Best Vehicles for… Driving Off Road
You may have noticed an abundance of SUVs and 4x4s on Britain’s roads in recent years, however the majority of these vehicles will never experience off-road driving. One of the latest vehicle trends is ‘crossovers’ – cars that look like off-road machines but would handle like a fish covered in baby oil if taken into 4x4 territory.
Want a good off-road vehicle? Check out the offerings below:
#1 Mitsubishi L200
This workhorse is well known for its heavy-duty capabilities, but what you may not know is just how nimble footed this beast is in muddy, rocky or steep conditions. There’s plenty of ground clearance, the all-important 4-wheel drive and plenty of power to get you through almost anything.
#2 Jeep Wrangler
Jeep has been the king of off-road driving for years and the Wrangler continues this legacy with sure-footedness through even the gnarliest of landscapes. If you’re looking for a small(ish) 4x4 then the Wrangler could be exactly what you’re looking for.
#3 Toyota Land Cruiser
Don’t be deceived by the new curves and design of the Land Cruiser, this model still eats up everything from muddy puddles to steep, off-camber climbs. It doubles up nicely as a family vehicle in the week, but can be a monster when let loose off-road.
#4 Land Rover Defender
Another great all-rounder, the defender looks as though it would gobble up anything in its way and it does just that. With plenty of space inside you’ll sit comfortably even when you’re speeding through a rock garden.
#5 Ford Ranger
The second pickup truck to make the list and the Ford Ranger is almost exclusively designed for handling the hardship of off-road driving with loads. There isn’t much in the way of comfort, but this hardy truck will get you out of all-manners of trouble thanks to its powerful drive chain and great 4-wheel drive traction.
#6 Mitsubishi Shogun
Mitsubishi’s second offering is a much more family friendly off-road vehicle that makes it ideal as an all-rounder. You get a whole lot of car for your money as well, with the low range transfer box and differential lock making driving in even the most extreme conditions a breeze.
#7 Suzuki Jimny
Another small 4x4 that packs enough of a punch to tangle with the big boys on this list. You don’t get much in the way of luxury or comforts, but what you do get is a proper no-nonsense off-roader that will deliver an impressive performance wherever you plan on exploring.
#8 Subaru Outback
This model may not be as popular as it once was, but Subaru’s AWD system is one of the best in the business. Combined with their new ‘boxer’ engine and you have a force to be reckoned with, munching up all the hard miles you could possibly throw at it – a true contender if you want something that’s fun to drive on and off road.
#9 Nissan Xtrail
Not the prettiest vehicle to look at, but off-road you couldn’t ask for more. Even the base off-road model offers you locking rear differential and two-speed transfer case which is great value for the money. It’s got good ground clearance, so you don’t have to worry too much about banking or grounding on rough terrain.
#10 Porsche Cayenne
You may not think it, but the Cayenne is extremely capable in an off-road capacity – even though 99% of its drivers would never take it there! It’s got some really awesome features, like air suspension and a great differential gear box, but due to its price tag you may get a bit worried about scratches from stray rocks, branches or wildlife.
Looking for a private car registration to slap on your new off-road killer? Check out Primo Registrations for a wide range of number plates to suit your 4x4 down to the ground.
