12.9 inches (Rubicon) |
| Highlights | Front and rear lockers, removable doors and roof panels |
Toyota 4Runner
For buyers who want real trail ability and a vehicle that keeps going for years. Models from 2017 on have the most off-road features, while earlier fifth-generation trucks (2010 and later) are prized for their durability.
| 4WD | Part-time or full-time, depending on trim |
|---|---|
| Towing | Up to 6,000 pounds |
| Highlights | Multi-Terrain Select and Crawl Control |
Ford Bronco
Modern technology and bold styling with genuine capability underneath. G.O.A.T. Modes adjust the vehicle for each kind of terrain, and the doors and roof come off for open-air driving.
| Ground clearance | Up to 11.6 inches |
|---|---|
| Water fording | Up to 33.5 inches |
| Highlights | Available front and rear lockers, removable doors and roof |
Land Rover Defender
Land Rover's off-road heritage with a luxury cabin. Full-time intelligent all-wheel drive works with Terrain Response 2, which the driver can tailor to the conditions, and several powertrains are offered, some with hybrid assistance.
| Ground clearance | 11.5 inches |
|---|---|
| Water wading | 35.4 inches |
| Drive | Full-time intelligent all-wheel drive |
Subaru Outback Wilderness
A midsize wagon with real trail skills: the choice for outdoor fans who want moderate off-road ability in a comfortable, more fuel-efficient daily driver.
| Engine | 2.4-liter turbo four, 260 hp |
|---|---|
| Drive | Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with X-MODE |
The bottom line
Hard trails and rock crawling: the Wrangler or the Bronco. Years of dependable work and weekend trips: the 4Runner. Comfort and luxury that still go anywhere: the Defender. A daily driver for gravel roads and campsites: the Outback Wilderness.
Ready for some dirt?
Browse the current inventory or ask the sales team about the off-road models on the lot.