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Best Modern Off-Road Machines – What To Buy If You Want To Go Off The Beaten Path

Vukasin Herbez December 26, 2024

Off-roading isn’t just a hobby. It’s a bona fide lifestyle for those who crave the thrill of conquering rugged terrains, unpaved paths, and extreme conditions. Modern off-road vehicles combine advanced technology, powerful engineering, and robust construction to deliver superior performance in the wild while maintaining comfort and versatility on paved roads. Here are the vehicles to do so for those who want to go off the beaten path.

Ford F-150 Raptor

2023 F 150 Raptor R Exterior — Photo Credit: Ford

It has long been a staple in the world of high-performance off-road trucks. The Raptor is designed to dominate in challenging environments with its bold styling and unmatched capability. The truck features a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine that delivers 450 horsepower, while the Raptor R variant boasts a supercharged 5.2-liter V8, producing a jaw-dropping 700 horsepower. This truck also offers impressive practicality with a towing capacity of up to 8,200 pounds. It’s no wonder the Raptor continues to be a favorite among off-road enthusiasts.

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Dodge Power Wagon

The Power Wagon, rooted in its military history, remains a heavy-duty champion for those needing a truck capable of tackling extreme terrains while hauling heavy loads. The Power Wagon excels in power and durability and is equipped with a 6.4-liter HEMI V8 engine that produces 410 hp. It also features a solid front axle, disconnecting sway bars, and a 12,000-pound WARN winch, making it a true off-road workhorse.

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Chevrolet Colorado ZR2

The Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 offers a perfect balance of agility and rugged performance for midsize truck fans. Smaller and more maneuverable than full-size trucks, the ZR2 is ideal for tight trails and challenging terrains. Available with either a 3.6-liter V6 engine or a 2.8-liter Duramax diesel, the Colorado ZR2 offers performance and fuel efficiency versatility. Its manageable size and off-road prowess make it an excellent choice for those looking for adventure without sacrificing daily drivability.

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Toyota 4Runner TRD

This is an icon in the off-road community thanks to its legendary reliability and robust construction. The TRD Pro variant enhances this already capable SUV with features like Fox shocks, a skid plate, and Nitto Terra Grappler tires. Powered by a 4.0-liter V6 engine, the 4Runner delivers a balanced mix of performance and durability. Its body-on-frame construction and advanced off-road technologies, such as Multi-Terrain Select and Crawl Control, make it a top choice for exploring rugged trails and remote areas. The new-gen model is destined for 2025.

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Land Rover Defender

Available in two-door (90) and four-door (110) configurations, the Defender features a sophisticated design and advanced off-road systems. Engine options range from a turbocharged four-cylinder to a mild-hybrid inline-six and high-powered V8, providing flexibility for different needs. With its heritage rooted in rugged exploration, the Defender is a refined yet adventurous choice.

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Ford Bronco

This is a name that evokes nostalgia and adventure, and its modern revival lives up to its legacy. The Bronco offers various trims and customization options in two-door and four-door models, and the Bronco R is a proper desert runner. Whether tackling rock crawling or navigating mud, the Bronco is a versatile and highly capable SUV that appeals to both modern adventurers and classic off-road enthusiasts.

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Toyota Land Cruiser

This legendary SUV has evolved over decades to combine luxury with ruggedness. Powered by a four-cylinder hybrid in the newest generation, the Land Cruiser delivers ample power while maintaining efficiency. Modern construction, retro looks, locking differentials, and advanced traction systems ensure it can tackle the most challenging terrains. Whether crossing deserts or exploring mountain trails, the Land Cruiser continues to be a trusted choice for adventurers around the globe.

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Mercedes G-Class

Ogi1 2021 Mercedes Amg G63 011.jpg — Photo Credit: Pinterest

Beneath its boxy and upscale exterior lies a robust body-on-frame chassis, locking differentials, and a low-range transfer case. The G-Class is powered by a twin-turbocharged V8 engine, offering both power and refinement. With its impressive ground clearance and advanced suspension, it performs admirably on rocky trails and muddy paths. While the G-Wagen is often seen as a luxury status symbol, its off-road capabilities remain undisputed.

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Ram TRX

Ram 1500 Trx 94 02d6013207c305dd — Photo Credit: Autowp.ru

If you don’t know the TRX, let us put it this way – it’s a cross between the Ram Rebel and Dodge Challenger Hellcat. In other words, it is an all-terrain beast with a supercharged Hemi under the hood and a bad attitude. It has a 702 hp engine under the hood, specially tuned chassis, suspension, and gearbox.

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Ram RHO

2025 Ram 1500 Rho 102 66266cb45085b — Photo Credit: Ram

Designed with enthusiasts in mind, the RHO combines high-performance engineering with practical off-road features. With powerful engine options and a reinforced suspension system, the RHO is built to handle challenging conditions. Its aggressive design and advanced technology make it a compelling choice for those who demand both performance and style in their off-road adventures. It has a turbocharged six-cylinder instead of a supercharged Hemi, but it is still mighty fast and powerful.

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ICON Bronco

Photo Credit: Top Gear

Based on the classic Ford Bronco, this custom-built SUV combines timeless design with cutting-edge technology. ICON meticulously restores and reimagines these vehicles, equipping them with powerful engines, state-of-the-art suspension systems, and luxurious interiors. The ICON Bronco offers the best of both worlds, making it a dream vehicle for collectors and off-road enthusiasts alike. It may be too valuable to be trashed on the trail, but we will do it anyway.

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Jeep Wrangler

Known for its unmatched versatility, the Wrangler is available in two-door and four-door models and in a variety of trims, including the Rubicon and 4xe plug-in hybrid. Its solid axles, locking differentials, and removable roof and doors make it the ultimate adventure companion. Whether navigating rocky trails or fording streams, the Wrangler’s legendary capability continues to set the benchmark for off-road SUVs.

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Jeep Gladiator

Like the Wrangler, the Gladiator features solid axles, locking differentials, and advanced off-road systems. The truck bed adds versatility for carrying gear, making it a great choice for camping trips and outdoor adventures. The Gladiator combines Jeep’s iconic off-road heritage with the practicality of a pickup truck, making it a unique and capable option.

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Chevrolet Silverado ZR2

Powered by a 6.2-liter V8 engine, the Silverado ZR2 delivers impressive performance on and off the road. Its Multimatic DSSV dampers, locking front and rear differentials, and aggressive approach and departure angles make it a formidable off-road contender. Despite its rugged nature, the Silverado ZR2 also offers a comfortable and feature-packed interior, making it a well-rounded choice for adventurers.

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Lexus GX

The 2025 Lexus GX is a luxurious yet rugged SUV that blends off-road prowess with modern sophistication. Based on the newest generation of the Land Cruiser but with a turbocharged V6 engine and a 10-speed automatic transmission, it also introduces the Overtrail trim with enhanced off-road capabilities like all-terrain tires and advanced suspension systems. It has space for up to 7 passengers.

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